Five Practices of Fruitful CongregationsPeople are searching for a church shaped and sustained by Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-Taking Mission and Service, and Extravagant Generosity. These fundamental practices are critical to the success of congregations. Their presence and strength demonstrate congregational health, vitality, and fruitfulness. By repeating and improving these practices, churches fulfill their mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Robert Schnase astutely weaves theological insight, practical advice, and exemplary stories into an inspiring book for pastors and laity alike. —L. Gregory Jones, Dean and Professor of Theology, Duke Divinity School Robert Schnase’s words are thoughtful, provocative, and challenging. Any congregation will find encouragement and insight to deepen faithfulness and multiply fruitfulness. —Lovett H. Weems, Jr., Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary Stimulating. Challenging. Uniquely helpful. Bishop Schnase gives us powerful language, rich examples, and practical suggestions for fulfilling the mission God gives us. —Janice Riggle Huie, Bishop of the Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church |
Contents
Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations | |
The Practice of Radical Hospitality | |
The Practice of Passionate Worship | |
The Practice of Intentional Faith Development | |
The Practice of RiskTaking Mission and Service | |
The Practice of Extravagant Generosity | |
Excellence and Fruitfulness | |
Other editions - View all
Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations: Revised and Updated Bishop Robert Schnase Limited preview - 2018 |
Common terms and phrases
active Alcoholics Anonymous asked Body of Christ change lives choirs Christian church leaders church members Churches that practice Committee Communion congregation's connect Consecration Sunday cultivate culture deepen difference DISCIPLE Bible Study early Methodists encourage engagement excellence expectations experience feel fellowship five practices focus forms fruitful gathering gifts giving God's Spirit gracious growing congregations hearts Intentional Faith Development invite Jesus Christ John Wesley leadership learning in community mature Mission and Service Missouri Mozambique neighbor newcomers numbers offer Passionate Worship percent practice Intentional Faith practice Radical Hospitality pray prayer prepare prevenient grace programs purposes of Christ reach receive relationship Risk-Taking Mission sanctifying grace Scripture serve shape share small group ministries spiritual stewardship stories Sunday school classes talk teach tithing transform unchurched United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School Vibrant visitors volunteers welcoming Wesley worship leaders young adults youth