Congregation in a Secular Age: Keeping Sacred Time against the Speed of Modern Life

Andrew Root's new paradigm for understanding the congregation in contemporary ministry helps churches change without hurting them, encouraging an approach that avoids negative traps of the secular age and helps congregations reimagine change and live into the future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2021
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Andrew Root, a prominent practical theologian, presents a novel paradigm for comprehending the congregation in contemporary ministry. He elucidates the reasons why congregations experience pressure due to the rapid pace of change in modern life and advocates for a perspective that avoids the pitfalls of our secular age. In his book, "The Congregation in a Secular Age," Root encourages congregations to reimagine what change means and how to navigate this future, enabling them to transition from relevance to resonance.

The contemporary ministry landscape is characterized by rapid change, which can be overwhelming for congregations. Root recognizes that this pressure can lead to negative outcomes if not approached carefully. He argues that a secular age perspective can hinder our ability to respond effectively to change.

One of the key challenges facing congregations in a secular age is the tendency to focus on short-term results and immediate gratification. Root emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and vision-casting, which can help congregations stay focused on their mission and purpose. He suggests that congregations should develop a clear sense of identity and purpose that transcends the current cultural trends and challenges.

Another challenge is the increasing diversity of the congregation. Root acknowledges that congregations are becoming more diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. He argues that this diversity can be a source of strength and vitality, but it can also create tensions and conflicts. Root suggests that congregations should work to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes unity.

Root also highlights the importance of technology in contemporary ministry. While technology can be a powerful tool for communication and outreach, it can also be a source of distraction and isolation. Root encourages congregations to use technology in a way that enhances their ministry and connects them with their community. He suggests that congregations should invest in training and resources to help their members use technology effectively.

In addition to these challenges, Root also identifies several opportunities for congregations in a secular age. He suggests that congregations should focus on building relationships with their community and engaging in social justice work. He argues that these activities can help congregations build their reputation and attract new members.

Root also emphasizes the importance of spiritual formation and discipleship. He suggests that congregations should provide opportunities for their members to grow in their faith and develop a deeper relationship with God. He suggests that congregations should offer a variety of spiritual practices and programs that meet the needs of their members.

Finally, Root emphasizes the importance of leadership in contemporary ministry. He suggests that congregations should invest in developing strong leaders who can guide the congregation through change and lead them toward their mission and purpose. He suggests that congregations should provide training and resources to help their leaders develop their skills and knowledge.

In conclusion, Andrew Root's new paradigm for understanding the congregation in contemporary ministry offers a valuable framework for navigating the challenges and opportunities of a secular age. He encourages congregations to reimagine what change means and how to live into this future, helping them move from relevance to resonance. By focusing on long-term planning and vision-casting, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, using technology effectively, building relationships with their community, engaging in social justice work, spiritual formation and discipleship, and developing strong leaders, congregations can thrive in a secular age.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780801098482