Krin Van Tatenhove and Rob Mueller

As we all process the lessons we have learned from the pandemic, one resounding cry we hear from people is that they only want to be part of what speaks to the truth of their values. People ache to be part of something that is bigger than themselves, that serves the needs of those in their communities, and that focus on meaningful interaction. The authors of Neighborhood Church; Transforming Your Congregation Into A Powerhouse for Mission seek to invigorate congregations and bolster them in building partnerships, seeing the actual needs, and being flexible enough to adjust ministries when other needs arise. 

Neighborhood Church is organized into five chapters, all of which lead the reader through the processes of effective conversation and listening to the needs in their current settings, how to be in effective partnership with their neighbors, how to make the best use of their spaces, and how to sustain the momentum of newly launched ministries. Each chapter includes several relevant case studies to illustrate the points, along with discussion questions to help the reader go more deeply into their callings. The authors offer out-of-the-box ideas and suggestions that are well-reasoned and grounded in the needs of the communities each congregation serves. It is refreshing to read a book that discusses the need to reflect on and celebrate the history of the neighborhood in which they serve, but vision and plan ministries based upon what the community currently needs. They provide a sound framework for readers to use, gently encouraging them as they go about the work of being in relevant ministry with their neighbors.

I see many ways in which this resource can be used in ministry. This book would be a wonderful choice for an adult small group to read and discuss in a faith formation class. Discussion questions are provided, making it easy for facilitators to prepare for sessions. There is plenty to discuss and could easily be used for a two month session. I would keep a copy in my resource library for people to refer to as a congregation looks toward revitalization. It would be an excellent read for a church’s administrative council, and would also be useful for denominational bodies to have for a conference-wide study. It is a good resource to have on hand, and even better to have in the hands of the people in a congregation who are excited about different ways to be in ministry with their community.