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'Calm' is a guidebook written for United Methodist churches and church leaders to help them proactively make decisions and deal with conflict. Working through the book's four modules, leaders and churches find the path forward becomes clear, whether a church is faced with a micro-level decision (should we introduce a new worship service?), or a macro one (where does our congregation fall in the denominational split?). -This book presents the skills and tools necessary to engage in critical conversations that lead to healthy communities--churches that remain God-focused in times of conflict and tension. It comprises a Foreword, the four Modules, a Conclusion, and additional resources for planning, assessing, and managing conflict. It includes stories and examples of conflict and conflict resolution in practice. -The modules contain detailed instructions and helpful tips for leading groups through a process which incorporates group activities, discussion, individual and group reflection, and times of corporate worship. The book is a complete guide for leading this 'Forward' process, including instructions for the pastor or other leader, helping to ensure success. -The authors also provide clear adaptations for groups gathering virtually - an inescapable reality in the life of today's church. These adaptations both underscore and equip groups for the special care to be taken while engaging in the sensitive nature of conflict work in a virtual space. -This book is for local church leaders who feel stuck implementing a denominational schism in the local context. It is for the leader whounderstands what is happening in the larger church but who needs a guide book for how to shepherd their local church towards congregational health. This book is not intended to see any one outcome but instead provides a set oftools for the local church to decide their unique path forward. Chapter Outline: Foreword, How to Use This Book, Module One: Acknowledging the Struggle, Module Two: Understanding the Paths Forward, Module Three: Making Informed and Collective Decisions, Module Four: Reflecting on the Journey, Conclusion, Additional Resources
About the author
Mary Gladstone-Highland is a life-long United Methodist who has served as a domestic missionary for the General Board of Global Ministries for twelve years and is committed to helping churches to be healthy and thriving witnesses of Christ's love. Mary has experience working on issues that affect the denomination internationally and has served as a panel expert for regional and jurisdictional conferences. Mary is also the Founder and Principal of Spark Group Consulting, with sixteen years of experience leading nonprofit organizations. A graduate of the Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs at Syracuse University, she holds a Master of Public Administration and a Certificate in Advanced Study in Conflict and Collaboration. She is also the best-selling author of
Grant Writing: The Complete Workbook for Writing Proposals that Win and coauthor of the upcoming
Calm: How to End Destructive Conflict in Your Church.
