Thrive

Are there any solutions to dying churches? Many historic Protestant churches lost their way when the ground beneath their feet began to shift in the last part of the 20th century. Back then, congregations became confused about why so many Americans had become indifferent toward church-going. They became anxious about their shrinking numbers and aging membership. How would they survive? They could not see the way forward. But now, a few ordinary congregations are finding their way into the future by cultivating certain spiritual habits which transform them so that they, in turn, can transform the world. Dr. Ruth A. Fletcher shares her her pastoral experience, judicatory work,consulting ministry, and personal research in which she has discerned some spiritual practices that characterize congregations that are thriving. This is an excellent read whether you are a pastor, church leader or concerned member of a fellowship groaning in the labor of reaching out to the “disenfranchised others.” Thrive is the third volume in the Academy of Parish Clergy's Guides to Practical Ministry series.