1052 resources were found with perfect matches to your search string:
ADMINISTRATION
Starting and Managing a Nonprofit Organization: A Legal Guide, 4th Edition (Book)
Bruce R. Hopkins, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2004.
Bruce Hopkins sets out in this fourth edition of Starting and Managing a Nonprofit Organization to "translate the intricacies of the law (for nonprofits)…and to make them understandable to non-lawyer-managers of 'nonprofits'…"
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity (Book)
David Allen, Author.
New York, NY: Penguin Books, 2001.
In Getting Things Done, David Allen explains how you can be both more productive and less stressed by following his organizational system. Because the book speaks to the way we think and live, anyone—clergy, laity, staff—will find it helpful.
Leadership Handbook of Management and Administration: Practical Insight from a Cross Section of Ministry Leaders (Book)
James D. Berkley, Editor.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1994.
The third volume in a comprehensive reference for ministry leaders, this text covers the pastor's personal management, ministry transitions, leadership, supervision of paid staff and volunteers, church management, and finance.
The Responsible Administrator: An Approach to Ethics for the Administrative Role (Book)
Terry L. Cooper, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2006.
This book is designed to provide public administrators with a system for making ethical decisions when faced with ethically complex situations offering multiple options for action.
Church Administration and Finance Manual: Resources for Leading the Local Church (Book)
Otto F. Crumroy Jr., Stan Kukawka, Frank M. Witman, Authors.
Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1998.
This reference guide provides guidance on the ethical and effective administration and financial management of a church. Forms, sample documents, checklists, and other tools are included to assist readers in implementing the systems described.
Church Administration Handbook (Book)
Bruce P. Powers, Editor.
Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1997.
This book provides the basics for developing and implementing effective church administrative systems, including leadership and ministry skills, personnel management, planning and budgeting, office administration, and more.
The Clergy Journal (Periodical)
Inver Grove Heights, MN: Logos Productions Inc..
The Clergy Journal, targeted to professional clergy, describes itself as a "practical guide to church leadership and personal growth."
Effective Church Leadership: Building on the Twelve Keys (Book)
Kennon L. Callahan, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1990.
With the current decline of mainline churches in our pluralistic culture, the “professional” pastor must give way to the “missional” pastor; the book defines and lists the major resources of a missional pastor-leader.
Faith-Based Management: Leading Organizations That Are Based on More Than Just Mission (Book)
Peter C. Brinckerhoff, Author.
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1999.
This management resource is geared to the needs of churches and other not-for-profit organizations, recognizing that leadership, finances, marketing, and organizational structure take on a distinctive color in the faith-based organization.
Feeding and Leading: A Practical Handbook on Administration in Church and Christian Organizations (Book)
Kenneth O. Gangel, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1996.
Feeding and Leading will be useful primarily to pastors who function not only as spiritual shepherds, but also as leaders, managers, and servants of a diverse staff, a volunteer core, and a congregational board.
National Association of Temple Administrators (Organization)
NATA
The association fosters Reform Judaism, provides education in effective temple administration, and distributes administrative and procedural information to members and others.
North American Association of Synagogue Executives (Organization)
NAASE
The North American Association of Synagogue Executives convenes and supports Jewish Executive Directors of the Conservative Movement by developing the profession and by enabling administrators to serve their congregations effectively.
Safety Checklists for Churches and Schools (Book)
James F. Cobble Jr., Author.
Matthews, NC: Christian Ministry Resources, 2001.
This collection offers detailed check lists for issues related to building maintenance, accident prevention, and buildings and grounds. Each module includes overall guidelines, detailed tasks, scheduling considerations, and follow up plans.
Twelve Keys to an Effective Church (Book)
Kennon L. Callahan, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1997.
This book, the cornerstone of Kennon Callahan's "effective church" collection, is designed "to assist local churches in their strategic long-range planning to be effective churches in mission."
ADMINISTRATION : Communications
On Dialogue (Book)
David Bohm, Author.
Lee Nichol, Editor.
New York, NY: Routledge, 2004.
Describing dialogue as "a stream of meaning flowing among and through us and between us," David Bohm lays out the theoretical foundations of dialogue and explores the implications of dialogue as a worldview.
The World Cafe (Web Resource)
This Web site supplies information on—and inspiration for—a process that enables participants to authentically communicate, learn, develop community, and commit to action on those questions that matter most to them.
The World Cafe: Shaping Our Futures Through Conversations That Matter (Book)
Juanita Brown, David Isaacs, Authors.
San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2005.
The World Cafe presents a unique process for fostering communication, collaboration, community, and commitment—even in large forums and especially when difficult issues are being discussed.
Dialogue and the Art of Thinking Together: A Pioneering Approach to Communicating in Business and in Life (Book)
William Isaacs, Author.
New York, NY: Random House, 1999.
William Isaacs provides a conceptual framework to get to the heart of conversation. Presenting practical examples, Isaacs integrates the theory and practice of dialogue in a way that stimulates creativity.
The Facilitator's Fieldbook: Step-by-Step Procedures, Checklists and Guidelines, Samples and Templates (Book)
Thomas Justice, David Jamieson, Authors.
New York, NY: AMACOM Books, 1999.
Thomas Justice and David Jamieson have provided an exceptionally thorough set of step-by-step procedures and guidelines for facilitating meetings.
The Lost Art of Listening: How Learning to Listen Can Improve Relationships (Book)
Michael P. Nichols, Author.
New York, NY: Guilford Publications, 1995.
Psychologist Michael Nichols examines the inner barriers, deficient practices, and emotional reactivity that hinder empathic listening. He also shows how to recognize and take control of habits that hinder relating to others.
Church Communications Handbook (Book)
Wanda Vassallo, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1998.
This book is a practical "how-to guide" that includes checklists, summaries, tips, and ideas as well as numerous illustrations from churches and groups that have effectively implemented communication tools and techniques.
Getting the Word Out: The Alban Guide to Church Communications (Book)
Frederick H. Gonnerman, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2003.
