Ordination: Celebrating the Gift of Ministry
by Stephen V. Sprinkle
For graduating seminary students, Stephen Sprinkle has written a practical theological guide for preparing for ordination in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), United Church of Christ, American Baptist Church, Presbyterian Church (USA), and other closely related denominations. He provides a theology of what ordination is and what it means to the person being ordained, to the life of the church at large, and to the congregation gathered for the celebration. Sprinkle includes "hands-on" practical guidance on how to plan the service, plus samples of ordination services from each of the four traditions.
Endorsements
"Steve Sprinkle has a gift for uncovering the great gift of the ordained ministry. He gives us solid biblical, theological guidance that leads toward a renewal of the church's leadership. This is a fine contribution to pastoral theology-quite a gift."
—William H. Willimon, Duke University
"Quite simply the finest, most comprehensive discussion of ordination available for churches, free and reformed. Stephen Sprinkle has written 'the standard work' as a guide for churches and ministers. Here is practical theology at its thoughtful best."
—David Buttrick, Vanderbilt University Divinity School