Being a First Church

"This book is incredibly helpful to laity and clergy alike. It provides simple, direct and comprehensive information to laity who wish to be helpful in the first parish, but are not sure how. It also provides insight into the pastoral office that is often not available to lay folk. In addition, a pastor in their first parish would benefit greatly by taking a look at what they will be facing as they begin ministry."



Robert D. Mutton, D.Min., Association Minister and Registrar, Southwest Wisconsin Association, United Church of Christ





"Preparation of congregations who receive first call pastors is much needed. Dr. Yurs seems to have a good handle on the salient issues that constitute a healthy transition for a newly called pastor."



Connie Leean Seraphine, Ph.D., Director, Transition into Ministry Project, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America





"Someone needed to write this book for many years! There are plenty of books for first-time pastors, and many good ones that prepare pastors for their first church. But I know of no book written for churches, preparing them for what they need to know when they get a new pastor fresh out of seminary."



Elmer M. Colyer, Ph.D., Professor of Historical Theology, Stanley Professor of Wesley Studies,

University of Dubuque Theological Seminary