BOOK COMMENTARY
July 1, 1981
Conflict Ministry in the Church
by Larry McSwain and William C. Treadwell, Jr. Broadman Press, $6.95
Reviewed by Ray Wm. Smith, pastor Grace Presbyterian Church San Antonio, Tex.
Holy Week, the endurance test from Palm Sunday until Easter, had finally passed. As it does for church leaders everywhere, the next day offered fatigue, let-down, and reflection. Fortunately for me, I picked up this book and read on the jacket: "This is a book to be read on those 'dark' Mondays when you feel like changing churches, resigning your Sunday school class, or leaving the pastoral ministry. We have written this guide to help you analyze the conflicts, disagreements, and tensions which arise in all churches. We will offer only one rule to you, our reader, 'Never resign on Monday!' Read this book instead."
We need to be aware of resources that will help us as church leaders in resolving conflict. The authors suggest using productive forms of conflict management, diffusing problems with clear explanations and referrals, exploring conflict situations openly, leading those in conflict toward a decision.
A problem-solving strategy should include collecting needed facts, feelings, and opinions; conceptualizing available options and prioritizing them; depersonalizing the options to limit rejecting individuals; and compromising so a consensus emerges.
McSwain and Treadwell theorize that persons experiencing stress are at the root of conflict situations. Clues for identifying persons living with unconquered stress are expressions of anger, hostility, frustration, and hurt. These people need pastoral care, not disassociation due to the threats of conflict. Churches should take the initiative to respond to stressed persons; a congregation can help its members ...
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