Customer Reviews

Recovering the Sacred Center: Church Renewal from the Inside Out

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Dr. Friend offers a unique and compelling approach for revitalization of faith communities that is spiritually grounded. Though it is concrete and specific in the guidance it offers, it challenges congregations -- members and leaders -- to identify and explore individual and corporate "sacred center". Acknowledging that "sacred center" is hard to define, the author invites exploration of the deepest essence of both the person and the organization. This book is most helpful when read and discussed by a core group of people in the community. The book is based on the author's experience with dozens of churches and judicatories across 8 denominations. While courageously realistic, it offers the reader hope grounded in fresh alternatives to the discouragement that characterizes so many congregations today. Real stories from real people are at the heart of this important book.

In Recovering the Sacred Center Howard Friend gives translates the theory and gives a practical application of Thomas Merton's conception of the struggle between true and false selves, for church renewal. In three parts, Friend introduces the concept of sacred center, applies it to congregations, and shares his experience using these insights in church renewal. He acknowledges most significantly, renewal is in the attitudes of leaders.
I have been very impressed with his ability and experience using contemplative approaches in discerning practical directions. His illustrations and metaphors are clear, understandable, and therefore easy to convey to congregants. I've yearned for this tool for a number of years and am thankful to have found it.