Barney Wells/Martin Guise/Ron Klassen

I would encourage every rural and small town pastor to read this book. It is one of the best books I have read this year. Most churches need to change to meet the needs of their changing communities. But that change needs to be done in ways that are positive and not destructive. The book talks about time and patience, starting with prayer and building relationships, discussing the ideas with people beforehand and giving them times to think about it and make suggestions. I have found they usually have great ideas to improve the idea to make it better than I could have ever dreamed of. It talks of respecting people and the history and tradition of the church. Change is often needed, but it talks of making a lot of small changes or tweaking some things the church is already doing rather than making a big dramatic change. It talks of the traits of people in rural areas. If you’re like me and have attended evangelism or leadership or church growth meetings and you’re from a rural church, you leave frustrated because a rural church is different than a city church. This book respects and addresses the unique challenges and opportunities.
Four criteria when considering change: is it 1) strongly needed; 2) theologically correct; 3) culturally appropriate, and 4) doable.
“If your try to force a change that isn’t doable, and in the process are straining people and resources to the breaking point, that change isn’t likely Spirit-driven. We believe that when God is in a change, He will open the doors.”
“It is crucial that the pastor and other newcomers who may be future leaders of change in a rural church invest considerable time, years perhaps, building themselves into the (relationship) web. This is done by providing pastoral care in times of crisis, visiting the elderly in their homes, practicing hospitality, spending time in the local café, attending community events, and generally being a friend to people in the church and community.”
… (mehr)