About Mentored Ministry
Partnership in Mentoring
There are several players on the mentored ministry team, whose roles are clarified by their function in formation. This mentoring mix invites deeper integration of the head, hands, and heart with Jesus or develops and connects beliefs, practices, and virtues.
First, Pastoral Mentors come alongside students on the journey to maturity in ministry for shared action and reflection. The Pastoral Mentors meet with students at least two times per month for focused feedback about “hands-on” ministry skill development, along with periodic attention to both theological reflection and soul care.
Second, Congregational Mentors are a small group of three to five committed members within the church or ministry agency intended to provide encouragement and support to the student and evaluation of the student’s progress. This team will meet at least four times per year.
Third, we will strengthen mutual theological reflection through peer mentoring groups. Figuratively speaking, we’ll integrate the “head” with “hands-on” ministry as students think deeply about ministry and consider next steps. Such group reflection will occur once a month.
Fourth, we will integrate mutual spiritual direction into field education through these same peer mentoring groups. Figuratively speaking, the “head” work of theological reflection and “hands-on” work of ministry activity integrates with the “heart” work of spiritual formation. We learn together to pay attention to the Spirit stirring within us and around us as we listen for the Lord’s leading. Such mutual spiritual direction will occur once a month in peer groups.
“I am excited to facilitate mentoring among emerging and existing pastoral leaders as students connect other areas of seminary study with mentored ministry activity.”
Dr. John McNally
Director, Mentored Ministry
Assistant Professor of Practical Theology
Contact
Rev. Dr. John H. McNally
Director of Mentored Ministry Program
PHONE: (902) 585-2231EMAIL: john.mcnally@acadiau.ca
Cycle of Engagement
Mentored Ministry is an invitation to integration. We take lessons learned about biblical, historical, and theological foundations in dialogue with ADC courses in the practice of ministry by putting these principles into practice in a unique field education context or mentored ministry placement. Ideally, students participate in a continuous cycle of critical engagement as course content intersects with ministry praxis. In all this, we give glory to our God and Father as Christ is formed in us as the fruit of the Spirit grows in us (Galatians 1:3-5, 4:19, 5:22-25).
As pictured, the questions and implications of areas of study inspire and inform other areas of study and ministry on the journey to maturity.
Mentored Ministry Materials
Mentored Ministry Handbook
The Mentored Ministry Handbook contains is a comprehensive document outlining all aspects of the program.
(updated June 2022)
TOOLS
| Resource | About | Download Link |
|---|---|---|
| Group Spiritual Direction | The purpose of group spiritual direction is to provide a place where individuals can experience what it means to be listened to and loved by others, so that they can learn to listen more attentively to God in their daily lives and be used by God to spread God’s grace and love throughout the world. | Download |
| SELAH Group Spiritual Direction Article | This article describes the mutual spiritual direction or peer group spiritual direction that I am developing in the Mentored Ministry courses at ADC. This process could be explored as part of inviting others on the spiritual journey of maturity in community. | Article Download |
| Formation Journal | A practical tool to guide reflecting on the head, heart, and hands-on areas of ministry or related beliefs, virtues and practices. | Download |
| Journaling about Head, Heart, and Hands Article | This article describes the personal and communal benefits that students receive when they engage in the spiritual practice of journaling. It asserts that journaling is a vital tool for cultivating formation. | Article Download |
| REFLECT Process | This is to be used as a reference document to guide you through theological reflection. | Download |
| Group Theological Reflection | This is a practical tool for reflecting sensitively in ministry situations by integrating insights from Scripture, culture, theology, history, etc. | Download |
| GROW | A practical guide for effective coaching conversations. | Download |
FORMS
The forms below are very valuable in assessing the student’s growth in ministry and maturity. Pastoral and congregational mentors can use these tools to facilitate an encouraging and challenging PLACE (Pray, Listen, Affirm, Coach, Evaluate) that is described further in the orientation video below. In your interactions, remember to always share the truth in love with your student.
Serving-Learning
Covenant
Recommended Resources
We’ve collected a list of some of the best resources available related to various aspects of the practice of ministry.
Click the tabs below for a listing of books, websites and various resources in that area.
Be sure to check back often as we periodically add more recommendations for resources. Bolded titles are required texts for related ADC courses.
Calling
How can we understand God’s call for direction in our vocation?
- Guiness, Os. The Call: Finding and Fulfilling the Central Purpose of Your Life. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003.
- Kise, Jane, David Stark and Sandra Krebs Hirsh. Life Keys: Discover Who You Are. Minneapolis: Bethany House, second edition, 2005. [Mentored Ministry I: PAST 7013]
- OR Kise, Jane, Kevin Johnson, and Karen Eilers. Find Your Fit: Unlock God’s Unique Design for Your Talents, Spiritual Gifts, and Personality. Minneapolis: Bethany House, rev. ed., 2018. [Mentored Ministry I: PAST 7013]
- Palmer, Parker J. Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2000.
- Smith, Gordon T. Courage & Calling: Embrace Your God-Given Potential. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, second ed., 2011.
- Smith, Gordon. Consider Your Calling: Six Questions for Discerning Your Vocation.Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2016.
Gifts
How can we discover and develop our spiritual gifts?
- Fortune, Don, and Katie Fortune. Discover Your God-given Gifts. Chosen, rev. ed., 2009.
- Kise, Jane, Kevin Johnson, and Karen Eilers. Life Keys Leadership Resource. Minneapolis: Bethany, 1998.
- Rees, Erik. SHAPE: Finding & Fulfilling Your Unique Purpose For Life. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2006.
- Schwarz, Christian. The 3 Colors of Your Gifts. Berrien Springs: NCD America, rev. ed. 2017. [Mentored Ministry I: PAST 7013]
- Wagner, Peter. Your Spiritual Gifts Can Help Your Church Grow. Regal, rev. ed., 2005.
Church
How can churches develop gift-based ministry?
- Bugabee, Bruce. What You Do Best in the Body of Christ. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, rev. ed., 2005.
- Cordeiro, Wayne. Doing Church as a Team. Ventura: Regal, rev. ed., 2004.
- Ogden, Greg. Unfinished Business: Returning the Ministry to the People of God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, revised edition, 2003.
- Schalk, Christoph and Jon Haley. How to Implement The 3 Colors of Ministry in Your Church. Carol Stream: Church Smart, 2001.
- Schalk, Christoph. How to Use The 3 Colors of Ministry in a Mentoring Relationship. Carol Stream: Church Smart, 2001.
- Schwarz, Bridgette. How to Study the 3 Colors in Your Small Group. Carol Stream: Church Smart, 2001.
Career
How can clarifying calling shape selecting occupations and searching for jobs?
- Bolles, Richard. What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters & Career Changers. Berkeley: Ten Speed Press, 1999.
- Brennfleck, Kevin, and Kay Marie Brennfleck. Live Your Calling: A Practical Guide to Finding and Fulfilling Your Mission In Life. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2004.
- Buckingham, Marcus. Go Put Your Strengths To Work. New York: Free Press, 2007.
- Covey, Stephen R. The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness. New York: Free Press, 2004.
- Siciliano, Tom, and Jeff Caliguire. Shifting Into Higher Gear: An Owner’s Manual For Uniting Your Calling And Career. San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2005.
- Rath, Tom. Strengths Finder 2.0. New York: Gallup Press, 2007.
Ministry Placement and Field Education Tools:
How can students and mentors deepen and broaden their approach to mentored ministry processes?
- Blodgett, Barbara and Matthew Floding, ed., Brimming with God: Reflecting Theologically on Cases in Ministry. Eugene: Wipf & Stock, 2015. [Mentored Ministry I: PAST 7013 & 4013]
- Floding, Matthew, ed. Welcome to Theological Filed Education! Herndon: Alban Institute, 2011.
- Floding, Matthew, ed. Engage: A Theological Field Education Toolkit. Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield, 2017.
- Frazee, Randy. The Christian Life Profile Assessment Workbook: Developing Your Personal Plan to Think, Act, and Be Like Jesus. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, updated ed., 2015. [Mentored Ministry 1: PAST 7013].
- Garrido, Ann. A Concise Guide to Supervising a Ministry Student. Notre Dame: Ave Maria Press, 2008.
- Hilllman, George, Jr. Ministry Greenhouse: Cultivating Environments for Practical Learning. Herndon: Alban Institute, 2008.
- Hilllman, George, Jr., ed. Preparing for Ministry: A Practical Guide to Theological Field Education. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2008.
