This workbook is based on actual strategies used by Bill Easum both as a pastor and as a consultant in more than 500 churches. Numerous exercises appear along the way to help churches determine what they need to do.
This new edition of Handbook for Congregational Studies replaces the previous edition. In this new edition, the authors update what has become the primary textbook in the field of congregational studies in the seminary classroom. Studying Congregations: A New Handbook will also be a useful reference for pastors, denominational leaders, and strategic planning committees.
Will churches merely survive in the next century? Or will they come alive? How can they work for congregational vitality and vision? Carnegie Samuel Calian challenges churches and their members to become committed to their own success and to take owenership of their future.
This tool helps people see how they work with others on a team or in a group. You will identify your primary style when working with others and understand the strengths and liabilities of various styles.
Effective interim ministry depends on strong partnership between the interim minster and congregation. Lay leaders of congregations preparing for such a transition will value the expert guidance provided by over a dozen experienced interim pastors. What is interim ministry all about? What needs to happen during the interim? What should leaders and members expect from […]
When a priest, minister, or other spiritual leader betrays the trust of even one member of his or her congregation, everyone is seriously affected. A practical response to such abuse, this booklet suggests ways congregations can work through the resulting conflict and confusion to emerge as a stronger, renewed community.
From the Preface: At the present time, when the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) must learn to live with the reality of its ‘cultural disestablishment,’ the French Confession is a helpful conversation partner. It is more than a mere historical curiosity, for although the French Confession is a product of 16th century Europe, it is neither out […]
Containing the full Arabic text of the Qur’an, an accompanying English translation, and extensive commentary, this is a compilation of the Muslim faith’s Final Revelation from God to mankind through the last Prophet Muhammad. The Qur’an has a wealth of information–both worldly wisdom and intellectual concepts–providing a code of life for humankind generally and Muslims […]
Alban Senior Consultant Alice Mann draws on her lengthy experience in helping congregations deal with the hurdles and anxieties of expansion or contraction in size. Often, congregations experiencing size change do not recognize the need to change culture and form as part of the successful adaptation process. Mann details the adjustments in attitude – as […]
Hobgood examines new pressures on clergy that are emerging in the “post-Christendom era:” financial stresses, the effects of a conflicted and confrontational culture, the needs of an increasing number of people living broken or dependent lives, dysfunctional behavior on the part of pastors and parishioners, questions regarding clergy respect and job satisfaction. How is ministry […]