Testimonials

“I have witnessed the authentic power of connection at work through the lives of my friends Christie and Joe for many years. I have also observed them in the building of lasting relationships, the organizing of people for change, the effective utilization of assets, and the liberating of congregations across our country and connection. This book is going to create bridges of hope across the historical expanse of division and distrust for churches and the people who lead and serve.”

— Rudy Rasmus, author of Touch, Jesus Insurgency, and Love Period

“I love the connection this book makes between building relationships and strategy. I see more organizational plans and strategies fail because of the lack of investment in relationships. This is a must-read for anyone wanting to facilitate a missional change.”

--Robert Farr, bishop, Missouri Conference (UMC)

“Joe and Christie know mission strategy. They live it, dream it, and teach it. They will flip some of your expectations upside down as they seek to teach and model for us how to build relationships, organize people, utilize our assets, and liberate our congregations.”

— Duane Anders, senior pastor, Cathedral of the Rockies (UMC), Boise, ID

“Connecting for a Change will help you understand that relational health is the biblical foundation of all ministry. Daniels and Latona identify the critical pitfalls to avoid. They show how trust is built. They encourage and help congregations experience the joy of vital ministry that transforms lives inside the church and in the communities we serve.“

— Tom Berlin, lead pastor, Floris UMC, Herndon, VA

“Daniels and Latona demonstrate the breakdown that occurs in our communities when we fail to take the time to connect with each other. The writers share transparent and personal stories, refuting our excuses, releasing us from complacency, and counteracting our rationalizations. They challenge and equip us to reach out to others, to actively engage, and to embrace change.”

—Olu Brown, senior pastor, Impact Church (UMC), Atlanta, GA

“This book is for those who share the authors’ passion for connecting people, churches, and partners to inspire hope and life change in their communities. With rich biblical examples, the authors develop four building blocks for vitality that turn distrust and division into courage and competence to help communities thrive.”

—Lovett H. Weems Jr, distinguished professor of church leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C.