VALLEY FORGE, PA (2/2/17)—“Welcoming Community: Diversity That Works” by the Rev. Douglas Avilesbernal has been named the “ABC Reads” book for 2017-2018.
Sponsored by American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), ABC Reads highlights a Judson Press book every year or two that is appropriate for reading and discussion in small group settings as well as for individual study. The recommended book provides an opportunity for learning, sharing and growing in knowledge and faith in Sunday school classes and Bible studies as well as with interested church and community groups.
Part of the “Living Church” series edited by the Rev. Dr. J. Dwight Stinnett, “Welcoming Community: Diversity That Works” acknowledges the dramatic changes in 21st-century culture and congregational life, particularly as it relates to church growth in an increasingly multicultural world of transitioning communities. Using the biblical story of Jesus’ journey through Samaria—which led to a transformational encounter among Jesus, a rabbi and a Samaritan woman—the author offers a model for learning to welcome the community in which a congregation finds itself. This creative and constructive approach to fostering true congregational diversity honors all members of the community and celebrates the unique gifts each brings to life and ministry together.
Senior pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, Norristown, Pa., and former treasurer of the American Baptist Churches Hispanic Caucus, Avilesbernal seeks to build bridges among various cultures. Son of a missionary pastor, Avilesbernal was born in Guatemala, Central America. His faith spans three decades, several continents and many nations.
Stinnett is former executive minister of American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region.
The book sells for $16.99. Orders of at least 10 copies save 15 percent. Orders can be placed at www.judsonpress.com or by phoning Judson Press customer service at 800-458-3766. Mention promo code “ABCREADS” when phoning, or enter it in the discount box during online checkout.
Since 2006, ABC Reads has been bringing American Baptists together through the power of a book!
Founded in 1824, Judson Press is a publishing ministry of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, American Baptist Churches USA. It is committed to producing Christ-centered leadership resources for the transformation of individuals, congregations, communities and cultures.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists in answering God’s call to promote Christian faith across the United States and Puerto Rico to cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and heal and transform communities, by developing aligned action networks and programs.
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.