Kenneth L. Callahan is a skilled church guru who writes a book on a subject that one hundred of our Florida Pastors could have written but did not take the time to do it. In a clear and easy to read manner Callahan reminds all of us (1) of the basic benefits of the small church and calls (2) those who are called to give service in them and those who are blessed to participate in them to remember the "basics."

Classification is never easy, but small churches are divided into three groups:

the dying, the weak and the strong. He suggests that the church get back to the basics and be strong ( thus the title! ).

What are the basics that he lists? The Contents would give us the answer.

1. Small is strong 2. Mission and Service are central 3. Compassion and Servanthood (Shepherding) 4. Community and belonging 5. Self reliant and self sufficient 6. Worship and Hope 7. Teamwork, leaders and Congregation 8. Space and physical resources 9. Giving and stewardship and 10. Living and working with Spirit Vision

The print is good and the book index is a joy. The above chapters appear to stand alone, but the underlying theme is: Please take what you have in the acceptance of the Holy Spirit in your church life; and having done that as a group that works together, work with who you are, where you are, with what you have.

I enjoyed the book and calm sweet spirit with which Mr. Callahan reminds us anew of our Call.

Now, not in order of the chapters, but with my prioritizing, please accept the brief summary. Basic: Budget and giving:- every participant sharing on a regular basis, however, not just of specials or "catch up"… Basic: The Team: Leaders learn and lead by how they love, listen and let new information get into their systems. Basic: The small church is a warm church with a focus on the family and on the cordial and sincere welcome of newcomers and visitors: Meet the needs of the families because of the diverse talents and energies of those who make up the small church. Basic: One Mission : Never "what is our mission going to be " rather "who is our Mission." Basic: Activities: The small church should do what it does best and not try to copy the large church’s activities or the mega church’s agenda.

I am hopeful that the brief and selected synopsis will catch your interest. He has listed ten characteristics and the ten responses that he thinks would enable the small church to decide to become a strong church. You will find his real life stories enjoyable. I did!