Gilbert R. Rendle, Leading Change in the Congregation: Spiritual and Organizational Tools for Leaders. Alban Institute, 1998.
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LifeandLeadership.com Summary
Rendle is a recognized consultant with Alban Institute. Leaders who look to this as their sole action guide on congregational change may be disappointed. It is much more theoretical than pragmatic. Those who take the time to read it, however, will not be disappointed. Some content is common to books of this genre, but it contains unique insights. These include how to assess the situations they face (i.e. Heifetz’ technical vs. adaptive), to look at their congregations systemically, to shift perspectives away from linear problem-solution toward chaotic journey, to ride the emotional roller-coaster of change, and to place their congregation on the positive curve of the organizational life-cycle. Think of Rendle as a coach for leadership change-readiness.
From the Publisher
Many books have been written about leadership and change, but until now none has focused on the kind of change that tears at a community’s very fabric. Alban senior consultant Gil Rendle provides a respectful context for understanding change, especially the experiences and resistances that people feel. Rendle pulls together theory, research, and his work with churches facing change to provide leaders with practical diagnostic models and tools. In a time when change is the norm, this book helps to “lead change” in a spiritual and healthy way.
About the Author
Gil Rendle is a Senior Consultant with the Alban Institute. He is an ordained United Methodist clergyperson with more than 15 years of parish experience. He consults with local congregations and judicatories using his background in organizational development and systems theory. He is also the author of Behanvioral Covenants in Congregations, The Multigenerational Congregation, and the co-author of Holy Conversations: Strategic Planning as a Spiritual Practice for Congregations.
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