Decent and in Order: Conflict, Christianity, and Polity in a Presbyterian Congregation (Religion in the Age of Transformation) [Hardcover]

Ronald R. Stockton (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0275966682 | ISBN-13: 978-0275966683 | Publication Date: February 28, 2000

This is a systematic study of how a congregational conflict involving allegations of sexual harassment and power abuse against a minister was seriously mishandled by church authorities. The conflict escalated to entangle regional and national authorities and worked its way into the civil courts. Stockton focuses on the interaction of organizational dynamics and ill-defined Christian concepts (such as reconciliation and discipline), showing that in conflict situations the ideals of pastoral care are squeezed by an organizational mentality. Key themes involve the role of women in the church, the complex question of sexual harassment, and the interface between church law and civil law. The narrative, which is based on interviews and official documents, captures the human dimensions of the story while simultaneously giving unique insight into congregational disputes and organizational behavior.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"At a time when people are rediscovering faith communities as sources of public good, Stockton provides an exemplary service by portraying the realities, joys and sorrows of a real community struggling to live up to its ideals.... Stockton writes with passion, reflection, and rigor about a vital topic for a society that is looking to faith and communities as a source of renewal. The book provides a compelling narrative built upon strong but unobtrusive analysis of the realities or organizational and bureaucratic life confronting the needs and desires of community and justice."-J. Patrick Dobel Associate Dean The Daniel J. Evans School of Public Affairs University of Washington, Seattle

Book Description

Analyzes a congregational conflict that was seriously mishandled by church authorities and allowed to escalate.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Praeger (February 28, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0275966682
• ISBN-13: 978-0275966683
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,407,524 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Every Church's Required Reading, May 2, 2000

By 

"Pastor Rick" Patterson (Missouri) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Decent and in Order: Conflict, Christianity, and Polity in a Presbyterian Congregation (Religion in the Age of Transformation) (Hardcover)

An excellently written, deeply researched, book on problems within the Church body. Not only covering what happens, but giving the warning signs that every Church leader (Minister or Laity) should read and KEEP! I found it difficult to put it down, it is very readable although academic standards are top level. I am recomending this work, to all my pastor friends, as an indispensable resource for avoiding the pitfalls that are in the ministry.