- McNally, John Hugh, “A Time for SELAH: Spiritually Stronger Together through Group Spiritual Direction,” Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry 41 (2021): 216-232. [Available here: https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/873/797]
- McNally, John. “Journaling about Head, Heart, and Hands: A Vital Tool for Cultivating Formation,” Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry. Vol. 42 (2022): 128-139. [Mentored Ministry I: PAST 4013/7013 & Mentored Ministry II: PAST 4023/7023 Available here: https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/1049/907 ]
- Swetland, Kenneth L. Facing Messy Stuff in the Church: Case Studies for Pastors and Congregations. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2008.
- Watson, Terri. Developing Clinicians of Character: A Christian Integrative Approach to Clinical Supervision. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2018.
- Wilson, Jim, and Earl Waggoner. A Guide to Theological Reflection: A Fresh Approach for Practical Ministry Courses and Theological Field Education. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2020.
Pastoral Identity:
How can pastors grow in their primary roles and responsibilities?
- Burgess, John P., Jerry Andrews, and Joseph Small. A Pastoral Rule for Today: Reviving an Ancient Practice. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2019.
- Burns, Bob, Tasha Chapman, and Donald Guthrie. Resilient Ministry: What Pastors Told Us About Surviving and Thriving. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2013.
- Dawn, Marva, and Eugene Peterson. The Unnecessary Pastor: Rediscovering the Call. Vancouver: Regent College Publishing, 2000.
- Dixon, Rob. Together in Ministry: Women and Men in Flourishing Partnerships. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2021. [Mentored Ministry 2: PAST 7023]
- Eswine, Zack. The Imperfect Pastor: Discovering Joy in our Limitations through a Daily Apprenticeship with Jesus. Wheaton: Crossway, 2015.
- Hansen, David. The Art of Pastoring: Ministry Without All the Answers. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, rev. ed., 2012.
- Kim, Matthew. 7 Lessons for New Pastors: Your First Year in Ministry. Eugene: Cascade Books, second ed., 2021. [Mentored Ministry 1 & 2: PAST 7013 & 7023]
- Leach, Tara Beth. Emboldened: A Vision for Empowering Women in Ministry. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2017. [Mentored Ministry 2: PAST 7023]
- Lederleitner, Mary T. Women in God’s Mission: Accepting the Invitation to Serve and Lead. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018.
- McKnight, Scot. Pastor Paul: Nurturing a Culture of Christoformity in the Church. Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2019.
- McIntosh, Gary L., and Charles Arn. What Every Pastor Should Know: 101 Indispensable Rules of Thumb for Leading Your Church. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2013.
- Ogden, Greg. Unfinished Business: Returning the Ministry to the People of God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, revised ed., 2003.
- Packiam, Glenn. The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2022. [Mentored Ministry 2: 7023]
- Peterson, Eugene. Working the Angles: The Shape of Pastoral Integrity. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, reprinted 2000.
- Peterson, Eugene. The Contemplative Pastor: Returning to the Art of Spiritual Direction. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1993.
- Peterson, Eugene. Five Smooth Stones for Pastoral Work. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992.
- Peterson, Eugene. Pastor: A Memoir. New York: HarperCollins, 2012.
- Smith, Christine A. Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling: Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 2013.
- Smith, Mandy. The Vulnerable Pastor: How Human Limitations Empower Our Ministry. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2015.
- Tan, Siang-Yang. Shepherding God’s People: A Guide to Faithful and Fruitful Pastoral Ministry. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2019. [Mentored Ministry 1 & 2: PAST 7013 & 7023]
- Willimon, William. Pastor: The Theology and Practice of Ordained Ministry. Nashville: Abingdon, rev. ed., 2016.
Navigating Conflict:
How can we seek peace and collaborative conflict resolution?
- Augsburger, David. Caring Enough to Confront: How to Transform Conflict with Compassion and Grace. Grand Rapids: Baker, updated ed., 2018.
- Augsburger, David. Conflict Mediation Across Cultures. Westminster John Knox, 1992.
- Augsburger, David. Helping People Forgive. Westminster John Knox, 1996.
- Boers, Arthur Paul. Never Call Them Jerks: Healthy Responses to Difficult Behavior. Herndon: Alban, 1999.
- Barthel, Tara Klena, and David V. Edling. Redeeming Church Conflicts: Turning Crisis into Compassion. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2016.
- Cleveland, Christena. Disunity in Christ: Uncovering the Hidden Forces That Keep Us Apart. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2013.
- Elmer, Duane. Cross-Cultural Conflict: Building Relationships for Effective Ministry. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
- Garrido, Ann. Redeeming Conflict: 12 Habits for Christian Leaders. Notre Dame: Ave Maria Press, 2016.
- Hare, Michael. When Church Conflict Happens. Chicago: Moody Press, 2019.
- Haugk, Kenneth. Antagonists in the Church: How to Identify and Deal with Destructive Conflict. St. Louis: Tebunah Press, second ed., 2013.
- Haugk, Kenneth, and Amity V. Haugk. Antagonists in the Church Study Guide. St. Louis: Tebunah Press, second ed., 2013.
- Hunsinger, Deborah Van Deusen, and Theresa F. Latini. Transforming Church Conflict: Compassionate Leadership in Action. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 2013.
- Koch, Ruth, and Kenneth Haugk. Speaking the Truth in Love: How to be an Assertive Christian. St. Louis: Stephen Ministries, 1992.
- Noble, P. Brian. The Path of a Peacemaker: Your Guide to Healthy Relationships, Conflict Resolution, and a Life of Peace. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2019.
- Sande, Ken. The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict. Grand Rapids: Baker, third ed., 2004.
- Sande, Ken, and Kevin Johnson. Resolving Everyday Conflict. Grand Rapids: Baker, updated ed. 2015.
Mentoring Skills:
How can mentors strengthen skills and attitudes to coach others?
- Campbell, Regi and Richard Chancy. Mentor Like Jesus. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 2009.
- Houston, James. The Mentored Life: From Individualism to Personhood. Colorado Springs: Navpress, 2002.
- Logan, Robert and Sherilyn Carlton. Coaching 101: Discover the Power of Coaching. St. Charles: Church Smart, 2003.
- Logan, Robert and Gary Reinecke. Coaching 101 Handbook. St. Charles: Church Smart, 2003.
- Pue, Carson. Mentoring Leaders: Wisdom for Developing Character, Calling and Competency. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2005
- Pue, Carson, and Doug Birdsall. Mentoring Wisdom: Living and Leading Well. Pickering: Castle Quay, 2011.
- Reese, Randy and Robert Loane. Deep Mentoring: Guiding Others on Their Leadership Journey. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Stoltfus, Tony. Coaching Questions: A Coach’s Guide to Powerful Asking Skills. Virginia Beach: Coach22 Bookstore, 2008.
- Stone, Douglas, and Sheila Heen. Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well. New York: Penguin, 2014. AND Heen, Sheila, and Elaine Lin. Thank God for the Feedback: Using Feedback to Fuel Your Personal, Professional and Spiritual Growth, Workbook. Cambridge: Speck Books, 2015.
- Whitmore, John. Coaching for Performance: The principles and practices of coaching and leadership. Boston: Nicholas Brealey, fifth ed., 2017.
- Zachary, Lois and Lory Fischler. The Mentee’s Guide: Making Mentoring Work for You. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009.
- Zachary, Lois. The Mentor’s Guide: Facilitating Effective Learning Relationships. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, second ed., 2011.
Leadership Practices:
How can empowering leaders bring out the best in others?
- Bolsinger, Tod. Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018.
- Kouzes, James, and Barry Posner, eds. Christian Reflections on the Leadership Challenge. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2004.
- Kouzes, James, and Barry Posner. The Leadership Challenge. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, sixth ed., 2017.
- Ledbetter, Bernice M., Robert J. Banks, and David C. Greenhalgh. Reviewing Leadership: A Christian Evaluation of Current Approaches, second ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2016.
- Macchia, Stephen. Becoming a Healthy Team. 5 Traits of Vital Leadership. Lexington: LTI Publications, second ed., 2014.
- Nelson, Gary, and Peter Dickens. Leading in Disorienting Times: Navigating Church and Organizational Change. Puente Publications, 2015.
- Ogden, Greg and Daniel Meyer. Leadership Essentials: Shaping Vision, Multiplying Influence, Defining Character. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2007.
- Roxburgh, Alan, and Fred Romanuk. The Missional Leader. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2006.
