Quietly Courageous: Leading the Church in a Changing World

Gil Rendle
Rowman & Littlefield, 304 pages

Gil Rendle has a distinguished reputation for outstanding consultation with churches and religious institutions. His books have long been essential for pastors and leaders seeking guidance for how to navigate change. None is more valuable than this collection of essays for what Rendle calls a “non-aberrant time.”  Ironically, this non-aberrant time in which we are living is “normal” in contrast to the aberrant time of the earlier era of the ‘40s and ‘50s in which most churches thrived. What is necessary now? Leaders with quiet courage willing to change in order actually to lead communities in this period. The old lessons of that well-known aberrant time no longer work. Leaders are called not to improve what they know. They are called to step into “unknowing” and learn what is needed in this radically shifting culture.

This is difficult and demanding work; hence, courage is the virtue most needed. Rendle has an astonishing grasp of sociological theory, organizational development and contemporary leadership studies that he brings to bear on his analysis. His stories from the field are perfectly chosen to illuminate what is required for leaders to do the hard work of learning. He returns frequently to a prayer of William Sloan Coffin that has informed and sustained him throughout his courage. From this prayer, he has gained considerable courage of his own to press forward challenging the underlying assumptions that block courage. He reminds us of Augustine’s conviction that hope has two daughters: anger (over what is) and courage (to change).

This is a remarkable book. I cannot recommend it highly enough. When the COVID-19 crisis is over, there will be wise people necessary to help leaders navigate the waters. Rendle is one of them and this book is among the best.