The Business of the Church: The Uncomfortable Truth that Faithful Ministry Requires Effective Management

John W. Wimberly, Jr.

Pastors are called to be not only leaders with vision but also managers of congregational systems, says John Wimberly in The Business of the Church. Drawing on his thirty-six years in ordained ministry, Wimberly weaves the realities of congregational dynamics and faith-centered purpose together with practical, proven approaches to business management. A student and friend of Rabbi Edwin Friedman, Wimberly builds on Friedman’s systems theory as he helps readers avoid common pitfalls and put into practice effective techniques of congregational management.

The book begins with a foundational discussion of how a systems approach helps congregational managers identify areas of dysfunction and effective solutions. Managing the critical "inputs" of people, facilities, and finances has a direct bearing on the desired "outputs" of proclamation, pastoral care, and mission. A strategic plan, through which a congregation sets its goals and identifies and prioritizes resources, is an essential management tool for both pastors and lay leaders.

The author's conversational writing style and many real-life examples make a seemingly complicated, mysterious topic for some an engaging and easily applicable read.
 

About the Author

John W. Wimberly, Jr., pastor of Western Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C., has a unique combination of theological and business skills developed over 36 years of parish ministry.  He has earned an MDiv, Ph.D in systematic theology and MBA.  During his ministry at Western, he negotiated a deal for his congregation worth more than $20 million with the International Monetary Fund and managed the construction of a new facility in downtown D.C.

ISBN# 978-1-56699-404-0
Alban No. AL404
paper, 164 pages
2010

In stock

$18.00 ($14.40 for members)