Table of Contents: Fall 2006
Editorial - Richard Kauffman
Features
Change is possible
by Doug Klassen
From a place of mistrust and disunity, Foothills Mennonite has been transformed
into a growing, hospitable congregation with a missional thrust.
Keep it simple
by Marathana Prothro
Albuquerque Mennonite discovered that less is more. They simplified their
church structure and put the focus on discerning members’ gifts and
doing community outreach.
Got conflict? Deal with it!
by David Brubaker
Congregations can avoid conflict like the plague. But sometimes congregational
conflict can be redemptive and can lead to spiritual growth.
Naming your angel
by Rudy Baergen
It is important to be able to identify the characteristics of your congregation’s
angel, especially its broken wing.
Lessons from transitional ministry
by Dan Miller
Transitional ministry is not about restoring what was, but about working
toward constructive change.
Tending the soul of a congregation in transition
by Sue C. Steiner
Congregations in transition need assurance—and rituals to symbolize—that
God is truly with them.
Choosing your change
by Ken Bechtel
Congregations naturally go through life cycles, but death is not inevitable.
They can choose life and seek new purpose.
DEPARTMENTS
Editorial facing page
Pastoring God’s People – Expect the
unexpected
by Tim Schrag
Guiding Worship – The order of worship
by Irma Fast Dueck
Forming Faith – Transformative experiences
by Marlene Kropf
Tending Body Life – Pastoral care and congregational
change
by Marcus Smucker
Engaging the World – Daring to serve
by Del Hershberger
Pondering the Word – Reading the signs
by Dorothy Jean Weaver
Leader tips: What will I lead for devotions?;The
news never sounds the same again
Worship resources: Advent 2006 to Epiphany 2007
Introduction and guidelines; reproducible resources
Resources for leaders