A resource for anyone responsible for church communications and publications, this book provides practical advice and strategies for developing and implementing a communications plan. Awarded Religion Communicators "Award of Excellence."
Holy Conversations: Strategic Planning as a Spiritual Practice for Congregations (Book)
Gilbert R. Rendle, Alice Mann, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2003.
This book, loaded with strategic planning tools, insists that it is not the tools—but the conversations evoked by the tools—that most benefit a congregation.
How the Way We Talk Can Change the Way We Work: Seven Languages for Transformation (Book)
Robert Kegan, Lisa Laskow Lahey, Authors.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2001.
Harvard Psychologists Kegan and Lahey describe a common dynamic called “competing commitments” that often keeps us from making the changes in our lives we intend.
Delivra (Software)
Neighborhood Email
(Formerly Neighborhood Email.) Delivra helps congregations launch and maintain email programs such as newsletters, announcements, and discussion forums.
Speaking Faith: The Essential Handbook for Religious Communicators (Book)
The Revererend J. Richard Peck, Editor.
New York, NY: Religion Communicators Council, 2004.
This manual from the national organization of religion communicators provides 16 articles exploring all aspects of communications—from strategy to tools to crisis management. Additional information is available on an accompanying CD-Rom.
ADMINISTRATION : Congregational Finance
The Cash Flow Management Book for Nonprofits: A Step-by-Step Guide for Managers, Consultants, and Boards (Book)
Murray Dropkin, Allyson Hayden, Authors.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2001.
Providing in-depth information on managing cash flow, this book includes details of requirements and controls, policies, projections, and development. Also included are useful forms, worksheets and tools to ease cash flow management in a non-profit setti
The Whys and Hows of Money Leadership (Web Resource)
Chicago, IL: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
In this seven-session online curriculum, Mark Vincent invites you to examine your own beliefs about money, as well as congregational economics, money and leadership, and money and faith. Interactive assessment tools are included.
The Dynamics of Church Finance (Book)
James D. Berkley, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2000.
This book on financial stewardship will help beginning pastors, finance committees, church treasurers, and others with congregational budgeting, financial reporting, fund raising, and similar topics.
Basic Accounting for Churches: A Turnkey Manual (Book)
Jack A. Henry, Author.
Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994.
This book for the accounting novice provides instructions for creating a basic but effective manual accounting system in the congregational setting. Sample forms and practice exercises are included.
Basic Budgeting for Churches: A Complete Guide (Book)
Jack A. Henry, Author.
Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1995.
In this brief book, church financial management expert Jack Henry provides pastors and church volunteers who are new to budgeting with a foundation for developing and managing a simple yet effective church budget. Sample forms are included.
Faith and Money (Web Resource)
Congregational leaders can find it difficult to navigate the terrain between the realms of faith and money. Dan Hotchkiss explores sociological, theological, and spiritual perspectives on this challenging topic. Links to relevant resources are included.
Moving from Fund-raising to Stewardship (Web Resource)
Based on the premise that stewardship is a spiritual experience—a way of life— and fund-raising is a means, Deborah Callard shares her experience developing annual campaign, planned giving, and capital campaign strategies.
Accounting and Financial Reporting Guide for Christian Ministries (Book)
Norwalk, CT: Evangelical Joint Accounting Committee, 2001.
This guide brings together the primary authoritative accounting literature pertinent to Christian ministries to assist these not-for-profit organizations in complying with generally accepted accounting principles.
The Crisis in the Churches: Spiritual Malaise, Fiscal Woe (Book)
Robert Wuthnow, Author.
New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 1997.
Wuthnow argues that the financial crisis in congregations today—declining giving and increased demands—is in addition a spiritual crisis arising from the failure of congregations to meet the spiritual needs of their middle-class members.
Effective Church Finances: Fund-Raising and Budgeting for Church Leaders (Book)
Kennon L. Callahan, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1992.
Kennon Callahan here examines how to construct a church budget that reflects, and meets, the congregation's mission goals.
Financial Meltdown in the Mainline? (Book)
Loren B. Mead, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1998.
This book urges congregations to direct attention to their dwindling financial resources, and offers principles for rebuilding the financial condition of congregations.
Growing Givers' Hearts: Treating Fundraising as Ministry (Book)
Thomas H. Jeavons, Rebekah Burch Basinger, Authors.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2000.
The authors make the strong argument that a fundraiser's goal should be to assist in the faith development of the giver as much as it is to enhance the income of the organization.
Money Matters: Personal Giving in American Churches (Book)
Dean R. Hoge, Patrick H. McNamara, Charles Zech, Michael J. Donahue, Authors.
Dean R. Hoge, Editor.
Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1996.
Seeking to identify the factors that encourage or discourage individual giving, the authors present the results of extensive research on trends in congregational giving.
The New Context for Ministry: Competing for the Charitable Dollar (Book)
Lyle E. Schaller, Author.
Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2002.
(Alternate subtitle: The Impact of the New Economy on Your Church.) Lyle Schaller reflects on how American society has changed in the 72 years between the stock market crash of October 1929 and the terrorist attacks of September 2001.
Plain Talk about Churches and Money (Book)
Dean R. Hoge, Patrick H. McNamara, Charles Zech, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1997.
This volume, based on extensive research, offers insight and help on a variety of financial matters facing congregational leaders today, including stewardship, fundraising, building venture capital, and motivations for giving to the church.
The Price of Faith: Exploring Our Choices about Money and Wealth (Book)
Marie Cross, Author.
Louisville, KY: Geneva Press, 2002.
Marie Cross attempts to broaden our understanding of "stewardship," to challenge the choices we make about money and wealth, and (in the process) to help us grow together in faith.
With Generous Hearts: How to Raise Capital Funds for Your Church, Church School, Church Agency or Regional Church Body (Book)
Glen N. Holliman, Barbara L. Holliman, Authors.
Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 2005.
Providing an excellent overview of capital campaigns, this book presents the six steps of effective fundraising and emphasizes the importance of feasibility studies and advanced gifts.
