Description
Book SynopsisHow to lead static or declining churches back into growth and new life.
Trade Review'A wonderful manifesto for change that oozes deep thinking, biblical content & practical advice from each page. Every church leader in the UK should read this book now!' -- Gavin Calver, Director of Mission, Evangelical Alliance
Ian is someone I have respected and admired for a number of years. His track record as a church leader speaks for itself. He has been a friend, coach and mentor to me and many other young leaders and we have all benefited greatly from his wisdom and experience. Now that wisdom and experience is available to everyone who reads this book. There are insights and strategies here which will interest, inspire and equip you, whatever your leadership role. Ian’s humour, wisdom and passion come through on every page. Make sure you read this book if you are in any way involved with leadership in your church – you’ll be glad you did! -- Kate Wharton, author of Single Minded and Vicar of St George’s Everton
“Ian Parkinson has vast experience of church leadership and growth within the UK and globally. He knows what he is talking about. This book distils a great deal of valuable wisdom on working in tune with the Spirit to bring about the renewal and revitalisation of the church.” -- Revd Dr Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College
“Ian writes with both passion and understanding. He is passionate about seeing the church of today being like the first church – empowered and fruitful in mission, welcoming and compassionate in its pastoral work, and relevant and transformative in everything. He also writes with the wisdom gained both from his wide reading and from his hands-on local church leadership; he has practised what he preaches. This book is an invaluable toolbox for leaders willing to navigate the turbulent waters of change for the sake of seeing disciples being formed and the church growing.” -- John and Anne Coles, New Wine
“Many church leaders struggle with turning a church round. This book is a great guide for the process. Clear, full of practical wisdom and theological insight, it takes the reader through re-engineering a church stage-by-stage and encourages those on the journey to keep going.” -- James Lawrence, Leadership Principal, CPAS
"This is a book of real substance written by someone of vision, wisdom, and experience." -- The Church Times
Table of ContentsContents
Foreword 9
Acknowledgments 11
Introduction 13
1. Recovering Our Identity: The Church That God
Has In Mind 23
Suggested Itinerary For Church Leaders Awayday 40
2. Moving Things Forward: Leadership As A Catalyst
For Change 43
3. Imagining The Future: Articulating Vision That
Stirs The Heart 67
Useful Vision-Casting Exercises 94
Values Brainstorm 95
4. Holding On Tight: Leading Through Transitions 96
5. Hosting God’s Presence: Allowing The Spirit
Freedom To Move 114
6. Increasing Capacity: Growing And Developing
Leaders 135
7. Organizing For Growth: Developing Functional
Structures 158
Sample Worship Questionnaire 184
8. Staying The Course: Leadership For The Long
Haul 188
Questions For Group Study 217
Notes 229
