Love Letter to a Conflicted Church

"This is an impressive resource for individuals and groups wanting to re-think the reality of conflict in churches. Olson works with a wide range of biblical stories and texts in pointing a positive path through conflict. In an engaging way, he presents a concise summary of concepts and tools important for responding to congregational conflict. And he goes beyond many authors in presenting the full range of possibilities, not just for reconciliation between individuals, but also between groups and nations. There is a lot here, both for individual readers as well as groups; accessible enough to be read by laypeople and rich enough to serve seminary classes."

--Ron Kraybill

peacebuilding consultant and trainer



"I am delighted to read and endorse this important book by Dr. Richard Olson. He writes with the passion of a disciple, the heart of a pastor, and the mind of a theologian who loves the church. This book is written in a manner that encourages reflection and dialogue. It correctly presents conflict as a given in life and as an opportunity to explore new ways of relating. My hope is that church groups, including pastors, will digest and discuss the book before there is perceived conflict as a way to grow as the 'peacemakers' Christ calls his followers to be."

--Rev. Dwight M. Lundgren

Coordinator of Intercultural Ministry-Reconciliation

National Ministries ABCUSA