ADMINISTRATION : Information Technology
Wired for Ministry: How the Internet, Visual Media, and Other New Technologies Can Serve Your Church (Book)
John Jewell, Author.
Brazos Press, 2004.
Having served as both a pastor and a computer systems analyst, John Jewell addresses both the ways technology can enhance ministry and the difficulties that technology can bring.
40 Days and 40 Bytes: Making Computers Work for Your Congregation (Book)
Aaron R. Spiegel, Nancy Armstrong, Brent Bill, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2004.
An important book for any congregation that wants to use computer technology more effectively, 40 Days and 40 Bytes is essential for congregations that have made costly mistakes in the past—and want to avoid those mistakes in the future.
Webmedley (Web Resource)
Allowing congregations to quickly establish and maintain a Web presence, Webmedley offers a variety of user-friendly editing and development tools through a Web browser with add-on features.
E-zekiel (Web Resource)
Birmingham, AL: E-zekiel and Axletree Media
E-zekiel provides Internet-based tools and training for your congregation to establish, edit, and maintain a Web site; manage Web files; conduct e-mail; and engage in marketing and tracking.
Hartford Reviews of Congregational Web Sites (Web Resource)
Hartford, CT: Hartford Institute for Religion Research
This set of congregational Web site reviews from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research provides links to—and analyses—of good sites, plus criteria for evaluating congregational Web sites.
Web Pages That Suck (Web Resource)
This site offers much valuable information about what NOT to do with a Web site. Mistakes around first impressions, text and links, graphics, navigation, and content are covered, along with examples of the worst Web sites.
Center for the Digital Future (Organization)
The Center for the Digital Future (CDF) tracks and reports information on Internet usage. Leaders who use the Internet for communication and ministry will find this organization helpful as they think about Web-based initiatives.
Advanced Internet Management (Web Resource)
Advanced Internet Management provides Internet content filtering solutions and Internet blocking of pornography, adult material, criminal activity, chat blocking, and other categories.
BibleWorks (Software)
BibleWorks aims to provide pastors, educators, seminarians, and others with complete computer-based tools for biblical exegesis and interpretation. Bible translations, reference tools, maps, and more are included.
Church Management Software: How to Choose the Package That's Right for You (Article)
Nancy Armstrong, Brent Bill, Authors.
Church Business. March 2002. Virgo Publishing, Inc..
This article offers valuable advice for choosing church management software that fits the needs and culture of the congregation. A checklist, quick evaluation guide, and a list of software suppliers are included.
ChurchMedia.net (Web Resource)
Las Cruces, NM: Church Media.net
Many congregations are wrestling with the issue of using media in their worship services. ChurchMedia.net is a great first stop to get a handle on the difficult issues of "why" should I use this technology and then "how" do I go about
Computer Savvy: Information Technology in Congregations (Article)
Nancy S. Armstrong, Aaron R. Spiegel, John R. Wimmer, Authors.
The Christian Century. February 7-14, 2001. Vol. 118, No. 5, pp. 20-23.
Chicago, IL: Christian Century Foundation.
Arguing against the notion that computer technology has undermined congregational relationships, the authors of Computer Savvy explain how congregations are using computers to support their ministries.
Habits of the High-Tech Heart: Living Virtuously In the Information Age (Book)
Quentin Schultze, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2002.
Schultze takes the role of constructive contrarian, placing the technological worldview of efficiency, control, and individualism under the authority of the Judeo-Christian worldview with its practices of virtue and spiritual discipline.
How to Create a Web Site for Your Congregation (Web Resource)
Louisville, KY: Presbyterian Church (USA)
This online resource has good basic information and many free resources that would be useful to any congregation constructing a Web site.
iHateSpam (Software)
Sunbelt Software USA
iHateSpam is a filter for Outlook and Outlook Express that, once configured, removes unwanted email from one’s inbox and relegates them to a quarantined, junk email folder for review or deletion.
Microsoft Charity Open License Program (Organization)
Microsoft Charity Open License Program
Qualifying congregations and organizations can purchase Microsoft software for discounts sometimes nearing 70% of retail pricing.
New Tools for a New Century: First Steps in Equipping Your Church for the Digital Revolution (Book)
John Jewell, Author.
Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2002.
This resource explores both why and how the local church can join the digital revolution to further its primary mission of spreading the faith.
Web Site Development for Religious Organizations (Web Resource)
Understanding that faith communities are often low on funds and must rely on volunteers, a professional Web site developer has created a resource that will help congregations with instituting and maintaining organizational Web sites.
Websense (Software)
Websense
Protecting and controlling Internet use within a congregation is becoming a necessity as church facilities become more like community centers. Websense provides a quality check for all internet use on your computer.
Wired Churches, Wired Temples: Taking Congregations and Missions into Cyberspace (Book)
Elena Larsen, Author.
Washington, DC: Pew Internet & American Life Project, 2000.
Although it was released in 2000 and many of the statistics may have changed since then, this report provides an interesting look at congregational Internet use at a time when such use is becoming more common.
ADMINISTRATION : Legal Matters
ChurchLawToday.com (Web Resource)
Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, Inc
ChurchLawToday.com is a Web site dedicated to providing extensive information on tax, legal, and risk management issues for church leaders—including clergy, staff, and volunteers.
Legal Guide for Day-to-Day Church Matters: A Handbook for Pastors and Church Members (Book)
Cynthia Mazur, Ronald Bullis, Authors.
Cleveland, OH: Pilgrim Press, 2003.
The authors, both ministers and attorneys, provide a primer (in question/answer format) to the laws affecting clergy and churches, the actions that can result in litigation, and the procedures that can help avoid such litigation.
Legal Issues and Religious Counseling (Book)
Ronald Bullis, Cynthia Mazur, Authors.
Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1993.
This book outlines the laws governing religious counselors, the primary reasons for which these counselors are sued (deficient quality of counseling, breach of confidentiality, and sexual misconduct), and ways to avoid such litigation.
Ministry and the Law: What You Need to Know (Book)
Mary Angela Shaughnessy, Author.
Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press, 1998.
