A book review by Fiona Taylor

The Reentry Team is a critically important book for every church who receives returning missionaries back into their congregation, or for those in contact with overseas workers.  In a very detailed and practical way, Pirolo spells out the process of re-entry – highlighting what to watch for and ways to assist.  The method is drawn from Acts 14:26-28 and 15:35 where Paul and Barnabas are welcomed back into the fellowship at Antioch.

I was so excited about becoming more involved in supporting overseas workers after reading this book, as it gave detailed examples of what you can do.  Pirolo suggests that the book could be sent to overseas workers to help them in their ‘homecoming’ – I would heartily endorse that suggestion.  It provides great insight into the process ahead for adults and children, and gives many case studies to work through with questions to consider.

This book also easily lends itself to a home-group setting or for someone’s support team to work through.  Pirolo’s book Serving as Senders touches on re-entry, but he received so much feedback on this topic that he wrote The Reentry Team to expand on the topic and add extra material.  If you are involved in the lives of missionaries, I would consider these two books your foundation for effective support.  I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and would imagine that using this material with returning workers would improve their transition immeasurably.

Both books are available through the Wycliffe New Zealand office (prices include shipping within New Zealand):