Ashlee Eland WaterBrook, 224 pages Reviewed by Karie Charlton For Ashlee Eiland, kindness is more than simple politeness. Transformational kindness requires bravery “to undo the damage we’ve done because it’s the secret weapon for detecting the intrinsic worth found in every person.” As a black woman who grew up in the South, she shares her life story through her beautiful and painful memories, all of which taught her how “to be kind to [her] own worthy self.” I am grateful she has shared her story; as a white woman around the same age I found much to relate to and much that was eye-opening. She shares a story about a white babysitter, Cherie, who loved her very much, and out of kindness tried to wash Eiland’s hair. It was a disaster; everyone cried. Eiland recalls loving this woman but knowing there was a limit to what kind of care she could give. Eiland’s mom had a choice: to demand Cherie do more to learn about hair or to simply accept what Cherie was able to give, knowing … [Read more...]

Everyday Prayer with John Calvin P&R Publishing, 136 pages Conversations with Calvin Cascade Books, 186 pages Donald K. McKim  Donald McKim has developed the art of condensing the insights of theologians into “conversations” for ordinary people — this time with John Calvin. Previously, McKim wrote about Karl Barth and Dietrich Bonhoeffer in the same format. And there is more to come! That’s good news, because Lord knows we need to linger longer with theology that is good for the mind and strengthens the spirit. The church is showing signs of decline in so many places, with worship attendance erratic at best, depending on sporting events and other “pressing” matters. Yet faithful pastors continue to preach the gospel and seek to lead the people in prayer and courageous service.  These books, focusing our attention on the best of Calvin, will help pastors and the people they serve by reminding us of the sovereignty of God and the centrality of prayer. How often have you … [Read more...]

Gail Cafferata Westminster John Knox Press, 221 pages Reviewed by Melodie Long Using the analogy of sailing, Gail Cafferata navigates the waters of church closure. Based upon personal experience and an in-depth sociological study spanning a variety of denominations, this book serves as an excellent review of the complexities of the decision, the process itself and the aftermath. It is both proclamation of hope and statement of wisdom about how to be more adequately prepared for church closure. A plethora of books and resources about church dynamics and leadership already exists. While this book addresses both issues adequately, its strength lies in its honesty about the reality of today’s church and what can be done differently. Cafferata delves through the complex emotional and spiritual web of leadership challenges. For a church to close well and faithfully, the pastor can more effectively lead with an awareness of healthy behaviors and relationships, serving as both model … [Read more...]

Edited by Ineda Pearl Adesanya Church Publishing, 256 pages Reviewed by Ethel Hornbeck Over the last several decades, there has been an explosion in programs and resources designed to equip those who would companion others on their spiritual journeys. Despite increasing interest in the practice of spiritual direction among people of color, these resources remain stubbornly white and Eurocentric. This book, from the Spiritual Directors of Color Network, is the third volume in a series designed to address this deficit. True to its name, “Kaleidoscope” is a beautiful book, made all the richer by the diversity of perspectives that it includes. In a series of essays, it explores the basic principles of spiritual guidance while centering the voices of an experienced group of spiritual directors of color. Various themes, including community, storytelling, remembering and relationality, thread their way like bright colors throughout, appearing in a variety of forms, stories and … [Read more...]