The Pastoral Reading List (2008-2009)

I know the title of this post can be somewhat misleading. So, let me clarify.

Part of my (or just about any pastor's) job is reading. Some read the newest stuff. Some stick to the classics. But you cannot avoid reading in ministry. So, I incorporate it into my normal workday. But, I have a method to it. I pick 12 subjects that I want to read about in the coming year. Then,I assign each month a topic. I read my books (plus magazine and journal articles) on that topic for the whole month. It may not work for everybody, but it does the job for me.

Here's this year's list. By the way, the year, for me starts in September. That's when I started this last year. Enjoy!

SEP: Pastoral Ministry
OCT: Reformation History
NOV: Preaching
DEC: Christian Literature Classics
JAN: Old Testament
FEB: Other Religions
MAR: The Gospel of John
APR: Christianity and Pop Culture
MAY: Christology
JUN: The Sacraments
JUL: Youth Ministry
AUG: Worship

Like I said, this system doesn't work for me. I also read every night before I go to bed. The rule there is anything is up for grabs, except it cannot be theological. That rule is in place to protect my personal time. Some might have an issue with that. But that's just me.