Ministry and the Law briefly reviews the laws affecting ministry, the types of lawsuits filed most frequently against clergy and churches, and the ways clergy and churches (particularly Catholic) can avoid litigation.
Accountable Leadership: A Resource Guide for Sustaining Legal, Financial, and Ethical Integrity in Today's Congregations (Book)
Paul Chaffee, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1997.
This interesting book provides overviews of important aspects of congregational leadership and surveys resources that can help leaders better understand their responsibilities.
Ministry and the American Legal System: A Guide for Clergy, Lay Workers, and Congregations (Book)
Richard B. Couser, Author.
Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 1993.
Ministry and the American Legal System provides an overview of the history, form, and function of the American legal system and its interface with religious institutions and belief.
ADMINISTRATION : Pastoral Search
Revitalizing Congregations: Refocusing and Healing through Pastoral Transitions (Book)
William O. Avery, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2002.
Noting that pastoral changes are often times of turmoil, William Avery tells the stories of six congregations who had experienced significant conflict and who benefited from having an intentional interim minister.
Beginning Ministry Together: The Alban Handbook for Clergy Transitions (Book)
Roy M. Oswald, James M. Heath, Ann W. Heath, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2003.
Beginning Ministry Together looks in detail at how to effectively navigate the transition that begins after a pastor announces he or she is leaving and continues through the hiring and adjustment of the new pastor.
The Alban Guide to Managing the Pastoral Search Process (Book)
John Vonhof, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1999.
More than a management manual, this books helps congregations create a solid base from which to conduct a search process. Prayer and corporate discernment augment sample letters, flowcharts, communication ideas, and policy suggestions.
ADMINISTRATION : Staffing
A Change of Pastors . . . And How It Affects Change in the Congregation (Book)
Loren B. Mead, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2005.
Loren Mead explains ways that clergy can work with the church during their exit from old ministry settings and entrance into new settings. Revising an earlier work (A Critical Moment in Ministry), Mead addresses current issues.
Transform Your Church with Ministry Teams (Book)
E. Stanley Ott, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2004.
This book offers practical advice to those who have made the decision to move from a committee-based to a ministry team based church organizational structure. Step-by-step information on recruiting, developing and enhancing team life is included.
When Moses Meets Aaron: Staffing and Supervision in Large Congregations (Book)
Gil Rendle, Susan Beaumont, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2007.
Leading a staff team can be a challenge. One has to manage everyday details while inspiring and driving a congregation’s vision. This book—an invaluable toolkit—takes the best of human resource know-how and applies it to the large congregation.
Death by Meeting: A Leadership Fable...About Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business (Book)
Patrick M. Lencioni, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2004.
Convinced that good meetings are crucial to organizational effectiveness, Patrick Lencioni has written a book outlining the elements of meetings that work. Everyone who manages staff or volunteers will find this book helpful.
Teams That Click: The Results-Driven Manager Series (Book)
Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Publishing, 2004.
Teams that Click suggests ways to make your team "click" in four areas: boosting productivity, handling inevitable conflicts, dealing with special communication challenges, and rewarding team performance.
Turning Team Performance Inside Out: Team Types and Temperament for High-Impact Results (Book)
Susan Nash, Author.
Mountain View, CA: Davies-Black Publishing, 1999.
Susan Nash draws upon her understanding of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator and team dynamics to present a densely packed book aimed at developing both the gifts of individual team members and overall team strengths.
Team Troubleshooter: How to Find and Fix Team Problems (Book)
Robert W. Barner, Author.
Mountain View, CA: Davies-Black Publishing, 2000.
Team Troubleshooter supplies a full toolkit for identifying and resolving team problems. Robert Barner leads readers through the problem-solving process and helps them understand the problems teams face.
Church Staff Handbook: How to Build an Effective Ministry Team (Book)
Harold J. Westing, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1997.
The church staff must model for the church how a good team is to function. God wants the church to function as a team and who better to show the way than the professionals called to serve the church.
Effective Ministry as an Associate Pastor: Making Beautiful Music as a Ministry Team (Book)
Robert J. Radcliffe, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1998.
This resource is a guide to effective service in the specialized ministry of the associate pastor for clergy, laity, and staff.
How to Develop a Pastoral Compensation Plan: A Biblical Approach to Meeting the Needs of the Pastor and His Staff (Book)
Gary L. McIntosh, Author.
Oxnard, CA: Church Growth Institute, 1991.
How to Develop a Pastoral Compensation Plan explains the processes needed to develop a salary package that is fair and appropriate for pastors and other congregational staff.
National Association of Church Personnel Administrators (Organization)
NACPA is a national organization for human resource managers and personnel directors dedicated to the promotion and development of just personnel practices for all church employees.
Staff Your Church for Growth: Building Team Ministry in the 21st Century (Book)
Gary L. McIntosh, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2000.
Presenting an approach to church staffing that is both functional and biblical, Staff Your Church for Growth helps senior pastors answer key questions about the "what," "how," and "why" of multiple staff ministry.
ADMINISTRATION : Staffing : Compensation
National Church Staff Compensation Survey (Book)
Joyce Parchman, James D. Giffen, Editors.
Richardson, TX: National Association of Church Business Administration, 2005.
This comprehensive survey by the National Association of Church Business Administration reports the "high," "low," and "average" compensation of both ordained and non-ordained church staff across the country.
Compensation Handbook for Church Staff (updated annually) (Book)
James F. Cobble Jr., Richard R. Hammar, Authors.
Carol Stream, IL: Christianity Today, Inc, 2006.
This handbook provides leaders with an overview of compensation packages across a range of churches. It also helps readers understand compensation planning and standards for determining fair compensation.
How Much Should We Pay the Pastor? A Fresh Look at Clergy Salaries in the 21st Century (Book)
Becky R. McMillan, Matthew J. Price, Authors.
Durham, NC: Duke Divinity School Pulpit and Pew Research Reports, 2003.
This report offers a history of the Black church in relation to current demographic shifts. It profiles laity and clergy—combining narrative and statistical information, and explores church’s role as political and social action agent.
