Cornerstone

Church Planting is for Wimps

Mike McKinley, £7.99

The story of a church's revitalization counters a common conception that a church's size determines its health and points pastors to the faithful ministry of God's Word.

This latest addition to the IXMarks series tells the story of the revitalization of Guilford Baptist Church in northern Virginia. Weaving together scripture and biblical principles with humor and personal anecdotes, author Michael McKinley asserts that a pastor's faithful exposition of God's Word, passion for sharing the gospel, and care in the training of other godly leaders are more important than the size of his church.

McKinley honestly shares his own fears and rookie mistakes, along with encouraging stories of how God moved at Guilford Baptist. We are reminded that God uses weak and fearful pastors in plants and revitalizations; church planting is indeed for "wimps." For pastors and seminarians considering a church plant and those already struggling in their own fledgling congregations, this book is a thoughtful and encouraging resource.

With Hearts and Hymns and Voices

Pam Rhodes, £8.99

This is a sparkling novel about the "BBC Songs of Praise" team recording a "Palm Sunday" broadcast from a small idyllic Suffolk village. As the outside broadcast vehicles roll in, ambitions and emotions run high. Producer Jan Harding finds the vicar, Clive Linton, hopelessly absent-minded. His practical wife Helen gets on well with the television team - perhaps a little too well, where the charming, enigmatic rigger Michael is concerned. Charles, chairman of the Parish Council, is deeply opposed and resents the enthusiasm of other villagers - including his wife Betty. Bunty Maddocks, queen of every local committee, plots to get round the ban on church flowers during Lent; retired, lonely accountant Jack Diggens finds purpose, faith and friendship as he plans tickets and seating; and teenage soloist Anna surprises herself with her success. This delightful story will make you laugh and cry and gives a fascinating insight into the making of "Songs of Praise".

Stories from the Edge

Dave Wiles, £10.99

These stories are from a number of sources: some are drawn from Dave's own story of growing up (he spent years on probation for drug dealing, vandalism and burglary), or from reflections on his experience as a youth and community worker. Some stories come from other youth workers. The stories are highly arresting, detailing a dramatic incident in a young person's life such as a 16-year-old on probation, who is on suicide watch; mediating between a rebellious youngster and his over-authoritative dad; a 21-year-old girl, with two children in care, who works the street to pay for the heroin her father deals. Each chapter follows a particular theme, such as 'Dads and Lads' or 'Youth Culture and Gangs'. Each chapter ends with points to think about and for discussion.