The Challenge of Change
Change can be a frightening thing, particularly if we're not fully prepared for what it will mean to us. Change in our church is no different, and if we are going to be able to move forward, careful thought and guidance is needed.
The author of The Challenge of Cell Church, which has sold over 10,000 copies, returns with this map for healthy and godly change in the local church. Writing as a pastor and practitioner, Phil Potter explains ways of shaping change of any kind in the life of a church and presents a guide to understanding the changing shape of church, in particular the 'fresh expressions' of church now emerging. He uses his experiences of leading his own church through five major transition periods, with his own mistakes and personal stories as examples to illustrate his points.
The Challenge of Change is ideal for church leaders of any denomination wanting to take their congregations through change. It is also ideal for church members preparing to embark on a particular project, or simply wanting to be equipped for whatever lies ahead. It speaks to reluctant traditionalists and impatient visionaries, to both struggling and thriving congregations. Also included are over 100 questions for personal and group reflection.
'An excellent guidebook for any congregation serious about change'
- Steven Croft, Bishop of Sheffield
'Phil Potter has proved in his ministry that lasting change comes through clear, compelling values. His work on change draws on wide wisdom, real life and healthy, holy dissatisfaction.'
- George Lings, Church Army Research Team
Phil Potter is Director of Pioneer Ministry in the Diocese of Liverpool, involved in national strategies for promoting cell church and 'fresh expressions' of church. He was vicar of St Marks, Haydock for 19 years, which became a centre for encouraging cell-based ministry. He has also written The Challenge of Cell Church.
From New Wine Magazine - Summer 2010
As someone who has been a part of the pioneer network in the Liverpool Diocese under Phil's guidance for several years, I know that Phil is definitely up for a challenge. He has lived out the reality of that much-repeated statement, 'Change is here to stay.'
The Challenge of Change awakens us to the state of our current cultural situation and challenges us to address the fact that it is rapidly and constantly changing. This book needs to be read and re-read, especially focusing on the questions set at the end of each chapter.
Reviewed by Duncan Petty, Oaks Church, Skelmersdale
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