Larger churches are different -- in expectations, in performance, in staffing, and in use of lay volunteers. Their unique differences require special handling. And that's what this first-of-its-kind book is all about.

Expert Lyle Schaller helps the leaders of larger churches understand the special characteristics of these churches, and helps members of multiple staffs see their role and the context of that role more clearly.

Schaller fully describes the differences that mark the larger church of 700 to 1,000 or more members. He discusses the many alternatives of staffing -- part-time vs. full-time, use of more volunteers, and the many duties that can be carriedd out by these staff members. Special emphasiss is given to the role of the senior minister, the role of the associate minister, and to their relationship with one another.

Since one-sixth of all congregations account for nearly half the total members of all churches in the United States, that one-sixth actually sets the pace for the religious life of the nation. The need for specialized help is imperative, and Lyle Schaller has provided that help in this important and useful book.