- Schwarz, Christian A. The 3 Colors of Leadership. St. Charles, IL: Church Smart Resources, 2012.
- Stanley, Andy. The Next Generation Leader. Portland: Multnomah, 2003.
Sites
Who are some good conversation partners for strengthening small groups?
- Alpha Canada
- Dr. Bill Donahue
- Joel Comiskey Group
- SmallGroups.com
- Small Group Churches
- Small Group Leadership
- Small Group Network
Significance
What are some foundations for why we meet together?
- Atkinson, Harley. The Power of Small Groups in Christian Formation. Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 2018. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Banks, Robert J. Paul’s Idea of Community: Spirit and Culture in Early House Churches. Grand Rapids: Baker, third ed., 2020.
- Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together. New York: Harper & Row, 1954.
- Comiskey, Joel. Biblical Foundations for the Cell-Based Church: New Testament Insights for the 21st Century Church. Moreno Valley, CA: CCS Publishing, 2012.
- Comiskey, Joel. 2000 Years of Small Groups: A History of Cell Ministry in the Church. Moreno, CA: CCS Publishing, 2014
- Donahue, Bill. The Irresistible Community: An Invitation to Life Together. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2015.
- Gorman, Julie A. Community That Is Christian: A Handbook on Small Groups. Grand Rapids: Baker, second ed., 2002.
- Icenogle, Gareth. Biblical Foundations for Small Group Ministry. Downers Grove: Intervarsity, 2006.
- Latini, Theresa F. The Church and the Crisis of Community: A Practical Theology of Small-Group Ministry. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2011.
- Myers, Joseph. The Search to Belong: Rethinking Intimacy, Community, and Small Groups. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2003.
- Schwarz, Christian. The 3 Colors of Community: How the 7 Communal Qualities of Healthy Small Groups can help you overcome the 7 Deadly Sins. Fordelm, 2012.
- Vanier, John. Community and Growth. New York: Paulist, rev. ed., 2002.
Skills
How can we develop abilities, attitudes, and practices for leading a small group?
- Arnold, Jeffrey. The Big Book on Small Groups. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2004.
- Bennett, Diana. Renewing Your Church Through Healthy Small Groups: 8 Week Training Manual for Small Group Leaders. Lexington, MA: LTI Publications, 2016. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Boren, M. Scott. Leading Small Groups in the Way of Jesus. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Bunch, Cindy, ed. Small Group Idea Book. Downers Grove: Intervarsity, rev. ed., 2004.
- Cloud, Henry, and John Townsend. Making Small Groups Work. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2003.
- Donahue, Bill, Leading Life-Changing Small Groups. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, third ed., 2012.
- Gladen, Steve. Leading Small Groups with Purpose: Everything You Need to Lead a Healthy Group. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2012.
- Hartwig, Ryan, Courtney Davis, and Jason Sniff. Leading Small Groups That Thrive: Five Shifts to Take Your Group to the Next Level. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2020. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Kirk, J. Alex, et. al. Small Group Leaders’ Handbook. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, rev. ed. 2009.
- Mack, Michael. World’s Greatest Small Group: 7 Powerful Traits of a Life-Changing Leader. Peewee Valley, KY: Small Group Leadership, 2017.
- McNally, John. “Journaling about Head, Heart, and Hands: A Vital Tool for Cultivating Formation,” Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry. Vol. 42 (2022): 128-139. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013 Available here: https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/1049/907 ]
- Miller, Tara, and Jenn Peppers. Finding the Flow: A Guide for Leading Small Groups and Gatherings. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2008.
- O’Neal, Sam. Field Guide for Small Group Leaders. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2012.
- Search, Bill. Simple Small Groups: A User-Friendly Guide for Small Group Leaders. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2008.
- Search, Bill. The Essential Guide for Small Group Leaders: Quick Tips for Overcoming Common Challenges. Carol Stream: Christianity Today, second ed., 2021. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
Structure
How can we cultivate community with healthy systems and strategies?
- Boren, M. Scott. Beyond Small Groups: From Programmatic Meetings to Flourishing Communities. The Center for Community and Mission, 2018.
- Comiskey, Joel, and Jim Egli. Groups That Thrive: Seven Surprising Discoveries about Life-Giving Small Groups. Moreno Valley, CA: CCS Publishing, 2017.
- Donahue, Bill, and Russ Robinson. Building a Life-Changing Small Group Ministry. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2012.
- Donahue, Bill, and Greg Bowman. Coaching Life-Changing Small Groups. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, rev. ed. 2012.
- Egli, Jim, and Dwight Marble. Small Groups, Big Impact: Connecting People to God and One Another in Thriving Groups. Moreno Valley, CA: CCS Publishing, 2014.
- Frazee, Randy. The Connecting Church 2.0: Beyond Small Groups to Authentic Community. Grand Rapids, Zondervan, second ed. 2013.
- Gladen, Steve. Planning Small Groups with Purpose: A Field-Tested Guide to Design and Grow Your Ministry. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2018. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Searcy, Nelson, and Kerrick Thomas. Activate: An Entirely New Approach to Small Groups. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2008.
- Stark, David, and Betty Veldman Wieland. Growing People Through Small Groups. Minneapolis: Bethany, 2004.
- Stetzer, Ed, and Eric Geiger. Transformational Groups: Creating a New Scorecard for Groups. Nashville: B&H Publishing, 2014.
- Surrat, Chris. Small Groups for the Rest of Us: How to Design Your Small Group System to Reach the Fringes. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2015.
- Zempel, Heather. Community Is Messy: The Perils and Promise of Small Group Ministry. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
Seeker
How can we create spaces for exploring faith questions and joining God’s mission?
- Arnold, Jeffrey. Small Group Outreach: Turning Groups Inside Out. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009.
- Boren, M. Scott. Missional Small Groups: Becoming a Community That Makes a Difference in the World. Grand Rapids, Baker, 2010.
- House, Brad. Community: Taking Your Small Group Off Life Support. Wheaton: Crossway, 2011.
- Poole, Gary. Seeker Small Groups: Engaging Spiritual Seekers in Life-Changing Discussions. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2009.
Spirituality
How can we deepen our discipleship in partnership with one another and with God?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Life Together in Christ: Experiencing Transformation in Community. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Dougherty, Rose Mary. Group Spiritual Direction: Community for Discernment. New York: Paulist, 1995.
- Dougherty, Rose Mary, ed. The Lived Experience of Group Spiritual Direction. New York: Paulist, 2003.
- Foster, Richard, and James Bryan Smith. A Spiritual Formation Workbook: Small Group Resources forNurturing Christian Growth. New York: Harper, rev. ed., 2007.
- Fryling, Alice. Seeking God Together: An Introduction to Group Spiritual Direction. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009.[Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023]
- Kropf, Marlene and Daniel Schrock, ed. An Open Place: The Ministry of Group Spiritual Direction. New York: Morehouse, 2012.
- Webb, Heather. Small Group Leadership as Spiritual Direction: Practical Ways to Blend an Ancient Art into Your Contemporary Community. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
Stages
How can we create spaces for all ages to grow and serve together?
- Allen, Holly, and Christine Lawton Ross. Intergenerational Christian Formation: Bringing the Whole Church Together in Ministry, Community, and Worship. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Comiskey, Joel. Children in Cell Ministry: Discipling the Future Generation Now. Moreno Valley, CA: CCS Publishing, 2015.
- Comiskey, Joel. Youth in Cell Ministry: Discipling the Next Generation Now. Moreno Valley, CA: CCS Publishing, 2016.
- Griffin, Josh, and Doug Fields. 99 Thoughts for Small Group Leaders: Tips for Rookies and Veterans on Leading Youth Ministry Small Groups. Group, 2010.
- Hanson, Amy. Baby Boomers and Beyond: Tapping the Ministry Talents and Passions of Adults Over 50. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2010.
- Houston, James, and Michael Parker. A Vision for the Aging Church: Renewing Ministry for and by Seniors. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2011.
- Polich, Laurie, and Charley Scandlyn. Small Group Strategies: Ideas and Activities for Spiritual Growthin Your Students. Grand Rapids: Zondervan/Youth Specialities, 2011.
Study
How can we deepen our knowledge by learning together?
- Kuhatschek, Jack, and Cindy Bunch. How to Lead a Life Guide Bible Study. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2011.
- Ogden, Greg. The Essential Commandment: A Disciple’s Guide to Loving God and Others. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2011.
- Olesberg, Lindsay. The Bible Study Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to an Essential Practice. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Osborne, Larry. Sticky Church. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2008.
