There is a realm of spiritual forces, cosmic antagonisms, principalities and powers that draws congregations toward death. When these forces are ignored, the outlook is grim. But when pastors are energized by a biblical understanding of the church's redemptive participation in Jesus' victory over the cosmic powers, congregations spring to new life. A Mennonite Polity for Ministerial Leadership emerges out of reflection on our biblical and historical roots and seeks to reground our current practice of ministry. This book is an effective tool for leadership training or a great resource for church-wide discussion.
Small groups can be the key pastoral structure in a congregation.
Palmer Becker shows the care group leader how to lead a group that will energize individuals and the congregation. A Companion manual for pastors, Called to Equip, adds resources for recruiting, training, and supervising a team of care group leaders. Palmer Becker helps pastors organize their ministry and multiply their effectiveness. In this model, a minister becomes pastor to the pastors, offering care and support t the group leaders, who in turn care for and support others. A companion manual, Called to Care, specifically addresses group leaders, challenging and training them to lead small groups.