The Teaching Ministry of Congregations
"This is a ground breaking book in the new practical theology. It will be the leading text in religious education for years to come. Few books will match it in combining the best practices in religious education, innovative practical theological theory, congregational studies, sound biblical commentary, and solid theological elaboration.  A must have volume for all ministers, practical theologians, religious educators, and libraries." ---Don Browning, co-author ofm Culture Wars to Common Ground: Religion and the American Family Debate"To educate in Christian faith it is imperative that we break open our imaginations, reaching far beyond the 'school' paradigm. To inform and form Christians takes a village. Rick Osmer's work leads the way in reestablishing the congregation as the first educator in faith and its shared life as the primary curriculum." --Thomas H. Groome, Director of the Boston College Institute of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry, Professor of Theology and Religious Education at Boston College; author oft Makes Us Catholic?"A stunning contribution to international practical theology and Christian education! Firmly rooted in the Biblical tradition and in theology, conversant with the most current methodologies of research from different fields, this first rate scholar offers fresh insights into how congregations can respond to the challenges of a globalizing world. This book will become one of the cornerstones for the theory and praxis of congregational work and Christian education in the twenty-first century." --Dr. Friedrich Schweitzer, Professor of Practical Theology and Religious Education at University of Tuebingen, Germany"With a sure hand and masterful prose Richard Osmer has given us the first postmodern ‘classic’ in Christian practical theology and religious education.  A daring, well-researched and monumental achievement, written from a global perspective, this capacious, passionate volume constitutes a landmark contribution."   --James W. Fowler, Candler Professor of Theology and Human Development at Emory University