Context and culture shape always theologies of ministry. In this excellent study of ecclesiology and ministry, John Williams gives us a refreshing, zesty analysis of how culture and Christianity interact to produce ecclesial and ministerial praxis. No theology or religious belief lacks a cultural or social reference point and shape. There is no ‘pure’ religion, belief, revelation or doctrine. Everything we say, think, do, believe and practise about God is mediated through social or cultural agents. This is perhaps nowhere more true that in the ever-evolving and adaptive identity of the church, and the ministry it offers. This prescient and pithy book from Williams will challenge thinking and break new ground. It is a critically-reflective and quite remarkable book, which will amply repay study and wider discussion. -- Martyn Percy, Dean, Christ Church, Oxford
This important book sets out the story of where we have come from over the last half-century in church life and asks what will the Church of England look like in a ‘post-church society’? John Williams argues that experimentation and innovation are already the order of the day and demonstrates how changes in ministry are always and everywhere adaptive. We are asked to live with ecclesianarchy as a concept for church life, leadership, and mission. His advocacy for ‘postmodernity’ means that the more collaborative or participative a denomination becomes, the more its rigid structures will seem inappropriate. Church leaders must end their refusal to take church decline seriously. This book asks relevant questions about the kinds of oversight which can encourage experiment and innovation. -- Malcolm Grundy, Visiting Fellow York St John University
