Authentic Congregations

Book Summary

William Hopper believes it is time for a renewed emphasis on congregations in the life of the Presbyterian Church, and in this book he challenges Presbyterians to revitalize their congregations for witness and service in a changing world. In the first part of the book Hopper explores the diversity and vitality of congregational life with case studies of four very different congregations, in Tennessee, Colorado, Georgia, and California. Hopper presents crucial issues for congregational faithfulness in ministry, focusing on church growth, harmony, and service. He also deals with inclusiveness in the church, arguing that the forceful action taken by the PC(USA) to deliberately seek new racial ethnic members has to be carried out at the congregational level. Hopper concludes with a discussion of some of the vital issues the church needs to address as it heads into the new millennium.

Book Details