The Renewal of United Methodism: Mission, Ministry, and Connectionalism

A distinguished group of United Methodist seminary professors celebrate the life and work of Russell E. Richey by presenting essays highlighting important themes around which much of his scholarly research and writing have focused: ministry and mission; denominationalism and connectionalism; ecclesiology and evangelism; and doctrine and theology. The contributors to this volume share the conviction that the genuine renewal of United Methodism is more likely to result from careful attention to and serious engagement with the work of the church’s scholars and teachers, exemplified by Russ Richey, than from the proposals of organizational consultants and management experts from the business world. By both precept and example, Russ has throughout his long and distinguished career served as both mentor and model not only for his students but also for his colleagues in both church and academy.

Rex D. Matthews is Professor in the Practice of Historical Theology and Wesleyan Studies at Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.