Lay Ministry: A Theological, Spiritual, & Pastoral Handbook

Rating:
Summary: A reprint of a fine book
Review: William Rademacher provides a valuable exploration of lay ministry in the Catholic Church. This is a very accessible text, offering an overview of biblical themes, historical trends, theological insights and pastoral perspectives. . . all in a fashion that encourages reflection and application to the experience of today's lay ministers.

However, this 2002 Wipf & Stock edition is a reprint of a 1996 edition (Crossroad Pub) which, in turn, was identical to the original 1991 edition, but with a study guide appendix. Readers should be aware that, while this is a valuable book, the contents are now more than a decade old.

For several years, I used this as the primary text in a graduate course on lay ministry. Students responded - either resonating with Rademacher's insights, or provoked by his views - but always engaging the material at a personal level.

Unfortunately the book is now dated. The past ten years have witnessed significant developments in lay ministry - ever-increasing numbers of professional lay ministers, publication of several church statements, and extensive research commissioned by the US bishops' conference. If only Rademacher would produce a revised edition - including recent developments - but still offering his engaging and provocative approach.