Patient Catalyst: Leading Church Revitalization

by Jack Daniel

Everybody's talking about church revitalization, but let's face God has been in the business of renewal since the Letters to the Seven Churches in Revelation. Of the some 450,000 churches in America, 80 percent are either plateaued or in decline. This means that a third of a million churches are in need of renewal! While every congregation is unique, the author believes there is a discernible pattern to the process of church revitalization and that God wants to renew His church. This book is about that pattern and the leadership needed to bring about renewal.

256 pages, Paperback

Published September 15, 2018

Reviews

[Timothy Crockett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was recommended at several church-related meetings I had gone to. It came with high praise, but I must admit I was surprised at the author's approach to the ministry. Don't get me wrong there were some practical things to be gleaned and for that, I am grateful, many of which have already been instituted here at the church. I do think our worship time must be more reverent and less distracting, however, I do not believe we need to incorporate Contemporary Christian Music, especially with the many great hymns of the faith we ALREADY have. A local church can have a robust music program with the old hymnal and not introduce noisy and obnoxious music to the service.

The other thing I picked up on was the author's ecumenical tendencies. I cannot see myself fellowshipping in a Charismatic -"Christ-Centered Church"- Roman Catholic Church. There is just too much wrong with that especially as it relates to Soteriology.

The book was 240 pages, and it was an easy read. There were certainly things to be gleaned and things to be avoided. I guess like anything we read or watch today we must approach with a discerning eye and ear.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, the book. Specific, tangible, and relevant. As the intended audience (A new pastor in Maine "from away") I immediately took the info to heart and started using it to very helpful effect. Though it's New England specific in many ways, the overall material would still have been very useful to me "out West."

Second, Jack. In an almost humorous twist, I reached out for more information about Overseed, who produce this book, and discovered that Jack only lived an hour away. Since then, I've been involved in an Overseed pastoral cohort that meets monthly to work on the project laid out in this book. It's been a personal and pastoral godsend.

All to say: if revitalization is a word that speaks to you in regard to your church and congregation, I'd recommend both Jack's book and Overseed ministries.

[Rob Canavan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great journey. This book takes you on a tour of what Church Revitilation is like. It breaks down the journey into time periods that are extremely accurate. It gives great advice in dealing with church matters all along the way. A must ready for any church leaders involved in a Revitilation project.

[Matthew C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An eminently practical book from a man that has (successfully) lived through church revitalization. I will be recommending this book to several people.