Description
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
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments ix
Introduction 1
Section One Exploring the World of Ministry 5
1 Sensing the Call 7
2 The Imperative of Training 19
3 Church Dynamics: Exploring Congregational Culture 30
Section Two Cultivating the Skills for Effective Ministry 45
4 Worship and Mainline Ritual 47
5 Reading Scripture Thoughtfully 58
6 Connecting the Theological Dots 68
7 Church History 81
8 Preaching the Word 92
9 Ethics in the Mainline 110
10 Pastoral Presence 122
11 Christian Education and Formation 135
12 Music and Hymnody 150
Section Three Leading the People of God 167
13 Prophetic Leadership and Social Justice 169
14 Evangelism and Church Growth 182
15 Leading through Change and Conflict 198
16 The Business of the Church 210
17 Stewardship 225
18 Christian Apologetics 237
19 Ministerial Integrity 253
Glossary 263
Index 277
