Relational Refugees
Book Description
In communities where traditional support systems have fractured, countless individuals find themselves adrift without the guiding relationships that once shaped character and purpose. P. Wimberly Edward introduces the powerful concept of "relational refugees" to describe those who lack the mentoring connections essential for spiritual and personal development.
Drawing from the rich tradition of mentorship within African-American communities, Edward explores how meaningful relationships serve as the foundation for authentic liberation and growth. When children and adults alike are cut off from caring, value-transmitting relationships, they struggle to find their footing in a complex world. The author argues that true ministry and personal transformation cannot occur in isolation but require the presence of supportive connections where wisdom passes from one generation to the next.
Edward addresses the particular challenges faced when destructive messages, especially those rooted in racism, infiltrate communities without being countered by strong relational bonds. Through compelling case studies examining families facing AIDS, violence, relationship struggles, adolescent identity crises, addiction, and the pursuit of material success, the book demonstrates practical approaches to ministry that prioritize relationship-building.
This work offers both spiritual leaders and individuals seeking growth a framework for understanding how healing occurs through connection. Edward's insights reveal that addressing society's deepest wounds requires creating spaces where no one remains a relational refugee, where mentorship flourishes, and where transformative relationships can take root and thrive.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
📄 Length: 140 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Interpersonal relations, religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Mentoring in church work
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Mentoring
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore Interpersonal relations
- ✓ Explore Church work with minorities
- ✓ Explore Church work with African Americans
