Every clergyperson has a persona: the public role he or she assumes in performing ministry for a congregation or organization. For example, the roles of preaching, pastoring, and church administration "go with the territory" in most congregations. These tasks are part of the employment contract.

Every clergyperson also has an anima: the true inner self, reflecting deeply held ideals of conduct. Because this inner core of being controls how a pastor lives out the details of ministry, anima determines how effectively he or she fits the needs of a particular congregation or ministry role. For example, a minister who relates poorly to youth is seldom productive as a youth minister.

Listing twelve elements of the pastor's anima mix, Herb Miller asserts that clergy are effective to the extent that the conscious and unconscious choices they make in developing each of these elements fit the needs of the congregation or church organization they serve. In Leadership Is the Key, he offers practical ways to influence these choices and maximize effectiveness in ministry.

This book shows what kind of leadership, evangelism, and outreach will bring about a desirable turnaround. It provides specific actions that will develop the skills of those who minister in the life of a small church, thereby enhancing their daily practice of ministry. It suggests twelve key factors for turning around a congregation, lists obstacles to turn-arounds, and includes an appendix of turn-around churches.

The Pastor's Start-Up Manual provides a blueprint for seminary students moving into their first pastorate with answers to questions such as: What's the first thing I should do when I get to the church? What should my first sermon include? Should I unpack or start visiting members first? For seasoned clergy, the Manual shows how to learn the church history, determine when it's time to add additional staff, help family members adjust to a new community, and investigate multiple staff opportunities. Survey tools provide practical help in dealing with conflict and change in the congregation. Ramey offers women, minorities, and second-career clergy advice on dealing with the special issues they often encounter.