Explored are Anabaptist understandings of such images of the pastor as shepherd, teacher, healer, and prophet as well as such issues as leadership, authority, ecclesiology, improvisation, and much more. In 17 chapters plus appendices, notes, and indexes, the authors affirm resources for pastoral ministry found in the Anabaptist tradition—and suggest areas for growth. The book will be useful to those with Anabaptist roots and also those in other traditions interested in what can be learned from an Anabaptist vantage point. Contributors include Ross T. Bender, Arthur Paul Boers, Jacob W. Elias, Loren L. Johns, Gayle Gerber Koontz, Ted Koontz, Karl Koop, J. Nelson Kraybill, Ben C. Ollenburger, Walter Sawatsky, Erick Sawatzky, Mary H. Schertz, Daniel S. Schipani, Rebecca Slough, Willard M. Swartley, June Alliman Yoder, Perry B. Yoder. “Models its own message by prophetically challenging, caring about, and promoting mutual service in the body of Christ as the true path of pastoral ministry. It speaks with the authority of a community of Anabaptist scholarship that cares about the soul of what is truly pastoral.” --David W. Augsburger, Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Fuller Theological Seminary. “I learned much from these reflections on ministry. The peculiar vibrancy of the Anabaptist vision of the church provides a wonderfully invigorating perspective on the pastoral tasks. Contemporary pastoral ministry can be critiqued and renewed through such astute reflection.” --William H. Willimon, Professor of Christian Ministry, Duke University Divinity School. “At the heart of the matter is our understanding of the pastor. Erick Sawatzky has invited his colleagues on the faculty of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary to speak to this central issue. What they offer is a treasure of Anabaptist theological education. Read the debates, embrace the theological reflection, and learn from the vision. It’s all here.” --John A. Esau, columnist in Mennonite Weekly Review and past director, Ministerial Leadership Services for the General Conference Mennonite Church.