- Perkins, Robert. Bringing Home the Message: How Community Can Multiply the Power of the Preached Word. Eugene: Cascade, 2014.
Support
How can we journey together through challenging circumstances and life changes?
- Baker, John. Celebrate Recovery Updated Leader’s Guide: A Recovery Program Based on Eight Principles from the Beatitudes. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, rev. ed., 2016.
- Greggo, Stephen. Trekking Toward Wholeness: A Resource for Care Group Leaders. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2008.
- Hook, Jan Paul, Joshua N. Hook, and Don E. Davis. Helping Groups Heal: Leading Small Groups in the Process of Transformation. West Conshohocken: Templeton Press, 2017.
- Popkin, Michael. Active Parenting 4th Edition, Leader’s Guide. Marietta, GA: Active Parenting Publishers, 2014.
- Popkin, Michael, Melody Popkin, and Sue Allen. Christian Active Parenting, Leader’s Guide. Marietta, GA: Active Parenting Publishers, 2015.
- Wolfelt, Alan. The Understanding Your Grief Support Group Guide: Starting and Leading a Bereavement Support Group. Companion Press, 2004.
Synergy
How can we facilitate healthy teamwork?
- Bellman, Geoffery, and Kathleen Ryan. Extraordinary Groups: How Ordinary Teams Achieve Amazing Results. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009.
- Bird, Warren, and Ryan Hartwig. Teams that Thrive: Five Disciplines of Collaborative Church Leadership. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
- Lencioni, Patrick. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2002.
- Lencioni, Patrick. Overcoming the Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Field Guide. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2005.
- Kaner, Sam. Facilitator’s Guide to Participatory Decision-Making. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, third ed., 2014.
- Macchia, Stephen. Becoming a Healthy Team. 5 Traits of Vital Leadership. Lexington, MA: LTI Publications, second ed. 2014.
Collaborate
How can we team up in preaching and worship?
- Calvin Institute for Christian Worship: http://worship.calvin.edu/ (an amazing range of resources)
- Gibson, Scott M. Should We Use Someone Else’s Sermon? Preaching in a Cut and Paste World. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2008.
- Quicke, Michael. Preaching as Worship: An Integrative Approach to Formation in Your Church. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2011.
- Vanderwall, Howard, and Norma deWaal Malefyt. Designing Worship Together: Models and Strategies for Worship Planning. Herndon: Alban, 2005.
- Yoder, June, and Marlene Kropf. Preparing Sunday Dinner: A Collaborative Approach to Worship and Preaching. Scottsdale: Herald, 2005.
Meditate
How can spiritual disciplines fire up our passion for deeper preaching and worship?
- Calhoun, Adele Ahlberg. Spiritual Disciplines Handbook. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2015
- Campolo, Tony and Mary Albert Darling. Connecting Like Jesus: Practices for Healing, Teaching, and Preaching. San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2010.
- Edwards, J. Kent. Deep Preaching: Creating Sermons that Go Beyond the Superficial. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 2009.
- Johnson, Jan. Meeting God in Scripture. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2016.
Investigate
How can we dig up insights from studying the biblical text in context?
- http://bestcommentaries.com/ (Collected, averaged reviews from scholars and other ministries)
- Center for Excellence in Preaching: http://cep.calvinseminary.edu/resources/ (commentary tips)
- Chapell, Bryan. Christ-Centered Preaching: Redeeming the Expository Sermon. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2nd ed., 2005.
- Knowles, Michael. Of Seeds and the People of God: Preaching as Parable, Crucifixion, and Testimony. Eugene: Cascade Books, 2015
- Wright, Christopher J. How to Preach the Old Testament for All Its Worth. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2016
Encapsulate
How can we clearly, concisely, creatively sum up the sermon (with a clear focus)?
- https://www.gordonconwell.edu/center-for-preaching/resources/ (preaching websites)
- Jonker, Peter. Preaching in Pictures: Using Images for Sermons That Connect. Nashville: Abingdon, 2015
- Long, Thomas. The Witness of Preaching. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, third ed., 2016.
- Robinson, Haddon. Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages. Grand Rapids: Baker, third ed., 2014.
- Donald R. Sunukjian, Invitation to Biblical Preaching: Proclaiming Truth with Clarity and Relevance. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2007.
Anticipate
How can we listen up for significant contextual or situational dynamics (with a clear function)?
- Keller, Timothy. Preaching: Communicating Faith in an Age of Skepticism. New York: Viking, 2015.
- Livermore, David. Cultural Intelligence: Improving Your CQ to Engage our Multicultural World. Grand Rapids, Baker, 2009.
- Schultze, Quentin. An Essential Guide to Public Speaking: Serving Your Audience with Faith, Skill, and Virtue. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2006.
- Troeger, Thomas, and Leonora Tubbs Tisdale. A Sermon Workbook: Exercises in the Art and Craft of Preaching. Nashville: Abingdon, 2013.
Designate
How can we shape up the sermon in a structure (form) to match the Scripture?
- Allen, O. Wesley, Jr. Determining the Form: Structures for Preaching. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2008.
- Anderson, Kenton. Choosing to Preach: A Comprehensive Introduction to Sermon Options and Structures. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2006.
- Arthurs, Jeffrey D. Preaching with Variety: How to Recreate the Dynamics of Biblical Genres. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2007.
- Edwards, J. Kent. Effective First-Person Biblical Preaching: The Steps from Text to Narrative Sermon. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
- Miller, Calvin. Preaching: The Art of Narrative Exposition. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2006.
- Robinson, Haddon, and Patricia Batten, eds. Models for Biblical Preaching: Expository Sermons from the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2014.
- Smith, Steven. Recapturing the Voice of God: Shaping Sermons Like Scripture. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 2015.
Illuminate & Integrate
How can we light up the truth in daily life with illustrations, implications, stories, props, etc.?
- Day, David. Preaching with All You’ve Got: Embodying the Word. Peabody: Hendrickson, 2006.
- Hoezee, Scott. Actuality: Real Life Stories for Sermons that Matter. Nashville: Abingdon, 2014.
- Overdorf, Daniel. One Year to Better Preaching: 52 Exercises to Hone Your Skills. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2013
- Platinga, Cornelius Jr. Reading for Preaching: The Preacher in Conversation with Storytellers, Biographers, Poets, and Journalists. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2013.
- Schultze, Quentin. High-Tech Worship: Using Presentational Technologies Wisely. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2004
Animate
How can we liven up the delivery with vocal and physical variety and authenticity?
- Brown, Teresa L. Fry. Delivering the Sermon: Voice, Body, and Animation in Proclamation.Minneapolis: Fortress, 2008.
- Childers, Jana, and Clayton J. Schmit, eds. Performance in Preaching: Bringing the Sermon to Life. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2008.
- https://examinations.rcmusic.ca/sites/default/files/files/rcme/online_syllabi/speecharts_syllabus_2011.pdf (The Royal Conservatory Speech Arts and Drama Syllabus, 2011 edition).
Evaluate
How can we check up on progress on the journey to maturity?
- Carrell, Lori J. Preaching That Matters: Reflective Practices for Transforming Sermons. Herndon: Alban, 2013,
- Hulst, Mary S. A Little Handbook for Preachers: Ten practical ways to a better sermon by Sunday. Downers Grove, InterVarsity, 2016.
- Vibert, Simon. Excellence in Preaching: Studying the Craft of Leading Preachers. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2011.
Coordinate
How can we build up preaching and worship with the resources of the Christian Year, a variety of worship styles, and from continuing education, for an intentional journey to maturity?
- Engle, Paul, and Paul Basden, eds. Exploring the Worship Spectrum: 6 Views. Grand Rapids, Zondervan, 2004.
- Scott M. Gibson, Preaching with a Plan: Sermon Strategies for Growing Mature Believers. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2012.
- Witvliet, John, and Emily Brink. The Worship Sourcebook. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2nd ed., 2013.
Initiate
How can we open up to gather people with hospitable attitudes and actions?
- Pohl, Christine. Making Room: Recovering Hospitality as a Christian Tradition. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999.
- Van Opstal, Sandra. The Next Worship: Glorifying God in a Diverse World. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2016.
- Webber, Robert. Ancient-Future Worship: Proclaiming and Enacting God’s Narrative. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2008.
Communicate
How can we share Scripture in ways that help us listen up to God’s Word?
- Arthurs, Jeffery D. Devote Yourself to the Public Reading of Scripture: Encountering the Transforming Power of the Well-Spoken Word. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2012.
