A study of the bi-vocational ministry with focus on American Baptists in New Jersey

William W LeConey

Etd

A study of the bi-vocational ministry with focus on American Baptists in New Jersey

Public Deposited

MLA citation style (9th ed.)

William W LeConey. A Study of the Bi-vocational Ministry with Focus On American Baptists In New Jersey. Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. rim.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/9aedc832-a62c-400a-a6ff-0deec35dc68e.

APA citation style (7th ed.)

W. W. Leconey. A study of the bi-vocational ministry with focus on American Baptists in New Jersey. https://rim.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/9aedc832-a62c-400a-a6ff-0deec35dc68e

Chicago citation style (CMOS 17, author-date)

William W LeConey. A Study of the Bi-Vocational Ministry with Focus On American Baptists In New Jersey. Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. https://rim.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/9aedc832-a62c-400a-a6ff-0deec35dc68e.

Note: These citations are programmatically generated and may be incomplete.

Creator

William W LeConey

Keyword

Religious surveys

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In Copyright

Abstract

The recent inflationary spiral has affected Christian churches by greatly reducing the funds which support traditional ministries. The reductions include the salaries of ordained clergy. At the same time there are trained, ordained ministers who, for varying reasons, work in secular vocations. Some assume the dual responsibility of providing professional leadership to churches while continuing in their present occupation. This study looks at this bi-vocationalism among American Baptist churches in New Jersey and examines whether there is adequate biblical, theological and historical validity to support such a form of ministry. The primary method of research involves research questionnaires, interviews and observations. Other methods include case studies and a library survey. The study concludes that bi-vocationalism has roots in Paul's 'tent-making'. It is consistent with an incarnational theology based on God's involvement in the world through Jesus Christ. It provides trained professionals for the small church. Usually those engaged in it find personal fulfillment and bring special insights and skills to this 'calling'.

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