Congregational Vitality: Embracing Community and Spiritual Practice
Contents
IN FOCUS: A Tale of Two Churches
Writer and seminary professor Diana Butler Bass says that the key to mainline church vitality can be found in “intentional” congregations
It’s About Discipleship
Writer Marlis McCollum interviews Alban Institute consultants Terry Foland and Ed White about their views on congregational vitality.
Ordinary People, Strong Congregations
Researchers Cynthia Woolever and Deborah Bruce discuss congregational strengths gleaned from the 2001 U.S. Congregational Life Survey
Confessions of a Reformed Problem Solver
Consultant Lee Smedley discusses two alternatives to problem solving that can enhance congregational vitality
FEATURES
Missing: Young Pastors
Pastor Peter A. Luckey says that the solution to the dearth of young clergy resides in the local church
On Leaving and Leaving Well
Interim pastor Alan Schaffmeyer offers practical suggestions for clergy who want to make a grace-full exit from their congregations
COLUMNS
THE LEADING EDGE
Alban Institute president James P. Wind wonders who would “make the cut” for a Mount Rushmore of religious leaders
ASK ALBAN
Alban Institute field consultant Lawrence Palmieri Peers suggests six ways that church board members can stave off burnout
DEPARTMENTS
FIRST CLASS MAIL
REVIEWS
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