The editors would like to gratefully acknowledge the many friends and colleagues who have contributed to this edition in significant ways.
We would like to recognize the patient and helpful contributions of each of our associate editors. They faith-fully shared their suggestions with us, communicated with authors, edited articles, and contributed their time and talent in a variety of useful ways:
We would like to especially highlight the significant contribution of Rory Clark to the fifth edition revision team. His work on the French translation of the fourth edition paved the way for much of the editing of this edition. For the first half of the project, he was Steve Hawthorne’s “wingman” and “sounding board.” Sadly, partway through the project, Rory became very ill with cancer. Nevertheless, he was so committed that he continued to join team meetings from his hospital bed right up to his last days. Losing him was a major loss not only to the project but to those of us who loved working with him.
There are many others who contributed their time and talent in valuable ways. We’d like to thank: Robby Butler, Chris Clayman, Madison Cannon, Dave Datema, Erin Duncan, Vivian Doub, Jillian Figley, Andrew Herbek, R. W. Lewis, Krikor Markarian, Fred Mondin, and Timothy Skinner.
This project would not have been possible without the financial investment of those who believed in its value. We want to express special gratitude to Dan Maksim and Cynthia Smith. Their major donations were critical to the revision of this reader and the translation of the new material into the eight other languages in which Perspectives is currently taught.
We would like to gratefully acknowledge our families for their patience, kindness, and loving care. Thank you to Barbara Hawthorne and Judy Arlund. You have both contributed to this revision in many unseen ways that were precious to us.
Several groups helped us in special ways. We’d like to thank Hope Chapel in Austin, Texas, for providing a place to work, access to office machinery (and paper!), and fellowship. We would also like to thank All Nations for releasing Pam from other duties so that she could concentrate on this project.
The editors are most eager to honor the ongoing labors of scores of dedicated Perspectives coordinators, their coordinating teams, and instructors. Many of them made significant contributions to the revision. Their insights have proven exceptionally valuable because of their regular service among the students who are taking the Perspectives course.
Scores of mission leaders and professors of mission offered vital critiques and ideas. They are far too many to list. We are grateful to all those who have helped us with insights, experience, and innovations in instruction. Accept our thanks as an invitation to continue advising us and imparting your seasoned wisdom in the numerous Perspectives Study Program extension courses.
This list no doubt overlooks some who made valuable contributions. We are grateful for each and every one of you.