- Schmit, Clayton J. Public Reading of Scripture: A Handbook. Nashville: Abingdon, 2002.
Celebrate & Contemplate
How can we connect up with God with exuberance and reverence through the Lord’s Table, prayer, music, etc.?
- Cherry, Constance M. The Worship Architect: A Blueprint for Designing Culturally Relevant and Biblically Faithful Services. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2010.
- Canadian Baptist Ministries, A Manual for Worship and Service. Revised 1998.(http://baptist-atlantic.ca/tools-resources/publications/ )
- Dawn, Marva. How Shall We Worship? Biblical Guidelines for the Worship Wars. Carol Stream: Tyndale, 2003.
- Scheer, Greg. Essential Worship: A Handbook for Leaders. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2016.
Activate
How can we send people out to link up with God’s kingdom mission?
- Richard, Ramesh. Preparing Evangelistic Sermons. Grand Rapids, Baker: revised ed., 2015.
- Van Opstal, Sandra. The Mission of Worship. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2012.
Preaching and Worship at Funerals and Other Special Services
- http://worship.calvin.edu/resources/resource-library/in-times-of-death-resources-for-funeral-and-memorial-services/ .
- Brooks, James. The Unbroken Circle: A Toolkit for Congregations Around Illness, End of Life and Grief.
- Durham, North Carolina: Duke Institute on Care at the End of Life, 2009.
- Chapell, Bryan, ed. The Hardest Sermons You’ll Ever Have to Preach. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2011.
- Cherry, Constance. The Special Service Worship Architect. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2013.
- Craddock, Fred, Dale Goldsmith, and Joy Goldsmith. Speaking of Dying: Recovering the Church’s Voice in the Face of Death. Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2012.
- Gibson, Scott Gibson, Preaching for Special Services. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2001
- Hughes, A Trumpet in Darkness: Preaching to Mourners. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1985
- Sittser, A Grace Disguised: How the soul grows through loss. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, rev. ed., 2004.
- Swinton, John and Richard Payne, eds. Living Well and Dying Faithfully: Christian Practices for End-of-Life Care. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans, 2009.
- Vander Zee, Leonard. In Life and in Death: A Pastoral Guide for Funerals. Grand Rapids: Faith Alive, 1992.
- Weems, Psalms of Lament. Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1995.
- Wolfelt, Alan D. Creating Meaningful Funeral Experiences: A Guide for Caregivers. Fort Collins, Colorado: Companion Press, rev. ed. 2011. (See www.centerforloss.com for more resources)
Sites
Who are some good conversation partners for strengthening spirituality and discipleship?
- www.leadershiptransformations.org
- www.renovare.org
- https://spiritualityshoppe.org/
- www.transformingcenter.org
- http://www.b-ing.org/
- https://www.thecommonrule.org/
Overview of Spiritual Formation
How can we understand the dynamics of deeper discipleship & formation in Christ?
- Andrews, Alan, ed. The Kingdom Life: A Practical Theology of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation. NavPress, 2016.
- Demarest, Bruce, ed. Four Views on Christian Spirituality. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2012.
- Frazee, Randy. The Christian Life Profile Assessment Workbook: Developing Your Personal Plan to Think, Act, and Be Like Jesus. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, updated ed., 2015.
- Frazee, Randy. Think, Act, Be Like Jesus: Becoming a New Person in Christ. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2014.
- Howard, Evan. A Guide to Christian Spiritual Formation: How Scripture, Spirit, Community, and Mission Shape Our Souls. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2018. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 5013 & DMIN 8413]
- Howard, Evan. The Brazos Introduction to Christian Spirituality. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2008.
- McNally, John. “Journaling about Head, Heart, and Hands: A Vital Tool for Cultivating Formation,” Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry. Vol. 42 (2022): 128-139. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 3013 & 5013 Available here: https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/1049/907 ]
- Mulholland, Robert, The Deeper Journey: The Spirituality of Discovering Your True Self. Downers Grove, InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2016.
- Mulholland, Robert. Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation. Downers Grove, InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2016. [Christian Spiritual Formation: SPFM 3013]
- Ogden, Greg. The Essential Commandment: A Disciple’s Guide to Loving God and Others. Downers Grove: Intervarsity, 2011.
- Porter, Steve L., “Sanctification in a New Key: Relieving Evangelical Anxieties Over Spiritual Formation” in Journal of Spiritual Formation and Soul Care, Spring 2008, Vol. 1, No. 2, 129–148; may be accessed at http://media.biola.edu/news/downloads/V1-2-129.pdf [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 5013]
- Smith, Gordon. Called to Be Saints: An Invitation to Christian Maturity. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2013.
- Willard, Dallas. Renovation of the Heart. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 10th anniversary ed., 2012.
- Willard, Dallas. Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life In God. New York: HarperCollins, 20th anniversary ed., 2005.
- Wilhoit, James. Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2022.
Overview of Several Spiritual Disciplines
How can we deepen discipleship with spiritual practices?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Live for Spiritual Transformation. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2006.
- Buchanan, Mark. Your God Is Too Safe: Rediscovering the Wonder of a God You Can’t Control. Sisters: Multnomah, 2001.
- Calhoun, Adele Ahleberg. Spiritual Disciplines Handbook. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2nd ed., 2015. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 5013 & DMIN 8413]
- Campolo, Tony and Mary Albert Darling. Connecting Like Jesus: Practices for Healing, Teaching, and Preaching. San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2010.
- Foster, Nathan. The Making of an Ordinary Saint: My Journey from Frustration to Joy with the Spiritual Disciplines. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2014. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 5013]
- Foster, Richard. Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth. New York: HarperCollins, 20th anniversary ed., 1998.
- Foster, Richard and Julia Roller. A Year With God: Living Out the Spiritual Disciplines. New York: HarperCollins, 2009.
- Hess, Valerie & Marti Watson Garlett, Habits of a Child’s Heart: Raising Your Kids with the Spiritual Disciplines. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2004.
- Hudson, Trevor. Discovering Our Spiritual Identity: Practices for God’s Beloved. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2010.
- Johnson, Jan. Spiritual Disciplines Companion: Bible Studies and Practices to Transform Your Soul. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009.
- Jones, Barry. Dwell: Life with God For The World. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014.
- Jones, Tony. The Sacred Way: Spiritual Practices for Everyday Life. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
- Love, Vernie Schorr. Spiritual Disciplines for Children: A Guide to a Deeper Spiritual Life for You and Your Children. Lafayette: Character Choice, 2012.
- Nouwen, Henri, with Michael Christensen and Rebecca Laird. Spiritual Formation: Following the Movements of the Spirit. New York: Harper Collins, 2010. [161]
- Ortberg, John. The Life You’ve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, expanded ed. 2002.
- Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash a Revolution in Your Life in Christ. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, updated ed., 2017.
- Shiflett, Diana. Spiritual Practices in Community: Drawing Groups into the Heart of God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018.
- Shigematsu, Ken. Survival Guide for the Soul: How to Flourish Spiritually in a World that Pressures Us to Achieve. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2018. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 3013]
- Thompson, Marjorie. Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life. Louisville: Westminster/John Knox, third ed. 2014. [Christian Spiritual Formation: SPFM 3013]
- Whitney, Donald. Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. Colorado Springs: NavPress, rev. ed., 2014.
- Willard, Dallas. The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives. New York: HarperOne, 1990.
Variety in Spirituality
How can we consider our temperament, personality or style of spirituality?
- Calhoun, Adele Ahleberg, et. al. Spiritual Rhythms for the Enneagram: A Handbook for Harmony and Transformation. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2019.
- Fryling, Alice. Mirror for the Soul: A Christian Guide to the Enneagram. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2017.
- Johnson, Reginald. Your Personality and the Spiritual Life: Understanding Who You Are Can Deepen your Relationship with God. Gainesville: Center for Application of Psychological Type, 1999.
- Perrine, Myra. What’s Your God Language? Connecting with God through Your Unique Spiritual Temperament. Carol Stream: Tyndale, 2007.
- Schwarz, Christian. The 3 Colors of Your Spirituality. St. Charles: Church Smart, 2009.
- Vancil, Marilyn. Self To Lose, Self To Find: A Biblical Approach to the 9 Enneagram Types. Enumclaw: Redemption Press, 2016.
Rhythm or Rule of Life?
- Earley, Justin. The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2019. [Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: SPFM 5013 DMIN 8413]
- Macchia, Stephen. Crafting a Rule of Life: An Invitation to the Well-Ordered Way. Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 2012.
