Holy Conversations is not just information; it’s wisdom. Alice Mann and Gil Rendle have created a wonderful handbook that should be in every congregation’s library. Rather than developing a one-size-fits-all guide, they extend an authentic invitation for congregations to have “holy conversations”—and they provide the tools to help you. Such conversations provide a pathway toward planning that is attentive to the Spirit and a congregation’s unique calling, both internally and in the context of community.

Hal Chorpenning, Senior Minister, Plymouth Congregational Church, UCC, Fort Collins, CO

This is the kind of book for which I have been waiting 25 years: a resource for those seeking leadership and planning approaches that are theologically based and congregationally oriented rather than corporate management-based. Pastors, lay leaders, and judicatory staff will find this book helpful in providing leadership for congregational development and redevelopment, mission studies, and congregations in the midst of transition. Newcomers and experienced leaders alike will find useful the authors’ distinctions between strategic and other types of planning as well as their presentation of the elements, factors, roles, and processes necessary for developing approaches appropriate to different congregations.

Virstan B. Y. Choy, general presbyter, The Presbytery of San Francisco

You have struck gold! This handbook brings together a wealth of practical tools and resources for every aspect of congregational planning. But even more important, it is a book that will lead you beyond strategic planning to a 'holy conversation' that has the potential to lead to lasting change. Rather than a one-size-fits-all planning program, you will find an approach that honors the rich and unique dynamics of your congregation. Gil and Alice write with deep wisdom about real life in real congregations, and with respect and empathy for their leaders. Today, many congregations are searching for help in understanding how to move into the future. This book will be a trusted resource for that journey.

Joanne Thomson, Associate Conference Minister, Wisconsin Conference, United Church of Christ