Managing Conflict
A Pastor's Account of Shepherding Congregations to Health and Renewal
by Pastor Melle Pool

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This book is written primarily for leaders, especially church leaders. But its message is relevant for anyone who leads groups or organizations. Pastor Pool’s thesis is that diverse viewpoints, or clashing of opinions, which is often seen as unacceptable, must, instead, be accepted as a normal part of life. Rather than rejecting or avoiding conflict, it must be managed so that it may become a force for good in our personal and corporate life. Managing conflict is like driving down a hoarfrost covered road on a bright winter day. Do it carefully, in order to prevent harm, and in order to enjoy the beauty of the sparkling, scenic, surroundings.

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The author is a retired pastor who lives with his wife, Diane, in Stony Plain, Alberta, Canada. He became an ordained pastor in the Christian Reformed denomination in 1967. His work with churches included pastoring congregations that were hurt by difficult conflict. In order to become more informed about the correlation between intrapersonal, interpersonal, and corporate dynamics that shape church conflict, he pursued studies in church conflict management and in pastoral counselling. He served as a church consultant and Specialized Transition Minister. His interests include gardening, family history, and writing stories, such as: The Story of Anna Pool: Much to Worry About, and Much to Pray For. He and his wife celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in August of 2023.

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Pastor Melle Pool