About Single in ChurchChurch leaders: Did you know up to 40% of the population is single? And did you know the vast majority of them rather would want to be married? And did you know that church congregations do not reflect those stats? And that for every 2 or 3 single women in church there is only 1 single man? This is where you as church leaders come in, and the single people entrusted to your pastoral care. Single people: Have you been told by your church to just 'pray and wait'? Or worse even, to 'let it go'? Are you single and finding yourself among a group of single women with no single men in sight? Than this book is for you, and for your pastor!
Single in Church both validates singleness as a complete and whole and potentially happy place to be in, and it points to how a culture of healthy dating is possible in church. It looks to address the gender inequality in churches as well. Aukelien comes up with lots of practical and fun stuff, and ways forward in the area of singleness.
About the AuthorAukelien van Abbema is a psychologist and couples counsellor. She speaks and counsels on the subject of singleness and dating throughout the world and has written multiple books in multiple languages on the subject.
From the endorsements: "Single in church is an important and timely word, offering hope, freedom and practical steps in the often difficult, confusing and so often ignored reality of single life. I recommend this book to everyone - especially church leaders!"
Danielle Strickland, speaker, author, social justice advocate, Canada
"Aukelien's heart and passion for single adults is written in every word. At times I felt like she was reading my mind, understanding my own journey as a single adult and my experience in the church. So whether you are a single adult (by your choice or someone else's choice), a leader or pastor (who presently minister's to singles or would like too), this book should not only be read but studied, discussed and an action plan put into practice. A plan to better understand who the single adult is in your church, your community and even your family. A plan on how to reach, love and include them in the whole church."
Kris Swiatocho, Director www.TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries U.S.A.
"This is a provocative, challenging and much-needed book in our churches. I particularly liked the blend of biblical reflection, psychological insight and profound common sense which marks all Aukelien's speaking and writing. You will not agree with everything, but that's just the point. As Christians, we need to wrestle together with what it means to be 'single in church'."
Rev. Canon Dr. Adrian Chatfield, U.K.
"Single in Church is a significant resource both theologically and pastorally that will assist churches in their ministry to an often overlooked demographic. As the epidemic of loneliness impacts our society churches face a high calling and wonderful opportunity to share Christ's love. I had the joy of being Aukelien's pastor in Amsterdam. She lives and breathes what she teaches."
Dr. James Paton, Lead Pastor First Alliance Church, Canada
"This book needed to be written. It dares to address one of the biggest social and relational challenges in churches. This book offers a challenging blueprint on how church leaders can facilitate, support and interact with single people in church life".
Graham Hall, senior pastor Gateway Church Ashford, Kent, U.K.
"On a topic that has many misconceptions and false assumptions in our current Church culture, Aukelien's insight, experience and wisdom on the topic of singleness is a welcome and much needed contribution".
Laurence Koo, U.S. Navigators World Missions
