Remember the Future: Praying for the Church and Change

by Robert Schnase

Explore together how congregations can change to become more fruitful for the purposes of Christ. Remember the   Praying for the Church and Change prepares leaders of congregations and conferences for courageous new conversations with readings that draw us toward renewed vision, cultivate hope and keep us attentive to the mission of Christ. Read together as leadership teams, boards and covenant groups to understand more clearly the “why” of congregational ministry and the internal resistances and external challenges to the mission of the church.

Genres: Theology

144 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2012

About the author

Bishop Robert C. Schnase

Reviews

[Steven Bullmer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would have given this book a higher rating, but the change Bishop Schnase asked us to pray for, and his book explained the urgency for, failed epically. The book came out in 2012, the same year the Judicial Council of the United Methodist Church deemed unconstitutional all the changes Bishop Schnase and others proposed and passed at General Conference; things Bishop Schnase envisioned so eloquently in this book. And then, this year, a Special Session of the General Conference rejected the fresh winds of the spirit of this vision by voting to continue with traditional language, entrenched thinking, and business as usual. All the hopes and dreams of this book will not bear fruit, and that is a bitter pill to swallow.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book presents thought-provoking questions that challenge church congregations to determine if they are making a difference in their communities and the world.

[Rollie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In our recent time of change, this book is certainly an aid in opening the eyes of church leadership. It makes suggestions but allows the reader to glean those aspects that may help his or her ministry evolve in a positive direction.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did not realize it was a devotional at first. Very powerful when used that way. Short reflections on who we are called to be as the church and how faithful we are in living our mission. I will use it with the leadership of the church as we seek God's vision for us.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful, challenging book calling for action with the United Methodist Church. Read it with prayer and reflection on the ministries that we are apart.