To John Buchanan, mainline churches have an obligation to be in the world, and their effectiveness requires that they not abandon their traditions. Churches need to steer a course that allows them to maintain a singular way in the world and to creatively respond to questions of meaning, hope, vocation, and values. In this book, Buchanan explores the specific ways the church intersects with community life. He vigorously affirms the Reformed tradition’s unique strength and heritage, as well as its ongoing relevance in today’s world.
John M. Buchanan was the editor and publisher of The Christian Century magazine for over fifteen years. He is Pastor Emeritus of the Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago, in Chicago, Illinois, where he served as pastor for twenty-six years. He is the author of several books, including A New Church for a New World, and has held numerous leadership roles for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), including Moderator of the 208th General Assembly.
