This is a book about ministry, but it is neither the first nor the last to be written on the subject. What makes this one different?
"I've tried to . . . offer a theology of ministry that is pastorally practical and to offer pastorally practical guidelines rooted in the best contemporary theology. . . . . I have deliberately written a book with as clear an organizational structure as possible. It will be left to those in various particular ministries to build upon the modest theological-pastoral foundation offered herein.
"In chapter 1, 'What is Ministry?,' I offer basic definitions of ministry, of Church, and of the Kingdom of God, for which the Church exists and toward which all ministry is directed.
"Chapter 2, 'How has Ministry Evolved?,'traces the history and changing views of ministry, from the New Testament to the present. It touches upon such issues as the relationship between clergy and laity, between bishops and presbyters, and between the power of orders and the power of jurisdiction. It also discusses the significance of ordination.
"Chapter 5, 'What Qualities Do Ministers Need?,' offers seven basic criteria by which the Church can make responsible judgments about the qualifications and pastoral performance of its ministers.
"Chapter 4, 'What Is Ministerial Spirituality?,' propose-s ten criteria by which the active minister and ministerial candidate can discern among competing spiritualities." (from Ministry)