by Joy Skjegstad (Author), Heidi Unruh (Author)
Real Connections invites churches to move authentic relationships to the center of congregational life and ministry with the community. The book equips church members and leaders to invest in deeper, more diverse relationships in a variety of contexts: within the congregation, with other churches, with community partners and residents, with people who are isolated or struggling, and across differences. From long experience as ministry coaches and trainers, Joy and Heidi offer practical strategies for building meaningful, caring connections that address the loneliness and divisions in our society, and even within churches. Listening well, focusing on assets, and valuing people's stories can be transformative. As churches adapt to a post-pandemic world, Real Connections inspires hope that everyone might find a true friend at church, that our differences do not need to separate us, and that no one has to go through life's most challenging moments alone.
Author Biography
Joy Skjegstad has been designing and launching community ministry programs for more than 20 years. Joy is in demand as a speaker and webinar presenter with special expertise in faith-based organizations, community and youth development, early childhood education, affordable housing, and services for the homeless and the arts. Heidi Rolland Unruh has researched and written extensively about church-based community ministry, including co-authoring the books Churches That Make a Difference and Saving Souls, Serving Society. As director of the Congregations, Community Outreach and Leadership Development Project affiliated with Christians for Social Action, she serves as a trainer and consultant on faith-based community development.