What’s Fair Pay for Your Pastor? (Article)
Scott A. Arnold, Author.
Action Information. January/February 1992. Vol. XVIII, No. 1, pp. 9.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
This article makes it clear that the pastor's salary should not be used as a budget-balancing tool and offers suggestions for the factors to be considered in establishing a fair pastoral salary, including the local cost of living and the average living e
ADMINISTRATION : Staffing : Personnel Policies
The Alban Personnel Handbook for Congregations (Book)
Erwin Berry, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1999.
The Alban Personnel Handbook gives church leaders the necessary tools and information for implementing a comprehensive personnel system, managing human resources effectively, and applying policies and processes in a fair and equitable manner.
ADMINISTRATION : Staffing : Staff Dynamics
Why Employees Don't Do What They're Supposed to Do: And What to Do About It (Book)
Ferdinand M. Fournies, Author.
New York, NY: McGraw Hill, 1999.
This book explains the often hidden reasons for poor employee performance, offers solutions for these situations, and discusses how to prevent them from arising.
Becoming Colleagues: Women and Men Serving Together in Faith (Book)
Carol E. Becker, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2000.
The author discusses nine criteria for successful mixed-gender teams, illustrating the importance of each by case histories from congregational settings.
Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them? (Book)
Daniel Goleman, Author.
New York, NY: Bantam, 2003.
Daniel Goleman documents a week-long forum among Western and Buddhist practitioners and scholars dedicated to (1) exploring the harm caused by destructive emotions and (2) examining ways to reduce negativity and increase compassion.
Improving Your Multiple Staff Ministry: How to Work Together More Effectively (Book)
Anne Marie Nuechterlein, Author.
Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Books, 1990.
Building on basic understandings of communications, personality types, and the connection between staff and family systems, this book explores the interpersonal dynamics of building an effective staff team.
Leading the Team-Based Church: How Pastors and Church Staffs Can Grow Together into a Powerful Fellowship of Leaders (Book)
George Cladis, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1999.
Written around the seven attributes of an effective team, this book provides sound principles for living out team concepts in the church.
ADMINISTRATION : Staffing : Volunteers
How to Mobilize Church Volunteers (Book)
Marlene Wilson, Author.
Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Books, 1983.
Encouraging church leaders to identify gifts rather than simply fill empty volunteer slots, the author suggests guidelines and exercises for motivating lay members to offer their talents in the church and community.
Network: The Right People, in the Right Places, for the Right Reasons, at the Right Time (Media)
Distributed by Zondervan Publishing House.
Replacing antiquated, ineffective "time and talent" surveys, the Network system offers a way to help people in congregations discover their unique ministries.
Volunteers: How to Get Them, How to Keep Them (Book)
Helen Little, Author.
Naperville, IL: Panacea Press, 1999.
Little makes the case that all volunteers and volunteer leaders share twelve basic needs that must be met if the volunteers are to serve effectively and remain with the service organization for an extended period of time.
ADMINISTRATION : Stewardship
The Abingdon Guide to Funding Ministry (Book)
Donald W. Joiner, Author.
Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1997.
The Abingdon Guide to Funding Ministry supplies a variety of tools for discovering, teaching, and proclaiming the joy and responsibility of faithful financial stewardship.
Christian Stewardship Association (Organization)
CSA is a membership organization for Christian development professionals. Its mission is to provide these individuals with a biblical understanding of stewardship through research, publications, educational events, and networking opportunities.
Creating Congregations of Generous People (Book)
Michael Durall, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1999.
This view of stewardship asserts that continued generous giving to one’s church comes about from individual satisfaction and consequent spiritual growth, not from a duty to help meet the budget.
Ecumenical Stewardship Center (Organization)
The Ecumenical Stewardship Center offers books, videos, an annual journal, and a variety of seminars and conferences to assist denominations and other organizations in developing "creative and vital stewardship ministries."
Effective Approaches to Growth and Stewardship in the Small Church (Article)
Perry Bell, Author.
Congregations. September/October 1994. Vol. XX, No. 5, pp. 9.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
This article makes the case that the unique characteristics of small congregations must be understood if efforts to grow the membership and cultivate giving are to succeed.
Eight Ways Congregations Raise Pledges (Article)
Perry Bell, Author.
Action Information. July/August 1991. Vol. XVII, No. 4, pp. 10.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
The author outlines the eight basic approaches congregations can use to obtain financial commitments from their members, describing the resources necessaary to launch these drives and their expected results.
Generous Saints: Congregations Rethinking Ethics and Money (Book)
James Hudnut-Beumler, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1999.
Author James Hudnut-Beumler immediately shifts notions of parish finance from green eyeshade budget-balancing to perennial religious questions undergirding mission and life.
Giving and Stewardship in an Effective Church: A Guide for Every Member (Book)
Kennon L. Callahan, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1997.
Beginning with the premise that “money follows mission,” this book offers some simple, thoughtful ways to revitalize congregational stewardship campaigns and to increase overall church attendance.
National Association of Church Business Administration (Organization)
With 3000 members and over 70 local chapters, the National Association of Church Business Administration (NACBA) is an interdenominational Christian organization that provides training and resources in the field of church administration.
Pastor, You Can Increase the Giving in Your Church (Article)
Harris W. Lee, Author.
Action Information. July/August 1992. Vol. XVIII, No. 4, pp. 8–10.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
This article contests the notion that lay leaders are responsible for stewardship, suggesting that pastors play a key role through the quality of their pastoral ministry, the way in which they lead, and their relationship with the stewardship committee.
What Is the Best You Can Give to the Church? Old Testament Recipes . . . the New Testament Stretch (Article)
Donna Schaper, Author.
Action Information. September/October 1991. Vol. XVII, No. 5, pp. 1.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
The author examines the Hebrew tradition's "ladder of giving," applying it to Christian ideals of giving. In doing so, she asks readers to identify what taking sufficient care of themselves means.
