REVIEWED BY REV. REBECCA CRAVER |
I really appreciated Fritz Ritsch’s book, Reclaiming Power in Congregational and Community Ministry. As a resource particularly for leaders in Christian churches that are experience seismic shifts in the expectations of how the institutions should function. While discerning ways to organize communities and congregations to develop an understanding of identity and purpose in the current moment.
His experience as a consultant in various congregations gives him insight into how different congregational experiences and cultures impact the work of organizing and congregational development. In a small book he includes lots of helpful ideas and examples of how leaders can work withing their congregations to develop the capacity of other leaders as a foundation for understanding and using power in their settings. His exploration of power is not about a “power over” but a discovery of the “power with” that has the potential to help many congregational leaders both professional and lay to embrace the deepening of their call.
This book reminded me of the verse from 2 Timothy 1:6-7, “For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands, for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.” (NRSVUE). I believe it is an accessible resource for leaders to explore how they can lead in this current moment with confidence and assurance that they are not alone in this work.
Ritsch’s writing is approachable and helpful for folks looking to grow in their understanding and role in the work of congregational development on all levels. I hope more folks read it and are encouraged in their ministry with ideas to try!
Check out this sample: https://mikemorrell.org/2024/03/reclaiming-power-in-congregational-and-community-ministry-fritz-ritsch/
Reclaiming Power in Congregational and Community Ministry on Bookshop
Fritz Ritsch’s Website
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About the reviewer
As Director of Congregational Development, Rebecca works with congregations and provincial leadership to provide resources and support their ongoing work towards greater health and vitality. She works to cultivate collaborative relationships between and among pastors, congregations, provincial and interprovincial agencies and other partners. Working with communities of faith, her passion for capacity building and innovation have shaped her 15 year career in ordained ministry. She has led communities in reimagining their structures, practices, and traditions as they embrace Jesus’ call, supporting them through organizational change, worship creation, and adult learning curriculum. Rebecca’s evenings and weekends are often spent investing in good conversation over a mocha, making new connections in the community, or delighting in the laughter of her children and spouse. Email Rebecca.
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