- Shigematsu, Ken. God In My Everything: How an Ancient Rhythm Helps Busy People Enjoy God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2013.
- Sterne, Alastair. Rhythms for Life: Spiritual Practices for Who God Made You to Be. Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 2020. [Christian Spiritual Formation: SPFM 3013]
Cross-Cultural Formation & Discipleship Dynamics
How we can contextualize spiritual formation & discipleship with specific cultures.
- Bryant-Johnson, Sherry, Therese Taylor-Stinson, and Rosalie Norman McNaney, eds. Embodied Spirits: Stories of Spiritual Directors of Color. Harrisburg: Morehouse, 2014.
- Conde-Frazier, Elizabeth, S. Steve Kang, and Gary A. Parrett. A Many Colored Kingdom: Multicultural Dynamics for Spiritual Formation. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2004.
- Davis, Charles A. Making Disciples Across Cultures. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
- Fernando, Ajith. Discipling in a Multicultural World. Wheaton: Crossway, 2019.
- Moon, W. Jay. Intercultural Discipleship: Learning from Global Approaches to Spiritual Formation. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2017.
- Peacock, Barbara L. Soul Care in African American Practice. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2020.
- Rawson, Katie. Crossing Cultures with Jesus: Sharing the Good News with Sensitivity and Grace. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
Missional Spirituality
How can intentional spiritual practices move us outward?
- Conner, Benjamin T. Practicing Witness: A Missional Vision of Christian Practices. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2011.
- Cronshaw, Darren. Dangerous Prayer: Discovering a missional spirituality in the Lord’s Prayer. Milton Keynes: Paternoster, 2017. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Finn, Nathan A and Whitfield, Keith S., eds. Spirituality for the Sent: Casting a New Vision for the Missional Church. InterVarsity Press, 2017.
- Fitch, David. Faithful Presence: Seven Disciplines That Shape the Church for Mission. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2016.
- Heath, Elaine A. and Larry Duggins. Missional. Monastic. Mainline: A Guide to Starting Missional Micro-Communities in Historically Mainline Traditions. Eugene: Cascade Books, 2014.
- Jones, Barry D. Dwell: Life with God for the World. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2014
- Ross, Cathy and Jonny Baker, eds. Pioneering Spirituality: Resources for Reflection and Practice. Norwich: Canterbury, 2015.
- Zscheile, Dwight J. Cultivating Sent Communities: Missional Spiritual Formation. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2012.
Selections from Spiritual Classics
How can we learn from the best spiritual guides throughout history?
- Foster, Richard and Emilie Griffin, eds., Spiritual Classics: Selected Readings for Individuals and Groups on the Twelve Spiritual Disciplines. New York: Harper Collins, 2000.
- Foster, Richard, and James Bryan Smith, eds., Devotional Classics. New York: Harper Collins, rev. ed., 2005.
- McGinn, Bernard, ed., The Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism. New York: Modern Library Random House, 2006.
History of Spirituality
How can we learn from the spiritual renewal movements in history?
- Foster, Richard. Streams of Living Water: Essential Practices from the Six Great Traditions of Christian Faith. New York: HarperOne, rev. ed., 2001.
- Sittser, Gerald. Water from a Deep Well: Christian Spirituality from Early Martyrs to Modern Missionaries. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2010. [Introduction to Christian Spiritual Formation: SPFM 3013]
- Sittser, Gerald. Resilient Faith: How the Early Christian “Third Way” Changed the World. Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2019.
Stages of Spirituality
How can we explore the process of deeper development or movement in formation?
- Ashbrook, A. Thomas. Mansions of the Heart: Exploring the Seven Stages of Spiritual Growth. Minneapolis: Fortress, rev. ed., 2019. [Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023 & Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders: DMIN 8413]
- Ashbrook, A. Thomas, and Ted Wueste. Mansions of the Heart: Study Guide for Personal and Group Reflection. Mansions Study Guide Partnership: Phoenix, 2014.
- Choung, James. Real Life: A Christianity Worth Living Out. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Nouwen, Henri, with Michael Christensen and Rebecca Laird. Spiritual Formation: Following the Movements of the Spirit. New York: Harper Collins, 2010.
- Warner, Larry. Journey With Jesus: Discovering the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2010.
Dark Nights and Deserts
How can we understand and respond to seasons of darkness & dryness?
- Lane, Belden. The Solace of Fierce Landscapes: Exploring Desert and Mountain Spirituality. New York: Oxford University Press, 2007.
- May, Gerald. The Dark Night of the Soul: A Psychiatrist Explores the Connection Between Darkness and Spiritual Growth. New York: HarperOne, reprint 2005.
- Kavanaugh, Kieran, trans. and ed., The Collected Works of St. John of the Cross. Washington: Institute of Carmelite Studies Publications, third ed., 2017.
Spirituality & Children
How can we share our spiritual journey with children?
- Borgo, Lacy Finn. Spiritual Conversations with Children: Listening to God Together. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2020.
- Boyd, Jeremy Patrick. Imaginative Prayer: A Yearlong Guide to Your Child’s Spiritual Formation. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity, 2017.
- Copley, Lora, and Elizabeth Vander Haagen. Teach Us to Pray: Scripture-Centered Family Worship through the Year. Grand Rapids: Calvin College Press, 2016.
- Hess, Valerie & Marti Watson Garlett, Habits of a Child’s Heart: Raising Your Kids with the Spiritual Disciplines. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2004.
- Love, Vernie Schorr. Spiritual Disciplines for Children: A Guide to a Deeper Spiritual Life for You and Your Children. Lafayette: Character Choice, 2012.
Spiritual Discernment Practices
How can we seek God’s guidance in different ways?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Pursuing God’s Will Together: A Discernment Practice for Leadership Groups. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Benner, David. Desiring God’s Will: Aligning our Heart with the Heart of God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, expanded ed., 2014.
- Gallagher, Timothy. A Handbook for Spiritual Directors: An Ignatian Guide for Accompanying Discernment of God’s Will. New York: Crossroad, 2017.
- Gallagher, Timothy. Discerning the Will of God: An Ignatian Guide to Christian Decision Making. New York: Crossroad, 2009.
- Gallagher, Timothy. The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living. New York: Crossroad, 2005.
- Gallagher, Timothy. Spiritual Consolation: An Ignatian Guide for Greater Discernment. New York: Crossroad, 2007.
- Isenhower, Valerie, and Judith Todd. Living into the Answers: A Workbook for Personal Spiritual Discernment. Nashville: Upper Room Books, 2008.
- Macchia, Stephen. The Discerning Life: An Invitation to Notice God in Everything. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2022. [Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023]
- Morris, Danny, and Charles Olsen. Discerning God’s Will Together: A Spiritual Practice for the Church. Herndon: Alban, rev. ed. 2012.
- Smith, Gordon. The Voice of Jesus: Discernment, Prayer, and the Witness of the Spirit. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2003.
- Thibodeaux, Mark E. God’s Voice Within: The Ignatian Way to Discover God’s Will. Chicago: Loyola Press, 2010.
- Thibodeaux, Mark E. Ignatian Discernment of Spirits for Spiritual Direction and Pastoral Care: Going Deeper. Chicago: Loyola Press, 2020.
- Warner, Larry. Discernment, God’s Will & Living Jesus: Christian Discernment as a Way of Life. Barefooted Publishing, 2016.
- Willard, Dallas, and Jan Johnson. Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, updated ed., 2012.
- Willard, Dallas, and Jan Johnson. Hearing God through the Year: A 365-Day Devotional. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
Spiritual Direction
How can we accompany others in deepening their spiritual journey?
- Bakke, Jeanette. Holy Invitations: Exploring Spiritual Direction. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2000.
- Barry, William. Spiritual Direction and the Encounter with God: A Theological Inquiry. New York: Paulist, rev. ed., 2004.
- Barry, William, and William Connolly. The Practice of Spiritual Direction. New York: HarperOne, rev. ed., 2009.
- Benner, David. Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship and Direction. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2004.
- Bryant-Johnson, Sherry, Therese Taylor-Stinson, and Rosalie Norman McNaney, eds. Embodied Spirits: Stories of Spiritual Directors of Color. Harrisburg: Morehouse, 2014.
- Demarest, Bruce. Soul Guide: Following Jesus As Spiritual Director. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2003.
- Dirks, Morris. Forming The Leader’s Soul: An Invitation to Spiritual Direction. Portland: Soul Formation, 2013.
