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Reviewed by Diana Anderson-Northcutt, pastor of United Methodist churches in Lavergne and Rosston, Oklahoma If It Could Happen Here:Turning the Small Membership Church Around by Jeff Patton Finally, a book written for the rural church that is not located in a population area of 25,000 or more, but a book that truly speaks to the needs of a rural church. This book should become a “must read” for any pastor or layperson who wants to see vital change in the small membership church. In a grace-filled way, Jeff Patton inspires, challenges, and encourages pastors to look at the way we are “doing church” and how a few changes could revitalize our churches the same way it did his. The author’s image of “a light for those in darkness and safety for those in storms, that all might know Jesus” can be adopted by churches that are authentically looking for positive change and a “better way of doing church.” He talks about how church committees are full of people who have no concept of what a relationship with Jesus Christ is, they only know who Jesus is. Many people today are hurting, abused, and without hope. They are searching for answers, many times in the wrong places such as drugs, alcohol, abusing/dysfunctional relationships. These people are literally dying to find a place that will bring hope and meaning back into their lives. Jeff Patton speaks to each of these issues in a very powerful way. He offers solid, reliable ways in which a community of faith can respond, and that is with the power of the laity. Patton stresses the vital importance of the training of laity and the sending them out to serve Christ with their own unique and power gifts. This book is full of suggestions, plans for change, success stories, and leadership tips which are authentic, energized, and thoughtful. Hearing what has happened to the church after Jeff left is sad. It supports the idea that long- term appointments in The United Methodist Church are vital for growth, especially in small churches where people have grown not to trust the “system.” I highly recommend this book to all who are searching for ways to challenge and strengthen their congregations to be more faithful to Jesus Christ and his call to discipleship.
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