Pastors serving their first parish or those recently completing a first-call pastorate are invited to participate in the Academy of Parish Clergy’s quarterly journal, Sharing the Practice, by submitting an article on the challenges of a first-call pastorate as it relates to emergent and post-institutional church issues.

Entries must be submitted by Feb. 15, addressing the following topics:

• What does the emergent church/post-institutional church mean to you and your congregation?
• What claim do biblical and theological traditions have upon ministry in this context?
• What are the definitive and disturbing elements in the future church emerging in changing times?
• Describe your ministry moving into the future as you understand it?

Participants are asked to "push theological boundaries" and reflect on the interplay of contemporary context and biblical/theological traditions, addressing transformative experiences, surprises of grace and theological growth.

Additional subject matter includes the importance of process of leadership, decision-making, planning and implementation toward mission and ministry. Consideration should also be given to the role of lay leadership, member involvement, congregational decision-making and pastoral support/leadership. Examples of obstacles overcome by the power of prayer and courageous action are suggested.

Pastors are asked to give specific examples of their work, explaining dynamics and focusing on change in the culture of congregations and an evolving style of ministry; or describing the development of a specific ministry or mission.

Two articles will be selected for publication in the Spring 2012 issue of Sharing the Practice. Writers of the selected articles will receive free registration (a $230 value) and reimbursement for travel (up to $370) to the Annual Conference of the Academy at Bergamo Center in Dayton, Ohio, May 8-10.

Articles of 1,500 to 2,000 words should be submitted in Microsoft Word format to the Rev. Bill Youngkin at wyoungkin@woh.rr.com. Entries should include a brief biography, including professional ministry history, ordination/authorization date and authorizing body attached to your submission.

For further details, email Youngkin or visit the Academy web site at <apclergy.org>.