Parish Renewal at the Grassroots by David Prior pdf epub fb2

Church growth in the Third World today is centered around small groups of laypersons who meet in mutual support and accountability. Though rooted in the mainline church, these "grassroots communities" utilize the spiritual gifts of lay leaders more effectively than the structured church has been able to do. In many respects, these "grassroots communities" are like the house churches of the New Testament era or the class meetings of John Wesley's day. They provide a challenging model for church renewal throughout the world. The author examines the life of "grassroots communities" in Latin America, Africa, Korea, and other parts of the world. The study includes Roman Catholic, Anglican, Wesleyan, Pentecostal, and other church groups. Prior gives a sound biblical basis for his findings, and draws rich material from the church in Third World countries. He believes that the affluent west should not only give generously to these poorer brethren, but humbly receive from them vital lessons for spiritual life and growth.