“A compelling account of the fruitful ways that covenant friendships, mutual accountability, and candid communication sustain pastoral excellence.”
-John D. Witvliet, Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary

“So Much Better is a rich storehouse of practical suggestions for forging a ‘more excellent way’ of directed self-learning that promises to engage learners where they are, take them beyond where they envisioned going, and sustain them in surprising ways. The sense of ownership and sheer joy in carrying out a plan attuned to the interests of a group of colleagues is a beautiful thing to watch unfold.”
- Sarah F. Erickson, Columbia Theological Seminary

“This book describes one of the most significant shifts in thinking about continuing education in a generation or more. The authors are helping to transform continuing education from ‘an interesting weekend away’ into a disciplined exercise that is changing the practice of ministry.”
- Stephen Fetter, United Church of Canada

“The research highlights the primacy of covenantal group life and spiritual disciplines of listening, being, and learning that renew and sustain lifelong formation of church leaders. The book offers an inside look at powerful models of peer learning for pastors and holds promise for renewal of congregations.”
- Marilyn Evans, United Theological Seminary

“So Much Better may well prove to be the definitive manual on the subject of peer-to-peer learning and formation groups for clergy.”
- Stephen A. Simmons, Moravian Theological Seminary