This second edition of Diana Garland's groundbreaking resource for the church, Family Ministry, builds on the qualities that made the first edition so important. It is deeply informed by biblical theology, understanding practical needs of families in local church communities, and ongoing research. Dr. Garland is dean of the Baylor University School of Social Work and has for years led major research studies on families in the church and community ministry. With her husband David Garland, dean of Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor, she is coeditor of The Journal of Family and Community Ministries. Her book is substantive and engaging--full of well-grounded stories and applications for family ministry.
-David Sherwood, Ph.D., editor, Social Work & Christianity
If you think you know about family ministry, think again. This handbook on family ministry provides the biblical, historical and research-based approach to family ministry. It is a gem that could serve as the foundation for anyone engaged in family ministry. The book is loaded with compelling research, heart-tugging stories and practical suggestions for implementing and improving church-based family ministry. Don't miss this one!
-Dr. Eric Swanson,
Leadership Network, coauthor of The Externally Focused Church and To Transform a City
Family Ministry: A Comprehensive Guide is a gift to everyone in church leadership and ministry with families. Diana Garland accomplishes the almost impossible--blending history, theology, family theory and pastoral practice into one book that is a must-have resource for everyone who works with families. Diana's knowledge, experience and wisdom are woven into each chapter of the book. Family Ministry provides congregations with vision and practices for ministry with families in the 21st century.
-John Roberto,
editor, Lifelong Faith journal, author, Faith Formation 2020: Designing the Future of Faith Formation
Diana Garland uses reasoned, comprehensive methods to put understanding in the context of our personal and casual observations. Sometimes her conclusions confirm that we're on the right track. In other instances, she finds out we're missing the mark and need to change our strategy completely. At each step, she includes personal stories that take the concepts from the research lab to the living room and challenge us to do what we do better, for all the right reasons.
-Reggie Joiner,
founder and CEO of Orange
