Theological Foundations for Collaborative Ministry

'It is rare to find an academic who writes with such clarity, perception and depth in the field of ecclesiology. Stephen Pickard's work combines practical wisdom with theological acuity, and opens up new ways of re-conceiving the ministry of the church in our time. He is one of the very few writers today who can offer both grounded insight alongside nuanced and refreshing theological perspectives. In this exciting and timely new book, Pickard opens up new vistas on the nature of the church's ministry, with a wise and thought-provoking treatise that will undoubtedly make a substantial contribution to the field of ecclesiology. This is a wonderful, warm and wise theological enterprise. Full of richness, it will repay our careful and deep engagement.' Martyn Percy, Ripon College Cuddesdon, Oxford, UK. 'Erudite and beautifully written... a fascinating and erudite analysis of the challenges to Anglican expressions of church and ministry, and Australian Anglicanism in particular. It has wider currency too, including those of us who do not subscribe to Episcopalian ecclesial structures and polity... If this book results in more collaborative approaches to ministry, then it will have served its purpose.' Regent's Reviews 'Pickard recognises the fragile, passionate, one-of-another? character of a church in which participants, in friendship, serve God's mission. Here is encouragement to be courageous - for bishops and all seriously engaged in evoking or leading reflective Christian ministry.' Church Times 'In our global, yet fragmented, world collaboration is the only way forward. Stephen Pickard's experiences gained in United Kingdom and Australia, and his immense knowledge in ecclesial management shine through this book. Readers who are familiar with the western ecclesial traditions, but do not yet know how to realize their desire for ministerial participation will find this book informative.' Theological Book Review 'This is a book that