BUILDING ISSUES
Church Extension Planning Publications (Web Resource)
Indianapolis, IN: Church Extension
This series covers aspects of a church-based building or renovation project, providing PDF documents on funding, planning, construction, existing facilities, and accessibility. All are written to support church building planning committees.
The Next Step: How to Discover the Right Solutions to Plan, Design, & Build Your Church (Book)
Bill Chegwidden, Author.
Canton, GA: Riverstone Group, 2004.
Presenting 14 distinct steps for congregations to follow, architect Bill Chegwidden has written a practical and highly readable book to help congregations navigate the details and challenges of a building project.
Acoustics for Liturgy: A Collection of Articles of The Hymn Society in the U.S. and Canada (Book)
Chicago, IL: Liturgy Training Publications, 1991.
This 60-page pamphlet provides advice on acoustics from an acoustician, architect, musician, organ builder, theologian, and pastor.
Building for Effective Mission: A Complete Guide for Congregations on Bricks and Mortar Issues (Book)
Kennon L. Callahan, Author.
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 1997.
Affirming that mission grows with compassion and community, this book helps congregations discover and focus on their mission and to develop a physical environment to support that mission.
BUILDING ISSUES : Accessibility
Accessible Faith: A Technical Guide for Accessibility in Houses of Worship (Book)
Elizabeth A. Patterson, Neal A. Vogel, Authors.
Chicago, IL: The Retirement Research Foundation, 2003.
This 50-page book provides a concise guide to planning, designing, funding, and constructing for greater accessibility in your church or synagogue—without detracting from the beauty or historical significance of your worship space.
National Organization on Disability, Religion and Disability Program (Organization)
The National Organization on Disability’s interfaith Religion and Disability Program encourages congregations, seminaries, and judicatories to remove obstacles to worship and full congregational participation.
BUILDING ISSUES : Architecture
American Institute of Architects (AIA) (Organization)
The AIA provides public information on all phases of choosing and working with an architect, including guidelines, best practices and a series of articles on how to select and work with an architect. Includes downloadable materials and links.
Sacred Spaces: Designing America's Churches (Article)
Gretchen T. Buggein, Author.
The Christian Century. June 2004. pp. 20-25.
Chicago, IL: Christian Century Foundation.
The author explores different architectural styles of American churches, their historical purposes and expressions, influencing worship practice and secular factors that influence style, and the aesthetic goals of good church design.
You and Your Architect (Web Resource)
Washington, DC: American Institute of Architects (AIA)
This guide helps owners develop and maintain a professional relationship with an architect to insure a project's success. Basic information, prompting questions, and FAQs make this a thorough resource for anyone engaged in a building project.
Renewing Spaces: Designing Distinctive Churches (Article)
Michael J. Crosbie, Author.
David Heim, Editor.
Christian Century. Faithful Design 2005. Vol. 122, No. 23, pp. 20-24.
Crosbie describes eight different buildings and how their architecture relates to the mission of the congregations they represent: from renovation of an historical cathedral in Chicago to an environmentally attuned building in northern Nevada.
Firm Foundations: An Architect and a Pastor Guide Your Church Construction (Book)
Lance Moore, Author.
Lima, OH: CSS Publishing Company, 1999.
Detailing all aspects of a building project—from initial idea to final dedication service—Pastor Lance Moore and architect Daniel Michal offer a comprehensive guide to church construction projects.
Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship (Web Resource)
Washington, DC: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Inc., Committee on the Liturgy
This resource has universal appeal in its theological grounding and descriptions of different church spaces such as the altar, baptistery, etc., each one’s liturgical significance, and construction and adornment guidelines.
Church Architecture: A Resource Network (Web Resource)
Dixon Arts Guild, Inc.
People beginning to think about the architecture of sacred spaces will find interest and enjoyment in this site, as well as links to related information. Articles, examples, and a glossary are included.
Designing Future Worship Spaces: The Mystery of a Common Vision (Book)
Richard S. Vosko, Author.
Chicago, IL: Liturgy Training Publications, 1996.
Contemporary church design often forgoes art in favor of function. Bucking this trend, the author asserts that both contemporary needs and artistic beauty can, and should, co-exist in modern church architecture while serving liturgical requirements.
Worship Without Words: The Signs and Symbols of Our Faith (Book)
Patricia S. Klein, Author.
Paraclete Press, 2000.
Author Patricia Klein provides a guide to the symbols of church architecture and worship space, with in-depth explorations of the alter and the cross.
BUILDING ISSUES : Building Construction
The National Association of Church Design Builders (NACDB) (Organization)
This professional association is a membership network of Design-Build firms and certified consultants ready to assist congregations with Design-Build projects. NACDB offers educational materials, hosts seminars, and has a resource-rich Web site.
Church Growth by Design: A Complete Guide for Planning and Building Churches to God's Glory (Book)
Roe Messner, Author.
Matthews, NC: Empire Group, Inc., 2003.
Effective church buildings are critical to church growth and the expansion of God’s Kingdom. Drawn from long experience building church facilities, this book includes practical advice, planning worksheets, helpful diagrams, and illustrations.
Disaster Prevention Guide for Church Building Projects (Book)
Jon Elliott, Author.
Oxnard, CA: Church Growth Institute, 2003.
This guide offers solid know-how on planning and managing the details of a church building project along with information to avoid burnout caused by the potential stresses related to such projects. Printed and audio materials are provided.
Churches... Before You Build: Successful Strategies for Developing Worship and Ministry Facilities (Book)
William Couchenour, Author.
Cogun, Inc., 2003.
This book, written by a church building program professional, is designed to acquaint readers with the major aspects of a church building program, help prevent common mistakes, and enhance opportunities for success.
Relating to Contractors (Article)
Here is a list of important points to remember when hiring a building contractor. Includes a "learn more" appendix of related resources.
Church Construction.com (Web Resource)
(Formerly Praise Buildings.) This Web site provides a comprehensive online "yellow pages" to many vendors, articles, and resources. The search engine enables users to select by state or province.
When Not to Build: An Architect's Unconventional Wisdom for the Growing Church (Book)
Ray Bowman, Eddie Hall, Authors.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2000.
