A holistic ministry church takes the call to “go into all the world” literally and interprets “preaching” the gospel as living the gospel – practically being the good news to those in need. Holistic congregations are deeply involved in their communities, especially among those marginalized by society – the poor, the hungry, the homeless, those subject to injustices, and those enslaved to addiction.

As a result, these congregations have questions: What is the nature of contemporary society, and why is it not as “religious” as it used to be? What do people mean when they say they are “spiritual” but not “religious”? How does a congregation begin holistic ministry and what opportunities does it provide? Mission as Holistic Ministry explores these and many other questions and offers specific guidance for churches who wish to develop a holistic ministry.

Steve deClaissé-Walford (Ph.D. in Practical Theology, University of Pretoria, South Africa) is senior pastor of National Heights Baptist Church in Fayetteville, Georgia. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, he teaches courses in religion and philosophy on the Atlanta campuses of both Shorter College and Mercer University. He and his wife, Nancy, live in Georgia.