The September 2018 issue of Christian Standard centers on Andrew J. Hairston and the church’s calling to pursue racial reconciliation, faithful urban ministry, and gospel-shaped unity. Anchored by the feature article “Andrew J. Hairston: Central to the Struggle,” this issue highlights Hairston’s long ministry at Simpson Street Church of Christ in Atlanta, his work in civil rights, and his steady role in confronting racial division within churches of Christ. His story gives the issue both its strongest historical focus and its clearest spiritual challenge.
That emphasis continues through articles on the state of racial reconciliation in the church, practical leadership for urban congregations, and ministry among the homeless, hurting, and overlooked. Readers will also find thoughtful discussion of online church, urban neighborhood ministry, food ministry, worship style, and how believers can disagree in a godly way without abandoning truth or love. Together, these articles show that urban ministry is not only about geography, but also about how churches respond to injustice, complexity, diversity, and human need.
This Christian Standard issue is especially valuable for pastors, elders, ministry leaders, and church members serving in cities or wrestling with questions of race, reconciliation, and church life in a changing culture. Readers looking for Andrew J. Hairston will also find a broader issue devoted to urban ministry, Christian unity, and the work of the gospel in places where tensions are real and grace is deeply needed.
