Recent books that have come to our desk

Searching for God in Godforsaken Times and Places: Reflections on the Holocaust, Racism, and Death by Hubert G. Locke. Eerdmans, 2003.

This small volume of essays on three experiences that have challenged the author’s belief in God (his parents’ deaths, being black, and the “enigma” of the holocaust) will resonate with any Christian who wrestles with doubt. Locke reflects on them honestly and deeply, and ultimately, with hope.

Tent of Meeting. A 25-day Adventure with God by Julie Ellison White. Faith and Life Resources, 2004.

This journal for teens is accompanied by a Leader’s Guide. It encourages teens to practise spiritual disciplines such as Scripture reading, listening to God and praying. It allows for youth to write their thoughts and prayers, and to share with others in their group meetings.

Training Ministry Teams: A Manual for Elders and Deacons by Anne Stuckey. Faith and Life Resources, 2004.

The first four chapters give the history of the work of deacons and elders, and other lay leaders. The next five deal with specific issues of ministry: decision-making, creating a vision for ministry, mediating conflict, visitation and crisis ministry and partnering with the pastor. Designed to be used in a group context, each chapter concludes with an “As You Go” section that contains group assignments to help move the participants from theory to action.

Five Reasons to Celebrate the Christian Faith by Norman H. Fehr. Guardian Books, 2004.

Fehr, whose writings have appeared in the MB Herald, lists five pillars of the Christian faith: The birth of Jesus Christ, the death of Jesus Christ, the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ascension of Jesus Christ and the coming of the Holy Spirit. Each section contains short vignettes on the topic, and ends with a word search puzzle. Fehr ends the book with a statement of his faith.

Growing with My Garden: Thoughts on Tending the Soil and the Soul by Rolland Hein. Cornerstone Press, 2004.

Hein has woven together two of his passions – poetry and growing things – to create a book that is both a Christian devotional and a gardening primer. He quotes numerous well-known poets and gives instructions on gardening outdoors as well as tending houseplants.

Meditations for the Newly Married by John M. Drescher was first published in 1969.

It contains Scriptures, a devotional and a prayer for each day for a month. A wise, helpful resource for couples.