An Introduction to Ministry

An Introduction to Ministry is a comprehensive and ecumenical introduction to the craft of ministry for ministers, pastors, and priests that make up the mainline denominations in the United States. Ecumenically-focused, It offers a grounded account of ministry, covering areas such as vocation, congregational leadership, and cultivation of skills for an effective ministry. Covers the key components of the M.Div. curriculum, offering a map and guide to the central skills and issues in training Explores the areas of vocation, skills for ministry, and issues around congregational leadership Each topic ends with an annotated bibliography providing an indispensable gateway to further study Helps students understand both the distinctive approach of their denomination and the relationship of that approach to other mainline denominations Advocates and defends a generous understanding of the Christian tradition in its openness and commitment to broad conversation

An Introduction to Ministry is a comprehensive and ecumenical introduction to the craft of ministry for ministers, pastors, and priests that make up the mainline denominations in the United States. Ecumenically-focused, It offers a grounded account of ministry, covering areas such as vocation, congregational leadership, and cultivation of skills for an effective ministry.* Covers the key components of the M.Div. curriculum, offering a map and guide to the central skills and issues in training* Explores the areas of vocation, skills for ministry, and issues around congregational leadership* Each topic ends with an annotated bibliography providing an indispensable gateway to further study* Helps students understand both the distinctive approach of their denomination and the relationship of that approach to other mainline denominations* Advocates and defends a generous understanding of the Christian tradition in its openness and commitment to broad conversation

Acknowledgments ixIntroduction 1Section One Exploring the World of Ministry 51 Sensing the Call 72 The Imperative of Training 193 Church Dynamics: Exploring Congregational Culture 30Section Two Cultivating the Skills for Effective Ministry 454 Worship and Mainline Ritual 475 Reading Scripture Thoughtfully 586 Connecting the Theological Dots 687 Church History 818 Preaching the Word 929 Ethics in the Mainline 11010 Pastoral Presence 12211 Christian Education and Formation 13512 Music and Hymnody 150Section Three Leading the People of God 16713 Prophetic Leadership and Social Justice 16914 Evangelism and Church Growth 18215 Leading through Change and Conflict 19816 The Business of the Church 21017 Stewardship 22518 Christian Apologetics 23719 Ministerial Integrity 253Glossary 263Index 277