Through the fascinating stories of pioneering ministers, this book reveals a unique picture of progressive changes occurring in the Christian tradition. Meeting challenges and overcoming obstacles, these twelve diverse ministers are changing the church as they take prophetic stands on gender, race, interfaith cooperation, ecology, sexual orientation, economic opportunity, and other social justice issues. Believing in the power of sacred symbolism to shape social reality and to provide a foundation for justice and freedom for all people, these ministers lead worship with inclusive language and imagery for humanity and divinity. They include multicultural female and male images of the Divine. Their stories affirm the connection between this expansive theology and an ethic of justice and equality in human relationships. In working from within to change the church, these ministers have risked censure by denominational authorities, loss of opportunities for promotion to larger congregations or to prestigious denominational positions, and even loss of their jobs. They have found creative ways to balance advocating for change and working to support the church, using their positions as ordained clergy to bring liberating change to the church and the wider culture.

"Galen describes in detail the experiences that are rarely talked about in the life of a seasoned Pastor... This book is a great read for Pastors, teams and church members. When I opened the manuscript on this book I was immediately drawn in. I felt like I had front seats in the life of a great pastor's incredible journey..." Kevin Gerald, senior pastor, Champions Centre "My father, who is a veteran of two foreign wars, told me he did not want to be led into battle by any man that had never been shot at... From legalism, to religiosity to genuine miracle... This is a guy I'm willing to listen to." Dr. Mark Rutland, President of Global Servants "...As I read this book, I was motivated, stirred and challenged. Get your copy, read with intent, and be prepared to be inspired!" Dr. Dave Martin, author of The 12 Traits of the Greats "...Changing Church will inspire you to reach beyond what you see today and into the God-Inspired dream that he had placed into your heart." J. Don George, founding pastor, Calvary Church, Irving, Texas "Watching one of the fastest growing churches in America is so much fun, but what did it take to get there? ...This literary piece of genius shows us the behind the scenes of leadership..." Shannon O'dell, senior pastor, Brand New Church Discovering that dreams really do come true Step by step approach to church growth Breaking attendance barriers The power of narrowed focus The value in embracing change

Peter Wagner tells readers exactly how they can contribute to the Church's worldwide fulfillment of God's kingdom on earth! "The Changing Church" sheds light on the exciting things that are happening by the power of the Holy Spirit! The Church is being aligned with God's plan for the Great Harvest. While we might feel small in the scheme of things, we can make a huge impact when we unite with what God is doing worldwide. This new vision overlooks denominational barriers, asking one and all to join together for the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes!

The transition of the Churches from the traditional colonial setting of Hong Kong in the aftermath of World War II to the mature Christian community of post-industrial, post-colonial Hong Kong is analysed with considerable skill by Beatrice Leung Kit-fun and Shun-hing Chan... The two authors add significantly to our understanding of the dilemmas which confronted not only the Churches in adjusting to the transition from British rule but the wider community as well. The book gave detailed account of Hong Kong's church-state relationship in metamorphosis. It should be an important text for students in both political science and China studies, and especially in the history of Hong Kong. A timely effort to fill a major gap in the study of Hong Kong society – church-state relations. Students of Hong Kong research will find it most informative and useful. But its relevance goes beyond Hong Kong – this is a major reference for those who are interested in the areas of sociology of religion, civil society, political science and East Asian studies. The book is the first piece of substantial research to analyze Church-State relations in Hong Kong during the critical period of the handover from British to Chinese governance. It is certainly an original contribution, in such scale, to raise the attention on an under-studied, controversial and important area which may critically affect the changing socio-political dynamics in Hong Kong. This manuscript is an informative, insightful, and timely study of Church-State relations in Hong Kong over the past 50 years.

"Survey on the Catholic Church," and "Index" published as a supplement (p. 197-215) and inserted at end. Includes bibliographical references.

This volume, dedicated to the memory of Gerard Mannion (1970-2019), former Joseph and Winifred Amaturo Chair in Catholic Studies at Georgetown University, explores the topic of changing the church from a range of different theological perspectives. The volume contributors offer answers to questions such as: What needs to be changed in the universal church and in the particular denominations? How has change influenced the life of the church? What are the dangers that change brings with it? What awaits the church if it refuses to change? Many of the essays focus on people who have changed the church significantly and on events that have catalyzed change, for the better or for the worse. Some also present visions of change for particular Christian denominations, whether over the ordination of the women, different approaches to sexuality, reform of the magisterium, and many other issues related to change.

The church is the hope of the world when it's working right...and therein lies the problem. Most aren't. This has led both Christians and non-Christians to give up on the church entirely; it has led many others to give up on all existing churches-and maybe even start new ones. But all church can and should be transitioned to a new life. A church is never beyond hope. This book will provide principles and practices that can lead to a resurrection of any church, in any setting. It will provide the inspiration and information needed to lead a church successfully through the necessary changes of tradition and culture without compromising God's timeless truth. When this happens, the church will once again be what God intended...the hope of the world.

Innovative spiritual practices that establish the foundation for durable, missional change Many congregations recognize their need to bring about change in order to become or remain vital, both spiritually and organizationally. They have a sense of what they need, and what might keep them from changing. But they don’t know how to change. How Change Comes to Your Church draws on the practical experience, stories, and examples from two experienced church leaders. Patrick Keifert and Wesley Granberg-Michaelson have helped scores of congregations as well as larger denominational organizations identify key elements that are a necessary part of transformational change. Rather than a superficial approach with a simplistic formula, How Change Comes to Your Churchfocuses on the important work of changing church culture, with innovative spiritual practices that establish the foundation for durable, missional change.