- Edwards, Tilden. Spiritual Director, Spiritual Companion: Guide to Tending to the Soul. New York: Paulist, 2001.
- Guenther, Margaret. Holy Listening: The Art of Spiritual Direction. Darton, Longman and Todd. 2004.
- Hendricks, Patricia. Hungry Souls, Holy Companions: Mentoring a New Generation of Christians. Harrisburg: Morehouse, 2006.
- Hoare, Liz. Using the Bible in Spiritual Direction. Harrisburg: Morehouse, 2016.
- Leech, Kenneth. Soul Friend: Spiritual Direction in the Modern World. Harrisburg: Morehouse, rev. ed., 2001.
- May, Gerald, Care of Mind, Care of Spirit: A Psychiatrist Explores Spiritual Direction. New York: Harper One, 1992.
- Moon, Gary, and David Benner. Spiritual Direction and the Care of Souls: A Guide to Christian Approaches and Practices. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2004.
- Peacock, Barbara L. Soul Care in African American Practice. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2020.
- Pickering, Sue. Spiritual Direction: A Practical Introduction. Norwich: SCM-Canterbury Press, 2011.
- Reed, Angela, Richard Osmer, Marcus Smucker. Spiritual Companioning: A Guide to Protestant Theology and Practice. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2015.
- Smith, Gordon. Spiritual Direction: A Guide to Giving and Receiving Direction. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014.
Communal Spiritual Direction & Formation
How can we seek God together?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Life Together in Christ: Experiencing Transformation in Community. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014. [Faith Development Through Small Groups: DISP 6013]
- Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together, Reader’s Edition. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2015.
- Dougherty, Rose Mary. Group Spiritual Direction: Community for Discernment. New York: Paulist, 1998.
- Dougherty, Rose Mary, ed. The Lived Experience of Group Spiritual Direction. New York: Paulist, 2003.
- Fryling, Alice. Seeking God Together: An Introduction to Group Spiritual Direction. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009. [Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023]
- Kropf, Marlene and Daniel Schrock, eds., An Open Place: The Ministry of Group Spiritual Direction. New York: Church Publishing, 2012.
- McNally, John Hugh, “A Time for SELAH: Spiritually Stronger Together through Group Spiritual Direction,” Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry 41 (2021): 216-232. [Available here: https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/873/797]
- Meyer, Keith. Spiritual Rhythms in Community: Being Together in the Presence of God. Downers Grover: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Shiflett, Diana. Spiritual Practices in Community: Drawing Groups into the Heart of God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018.
- Smith, James Bryan. Spiritual Formation Workbook: Small Group Resources for Nurturing Christian Growth. San Francisco: HarperCollins, rev. ed., 2001.
- Webb, Heather. Small Group Leadership as Spiritual Direction: Practical Ways to Blend an Ancient Art into Your Contemporary Community. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.
Spiritual Retreat
How can we get away to pray & for other spiritual practices to meet with God?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Invitation to Retreat: The Gift and Necessity of Time Away with God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018. [Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023 Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders DMIN 8413]
- Griffin, Emilie. Wilderness Time: A Guide for Spiritual Retreat. San Francisco: HarperCollins, 1997.
- Sherbino, David. Renew: A Basic Guide for a Personal Retreat. Brechin: Castle Quay Books, 2015.
Soul & Character of Leadership
How can leaders cultivate their inner life & virtues?
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership: Seeking God in the Crucible of Ministry. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, expanded ed., 2018.
- DeYoung, Rebecca Konyndyk. Glittering Vices: A New Look at the Seven Deadly Sins and Their Remedies. Grand Rapids: Brazos, second ed., 2020. [Soul of Leadership: SPFM 7023]
- Fadling, Alan. An Unhurried Leader: The Lasting Fruit of Daily Influence. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2017.
- Fryling, Robert. The Leadership Ellipse: Shaping How We Lead by Who We Are. Downers Grove, 2009.
- Gula, Richard. The Way of Goodness and Holiness: A Spirituality for Pastoral Ministers. Collegeville: Liturgical, 2011.
- Herrington, Jim, Trisha Taylor, and R. Robert Creech. The Leader’s Journey: Accepting the Call to Personal and Congregational Transformations. Grand Rapids: Baker, second ed., 2020.
- Linhart, Terry. The Self-Aware Leader: Discovering Your Blind Spots to Reach Your Ministry Potential. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2017.
- Macchia, Stephen A. Broken and Whole: A Leader’s Path to Spiritual Transformation. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
- McNeal, Reggie. A Work of the Heart: Understanding How God Shapes Spiritual Leaders. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, updated ed., 2011.
- Nouwen, Henri. In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership. New York: Crossroads, 2002.
- Scazzero, Peter. The Emotionally Healthy Leader: How Transforming Your Inner Life Will Deeply Transform Your Church, Team, and the World. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2015.
- Schwarz, Christian. The 3 Colors of Love: The art of giving and receiving justice, truth, and grace. St. Charles: Church Smart, 2004.
- Smith, Stephen W. Inside Job: Doing the Work Within the Work. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2015.
- Watson, Terri. Developing Clinicians of Character: A Christian Integrative Approach to Clinical Supervision. Downers Grove, InterVarsity Press, 2018.
- White, John. Excellence in Leadership: Reaching Goals with Prayer, Courage and Determination. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 1986.
Overview of Several Prayer Practices
How can we broaden & deepen our prayer practices?
- Barry, William J. Praying the Truth: Deepening Your Friendship with God Through Honest Prayer. Chicago: Loyola House, 2012.
- Kamstra, Douglas. The Praying Church Idea Book. Grand Rapids: Faith Alive, 2001.
- Foster, Richard. Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home. San Francisco: HarperCollins, rev. ed., 2005. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Johnson, Jan. When the Soul Listens: Finding Rest and Direction in Contemplative Prayer. Colorado Springs: NavPress, rev. ed., 2017.
- Payne, Leanne. Listening Prayer. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1994.
- Miller, Calvin. The Path of Celtic Prayer. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Morse, MaryKate. A Guidebook to Prayer: 24 Ways to Walk with God. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2013. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Sherbino, David. Re: Connect: Spiritual exercises to develop intimacy with God. Brechin: Castle Quay Books, 2013.
- Thibodeaux, Mark. Armchair Mystic: Easing Into Contemplative Prayer. Cincinnati: Franciscan Media, 2001.
Praying & Meditating with Scripture
How can prayerfully pondering a passage help us meet God?
- Foster, Richard. Sanctuary of the Soul. Journey into Meditative Prayer. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2011.
- Gallagher, Timothy. Meditation and Contemplation: An Ignatian Guide to Praying with Scripture. New York: Crossroad, 2008.
- Howard, Evan B. Praying the Scriptures: A Field Guide for Your Spiritual Journey. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 1999.
- Howard, Evan B., and James Wilhoit. Discovering Lectio Divina: Bringing Scripture into Ordinary Life. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Johnson, Jan. Meeting God in Scripture: A Hands-On Guide to Lectio Divina. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2016. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Whitney, Donald S. Praying the Bible. Wheaton: Crossway, 2015.
Praying the Lord’s Prayer
How can we pray as Jesus taught us?
- Boers, Arthur Paul. Lord Teach Us to Pray. Eugene: Wipf & Stock, 2008.
- Cronshaw, Darren. Dangerous Prayer: Discovering a missional spirituality in the Lord’s Prayer. Milton Keynes: Paternoster, 2017. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013]
- Haase, Albert. Living the Lord’s Prayer: The Way of the Disciple. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009.
- Hill, Wesley. The Lord’s Prayer: A Guide to Praying to Our Father. Bellingham: Lexham Press, 2019.
- Ladwig, Tim. The Lord’s Prayer (Illustrated by). Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2002.
- Wright, N.T. The Lord and His Prayer. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, new ed., 2014.
Praying the Psalms
How can we enter into the Bible’s primary prayer book?
- Patterson, Ben. God’s Prayer Book: The Power and Pleasure of Praying the Psalms. Nashville: Tyndale, 2008. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Botts, Timothy. The Book of Psalms (Illustrated in expressive calligraphy). Tyndale, 1997.
- Bruggemann, Walter. Praying the Psalms. Eugene: Cascade Books, second ed., 2007.
- Calhoun, Adele Ahleberg. Coloring the Psalms: Seeing God’s Patterns in Our Lives. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2016.
- Dawn, Marva J. My Soul Waits: Solace for the Lonely in the Psalms. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2007.
