Book Review: Managing Church Conflict by Hugh F. Halverstadt

I read this book for a course I'm taking on power, change and conflict. Part of the requirements for the class is to write a review that states the author's thesis and supporting arguments. I thought I'd post what I wrote, in case it would be helpful to others.

Halverstadt answers the question if conflicts can be Christian by advocating for a Christian vision of shalom that is guided by theological and ethical values, which follow the rails of a three-step model aimed to resolve conflict.

This book is for pastors who desire to resolve conflictual situations in ways that are congruent with their theology. It is helpful for other contexts besides churches such as non-for profit organizations or places that employ voluntary systems.

The author’s understanding of shalom finds it’s application in conduct or behavioral standards such as respectfulness, assertiveness, accountability, and a focus on a larger common good. The author maintains that conduct during conflict management is key to resolution in a Christian manner.

In addition to shalom producing behavior, the author, distinguishes his work from other work on conflict by outlining his unique features which include: a way of approaching conflictive situations that are theological and ethical; using communal attitudes and goals while intervening in conflictive situations; applying communal power for managing the conflict; finding common ground between the parties on an ethical process as a means to work through their differences; using interdisciplinary methods for gaining perspective; and showing the reader how they can manage conflicts themselves rather than hiring a consultant.

Halverstadt has crafted a model, which can be followed in resolving conflictual situations. He creates a three-step model which includes how to become a conflict manager, how to appraise conflict situations, and finally how to manage conflicts.

It was a good read for me. In my role as pastor, at times I've been crippled by conflict and other times I've help others work through it. I have found that conflict resolution is an form of art that is strengthen with each conflict. This book helps make sense of things in the middle of chaos and it gives hope of working through tough conflict so that in the end, everyone comes out stronger and better.