Drawing together original research which weaves together ideas from theology, philosophy, feminism and writing on mothering and child development, Emma Percy affirms and encourages aspects of good practice in ministry that are in danger of being overlooked because they are neither well-articulated nor valued. Offering a fresh look at parish ministry, this book uses a maternal metaphor to provide an integrated image of being and doing. The metaphor of mothering is used to explore the relational aspect of parish ministry which needs to value particularity and concrete contingent responsiveness. Percy suggests virtues that need to be cultivated to guard against the temptations to intrusive or domineering styles of care on the one hand or passive abnegation of responsibility on the other. Parish ministry cannot be understood in terms of tangible productivity; different ways of understanding success and evaluating priorities need to be developed. The book suggests ways of being 'good enough' clergy who can find the right balance between caring for people and communities whilst encouraging and acknowledging the maturity of others.

About the Author
Educated at Cambridge and Durham University with degrees in history and theology. Ordained deacon in 1990 and priest in 1994 Emma has worked in parish ministry and university chaplaincy for over twenty years. She recently completed a PhD in theology at University of Nottingham. She has written a number of book chapters and articles on aspects of ministry and has given papers and lectures on parish ministry and theology and mothering.

Reviews
'This is a wise, kind, intelligent book which many (men as well as women) will find illuminates their experience of ministry and helps them cope with overload, anxiety and the perennial guilt trap which is often their lot.' Angela Tilby, Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, UK 'This imaginative, thoughtful and thought-provoking book is a gift to all those who are seeking new language to express what ministry might mean in the twenty-first century. The exploration of motherhood as a metaphor for ministry opens up not only new language but a whole new way of ministering.' Paula Gooder, Freelance Writer, Canon Theologian, and Lecturer in Biblical Studies '... engaging and thought-provoking' Christine Worsley, Church Times 'Emma Percy makes an important and novel contribution to the growing corpus of academic writing exploring the generic practise of ministry in these changing times.' Regent's Review '... [Percy's] work on a contemporary reading of motherhood is extremely valuable for ministers of any church denomination, regardless of their theology of ministry.' Worship



Book Information
ISBN 9781138546998
Author Emma Percy
Format Paperback
Page Count 184
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g