Grace for the Journey: Practices and Possibilities for In-Between Times
Beverly A. Thompson, George B. Thompson, Jr.
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Every community of faith journeys through periods of transition. In Grace for the Journey: Practices and Possibilities for In-Between Times, authors Beverly Thompson and George Thompson invite congregations to open themselves to the grace-filled possibilities that accompany these in-between periods. Drawing on biblical examples and contemporary experience, the authors invite the community of faith to see transitional times as an opportunity to develop deeper spiritual awareness of God’s call on its communal life—a call that open up fresh potential even as it calls us to consider what familiar things may need to change.
As pastors and teachers with experience in congregations across the country, the Thompsons serve as your travel guides, accompanying you and your congregation as you walk through the wilderness of transitional times to the hope-filled possibilities on the horizon.
Praise for the Book
"I am being flooded with emails this week from lay victims of one more attempt by a pastor to “take the kingdom by force,” to bring change in a congregation through an authoritarian blitz. If that pastor would read the Thompsons’ Grace for the Journey he would find out why he is doomed to failure and what alternative assets of church leadership (attention, discernment, imagination, and articulation) would have served him better."
—Dr. Lewis A. Parks, professor of theology, ministry, and congregational development, Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC
"At a time of much hand-wringing about the future of congregations, George and Beverly Thompson offer a refreshing alternative to anxiety. Grounded in Scripture and loaded with helpful spiritual practices, the book they have written offers a perfect mix of advice, illustration, and insight. I cannot imagine a single parish that would not find something of value in this great little book. If you are looking for a fresh outpouring of energy and hope in your church, Grace for the Journey is just the right thing for you."—Joanna M. Adams, Presbyterian pastor, Atlanta, GA
"For congregational leaders who are buffeted by unsettling cultural changes and daunting institutional challenges, the Thompsons have prepared a soul-feast that offers nourishment and hospitality, insight and celebration. The main dishes—meaty biblical teaching and fresh understandings about congregational culture—are accompanied by down-to-earth stories, intimate journaling exercises, and warm personal encouragement from the authors. Leaders who embrace the Thompsons’ invitation may encounter a life-changing (and church-changing!) experience."
—Alice Mann, Alban Institute consultant
About the Authors
Beverly and George Thompson serve as a ministry team as pastors, seminary teachers, and authors. George serves on the faculty of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), Atlanta and is a founding member of the Academy of Religious Leadership. Among his book titles are How to Get Along with Your Church and Church on the Edge of Somewhere. Beverly teaches religious leadership at ITC and is the author of A Spiritual Companion to ‘How to Get Along with Your Church’. Currently the Thompsons share pastoral responsibilities for Dahlonega Presbyterian Church in Georgia.
ISBN# 978-1-56699-420-0
Alban No. 420
paper
2011
In stock
$17.00
($13.60 for members)
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