This book helps congregations decide if construction is the best solution to space constraints. Questionnaires, examples of churches who have and have not chosen building solutions but have experienced success are presented.
BUILDING ISSUES : Building Maintenance
National Association of Church Facility Managers (NACFM) (Organization)
This organization provides an educational venue for those responsible for church building and facilities. Information is free to members. NACFM hosts an annual conference, other educational events and a certification program.
Thy Kingdom Clean: The Care and Maintenance of Houses of Worship (Book)
Ron M. Chandler FCBA, G.L. Lashley, Authors.
Joyce Parchman, Editor.
Richardson, TX: National Association of Church Business Administration, 2001.
This manual addresses the care and maintenance of houses of worship with brief overviews followed by extensive practical information—check lists, sample policies and procedures, contract guidelines, standards, job descriptions, and more.
Maintenance Manual: A Program for Inspection and Seasonal Maintenance of Religious Properties (Book)
Albany, NY: Architecture and Building Commission of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, 1985.
This extensive property manual includes seasonal maintenance schedules and mechanical, inspection, and safety checklists—along with a helpful glossary and space for recording key information.
A Primer on Maintenance of Heating and Electrical Systems (Report)
Andrew Rudin, Author.
Melrose Park, PA: Interfaith Coalition on Energy, 1990.
This brief report outlines ten concrete steps for organizing and managing an effective church maintenance program.
BUILDING ISSUES : Building Repair, Renovation, and Restoration
This Old Church: The Indispensable Guide for Restoring Church Buildings (Book)
Ion Grumeza, Author.
Cleveland, OH: Pilgrim Press, 2005.
A premier for Church Renovation Committees, this book provides overview information about renovation projects, issues likely to need attention, and practical advice. Specific renovation issues are described and illustrated with photographs.
Inspecting and Maintaining Religious Properties (Book)
Wesley Haynes, Andrew Rudin, J. Thomas Ryan, Authors.
New York, NY: New York Landmarks Conservancy, 1991.
The cost-effective use and maintenance of properties includes ongoing inspection and repair of structures and systems as well as good recordkeeping.
Partners for Sacred Places (Organization)
This organization is devoted to helping Americans care for and make good use of historic religious properties. It provides information on property management, maintenance, fundraising, and professional references suitable for any building type.
The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows (Preservation Brief 9) (Report)
John H. Myers, Author.
Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Preservations Assistance Division, Technical Preservation Services, 1981.
Learn to evaluate, repair, and maintain historic windows in your congregation's house of worship.
The Repair, Replacement, and Maintenance of Historic Slate Roofs (Preservation Brief 29) (Report)
Jeffrey S. Levine, Author.
Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Cultural Resources, 1993.
This brief describes the history of slate use in the United States and explains the architectural character it provides to buildings.
Repairing Old and Historic Windows: A Manual for Architects and Homeowners (Report)
New York Landmarks Conservancy, Author.
New York Landmarks Conservancy, Editor.
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1995.
The maintenance and repair of old and historic windows requires information on proper cleaning, an understanding of what causes deterioration, and expertise on retrofitting and replacement options.
Repointing Mortar Joints in Historic Masonry Buildings (Preservation Brief 2) (Report)
Robert C. Mack, John P. Speweik, Authors.
Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Cultural Resources, 1998.
Learn appropriate methods and materials needed to repoint all types of historic masonry. By preserving the historic character of buildings, some owners may qualify for preservation tax incentives.
Roofing Handbook (Book)
Robert Scharff, Author.
New York, NY: McGraw Hill, 1996.
This book is a practical, hands-on guide to roofing and roofing project management. Those overseeing roofing projects as well as those actually conducting roofing work will find this a helpful resource.
BUILDING ISSUES : Building Repair, Renovation, and Restoration : Windows
The Color of Light: Commissioning Stained Glass for a Church (Book)
Sarah Hall, Author.
Chicago, IL: Liturgy Training Publications, 1999.
An attractive and easily-accessible guide to commissioning new stained glass art, this book will prove a valuable resource for building, renovation or art committees. Stained glass history, materials, design, and commissioning are included.
BUILDING ISSUES : Capital Building Campaigns
The Complete Guide to Capital Campaigns for Historic Churches and Synagogues (Book)
Peggy Powell Dean, Susanna A. Jones, Authors.
Philadelphia, PA: Partners for Sacred Places, 1998.
Capital campaigns to restore historic buildings offer opportunities to seek grants and gifts that are not ordinarily available to congregations.
Extraordinary Money! Understanding the Church Capital Campaign (Book)
Michael Reeves, Author.
Nashville, TN: Discipleship Resources, 2002.
Extraordinary Money presents questions and tips for congregations to consider before they seek to maximize individual gifts and broaden congregational participation in their capital campaigns.
BUILDING ISSUES : Energy Efficiency
Interfaith Coalition on Energy (Organization)
Interfaith Coalition on Energy (ICE) offers a range of services and publications to help congregations reduce their heating, cooling and other energy costs.
Reducing Energy Costs in Religious Buildings: A Workbook for Congregation Leaders (Book)
Melrose Park, PA: Interfaith Coalition on Energy, 1996.
This 24-page workbook helps you analyze your own buildings if you are in a northern climate.
BUILDING ISSUES : Facility Sharing
Your Sacred Place is a Community Asset (Book)
Tuomi Joshua Forrest, Patricia LePera, Sarah Peveler, Authors.
Philadelphia, PA: Partners for Sacred Places, 2002.
This multi-media tool kit helps congregations determine their community-service value, plan for a capital campaign and discover new ways to partner with community organizations. Various "tools" divide the work into manageable pieces.
Open the Doors, See All the People: A Guide to Serving Families in Sacred Places (Book)
Jackqueline T. Warren, Author.
Philadelphia, PA: Partners for Sacred Places, 2001.
This resource systematically considers how religious buildings can be seen as an asset to ministry with children and families.
CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY
The Practicing Congregation: Imagining a New Old Church (Book)
Diana Butler Bass, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2004.
