The Once and Future Pastor: The Changing Role of Religious Leaders (Once and Future Church Series)

Hobgood examines new pressures on clergy that are emerging in the "post-Christendom era:" financial stresses; the effects of a conflicted and confrontational culture; the needs of an increasing number of people living broken or dependent lives; dysfunctional behavior on the part of pastors and parishioners; questions regarding clergy respect and job satisfaction. How is ministry being affected by these changes? What skills will clergy need as they enter the new century? An invaluable resource thoroughly grounded in research and full of practical observations for clergy, judicatory executives, seminary professors, and long-range planners.

William Chris Hobgood is transition senior pastor at Park Avenue Christian Church in New York. He served as General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) from 2003 to 2005.