Church and Academy in Harmony: Models of Collaboration for the Twenty-First Century

Why do church leaders and the leaders of their institutions of higher learning seem to speak different languages? Why are relationships between church and academy so filled with tension and misunderstanding? This insightful and provocative volume written by one with leadership experience in both camps explains those dynamics. Tony Blair parses the cultural and theological trends that have created this gap in recent decades and notes how those same patterns yet offer hope for the future. Blair delineates five models of more collaborative relationships between church and academy three of which are drawn from the creative positioning of existing institutions that serve as case studies and two of which describe the academy of the future. For church and university leaders alike as well as all those who care about the relationship of these two essential institutions in the fulfillment of Gods kingdom Church and Academy in Harmony offers a readable and intelligent analysis. Too often academe and the church live in parallel universes. Tony Blair has written a seminal bridge-study of how new partnerships and fresh perspectives can frame new models of learning and faith formation. If education is the next killer app on the Internet and continuing education is one of the fastest-growing industries of the twenty-first century this book has arrived just in time. --Leonard Sweet Drew University and George Fox University Dr. Blair raises a timely and complex question: how might the church and academy combine their respective gifts to ensure excellent and accessible college studies for those who would be salt and light in our postmodern world? He then proceeds to prompt our answers with suggestions for thought and action. We in the church and academy need to read this book. --David R. Black President Eastern University If you are seeking a clear understanding of both the development of the Christian university in the United States and its relationship to the Christian church there is no better resource available than Blairs Church and the Academy . . . This book is hopeful and visionary. Perhaps most importantly Blair writes from a perspective of deep personal faith in Christ and challenges all Christians to be in dialogue and relationship as they seek to engage the world with the message of Christ. --Robin Baker President George Fox University Blair calls upon the church and the academy to walk a new road together . . . Church and academy leaders as well as thoughtful Christians will find fresh insight and perspectives for strengthening these important ties. The future intensity of the gospel witness depends on it. Let the conversation and work go forward! --G. Blair Dowden _President _Huntington University Anthony L. (Tony) Blair is a faculty member in leadership studies and a former administrator for Eastern University Philadelphia. He is also co-senior pastor of Hosanna! A Fellowship of Christians in Lancaster County Pennsylvania and a former superintendent with the United Brethren in Christ. He is the author of Fire across the Water: The Transatlantic Dimensions of the 18th Century Presbyterian Revivals (2010).