The ritual of baptism has often been reduced to a symbolic 'rite of passage' into a local congregation. Paul Galbreath, reaching into memory and history, has called us as readers into the recovery of the sacred and the transformational as inherent ingredients in this formative event. We all recover in these pages a sense of our full conversion as followers of The Way.

Daniel G. Bagby, Theodore F. Adams Emeritus Professor of Pastoral Care, Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond

In this deep and refreshing work, Galbreath taps the wellspring of ancient Christian tradition, distills clear analysis of our contemporary setting, and draws on a great reservoir of personal and pastoral experience – all to show that Christian life is baptismal life. The church and world are thirsty for such wisdom.

David Gambrell, Associate for Worship, Office of Theology and Worship, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

With vivid stories and provocative questions, Paul Galbreath leads us on a journey through the waters of baptism. Focusing on how this ancient practice shapes Christian disciples for today, Galbreath illumines baptism as the pattern of a whole life, rooted in God’s mercy and turned in compassion toward the world. These reflections will shake and revive you like fresh rain.

Martha Moore-Keish, J.B. Green professor of theology, Columbia Theological Seminary

Paul Galbreath invites us on a joy-filled, expansive journey that connects the sacrament of baptism with the ongoing life of discipleship. Paul's accessible style links biblical narrative and ancient voices with contemporary experience and the world, in which we are to live out our baptismal identity. As these voices come together, we find a challenging invitation to transform congregational worship and response. Ever the good teacher, Paul encourages us to live out our baptismal identity both within and beyond the walls of our churches.

Walt Lichtenberger, Lead Pastor, St. James Lutheran, Burnsville, MN

With a rich interplay of biblical story, history, and clear articulation of our common baptismal vocation, Leading through the Water will captivate, challenge and inspire leaders and congregants alike to greater awareness of the power of the Spirit at work in community – for the sake of the world’s forgotten. Live into Christ’s call alive in each chapter.

Lynn Longfield, General Presbyter, Presbytery of Olympia