Spiritual Companioning - by Angela H Reed & Richard R Osmer & Marcus G Smucker (Paperback)

About the Book

A clear and rich introduction to spiritual formation and companionship for Protestant ministers and congregations.

Book Synopsis

Among the smiling faces in church on Sunday mornings are those who long for deeper, more genuine relationships within their local congregations--active, intentional relationships that nurture the soul and encourage personal encounters with God. Drawing on decades of experience in spiritual direction, congregational ministry, and seminary teaching, this book offers a clear and rich introduction to the theology and practice of spiritual companioning in the Protestant tradition. The authors explore the topic in a biblically based and historically informed manner and give practical help for cultivating spiritual relationships in congregations and beyond, using stories throughout to illustrate key ideas. Discussion questions are included.

From the Back Cover

"Insight and guidance for modern, growing disciples"

Among the smiling faces in church on Sunday mornings are those who long for deeper, more genuine relationships within their local congregations--active, intentional relationships that nurture the soul and foster spiritual growth. Drawing on decades of experience in spiritual direction, congregational ministry, and seminary teaching, this book offers a clear and rich introduction to the theology and practice of spiritual companioning in the Protestant tradition. The authors explore the topic in a biblically based and historically informed manner and give practical help for cultivating spiritual relationships in congregations and beyond.

"Everyone who ventures into a church today is looking for more than simply an hour of spiritual entertainment. From the depths of their souls rises a yearning to be part of a truly spiritual community, to be knit together with other seekers of holiness. This book unfolds how it can happen."
--Craig Barnes, Princeton Theological Seminary

"The authors of this book have rightly discerned that life, church, and community are about relationships. They have outlined those crucial phases of life where companionship is desperately needed. Writing in a personal and passionate way, these sensitive authors offer insight and guidance for modern, growing disciples."
--Ben Campbell Johnson, Columbia Theological Seminary

"Spiritual Companioning offers a comprehensive, well-rounded exploration of the ways spiritual guidance can become an animating vision for healthy congregations and their leaders. Carefully and clearly written, with exercises at the end of each chapter that are designed to inspire contemplative reflection on personal and congregational dimensions of faith formation, this book could be a stimulating guidebook for discussions among pastors and lay leaders, in Christian formation committees, or in seminary classrooms. Readers will be inspired by the clarity and simplicity of this vision, which is nothing less than a return to the pulsing heart of the gospel: loving God, neighbor, and self."
--Marlene Kropf, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary

About the Author

Angela H. Reed (PhD, Princeton Theological Seminary) is assistant professor of practical theology and director of spiritual formation at Truett Theological Seminary Baylor University, in Waco, Texas. Richard R. Osmer (PhD, Emory University) is Ralph B. and Helen S. Ashenfelter Professor of Mission and Evangelism at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey. Marcus G. Smucker (1931-2014; PhD, The Union Graduate School) taught at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Eastern Mennonite Seminary.