EDUCATION FOR MISSION

CREATING A HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - No Hands But Yours -

Jonathan T.M. Reckford 112 pages

Fortress Press, 2007

It has been said that most people take their homes for granted, but that no one who has been homeless or who has worked on a Habitat house ever does. In No Hands but Yours, Habitat CEO Jonathan Reckford looks at housing through the lenses of mercy, humility, and justice, and invites you to evaluate your own response to the immense need for secure shelter. Whether you read this book as an individual or as part of a study group, it is unlikely you will ever view housing quite the same way again. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

THE GREATEST GIFT–The Courageous Life and Martyrdom of Sister Dorothy Stang – A Bonus Book

Binka Le Breton 256 pages

Random House, Inc., 2008

In 1982, Sister Dorothy Stang was in Brazil as a missionary working with an organization protecting poor farmers from logger’s and land developer’s pursuit of profit. Renounced as a “terrorist” by powerful companies after testifying about illegal incursions into protected areas, but refusing to be intimidated she continued her work – until two gunmen ended her life on a rural Amazon road. LARGE PRINT AVAILABLE.

LET THE CHILDREN GIVE –Time, Talents, Love, and Money

Delia Halverson 124 pages

Discipleship Resources, 2007

Let the Children Give suggests several fantastic methods of helping children understand what it means to give, and how to lead of life of stewardship. Using clear and purposeful activities that include arts and crafts, drama and storytelling, games and puzzles, music, reading and more, children of all ages will learn how to use their gifts, talents, and the earth’s resources as a way to show their love for God. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

LIFTING UP HOPE, LIVING OUT JUSTICE – Methodist Women and the Social Gospel

Alice G. Knotts 100 pages

Front Row Living Press, 2007

The Christian thinking and faith of the five women in this book inspire us to reach higher, dig deeper, and go farther than we dreamed possible toward making this world a better place. By recognizing that they were children of God, and that their highest calling to serve was by helping others, they surmounted amazing obstacles to bring a sense of human dignity, respect and justice to the world around them. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

MANY FACES, ONE CHURCH – A Manual for Cross-Racial and Cross-Cultural Ministry

Ernest S. Lyght, Glory E. Dharmaraj, Jacob S. Dharmaraj 139 pages

Abingdon Press, 2006

This manual is designed to help lay people and clergy understand the context, theology, ministry and mission of cross-racial and cross-cultural pastoral appointments in The United Methodist Church. Written by persons who have successfully served in such appointments, they share what they wished they had known before beginning and what they believe the church needs to understand in order to fulfill its theological mandate of inclusivity.

SEND ME! – The Story of Salkehatchie Summer Service

Arlene Bowers Andrews, John Culp, Art Dexter 336 pages

Providence House Publishers, 2006

Come celebrate Salkehatchie Summer Service, a mission of the United Methodist Church – South Carolina Conference, and discover the stories, people, places and blessings of a unique program that changes living conditions, lives, and hearts. Celebrate thirty years of renewal and restoration; celebrate thousands of young people cheerfully sweating and toiling in harsh conditions while serving the poorest of the poor, creating lasting bonds between people who learn that they get more than they give.

THREE CUPS OF TEA - One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace - One School at a Time

Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin 349 pages

Penguin Group U.S.A., 2006

In 1993 mountaineer Greg Mortenson drifted into an impoverished Pakistan village in the Karakoram mountains. Moved by the inhabitant’s kindness, he promised to return and build a school. