Table of Contents

Acknowledgments Introduction Ambition for the Gospel: A Call to Resurrecting Excellence Inhabiting the Intersections: A Still More Excellent Way Resurrecting Excellence in the Christian Vocation Resurrecting Excellence in the Pastoral Vocation Learning and Leading: The Cultivation of Excellent Ministry The Treasures of Excellent Ministry Coda Index

About the Author

Gregory L Jones is Dean and Professor of Theology at Duke University Divinity School. Kevin R Armstrong is senior minister of North United Methodist Church, Indiana, USA.

Reviews

Dorothy C. Bass
-- Valparaiso University
"Resurrecting Excellence provides a profoundly moving picture of what it means to be a Christian and a pastor today. Greg Jones and Kevin Armstrong celebrate faithful ministry already taking place while boldly summoning the church to renew its efforts to call and support gifted pastors capable of leading Christian communities in practicing passionate service and witness in the world. This book bears wisdom and challenge for all who care about the church and seek to live as Christ's disciples."

Christine D. Pohl
-- Asbury Theological Seminary
"This book is a treasure -- a wonderful gift to the church. While inviting us into a deeply Christian understanding of excellence, it offers hope, renewal, and challenge for pastors and congregations. Without sacrificing truthfulness or ignoring tragedy, Jones and Armstrong give a nuanced, tender account of the beauty, imagination, and resources available for excellent ministry."

Samuel T. Lloyd III
-- Dean, Washington National Cathedral
"One of the most heartening books on parish ministry I have encountered in years. . . I can't imagine a better book for someone seeking to discern a call to ordained ministry -- or for a seasoned pastor who has labored faithfully for many years."

Interpretation
"This book is an admirable effort."

Circuit Rider
"Resurrecting Excellence is a thoughtfully argued, beautifully written book on a subject that cries out for such attentive engagement."

Congregations
"I am not aware of any other book quite like this one. It examines a host of issues that [pastors] regularly encounter: power, office, call, professionalism, collegiality, ordination. Happily, it does so in fresh ways."