In this book, authors from diverse backgrounds and contexts identify underlying principles that contribute to healthy and effective church life. The articles represent both academic issues and personal observations developed from years of ministry. While each article contains its own local flavor, there is broad consensus on the principles which contribute to healthy, effective church life. The first half come from North American and Caribbean writers, representing Anglo, African American, Latino, Indigenous, Canadian, and Cuban communities. Voices from outside North America add a global tenor to the second half of the discussion. Every inhabited continent is represented. The concluding articles address mentoring emerging leaders and training church planters. Lloyd A. Harsch grew up in California, Manitoba and North Dakota. He has 40 years of ministry experience in a variety of roles, serving churches in North Dakota, Texas, Kansas and Louisiana. He has traveled extensively and taught in several countries on 5 continents. Since 2000, Harsch has served on the faculty of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as Professor of Church History and Baptist Studies. He is married with two adult children (and one adorable grandchild) and resides in New Orleans, LA.