- Kaai, Anneke, and Eugene Peterson. The Psalms: An Artist’s Impression. Piquant, 1999.
- Meyer, Keith. Spiritual Rhythms in Community: Being Together in the Presence of God. Downers Grover: InterVarsity, 2012.
- Peterson, Eugene. Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer. San Francisco: HarperCollins, 1991.
- Peterson, Eugene. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, commemorative ed., 2019.
- Peterson, Eugene. Psalms: Prayers of the Heart. Life Guide Bible Studies. Downers Grove, InterVarsity, 2000.
- Sire, James. Learning to Pray Through the Psalms. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2006.
- Sire, James. Praying the Psalms of Jesus. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2007.
- Taylor, W. David O., Open and Unafraid: The Psalms as a Guide to Life. Thomas Nelson, 2020. [Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders DMIN 8413]
Praying for Healing
How can we prayerfully participate in God’s healing ministry?
- MacNutt, Francis. Healing. Notre Dame: Ave Maria, revised ed., 1999.
- MacNutt, Francis. The Healing Reawakening. Grand Rapids: Chosen, 2005.
- Pearson, Mark. Christian Healing. Lake Mary: Creation House, rev. ed., 2004.
- Richardson, Rick. Experiencing Healing Prayer: How God Turns Our Hurts into Wholeness. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2005.
- Ringma, Charles, and Mary Dickau. The Art of Healing Prayer: Bringing Christ’s Wholeness to Broken People. London: SPCK, 2015. [Pathways of Prayer: SPFM 7013 & 4013]
- Seamands, Stephen. Wounds That Heal: Bringing Our Hurts to the Cross. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2003.
Prayer Collections
How can the written prayers of others enrich our patterns of prayer?
- Boers, Arthur Paul, et. al, ed., Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer Book, Volume 1, Ordinary Time. Herald Press, third ed., 2007. (Through this link, you can download this volume & volume 2 below in an app form: https://www.ambs.edu/publishing/anabaptist-prayer-book)
- Boers, Arthur Paul, et. al, ed., Take Our Moments and Our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer Book, Volume 2, Advent Through Pentecost. Herald Press, 2010.
- Clairborne, Shane, and Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove. A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals: Pocket Edition. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2012
- De Waal, Esther. ed. The Celtic Vision: Prayers and Blessings from the Outer Hebrides. London: Dalton, Longman and Todd, 1988.
- Foster, Richard. Prayers from the Heart. New York: HarperOne, 1994.
- Miller, Calvin, Celtic Devotions: A Guide to Morning and Evening Prayer. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2008.
- Northumbria Community. Celtic Daily Prayer: Prayers and Readings from the Northumbria Community. New York: HarperOne, 2002.
- Reinders, Philip F. Seeking God’s Face. Grand Rapids: Faith Alive Christian Resources & Baker, 2010.
Praying for Awareness
How can we search for God’s presence & guidance in daily life?
- Gallagher, Timothy. The Examen: Ignatian Wisdom for Our Lives Today. New York: Crossroad, 2006.
- Manney, Jim. A Simple Life-Changing Prayer: Discovering the Power of St. Ignatius Loyola’s Examen. Chicago: Loyola Press, 2011.
- Thibodeaux, Mark. Reimagining the Ignatian Examen: Fresh Ways to Pray from Your Day. Chicago: Loyola Press, 2015.
Praying Our Laments
How can we turn our pain into prayer?
- Card, Michael. A Sacred Sorrow: Reaching Out to God in the Lost Language of Lament. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2005.
- Card, Michael. The Hidden Face of God: Finding the Missing Door to the Father Through Lament. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2007.
- Weems, Ann. Psalms of Lament. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 1995.
Overall Discipleship Framework
How can we understand the biblical, theological and practical dynamics of discipleship?
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. New York: Touchstone, 1995.
Hillman, George M. Jr. and Sue G. Edwards eds. Invitational to Educational Ministry: Foundations of Transformative Christian Education. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2018.
Hull, Bill. The Complete Book of Discipleship: On Being and Making Followers of Christ. Nav Press, 2006.
Hull, Bill. Conversion and Discipleship: You Can’t Have One Without the Other. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2016.
Hunter, Todd. Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2010.
Labberton, Mark. Called: The Crisis and Promise of Following Jesus Today. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014.
Lunde, Johnathan. Following Jesus, the Servant King: A Biblical Theology of Covenantal Discipleship. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Academic, 2010.
McKnight, Scot. The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others. Brewster: Paraclete, 2004.
Morden, Peter. The Message of Discipleship: Authentic Followers of Jesus in Today’s World. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2019.
Ogden, Greg. Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2016.
Parrett, Gary A., and S. Steve Kang. Teaching the Faith, Forming the Faithful: A Biblical Vision for Education in the Church. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2009.
Peterson, Eugene. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, commemorative ed., 2019.
Smith, Gordon. Called to Be Saints: An Invitation to Christian Maturity. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2014.
Smith, James Bryan. The Magnificent Journey: Living Deep in the Kingdom. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2018.
Willard, Dallas. The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus’s Essential Teachings on Discipleship. New York: Harper One, 2014.
Wright, N.T. After You Believe: Why Christian Character Matters. New York: Harper One, 2010.
Crucial Discipleship Areas
What areas are vital for developing disciples?
Allin, Dana. Simple Discipleship: Grow Your Faith, Transform Your Community. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2019.
Armstrong, Jenny Rae, and Aaron Armstrong. Called Out: Kingdom Living for Missional Teens. Minneapolis: Christians for Biblical Equality, 2013.
Augsburger, David. Dissident Discipleship: A Spirituality of Self-Surrender, Love of God, and Love of Neighbour. Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2006.
Camp, Lee. Mere Discipleship: Radical Christianity in a Rebellious World. Grand Rapids: Brazos, second ed., 2008.
Frazee, Randy. Think, Act, Be Like Jesus: Becoming a New Person in Christ. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2014.
Harrington, Bobby and Josh Patrick. The Disciple Maker’s Handbook: 7 Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2017.
Hatmaker, Brandon. Barefoot Church: Serving the Least in a Consumer Culture. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2011.
Macchia, Stephen A. Becoming a Healthy Disciple: 10 Traits of a Vital Christian. Lexington: Leadership Transformations, 2013.
McKnight, Scot, and Becky Castle Miller. Following King Jesus: How to Know, Read, Live and Show the Gospel. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2019.
Ogden, Greg. Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building your Life in Christ. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, rev. ed., 2019.
Putman, Jim, Bill Krause, Avery Willis, and Brandon Guindon. Real-Life Discipleship Training Manual: Equipping Disciples Who Make Disciples. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2010.
Sobels, Ben, and Bill Hull. The Discipleship Gospel Workbook: Multiply Disciples with the Gospel of Mark. Antioch: Harrington Interactive Media, 2019.
- Badke, William. Research Strategies: Finding Your Way through the Information Fog. Bloomington: iUniverse, seventh ed., 2021. [http://williambadke.com/textbook.htm ]
- Booth, Wayne, Gregory Colomb, Joseph Williams, Joseph Bizup, and William Fitzgerald. The Craft of Research. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, fourth ed., 2016.
- Brinkmann, Svend and Steinar Kvale. Doing Interviews. Thousand Oaks: Sage, second ed., 2018.
- Cresswell, John, and J. David Cresswell. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Method Approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, fifth ed., 2017.
- Foss, Sonja and William Waters. Destination Dissertation: A Traveler’s Guide to a Done Dissertation. Lanham: Rowman and Littlefield, second ed., 2016.
- Graff, Gerald and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say/I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing. New York: W. H. Norton, fifth ed., 2021.
- Kibbe, Michael. From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2016. [This book includes wise advice on how to use ATLA & Zotero, which are two valuable research tools available to you through Acadia.]
- LePeau, Andrew. Write Better: A Lifelong Editor on Craft, Art, and Spirituality. Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2019.
- Sensing, Tim. Qualitative Research: A multi-methods approach to projects for Doctor of Ministry Theses. Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 2011.
- Turabian, Kate L. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, ninth ed., 2018.
- Vyhmeister, Nancy Jean and Terry Dwain Robertson. Quality Research Papers: For Students of Religion and Theology. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, third ed., 2014.
- Wysocki, Ann and Dennis Lynch. The Little DK Handbook: Writing, Researching, Drafting, Styling, Revising, Editing, Documenting. New York: Pearson, third ed., 2019.
- http://writingcentre.acadiau.ca/
- https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/home.html
- https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/purdue_owl.html