Failure-Sparked Innovation

“Can we learn productively from failure? The design firm IDEO urges people to ‘fail quickly so you can succeed sooner.’ In this thoughtful book, Kaury Edwards urges congregations to learn from failures to ignite innovative and faithful ministry. Drawing from past examples, he offers wonderful insights and practical suggestions for revitalizing local church ministry. A terrific resource!”


—L. Gregory Jones, president, Belmont University





“In this much-needed book, Kaury Edwards recovers the richness of a Wesleyan view of innovation grounded in failure to empower the church to participate in God’s mission. Yes, failure. The plot-twist in this excellent project digs deeply into a theological understanding of good failure to empower Christian innovation.”


—Laceye Warner, associate dean for Wesleyan engagement and hybrid programs, Duke Divinity School





“In certain circles failure is fashionable. ‘Fail fast and fail forward,’ Silicon Valley-types tell us with an almost maniacal glee. But most of these folks have never stepped foot in a church. Thank goodness for Kaury Edwards who steps into this gap. Edwards knows the creative possibilities born of failure, and Edwards knows the church. Here he helps us let go of the idol of success and trust in the God who leads us in, with, and through failure.”


—Ken Hood, author of The Irrational David: The Power of Poetic Leadership