About
Drawing on fifteen years of field research, A. Brian Leander explores the transformative movement of Diversity-Oriented Churches (DOC) in the United States and articulates the characteristics of DOC, the motivations of leaders driving organizational change, and specific leadership practices that foster inclusivity.
This book explores the relationship between cultural intelligence, openness to diversity, and leadership practices within DOC through quantitative and qualitative methodologies. At the book’s heart lies the examination of critical elements that support the development of Diversity-Oriented Churches, which include a clear biblical mandate, culturally competent leadership, collaborative organizational strategies, conflict resolution policies, and intergenerational leadership development.
Through a careful blend of academic rigor and practical experience, I provide a roadmap for churches seeking to navigate the transformative journey toward becoming a genuinely inclusive ministry of reconciliation.
Diversity-Oriented Churches is a timely resource for those grappling with the tension between tradition and the call for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive expression of the Gospel in the modern era.
What People Are Saying
“This book offers a fresh approach and a timely perspective on the challenges and possibilities facing congregations amid an ever-increasing demographic diversity in the United States.”
—Curtis DeYoung, former co-CEO, Minnesota Council of Churches
“Diversity-Oriented Churches: A Comprehensive Guide to Leading Ministries of Reconciliation touches all the major considerations of leaders who are earnest in their efforts to cultivate shared spaces for all of God’s people. It addresses the complexity of ministry among diverse congregations—theology, culture clashes, leadership effectiveness, systemic threats to church vitality and faithfulness, and the intricacies of human hearts, minds, and spirits. This book will spark much needed conversations and work that the church has too often avoided and offers hope for holy transformation.”
—Rev. Dr. Marie Onwubuariri, Director of Intercultural Ministries, American Baptist Home Mission Societies
Next steps
The Leading Intercultural Ministries Certificate Program is a graduate leadership certificate program designed for faith-based ministry and community leaders who prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in their organizations.
The program prepares participants for roles that emphasize inclusive leadership. The goal of the program is to provide leaders with the necessary awareness, knowledge, skills, and experience to provide effective intercultural leadership.
