Local church life is changing radically. Multi-congregational groupings are increasingly the norm with fewer stipendiary clergy and greater reliance on self-supporting and lay ministry. Meanwhile some aspects of priestly ministry are being carried out by specialist practitioners such as missioners working across a number of parishes.
All of this raises questions about how we understand, prepare for and practice ministry and leadership in the church today. As ministry increasingly becomes the responsibility of the local congregation and priesthood more about supervision, this key book explores the theology of such a model and how it is beginning to work in practice, drawing insights gained from the many places which have pioneered advances in multi-congregation settings.
Malcolm Grundy’s latest book tackles these basic and challenging situations head-on. Beginning with a sharply-defined description of questions for congregations and clergy in multi-congregation situations he moves on to map out a theology and to describe the sense of renewed vocation required for this challenging work. His final chapter paints an inspiring picture of what might be achieved.
The author has long experience as a parish priest, team rector, industrial missioner, trainer of laity and clergy and as a leader in ecumenical organizations. He has been Archdeacon of Craven in the Diocese of Bradford and was the first Director of the Foundation for Church Leadership. He is currently Visiting Fellow at York St John University.
There will be a launch of the book with author signing at the St Paul’s Bookshop, 26 Fossgate, York on August 1st at 12.30. RSVP york@stpauls.org.uk.