Releasing the Power of the Smaller Church.

Book Review

McMullen, Shawn (edited by) Releasing the Power of the Smaller Church Standard Publishing, Cincinnati. 2007

S.m.- editor, pastor, columnist, founding member of the Energizing Smaller Churches Network.

Comment. Henry
This is the first book that I have read on smaller churches. Most of the churches are actually small. Why is there not more apparent literature on this topic? Are writers market driven and there isn’t enough of a market out there? What is distinctive about this book is that it about small churches of the Church of Christ denomination (America). Most of them have been around for many years. However most of what is said probably applies to all small churches. Here is practical information that would help and encourage a pastor of a small church.

There are many unique things about a small church. Their impact on a community doesn’t happen without careful and focused preparation. Church health, fruit-bearing, unity, etc. must be addressed for this impact to happen.

Jerry Reeves of Clear Lake City, Texas write about the challenge of a leader’s walk with God drawing from his personal experiences.

Steve Mahoney of Newark, Delaware addresses preaching and teaching as they relate to his congregation of factory workers and people associated with the local university. The pastor of a small church has unique opportunities for varied forms of input of teaching and preaching.

Barry Klein pastors a church of about 140 people in the town of Staples, Minnesota (pop 3100). The church is over 90 years old. He talks about the family life of a pastor in a small church.

Brian Ingalls of Plains, Kansas deals with church leadership. Pastoral leadership in a small church touches pretty well every area of church life especially as it relates to training and guidance.

Small churches must address issues such as identity, purpose, vision, etc. Refocusing can be done regardless of size. Don’t allow “form to drive function”. (88)

Barney Wells from Arcola, Illinois deals with conflict management in a small church. This church has had to change as its community changed. This change has happened over the period of fifteen years. Prevention, intervention and resolution are discussed as they relate to conflict.

Sunday school and small groups seem to work well in small churches. Connectedness can be a challenge even in a small church. Men’s and women’s ministries are reviewed as they happen in small churches.

Ken Tackett from Spear Fish South Dakota talks about media, public relations and the church’s image in the community. Even small churches must pay attention to demographics, culture, and the needs of their community.

David Kester of Cleveland, Minnesota shares his experiences of going through a building program. Some very practical suggestions are made.

In the final chapter the editor makes suggestions for leaders of small churches that could also apply to leaders of larger churches. He stresses the importance of making paradigm shifts, long-term commitments, thinking outside the box, effective leadership and using assets wisely.