Ann M. Svennungsen

Embracing God's Future without Forgetting the Past

Church Leadership & Ministry

“What a gift Michael K. Girlinghouse has given the church! Embracing God's Future courageously offers a path for congregations--especially congregations in decline. This is not an easy path. It includes naming our individual and congregational losses, retelling and honoring our memories, grieving intentionally, and then working together to accept a new reality, a reality that opens us to a new future. Girlinghouse relies on wisdom from Scripture, the best of grief therapy, and gripping and relatable examples to lead readers toward concrete, hope-filled action--making this a perfect book for church councils, pastors, and judicatory staffs. The path to 'embracing the future' is not easy, but Girlinghouse is a wise, compelling, and humble guide.”

Sustaining While Disrupting

Church Leadership & Ministry

“If I could choose one book to give congregational presidents and pastors this year, it would be the one you hold in your hands. Nothing is more important (and more challenging) than leading communities in the practices of sustaining and innovating, both essential to Christian faithfulness. In these readable pages, Powe and Weems provide the biblical grounding, contextual urgency, and practical wisdom for sustaining beloved communities while also disrupting them with faithful innovation.”