As shepherds guiding their flocks, religious leaders of all faiths gain great spiritual rewards - and face many personal challenges as well. The task can be daunting: They know they've been called to do God's work, but perhaps doubt their own abilities to implement it fully.

What happens when the passion for that work needs refueling?

Dwight Perry's reflections provide those acting as spiritual shepherds with insight into the emotional conflicts that often arise in caring for the flock that religious leaders grapple with daily.

    In his many years of involvement and through the
   various roles he has filled with his Church, Dr. Perry
   has experienced the rewards and deep spiritual
   growth that arise from serving God's flock. He has
   also experienced personal loss, questioned his own
   calling and been judged by members of his
   congregation, but was always able to find solace
   and inspiration in going back to the scriptures and to
    prayer.

 
    Even leaders have to ask for guidance once in a
    while; even those doing God's work need to have
    their passion refueled every now and again. In
   sharing his observations on church leadership and
    the insights he gained in researching this book, Dr.
   Perry has constructed a valuable reference tool and
  source of inspiration for his fellow shepherds as they
    work to guide, teach and care for their flocks.

     Dr. Perry has a bachelor's in biblical studies, a master's in divinity and earned his doctorate in ministry. He 
  currently serves as Pulpit Minister for the Fairfield Church of Christ in Fairfield, Calif. and has taught university
 courses on subjects including Romans, Hebrews, the Sermon on the Mount and biblical leadership. Dr. Perry
  also directed the Pacific Northwest Leadership Retreat for five years and served on the Board of Directors of
  Celebration.

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