You Only Have to Die: Leading Your Congregation to New Life is a somewhat older book now – I first discovered it shortly after it was published – but it has a timely (or, perhaps, timeless) message for churches today. Jim Harnish (now retired) was pastor at Hyde Park United Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida, when he experienced a life-threatening medical issue. Over time, this became a guiding metaphor for his leadership at that church.
I have used this book in seminary classes that I have taught – even inviting Jim to join us in online conversations with students – and I continue to use it in my consulting work with churches. I highly recommend this, which makes a powerful group study for church councils and boards.
