What were Presbyterians reading in 2025? Our data reveals a fascinating mix — from incisive cultural analysis and bold theological arguments to moving memoirs and practical devotional guides. These were the books that sparked conversation, deepened faith, challenged assumptions and accompanied readers through the rhythms of church life. Here are the top titles that captured the attention of Outlook readers in 2025.
The Strategically Small Church: Intimate, Nimble, Authentic, and Effective
Brandon O’Brien reveals how small churches aren’t just surviving — they’re thriving by leveraging their unique strengths.
Becoming the Pastor’s Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman’s Path to Ministry
“Becoming the Pastor’s Wife” is a must-read for those who enjoy church history, cultural commentary, or a really good mystery, writes Amy Pagliarella.
Devotional recommendations for Lent 2025
Whether you value biblical interpretation, social justice, or bodily movement, Outlook Book Review Editor Amy Pagliarella has a Lent devotional recommendation for you.
Church Camp: Bad Skits, Cry Night, and How White Evangelicalism Betrayed a Generation
“Church Camp” is both the memoir of theologian Cara Meredith and a well-researched assessment of the Christian camping industry. — Amy Pagliarella
Why Christians Should be Leftists
“Why Christians Should Be Leftists” argues Jesus’ moral imagination pushes Christians toward justice, compassion and a politics rooted in neighbor-love, writes Samuel McCann.
We Pray Freedom: Liturgies and Rituals From the Freedom Church of the Poor
“We Pray Freedom,” edited by Liz Theoharis and Charon Hribar, curates liturgies and prayers rooted in justice, healing, and community. — Amy Pagliarella
Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence about Neurodiversity
Sarah Griffith Lund’s theology of neurodiversity is that neurodiverse individuals are whole and loved in their neurodiverse experience, not a problem to be solved. — Jo Wiersema
For Such a Time as This: An Emergency Devotional
Hanna Reichel’s “For Such a Time as This” offers brief, rich reflections and concrete practices to sustain faith, courage, and community in crisis, writes Amy Pagliarella.
Seven Ways of Looking at the Transfiguration
Struggling with Transfiguration Sunday? Sarah Hinlicky Wilson offers seven fresh angles on this mysterious event, weaving theology, exegesis, and preaching insight.
Authentic Christian Freedom: Deconstructing the American Gospel of Liberty
In “Authentic Christian Freedom,” Elizabeth L. Hinson-Hasty critiques America’s culture wars and reclaims Christian freedom as non-partisan love.
Want to receive content like the “best books of 2025” in your inbox once a month? Sign up here.
