An overview of recent developments in church planting. This detailed, practical and well-researched book describes the varied and exciting 'fresh expressions' of church being created. This edition includes a new foreward by the Rt Revd Graham Cray.

Using a mix of theological reflection, sociological analysis, case studies and personal experience, this book explores ways forward for mission in a rural context in both traditional and fresh expressions of church. It offers insights into issues facing rural England and explores the nature of mission with reference to the rural situation.

This is a landmark book that will renew our understanding of what the gospel - literally 'the good news about Jesus' - is for today's cultures. It begins with a key challenge - do we believe God speaks in the cultural context, or only in the Christian tradition? Part One - Listening to God in the cultural context explores the radically changing culture in which the church exists today, the rise of new spiritualities, the secularisation of society and religion's increasingly dubious public image. Part Two - Listening to God in the Christian tradition looks at key periods in Christian history as responses to cultural changes, from the ancient pagan world to modernist faith. What can we learn from the lessons of the past? Part Three moves from theory to practice and tells great stories where innovative evangelism is taking place - from supermarkets to festivals to the internet.

What do the bread-and-butter things that churches regularly do look like through the lens of the values of "Mission-shaped Church"? This accessible book takes a fresh look at a typical parish church's worship, pastoral contacts, civic and public responsibilities, its faith nurturing opportunities, administration and government, and creatively points to how all of this can be seen from the point of view of God's mission.

Fresh expressions of church may offer a fresh take on ancient Anglican tradition and worship. But what difference are they making for the people who call them their church home? Journalist and religion commentator Becky Garrison spent a year visiting US based mission-shaped ministries. Where most books focus on the pioneers who founded these congregations, Garrison shifts to focus on the people on the ground: what drew them to the community, why they come back and how they understand themselves to be “church.” In the process, she reveals wisdom around evangelism, Christian formation and discipleship that every congregation can use to flourish in this postmodern age.

This landmark study is the result of a three year project by the Mission and Public Affairs Division of the Archbishops' Council to 'develop a new, better, narrative of mission' for the church. World Shaped Mission will reconfigure the way the church talks about and practices mission in the world today.

More than just a tool box of ‘how to do evangelism,’ Mission Shaped Living will build spiritual practices, vision, hope, and confidence into your life so that sharing God’s love with others becomes a joy and not a burden. Society has shifted and the way mission was done in the past is no longer effective. People are looking for authenticity and Christians are looking for a lifelong and deep discipleship that results in effective mission with authenticity. Structured over eight sessions, this participant’s guide is designed to work alongside the Mission Shaped Living Leader’s Guide to provide everything needed to run the course. Mission Shaped Living gives churches, small groups, and individual believers the tools and resources to develop discipleship and an outward focus to reach and bless their communities, cities, and nations.

Combining real-life case studies with vital lessons from her own personal journey, Susan Hope explores what happens to us on the inside when we cross boundaries and become missional Christians. This discerning book reflects on the inner resources and attitude of mind required to engage in mission in a post-modern, multicultural society.

Tim Sudworth presents an overview of innovative and dynamic ways of reaching out to young people. The book includes examples of work with schools, youth congregations, engaging young people in more traditional services and outreach projects.

During the 20th Century, Sunday school attendance fell from 55% to only 4% of children. Mission-shaped Children will show you how to turn this statistic around. The book outlines the many obstacles that are currently preventing growth in children’s work in the Church, and suggests practical and effective strategies for overcoming these.