Respecting Congregations

""Drawing on his experience in church and academy, Clyde Ervine offers us a thoughtful and thorough approach to congregational studies in a post-Christian era. Ervine invites us to reframe our understanding of local Christian witness through the lens of respect, including a respect for congregations, to take up the tasks that God has entrusted local Christian communities for mission in a post-Christendom world."" --Ross Lockhart, Dean of St. Andrew's Hall, Vancouver School of Theology ""In a time when 'respect' is mobilized as a weapon of ideological warfare, it is refreshing to hear Clyde Ervine reassert the truth that respect is a daily challenge that is both tough and tender. In a time when haughty individualism runs rampant in church and culture alike, it is sobering to be reminded that the congregational community lies at the heart of Christian discipleship. In a time when impatient quick-fix solutions afflict life within and beyond the church, Clyde Ervine reveals, with compassion and conviction, the perils of short-termism and narrow horizons. Respecting Congregations is a tonic for our troubled times."" --David N. Livingstone, Emeritus Professor, Queen's University Belfast ""Local congregations face myriad challenges in our day, including a crisis of confidence in relation to their identity and purpose. Clyde Ervine offers a clear description of this crisis and, more importantly, a compelling vision of the value and significance of local communities of faith. The affirmation of congregations that he offers, rooted in careful scriptural, cultural, and theological reflection, is one that pastoral and lay leaders will be grateful to receive."" --Roland De Vries, Principal, The Presbyterian College, Montreal