Sacred Resistance: A Practical Guide to Christian Witness and Dissent

by Ginger Gaines-Cirelli

Overview

In the midst of polarized communities and nations, religious leaders across the theological spectrum are seeking help with how to respond and lead in troubled times. The need for courage to speak out and act is ever-present, because every generation faces a new set of fears and troubles. Author Ginger Gaines-Cirelli pastors a church in the heart of Washington DC, adjacent to the White House, which actively works to bring justice and help for marginalized communities, refugees and immigrants, and the endangered earth. She inspires and leads this work through preaching and by organizing and developing strong leaders, deeply rooted in a well-developed theological understanding. Pastoral warmth and compassion characterize the recommended practices. Sacred Resistance addresses these questions, among others: • When Christians see that something is wrong in our nation or community, how and when should we respond? • When we see multiple instances of 'wrong', how do we choose which ones to address? • How can pastors and other leaders faithfully take risks without violating relationships with the congregation or denomination? • What historical, biblical, and theological safety nets can be relied on? • How can we take care of ourselves and one another, so that our ministries and lives are sustained?

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781501856853
Publisher:	Abingdon Press
Publication date:	05/15/2018
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Ginger Gaines-Cirelli is the Senior Pastor at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. She previously served as pastor at two other beltway area United Methodist Churches, St. Matthew's and Capitol Hill. She earned a M.Div. at Yale Divinity School and was a Princeton Theological Fellow. She served as a general editor for the CEB Women's Bible.

Table of Contents

Preface ix

Acknowledgments xv

Introduction xvii

1 Sacred Resistance: Contours and Commitments 1

2 Caring for the Good of All 12

3 Sacred Resistance: A Way of Life for the Church 26

4 Prophetic Guidance for the Living of These Days 38

5 Stop Speaking "Smooth Things" 54

6 What Do We Do? 76

7 Fueling the Resistance: Guarding against Burnout 109

Notes 130