Book Review: Transforming the Church in Rural America

Transforming the Church in Rural America: Breaking all the Rurals by Shannon O'Dell describes the author’s experience of answering God’s call to bring new life to the churches of rural communities. There is no question that God has used him to transform the lives of many people through the ministry principles he has put into practice. He learned some really hard lessons along the way and this book serves as a teaching tool for those who have been called to rural ministry. He certainly has a passion for serving God by serving God’s people wherever they may be and that passion comes through in his writing. It is a quick-moving and easy book to read. That being said, having been a pastor in rural and urban settings for 14 years, I can’t say that I learned anything new from his experience or his advice. His passion is inspiring and his results are amazing, but I don’t think that everyone who reads this book will achieve similar results, even if their passion is just as strong. I thank God for the ministry of O’Dell and pray that rural pastors everywhere would love their people as much as he does.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”