R. Robert Creech - Family Systems and Congregational Life: A Map for Ministry

Although a book may bear the name of one author, it is seldom the work of a single mind. I am grateful for Victoria Harrisons patient guidance, shared wisdom, and pointed challenges. She has played the roles of coach, teacher, gadfly, colleague, and friend for many years. The time, energy, and money she has personally invested in coaching and in developing educational programs through the Center for the Study of Natural Systems and the Family in Houston has affected the lives of many families over time, including my own. I am especially grateful for her interest in the issues faced by clergy, both in their families and in their congregations.

I have also learned much from others associated with the Bowen Center in workshops, clinical conferences, and conversations. Randall Frost, Roberta Gilbert, Michael Kerr, Anne McKnight, Dan Papero, Louise Rauseo, as well as many fellow students of theory along the way have enriched my understanding of both theory and life. The works of writers and thinkers such as Edwin Friedman, Israel Galindo, Margaret Marcuson, Ronald Richardson, and Peter Steinke have been a help. I appreciate their contribution to my understanding of this theory.

My own students at the George W. Truett Theological Seminary and pastoral colleagues in a variety of training settings have taught me with their questions and insights. Katie Long generously applied her pastoral wisdom, her knowledge of BFST, and her skills as an editor to the early versions of this work, making it clearer, more concise, more accurate, and more practical. The errors that remain in my thinking or writing are no fault of any of these good folksI will take full credit. In addition, I want to thank Baker Publishing Group for their support, advice, and editorial guidance. I am especially grateful to executive acquisitions editor Robert N. Hosack, whose advocacy and confidence made this project possible.