Explore a variety of approaches congregations have taken to embrace differences; identify leadership issues diversity creates in congregations; and discover programmatic suggestions drawn from the experience of multicultural congregations to address these issues. This book helps readers to understand their own experience with racial and cultural differences and is a guide for gathering diverse people into the life and mission of the congregation.

Bill Myers has offered a much needed picture of black and white styles of youth ministry. His own style of writing is stunning. The book is so rich in historical reflection and descriptive detail that one cannot avoid being confronted by the urgent issues of race, culture, and social history--all vitally important in shaping ministry. Mary Elizabeth Moore, School of Theology at Claremont

An experienced pastoral practitioner writes with poetic insight and reflective discipline about the practice of ministry and the life of the priestly person. Doug Purnell is also a professional artist and the book shares many of his drawings as part of the text. His book will touch you deeply. It will not be a gentle read, but it will be ministry shaping. You will think in new ways about ministry and about the role of the priestly person as a result of reading this book. You will be enriched. ""Artist, minister, scholar, and teacher, Douglas Purnell creates an integrated portrait of what an...

Synopsis: Mainline Protestant congregations face a profound adaptive challenge. In the midst of significant social, cultural, and technological change, the denominations they represent generally abandoned a view of education capable of maintaining and renewing their faith traditions through their children and youth. New curriculum resources and innovative pedagogical strategies appropriated from the marketplace of religious education options have not met the challenge. A transformation of consciousness is required in congregations seeking a future through their children. It involves the...