Judson Press title demonstrates how churches can progress toward true inclusion

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 8/3/17)—The Christian church often mistakes multiculturalism for being inclusive. However, the latter requires an intentional effort to ensure that all cultures are present and fully participating in ministry. In “Intentionally Inclusive,” author Marcia J. Patton, Ph.D., explores the unique story of the Evergreen Association of American Baptist Churches USA, and its vision for intentional community and genuine inclusivity.

Blazing its own trail and ministry model, not only in terms of race and ethnicity, but also across other aspects of cultural diversity, the Evergreen Association implemented a regional governing structure through caucuses and consensus-based decision-making that ensures all voices are present and heard around the table.

This real-life experiment in inclusive ministry explores the struggles encountered and strategies employed along the way, and serves as an example to help churches structure ministry in a manner that respects and includes all. Find the full potential in your ministry as you exercise faithfulness in God’s call to diversity and inclusion.

Patton is the first executive minister of the newest American Baptist Churches USA region, the Evergreen Association.  Prior to this appointment in 2004, she spent 13 years as associate executive minister with American Baptist Churches of Northwest, and served as associate minister for churches in Pennsylvania, Utah and New Jersey. Patton serves on the transition team with American Baptist Churches USA, and as a delegate to the National Council of Churches Assembly.

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 is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with over 5,200 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.