Changing the Conversation: A Third Way for Congregations

by Anthony B. Robinson

Overview

A sequel to his best-selling Transforming Congregational Culture (2003), Changing the Conversationoffers Anthony Robinson's latest work and thinking on congregational renewal and leadership. Robinson here invites church leaders and members into ten crucial conversations that will change their congregation's culture and help them respond with greater vitality, effectiveness, and faithfulness to our postmodern culture and its challenges.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780802807595
Publisher:	Eerdmans, William B. Publishing Company
Publication date:	08/20/2008
Pages:	205
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

ANTHONY B. ROBINSON is founder and president of the Seattle-based Congregational Leadership Northwest and senior consultant for the Atlanta-based Center for Progressive Renewal. His other books include Transforming Congregational Culture.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Changing the Conversation: A Third Way for Congregations 1 Conversation 1 It's Not About You 17 Conversation 2 And Yet ... It Is About You 37 Conversation 3 A New Heart 61 Conversation 4 Who Shall Lead Them? 80 Conversation 5 Why Are We Here? 98 Conversation 6 Write the Vision 118 Conversation 7 Let's Get (Less) Organized! 137 Conversation 8 The Church and the Public Square 152 Conversation 9 Death and Resurrection 171 Conversation 10 Where Do We Start? 185 Index 198

Editorial Reviews

William H. Willimon
— Bishop of the United Methodist Church, North Alabama Conference
"For some time now Tony Robinson has been changing what we mainline Protestants talk about. In this book Tony furthers the conversation with clear, wise insights into how we can be a changed church. He enables us not only to change our talk but also to change our walk."
 
Ken McFayden
— Union Theological Seminary–PSCE
"Changing the Conversation provides stimulating perspectives for church leaders working to renew and revitalize their congregations in a rapidly changing world. Tony Robinson has his finger on the pulse of the church and culture, is keenly aware of opportunities and challenges facing leaders in the midst of change, and develops his work on strong foundations within the Christian tradition and leadership theory. This text is a must-read for pastors, seminarians, lay leaders, and others who wish to participate in conversations for congregational renewal."
 
Martin Copenhaver
— Wellesley Congregational Church, Massachusetts
"Tony Robinson has done it again. Building on his previous work, which many of us have found indispensable, he has written a book full of insight and wisdom. No one writing about church life today writes with more depth and perception. Robinson helps us understand what we are seeing in the current religious landscape and how we might respond faithfully. This is so much more than a “how to book. It is more useful than that."
 
Louis Weeks
— President Emeritus, Union Theological Seminary–PSCE
"Tony Robinson's Changing the Conversation offers real help for pastors and other leaders of local congregations. A fine book, it will provoke discussion and, by God's grace, new zeal for the gospel. Perfect for seminarians who anticipate pastorates and for seminary continuing education events."
 
Verlee A. Copeland
— Union Church of Hinsdale, Illinois 
"Changing the Conversation provokes church leaders, clergy, and judicatories to engage in courageous work. With clarity and insight Robinson urges those who care about the church to discover a third way to vibrant faith and practice that transcends old polarities. Continuing the groundbreaking work begun in Transforming Congregational Culture, Robinson outlines ten essential conversations that can transform, deepen, and sustain the life of every congregation seeking a new heart."

From the Publisher