Synopsis

An Acclaimed, Influential Work Now Available in Paper for the First Time, this Bestselling book applies the concepts of systemic family therapy to the emotional life of congregations. Edwin H. Friedman shows how the same understanding of family process that can aid clergy in their pastoral role also has important ramifications for negotiating congregational dynamics and functioning as an effective leader. Clergy from diverse denominations, as well as family therapists and counselors, have found that this book directly addresses the dilemmas and crises they encounter daily. It is widely used as a text in courses on pastoral care, leadership, and family systems.

Review and Expositor

"A must read for persons of the cloth, for it points to significant issues and considerations on the experience of living in families and working with a congregation as a family."--Review and Expositor

Biography

Edwin H. Friedman, a family therapist and ordained rabbi, was born in New York City and worked for more than 35 years in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, until his death in 1996. Well known in the fields of mental health and pastoral education, Dr. Friedman brought his unique blend of systems thinking and common sense to his highly regarded work as a consultant and leadership trainer with diverse professional and government organizations.