This resolution was developed by the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy (ACSWP) and includes an analysis of the arguments for and against for-profit private prisons. The report as a whole was approved by the 215th General Assembly 2003 for church-wide study and implementation. It makes clear that private prisons are not an economic but […]
The late ecumenical theologian Lukas Vischer recovers Calvin’s comprehensive appreciation for the goodness of God’s creation, and provides a timely resource for contemporary stewardship of all of life.
“This book tells about the success stories of vital and dynamic small congregations. You’ll see common characteristics among these small churches. They are dedicated followers of Jesus Christ led by faith to dynamic and useful Christ-like change. Others do not dictate that changes will happen; instead the members and pastors, and, in some cases, the […]
From the Introduction: Living the Vision is a series of resources, produced by Evangelism and Church Development. Rural ministry is a significant part of evangelism and church development. Today, rural communities are experiencing tremendous change and congregations are called to explore new ways to minister to the people in their community and region. This booklet […]
General Assembly statements issued by the Presbyterian Church U.S.A. and its predecessor denominations guide the church in its life and ministry. Selected Theological Statements includes 32 significant texts that span a time frame from 1956 and “The Position of Women in the Church” through 1998 and “Just Peacemaking.” Available through PDS.
George Hunsinger asserts that the polarity of “progressive politics and traditional faith” is not true to the gospel and not true to the church’s own tradition. More directly, Hunsinger demonstrates that the Presbyterian Church’s new “Study Catechism” embodies theology and social witness together in fidelity to the gospel. Social Witness in Generous Orthodoxy — Theology and […]
Steadfast Hope: The Palestinian Quest for Just Peace is a 48-page perfect-bound booklet with a companion DVD. Steadfast Hope challenges common myths and misperceptions about the origins of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, presents a compelling snapshot of the present situation on the ground, and offers a guide to the challenges that lie ahead in the quest for […]
This resource tells the stories of nine smaller membership congregations that have stepped out in faith and experienced transformation. These congregations demonstrate that change is possible even with limited resources and support. Spiritual discernment, changing demographics, pastoral leadership, and church building issues are all addressed. Discussion questions follow each story and the resource concludes with […]
This comprehensive guide contains information on abuse identification, abuse prevention, and educational material.
In “True Confession: A Presbyterian Dissenter Thinks about the Church,” Barbara Wheeler speaks honestly about issues that divide the church, yet calls for the maintenance of God-given unity. Mark Achtemeier acknowledges that frustration with continuous controversy sometimes leads to the desire for separation, yet he sets forth “Seven Theses on the Unity of the Church.” […]