Pastoral Imagination is closely integrated with the author's Three Minute Ministry Mentor web resource, which introduces the topics in the book through brief video presentations. The book serves as a coaching guide and a ministry mentor in its own right by expanding on these topics through the author's reflections, observations, and questions. Addressing the importance of the practice of ministry, Campbell-Reed states: "Ministry itself, like most professions and complex practices, is dogged and driven by a rush to achieve. Yet to focus on achievement can be disastrous, especially if we skip over the steps for learning. To learn the practice of ministry--a multifaceted professional and spiritual practice--takes time and preparation, risk and responsibility, support and feedback."
The book can be used by individuals for personal growth; with groups in new-pastor retreats, CPE training programs, ministry peer groups, or supervision settings such as internship or field education; for devotional inspiration at staff meetings; and in seminary classrooms that prioritize teaching ministry as a practice.
Rev. Dr. Eileen R. Campbell-Reed, is visiting associate professor of pastoral theology and care at Union Theological Seminary, New York City. She also teaches for the Women's Leadership Initiative MDiv program for Central Seminary, Minnesota. She is co-director of the Learning Pastoral Imagination Project; founder and host of Three Minute Ministry Mentor; and author of Anatomy of a Schism (2016).
Christian Scharen is Vice President, Applied Research for the Center for the Study of Theological Education at Auburn Theological Seminary in New York.