Book revisits need for radicals in society that maintains status quo

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 8/16/21)—“New Rules for Radicals: TNT [Techniques and Tactics] for Faith-based Leaders” revisits the need for radicals in a society that constructs systems that keep persons marginalized and awards individuals who keep persons marginalized to maintain those in power and the status quo. Building community and national relationships are part of this effort.

Author Willard W.C. Ashley Sr. also gives an overview of pioneer Saul Alinsky and the IAF’s work and shortfalls as a historical backdrop for building community and national relationships. Ashley outlines strategies for radicals in creating relationships and striving for excellence, not   mediocrity. His experiences, stories, collaborations, and leaning on his faith are offered to encourage “new radicals.” Ashley encourages new radicals to know their context, embrace  conflict and do their homework. Although radicals face strong and life-threatening opposition, Ashley offers hope for change.

The book is perfect for interfaith clergy; religious leaders; seminarians; faith-based organizations; nongovernmental organizations; social workers; students of ethics, civil rights and Black studies; community organizers; activists; community leaders; and those in the political sciences.

Ashley Sr. is vice president of Community Relations and director of the Center for Clergy Care. He is CEO of Dr. Willard Ashley Sr., LLC, Montclair, N.J., and founder and senior pastor of the Abundant Joy Community Church, Jersey City, N.J. He is vice chair, Bergen County Human Relations Commission; he is a New Jersey State certified and nationally certified psychoanalyst. He is co-chair of the Interfaith Anti-Racism Coalition in the Greater New York City Metropolitan area under the umbrella of the People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond. Ashley teaches numerous graduate and certificate courses and has written numerous books and chapters.

Founded in 1824, Judson Press is a publishing ministry of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, American Baptist Churches USA. It is committed to producing Christ-centered leadership resources for the transformation of individuals, congregations, communities, and cultures. 

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission  worldwide.