The Pastor as Friend?

Have you ever wondered what it means for pastors to be friends with people in their churches? This is the fascinating question that Dan Holder dives into in this thought-provoking book. He uses in-depth interviews with ordained pastors and their real-life struggles and joys to get close to the essence of what friendship and friendliness mean in the pastoral setting. Reflecting theologically on the findings and grappling with the thought and experience of figures such as Bonhoeffer Moltmann and C. S. Lewis he takes up in detail the four elements found to be essential to friendship: mutuality affection freedom and openness. Then envisioning what revised forms of practice for pastors in a local congregation might look like he formulates nine themes for a fruitful approach to pastoral friendship. Holder doesn't shy away from the tough questions or try to offer easy answers. Instead he invites readers into a nuanced thoughtful exploration of the topic one that acknowledges both the potential pitfalls and the profound opportunities of these relationships. Prepare to be inspired challenged and encouraged. Who knows? Readers may just discover a new vision for the role of friendship in their own lives and ministries.