Tom Bandy is the author of over 35 books on spirituality, leadership, and organizational change. He is a leading interpreter of demographic change and lifestyle sensitivity for churches, religious organizations, and non-profits. His most recent books are about demographic diversity and lifestyle expectations for ministry and mentoring: See, Know, and Serve, and Worship Ways, and Spiritual Leadership. Tom consults across the diversity of cultures, religious traditions, and ideological perspectives. He received his doctorate in philosophical theology from the University of Toronto, and is a longstanding member of the Paul Tillich societies of North America and Germany. Tom mentors, coaches, and consults internationally and can be reached at [...]

Chapter 1-Why Merge?
Chapter 2-Unexpected Visions...
Chapter 3-Get Moving!
Chapter 4-Steps on the Journey: Four Churches Model the Merge Process
Chapter 5-The True Cost of Discipleship: Anticipating the Real Price of Success

Stage 1: Preparation
Chapter 6-Trust: Foundation for Candid and Faithful Conversation
Chapter 7-Vision Team: Trusted Leadership to Discern the Future
Chapter 8-Facing Reality: Critical Momentum and Critical Mass
Chapter 9-Breaking Control: Surrendering Privileges

Stage 2: Prioritization
Chapter 10-Hope: Opening to God's Grace
Chapter 11-Compatibility: Demographic Research, Lifestyle Compatibility, and Mirroring the Mission Field
Chapter 12-Setting Priorities: Measureable Outcomes
Chapter 13-Stress Management: Living Between Grief and Promise

Stage 3: A New Beginning
Chapter 14-New Board: Credible Leadership for Critical Mass
Chapter 15-New Identity: The Symbol of a New Beginning
Chapter 16-Asset Management: Resourcing Teams and Ministries
Chapter 17-Building a Core Team: Competent Leadership for Critical Momentum
Chapter 18-Strategic Planning: Traction and Steering

Chapter 19-A New Beginning: Seven Years Later
Chapter 20-Essential Information: Basics for a Successful Merger

Chapter 21-Critical Momentum: Creating Synergy to Keep Moving Forward
Chapter 22-Critical Mass: Essentials for Congregational Indpendence and Full Time Ministry
Chapter 23-How to Get Traction: How to Get a Grip on the Road to Mission
Chapter 24-How to Steer in the Right Direction: How to Arrive at Your Destination on the Road to Mission
Chapter 25-Why Many Merges Fail ... and Some Succeed!