Ronald W. Richardson helps us to understand how congregations function emotionally. Without being simplistic, he gives clear directions on how to improve their quality of life together and function more effectively in achieving mission goals. This book offers: A theory about human behavior that will aid understanding of how things can get out of control […]
Over 90 percent of all Christian churches in the United States have fewer than 200 members. While they vary in shape, size, ethnicity, and denomination, they have one thing in common: the desire to grow. So why is it that some churches fail to grow for years, while other congregations in the same community increase […]
Does your church put out the ‘Welcome’ mat or the ‘Do not disturb’ sign? We all like to think that our church is the friendliest one in town. But do visitors see it that way? Church consultant Gary L. McIntosh invites you to take another look at your church through the eyes of a first-time […]
Healthy Boundaries 101 & 201 is a two-part training program with two DVDs, a teacher’s guide and two participant workbooks for levels 101 – Fundamentals and 201 – Beyond Basics. The goals of the program are to: Increase awareness of the need for healthy boundaries in the clergy-congregant or teacher-student relationship Provide clergy, lay leaders and […]
Clergy sexual misconduct not only devastates the lives of its victims but also tears apart the fabric of faith in communities. Available in book form to facilitate its use as an informational resource and counseling tool, Questions and Answers about Clergy Sexual Misconduct provides answers to 18 key questions parishioners in this situation will likely […]
Lord, Teach Us to Pray is a resource designed for individuals and groups of all ages, for both public and personal settings. Dozens of methods of prayer are presented for practice and teaching, ranging from reading the Bible and creating art, to the Jesus prayer and acts of justice. This resource is intended for all […]
Contains Presbyterian policies 1946-1999 Compiled by the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy. Excerpt from the Introductory Letter: “The Presbyterian Social Witness Policy Compilation is a compendium of social witness adopted by the General Assemblies of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and its predecessor denominations. The Social Policy Compilation presents each policy statement, resolution, or commissioner’s resolution […]
This resource indexes 172 statements by topic and year, providing abstracts of 119 of them, an index of key words, and a chronological listing of titles. The catalog is helpful for locating the church’s theological position on a wide variety of topics. Available through PDS.
Professor Dowey says, “Creeds and confessions generally need commentary. They are by nature highly compressed and carefully shaded in meaning. They are usually the work of more than one person and are intended for various levels of use. They arise out of diverse backgrounds and are carried into new situations unforeseen by their authors, acquiring […]
Except from the Introduction: Reconciling the Broken Silence … is an invitation for congregations to engage in dialogue with gay, lesbian, and bisexual Presbyterians. This resource has been prepared for those congregations in the PC(USA) who seek to engage in honest and open dialogue with gay men and lesbians at a table that does not condemn […]