I'VE BEEN CALLED

Description

Table of Contents, Foreword, Preface, and Introduction

So, you've accepted a call to ministry. What next?

Divided into three sections— Considering Ministry, Preparing for Excellence in Ministry, and Ministry Matters— I've Been Called anticipates the questions you ask after accepting the call to ministry:

•How do I discern the right ministry setting for me?
•Are pulpit preaching and parish ministry the only viable options?
•Should I go to a seminary or a Bible college?
•Should I be ordained—and if so, when?

In this "portable mentor," professor and denominational leader Rev. Dr. Adam L. Bond casts an overview of the ministry landscape for a new minister at any stage of the journey, challenging some of the established beliefs about ministry options and questioning contemporary notions about the vocational development of ministers. He also recommends resources and traveling companions along the way and concludes by examining competing visions of ministry excellence. How will you define success in ministry?

Reviews

"Adam Bond paints a vivid portrait of the varied terrain that pastors, lay leaders, and scholars encounter after accepting a call to ministry. He reminds sojourners on this path that vocational clarity is the patiently harvested fruit of faithfully sown seeds of discipleship, strategic planning, and sound mentorship. I recommend this book for all those seeking to be wise and generous stewards of their ministries." —Rev. Zachary Mills, Director, The Center for African American Theological Studies at SCUPE

"Adam Bond is speaking from personal, street-level experience concerning what to do when ministry comes calling. It is obvious he has thoughtfully received and pursued his own ministry calling over a journey of many years—but is not so distant from its beginning that he has forgotten what it feels like. He speaks directly and in the tone of an experienced fellow traveler, with a refreshing blend of candor and practicality. His biblical insight and savvy advice will both instruct and encourage theological school students and lay people alike, whether they find themselves on the threshold or well along the path of pursuing a ministry calling."  —Ralph E. Enlow Jr., President, Association for Biblical Higher Education

"I've Been Called is an invaluable roadmap for anyone seeking to make the journey from discerning a call to ministry to determining what shape and form that ministry will take. It details the importance of mentors, skills assessment, professional and continuing education, the ordination process, and the steps required to secure a ministry position whether in the local church or beyond. The book is equally of value to those who are already well into their ministry as it challenges and equips them for next steps in their career, ranging from continuing education to pursuing or accepting a new ministry assignment. Adam Bond draws upon his own experiences and the counsel of others as he sets forth life lessons for those who have been led into a career in ministry. It is a book I will be sharing with students and colleagues for many years to come!" —Rev. Marvin A. McMickle, PhD, President, Professor of Church Leadership, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School

"There are many things to be said to those who believe they have been called to ministry.  Those on the journey will find this book chockfull of answers to questions (that often go unasked and unanswered), career tips, and resources designed to encourage ongoing conversations with mentors and other ministry professionals." —Sharon Watson Fluker, former Vice President of Administration and Doctoral Programs, The Fund for Theological Education

Author Bio