Thomas Long begins this fascinating volume by describing how the Christian funeral developed historically, theologically, and liturgically, and then discusses recent cultural trends in funeral practices, including the rise in both cremations and memorial services. He describes the basic pattern for a funeral service, details options in funeral planning, identifies characteristics of a good funeral, and provides thoughtful guidance for preaching at a funeral.

Long also notes a disturbing trend toward funeral services that seem theologically right and pastorally caring, but actually depart from the primary aims of the Christian funeral. He argues that a new, less-theological and less-satisfying service that focuses on the mourner has begun to erode the Christian view. He contrasts the ancient grand community drama with today's trend toward body-less memorial services that focus primarily on the living and grief management. This is a loss for the church, he argues, and he calls for the church to reclaim the classic metaphor.

This is a compelling tract for our times (manifesto) addressed to evangelicals around the English-speaking world from the general director of the Evangelical Alliance. This umbrella group represents evangelical Christians in the United Kingdom and is part of the larger World Evangelical Alliance of 128 national and seven regional alliances including the National Association of Evangelicals in the USA. Written in an accessible style this short and readable manifesto issues a prophetic call to help set the agenda for evangelicals to: *Present Christ credibly the 21st century *Rehabilitate term 'evangelical' as good news *Engage in spiritual and social transformation The book includes discussion questions to enable classes, groups, and teams to read and discuss the contents of the book. As the church faces challenges and opportunities, this book can serve as a catalyst to move the evangelical church forward to make a difference in the world by fostering spiritual and social transformation.

This book gathers a diverse group of leading pastors and preachers and asks them, what is your best advice to colleagues in ministry about preaching and being a pastor? The responses are full of wisdom and practical advice, illuminating and helpful for all who are pastors and preachers. This book is a unique window into perspectives on ministry in the twenty-first century. It is an ideal book to give to one's pastor or a graduating seminarian. It is one pastors will turn to often for inspiration, insight, and wisdom.

Church leader and missionary David Lundy explores the changing face of "doing mission" today. He offers answers to key questions such as "How can the church better interact with the global and local community?" and "What's a borderless church and how do we become one?" His case studies of churches around the world help with these questions--churches such as Mars Hill in Michigan with 10,000 members, a shopping mall meeting place, lively services, a sense of community, and most of all, a true passion for local and global outreach.

Create an effective children's ministry with help from the top experts! For over 10 years, Children's Ministry That Works has been helping ministry leaders create dynamic and effective ministry programs in churches across the country. Now, completely revised and updated, this new version will help you be successful for the next 10 years!

Overflowing with expert insights from over 25 successful children's ministry leaders, you're guaranteed to find solutions for every area of your ministry! You'll learn the best tips, creative ideas and strategies from leaders like Craig Jutila, Thom and Joani Schultz, Mike Sciarra, Sue Miller, Pat Verbal, Gordon and Becki West, Jim Wideman, Chris Yount, and more!

Children's Ministry That Works: Revised and Updated will equip your ministry with these key benefits:
Help for key areas of children's ministry, including: Developing your leadership team Safety and liability in children's ministry Partnering with parents Teaching so children can learn Adventurous art and creative crafts Vacation Bible School Successful after-school and mid-week programs and more!
15 brand-new chapters! Plus, substantial revisions to the other chapters to offer you the most current insights and advice of the top children's ministry experts! Easy to read and packed with practical ideas! These ideas have been proven in actual children's ministry and refined and improved over time. Insights for every level of children's ministry! Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a beginner in children's ministry, you'll refer to this resource regularly for the help you need!