Introverts In The Church.

Book Review.
McHugh, Adam S. Introverts In The Church. Finding our place in an extroverted culture. IVP Books. 2009.
A.M.-an ordained Presbyterian minister, a spiritual director, and an introvert.
Comment. Henry.
The reading of this book was a learning experience for me. I had never thought of introverts and extroverts as contrasting groups in the church culture. The thesis of this resource is that most church cultures are extrovert dominated. This presents a special challenge for introverts to function well as participants and ministering staff. This resource is helpful for introverts who struggle with their frustrations and extroverts who are concerned about being more inclusive. The challenge to both celebrate and respect our individual differences will always be part of meaningful life enriching relationships, especially in our churches.
“There is a restless energy to evangelicalism that leads to a full schedule and a fast pace.” (26) Such an environment is not seen as introvert friendly. Introversion and extroversion exist in each of us and are a preference. These characteristics exist in degrees. Introverts process internally and gain strength from their solitude, etc.
Healing for introverts can come from external sources (relationships) and from the Lord. Their spirituality is contemplative with a focus on solitude and “the examen” (74) Community is a challenge but introverts bring a special contribution to community, e.g. compassion, creativity, mentoring, etc. Community pitfalls (for introverts) can be avoided.
Although most lists of leadership characteristics don’t include introvertism, there are many leaders that are (were) introverts , e.g. Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr., Jonathan Edwards . Leadership is more about calling than personality types. Adequate self-care is important. Spiritual direction plays to the strengths of introvert leaders. Leading and being led as extroverts and introverts are discussed.
“Introvert seekers need introvert evangelists.” (184) Evangelism is usually thought of as an activity (gift) that demonstrates a high level of extrovertism. The church that introverts will feel comfortable in will send messages of safety and opportunities of involvement. For community to happen in our churches it will require that we all have a strong commitment to ‘love one another’.
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