Scripture is clear that God values human diversity. The throne room vision of Revelation 7 describes “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (270). Why, then, do so many of our churches lack ethnic diversity? This is the problem that a “White boy from Kansas” (11) and a “Latin Anabaptist evangélico living in exile in the United States” (17) offer solutions to in Churches, Cultures & Leadership.

This study is an exemplary showcase of Practical Theology in action. The authors begin by taking time to carefully articulate their practical theological cycle—a five step process that engages the situation, scripture, and people’s stories. The rest of the book follows this method, seeking

to help men and women in our churches to see differently and to gain the skills and competencies needed for discerning God’s initiatives and embodying the gospel in multicultural contexts. (3)

Branson and Martínez capably draw from sociology and sociolinguistics among other fields to gather tools to aid in their task. Factors that disrupt multicultural unity are brought to light so they can be engaged and worked through.

The most obvious audience for this book is missionally-oriented American Pastors seeking to develop richly multicultural congregations. However, the authors’ methodology is so well explained and employed that readers outside of the United States could benefit from a careful reading. If you’re seeking a deep multicultural expression of God’s Kingdom, read this book.

Note: I have provided an academic review of this book to Practical Theology journal 17.2.

Branson, Mark Lau and Juan F. Martínez. Churches, Cultures and Leadership: A Practical Theology of Congregations and Ethnicities. 2nd ed., IVP Academic, 2023.