BOOK NOTES

UnLearning Church
New Edition, by Michael Slaughter, Abingdon, 2008

It is often said that churches continue to do the same thing year after year expecting different results. Progress does not come that way. Effective leaders not only learn the right things; they also unlearn things that no longer fit. Michael Slaughter has a passion for congregations to be alive and vital in worship, service, and mission. In this book he helps church leaders embrace and not resist ministry in the postmodern era by questioning conventional ways of thinking. Since such learning and unlearning always take place within one’s own context, no one model is offered. This provocative book will help expand one’s thinking about what may be possible and necessary for congregational vitality today.

Giving—The Sacred Art: Creating a Lifestyle of Generosity
by Lauren Tyler Wright, Skylight Paths Publishing, 2008

Written for a broad audience and drawing on the traditions of many faiths, Giving—The Sacred Art explores the transformative power of generosity. Giving is a potent spiritual discipline, says author Lauren Tyler Wright, because it strengthens relational bonds and reminds us of our dependence on one another. Presenting the church’s traditional teachings on giving, stewardship, and money in a fresh and appealing way, she brings them squarely into the realm of daily living and personal fulfillment. Part theological exposition and part self-help book, it offers something to spiritual leaders, everyday Christians, and seekers.

Complete Leader's Guide to Christian Retreats
by Rachel Gilmore, Judson Press, 2009

Rachel Gilmore’s guide for retreat leaders does not fall short of its claim for completeness. Its how-to advice runs the gamut from working with a leadership team, establishing a planning timeline, and handling logistics to selecting a theme and location and dealing with special concerns. It also includes a dozen sample retreat agendas for women, men, youth, and older adults. These detailed templates outline activities and list all the necessary ingredients—from supplies and snacks to resources and discussion guidelines. It ends with a state-by-state listing of over 200 camps and retreat centers. Novice retreat planners will welcome the book’s soup-to-nuts approach, while veterans will find the sample programs and retreat center listing a useful reference.

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