Ripe Fields

Juan Oliver presents an honest look at how we have approached Latino/Hispanic ministry and the causes for some of our failures in the past. His use of anecdotes to illustrate the shortsightedness of common practices pushes us to consider other ways to enter into this ministry that are holistic, have integrity, and can be fruitful. We do indeed have a 'ripe field, ' and this book invites us to consider what we must do to plant and to harvest...a must-read for those who wish to engage in this exciting ministry. -The Rev. Canon Anthony Guillen, Program Officer for Latino/Hispanic Ministries, the Episcopal Church This book offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities that are presented to the Episcopal Church and other Christian bodies with the growing presence of Hispanics/Latinos in our midst. Latinos constitute a ripe field for evangelistic outreach and for ecclesial and societal transformation, once we learn to value their particular uniqueness and their rich cultural and religious heritage. Dr. Oliver, drawing from a wealth of knowledge and experience in ministry and leadership development among Latinos, will certainly contribute to heighten and enhance such an awareness. -The Right Rev. Wilfrido Ramos-Orench, Provisional Bishop of Central Ecuador 'This book should be a wake-up call to the church, and has been written in a very even-handed and useful manner for the person who has already been involved in Latina/o ministry or for those who feel the need to become bicultural and bilingual in their ministry and approach.' Carla E. Roland Guzman, Church of St. Matthew and St. Timothy, New York, New York