Joe Girdler, Meadow Stream Publishing

Seeds of Contemplation

In Seeds of Contemplation, Kentucky Assemblies of God Superintendent Dr. Joe Girdler invites believers to slow down, listen for the Holy Spirit, and face a pivotal time of cultural change with clear eyes and a tender heart. From the rolling Kentucky hills to the Abbey of Gethsemani, Pastor Joe weaves scripture, story, and song into twenty-two distinct conversations for followers of Jesus who feel the cultural ground shifting under their feet.

Seeds of Contemplation Endorsements

Seeds of Contemplation is a timely, courageous, and deeply pastoral work for a Church navigating cultural uncertainty and spiritual resistance. Dr. Joseph Girdler writes with clarity, conviction, and grace—calling believers to hold the line, stay the course, and faithfully discern God’s truth in a shifting world. His insights are rooted in Scripture,
shaped by lived leadership, and offered with a shepherd’s heart.
What I especially appreciate is Dr. Girdler’s willingness to address difficult and often avoided conversations, including thoughtful advocacy for women in ministry and a compassionate, prophetic voice for the voiceless. This book transcends denominational lines and speaks to the broader movement of the Spirit stirring the Church once again.
I fully trust Dr. Girdler’s voice, theology, and leadership.
Seeds of Contemplation offers not only reflection but resolve—planting hope and conviction in all who desire to faithfully follow Christ in these times.

Dr. Brian L. Powell District SuperintendentKentucky District Church of the Nazarene

{

“While we seek to engage the people and culture to which we are called, we need strong reminders of who we are—while we are in this world; we are not of it. The hope that we have is of stronger substance and with eternal purpose. Pastor Joe leads us with important questions and considerations to help guide us as we step up to lead this world to the Lord today.”

Jason Wolfe, President

Korean-English Fellowship of the Assemblies of God – USA

{

In a world where leaders run from tension, and truth is traded for convenience, Dr. Joseph Girdler charts a course forward with both clarity and conviction. In “Seeds of Contemplation” you’ll be both challenged and guided to think clearly with focused leadership, for your benefit, and those you love and serve.

James Bradford, PhD

Lead Pastor, Central Assembly of God, Springfield, Missouri

{

Have you ever had a conversation with a friend that changed the way you think about a particular issue? It offers a “seed of contemplation” that if cultivated, could grow and produce fruit in your life and ministry. These “seeds” are especially helpful to Pentecostal ministers seeking a better way to live and serve in our culture of uncertainty.

I commend the author and recommend the book.

Rev. Donna Barrett, General Secretary of the Assemblies of God (retired)

{

This book will be special because the author holds fast and lives out the truths he espouses. He stands up for women, interrupts unfairness wherever he sees it, and isn’t afraid to bring correction with kindness. In this historical time, we badly need to think about how we can keep the line God gave us against all odds. This book is a timely topic full of wisdom, encouragement, and truth.

Carolyn Tennant, Ph.D.

Professor, Author, Speaker, Lakeville, Minnesota

{

Through the pages of this book, Dr. Girdler once again brings that same depth, insight, and courage to two of the most vital conversations of our time…women in ministry and being a voice for the voiceless. With both humility and boldness, he offers biblical clarity where confusion has often reigned and gives voice to those, born and unborn, who have too often been silenced. This is more than a book; it is a call to action for the Church to rise in truth and grace.

Sheila Harper

Founder & President, saveone.org, Hendersonville, Tennessee

{

“It is rare to encounter a book that speaks to contemporary issues through the lens of faith, written by someone who you know is authentically living it out. As you read, “Seeds of Contemplation” you will be Stirred to action, Inspired with the assurance that change is possible, Challenged to grow from within, and Encouraged by seeing others join you on this journey.

Dr. Samuel Huddleston

Assistant Superintendent – Assemblies of God – Northern California & Nevada

Executive Presbyter – Assemblies of God USA

Meet the author

Joseph S. Girdler

Joseph S. Girdler, D.Min., has served as Superintendent of the Kentucky Assemblies of God since 2004. His previous long-term pastorate was recognized from thousands of AGUSA congregations for achieving Top 100 status in World Missions, while his wife, Dr. Renee V. Girdler, was honored as the first woman in AG history to serve the denomination’s World Missions Board.

Joe is the author of Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship, Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship II, Redemptive Missiology in Pneumatic Context, and Keys to the Apostolic and Prophetic: Embracing the Authentic, Avoiding the Bizarre co-authored with Dr. Carolyn Tennant. His newest book is Revival, Racism & Rapture. A Fireside Reflection on Culture and Times.

By Joseph S. Girdler

Setting the Atmosphere

for the Day of Worship I & II

The importance of the Church is that we allow God to do His work in our lives and in the lives and hearts of all who attend for worship. Excellence in all we do, as much as can be presented, is our goal so the Lord and His magnificent presence can be readily and tangibly sensed and received by all open to His work in our lives.

Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship II builds upon the message communicated in the the original book.

Buy Individual Books

Other Books from Joe Girdler

Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship

The importance of the Church is that we allow God to do His work in our lives and in the lives and hearts of all who attend for worship.

Excellence in all we do, as much as can be presented, is our goal.

Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship II

Setting the Atmosphere for the Day of Worship II, provides additional guidelines and observations to help you guide your local church into the presence of God.

Redemptive Missiology in Pneumatic Context

God’s mission was to redeem all humankind and renew and restore through the inescapable death and subsequently miraculous burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.