Ian Parkinson shares his experience of partnering with God to transform two very different local churches. He weaves stories from his own congregations, and draws on his experience of ministering in an inherited traditional but declining church, revealing what he has done to turn them around. The transformation of such churches is critical: there are relational links to build on within communities; there are resources in place; and most importantly, God desires to renew his people in their sense of identity, vision, calling and anointing, even when they lose their way. In order for this to happen, there need to be leaders who are enthused and equipped to share in God's vision to be agents of change in the church for the sake of the world. This is transformational leadership. Such leadership comes about when we are gripped by a compelling vision of how God intends His Church to be, and a passion to see it move it forwards. Ian Parkinson begins with a brief overview of the true calling and identity of the Church, before examining the catalytic role of leaders in establishing practices and habits which enable the congregation to see vision become reality.

How to lead static or declining churches back into growth and new life.

About the Author
Ian Parkinson is the New Wine North & East Regional Leader. Ian leads All Saints' Church Marple, Stockport, a multi-congregational church meeting in three very different communities, one urban, one suburban and one a village. His passion is to support and resource leaders and churches as they seek to reach their communities with the gospel.

Reviews
'A wonderful manifesto for change that oozes deep thinking, biblical content & practical advice from each page. Every church leader in the UK should read this book now!' -- Gavin Calver, Director of Mission, Evangelical Alliance
Ian is someone I have respected and admired for a number of years. His track record as a church leader speaks for itself. He has been a friend, coach and mentor to me and many other young leaders and we have all benefited greatly from his wisdom and experience. Now that wisdom and experience is available to everyone who reads this book. There are insights and strategies here which will interest, inspire and equip you, whatever your leadership role. Ian's humour, wisdom and passion come through on every page. Make sure you read this book if you are in any way involved with leadership in your church - you'll be glad you did! -- Kate Wharton, author of Single Minded and Vicar of St George's Everton
"Ian Parkinson has vast experience of church leadership and growth within the UK and globally. He knows what he is talking about. This book distils a great deal of valuable wisdom on working in tune with the Spirit to bring about the renewal and revitalisation of the church." -- Revd Dr Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College
"Ian writes with both passion and understanding. He is passionate about seeing the church of today being like the first church - empowered and fruitful in mission, welcoming and compassionate in its pastoral work, and relevant and transformative in everything. He also writes with the wisdom gained both from his wide reading and from his hands-on local church leadership; he has practised what he preaches. This book is an invaluable toolbox for leaders willing to navigate the turbulent waters of change for the sake of seeing disciples being formed and the church growing." -- John and Anne Coles, New Wine
"Many church leaders struggle with turning a church round. This book is a great guide for the process. Clear, full of practical wisdom and theological insight, it takes the reader through re-engineering a church stage-by-stage and encourages those on the journey to keep going." -- James Lawrence, Leadership Principal, CPAS
"This is a book of real substance written by someone of vision, wisdom, and experience." -- The Church Times



Book Information
ISBN 9780857216694
Author Reverend Ian Parkinson
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Monarch Books
Publisher SPCK Publishing