In this clearly written and insightful book, Gerald Schlabach addresses the 'Protestant dilemma' in ecclesiology: how to build lasting Christian community in a world of individualism and transience. Schlabach, a former Mennonite who is now Catholic, seeks not to encourage readers to abandon Protestant churches but to relearn some of the virtues that all Christian communities need to sustain their communal lives. He offers a vision for the right and faithful roles of authority, stability, and loyal dissent in Christian communal life. The book deals with issues that transcend denominations and will appeal to all readers, both Catholic and Protestant, interested in sustaining Christian tradition and community over time.

Author Biography

Gerald W. Schlabach (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is associate professor of theology and director of the justice and peace studies program at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is the author or editor of several books.