Customer Reviews

Managing the Congregation: Building Effective Systems to Serve People

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I think that at least first half of this book is excellent material for pastors and leaders of congregations. The writing devoted to the pastor/manager as steward and as a person before God and then that which is devoted to systems theory was helpful and eye-opening; however, as the writers move into management theories and quality control they seem to have trouble translating these into practical applications for churches.

The positive writing in the book makes it a recommended read for pastors; I would suggest that if any chapters don't seem to click that you breeze through them. There is plenty here to take away and attempt to apply; however, to me it also seemed overwhelming and even frustrating at times, because the authors touch on nearly everything affecting congregations. This big picture approach can be paralyzing to pastors who won't know where to start or what to do first. I think the book would be more effective if the scope was narrower and more instructive than just informational.

The authors display considerable knowledge and experience with congregations, and this will be enlightening to readers; however, I think they are to broad in their book and that diminishes it's impact.

I read a ton of books concerning congregational leadership and management. All of the books I have read on this topic, this one is the best. It was recommended by Everett Huffard. I read this book for research into the dissertation I am writing. This book is one of the best for an eldership, a deacon, and a minister. It will help with any ministry or congregation. The material is excellent and well developed. There is so much great stuff that it is difficult to wrap it all up. All I can say is "read the book." There is another title in this series called "leading the congregation." Anyway, for one of the best books for understanding and leading and helping a congregation to grow in number and in influence, this is the title to purchase.

All of the prevailing management theories are built around systems theory. Shawchuck does an excellent job of helping us understand ministry through a systems perspective. The book is spiritually sensitive and practically helpful.