Many pastors and leaders in the church would be hard pressed to call the management of their congregation real ministry. John Wimberly would argue it is. In his book, The Business of the Church, Wimberly “weaves the realities of congregational dynamics and faith-centered purpose together with practical, proven approaches to business management.” He uses real life examples, drawn from his more than thirty years in ordained ministry. John also speaks from his unique insight into organizational systems, gleaned from his teacher, friend and expert in the field of systems theory, Rabbi Edwin Friedman. Included in the appendix are samples of balance sheets, income statements and accounting practices. For congregational leaders who have concern about managing personnel, facilities and finances within the local church, this book has potential to calm their fears and equip them to lead with strategic vision as the effective manager their church needs them to be.

Reviewed by Beth Booram