Looking at individual congregations as examples, The Practicing Congregation describes a growing trend in which mainline congregations are transforming into places of vital, intentional practices of faith.
Synagogue 3000 (Organization)
Synagogue 3000 (S3K) empowers "congregations and communities to create synagogues that are sacred and vital centers of Jewish life." Resources, ideas, and opportunities for networking are included on its Web site.
Paying Attention: Focusing Your Congregation on What Matters (Book)
Gary Peluso-Verdend, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2005.
Holding that attention is "the capacity and the ability to be lovingly and truly present to God and to neighbor," the author explores the practices that strengthen attention and explains how to foster attention in congregations.
From Nomads to Pilgrims: Stories from Practicing Congregations (Book)
Diana Butler Bass, Joseph Stewart-Sicking, Editors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2006.
From Nomads to Pilgrims offers portraits of congregations that have discovered vitality through embracing spiritual practices, engaging ancient traditions, offering compelling stories, and fostering virtue.
Christianity for the Rest of Us (Book)
Diana Butler Bass, Author.
San Francisco, CA: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006.
Diana Butler Bass discusses her study of Christian communities that are open and creative while honoring ancient traditions, engaging in faithful practices, and fostering spiritual maturity and wisdom.
This House We Build: Lessons for Healthy Synagogues and the People Who Dwell There (Book)
Terry Bookman, William Kahn, Authors.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 2007.
This book offers insights into how synagogues function, the healthy and unhealthy motivations of the people involved in them, and the attitudes and actions necessary to build and maintain a healthy faith community.
Growing a Beloved Community: Twelve Hallmarks of a Healthy Congregation (Book)
Tom Owen-Towle, Author.
Boston, MA: Skinner House Books, 2004.
Tom Owen-Towle outlines twelve characteristics of healthy, vital congregations. Grounded in the image of the "beloved community," these characteristics include mutual care, a commitment to social justice, and the nurturance of generosity.
Becoming a Healthy Church: 10 Traits of a Vital Ministry (Book)
Stephen A. Macchia, Author.
Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2003.
After visiting, interviewing, and evaluating many New England congregations and 1,899 of their members, author Stephen Macchia has found what he believes are ten principles characteristic of healthy churches.
Congregations (Periodical)
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
Published quarterly by the Alban Institute, Congregations magazine provides helpful information and insights on a wide range of topics for congregational leaders.
Easum, Bandy, and Associates (Organization)
A full-service consulting group, Easum, Bandy, and Associates (EBA) provides training and resources to Christian congregations.
The Illusion of Congregational "Happiness" (Article)
Gilbert R. Rendle, Author.
Congregations. May/June 1997. Vol. XXIII, No. 3, pp. 15-17.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute.
This article argues that focusing on complaints in the hope of increasing congregational happiness leads only to additional and competing complaints rather than to increased happiness for a congregation and its leaders.
Leadership Network (Organization)
The Leadership Network runs various programs aimed at identifying and generating a conversation among leaders of vital, growing churches.
Natural Church Development: A Guide to the Eight Essential Qualities of Healthy Churches (Book)
Christian A. Schwarz, Author.
St. Charles, IL: ChurchSmart Resources, 1996.
This book, based on a survey of more than 1,000 congregations around the world, offers a valuable contribution to the discussion of why churches grow.
The Once and Future Church: Reinventing the Congregation for a New Mission Frontier (Book)
Loren B. Mead, Author.
Herndon, VA: Alban Institute, 1991.
Principles that have guided the church since the conversion of Constantine no longer apply in our turbulent world. In this classic, Mead alerts us to the challenges of reinventing the new church and offers hopeful signs of the future church’s emergence.
Transforming Christian Leaders (Web Resource)
Grounded in the belief that adults learn best through narratives, this web site provides a collection of resources centered around stories about congregational life and challenges.
CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY : Appreciative Inquiry
Claiming the Light: Appreciative Inquiry (Web Resource)
This Web resource explains the theory, principles, and practices of appreciative inquiry (AI). It also explores ways that appreciative inquiry can apply to congregational life—from education to evaluation.
Appreciative Inquiry Commons (Web Resource)
Hosted by Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management, this Web site is a worldwide portal to academic resources and tools on appreciative inquiry and the discipline of positive change.
Appreciative Inquiry in the Catholic Church (Book)
Susan Star Paddock, Author.
Plano, TX: Thin Book Publishing, 2003.
Susan Paddock summarizes the appreciative inquiry process and explains how it is compatible with Catholic theology. She also explores stories of how various Catholic organizations and parishes have applied appreciative inquiry.
Experience AI: A Practitioner's Guide to Integrating Appreciative Inquiry with Experiential Learning (Book)
Miriam W. Ricketts, James E. Willis, Authors.
Chagrin Falls, OH: The Taos Institute, 2001.
This book outlines appreciative inquiry (AI) and explains how its results can be accelerated with experiential learning (EL), which involves immersing participants in experiences that encourage risk taking followed by meaningful reflection.
The Appreciative Organization (Book)
Harlene Anderson, David Cooperrider, Kenneth J. Gergen, Mary Gergen, Sheila McNamee, Diana Whitney, Authors.
Chagrin Falls, OH: The Taos Institute, 2001.
Arguing that old hierarchical organization models are no longer effective, The Appreciative Organization provides an overview of a new model based on "appreciative organizing."
The Appreciative Inquiry Summit: A Practitioner’s Guide for Leading Large-Group Change (Book)
Diana Whitney, James D. Ludema, Bernard J. Mohr, Thomas J. Griffin, Authors.
San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2003.
This is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to conducting a whole organization planning process based on collective strengths and full participation. Written for corporate settings, this rigorous approach can be creatively adapted for congregations.
The Thin Book of Appreciative Inquiry (Book)
Sue Annis Hammond, Author.
Plano, TX: Thin Book Publishing, 1998.
This slender volume explains appreciative inquiry as a tool for organizational change and makes it understandable for people new to the topic. It explains how to generate an appreciative inquiry process that
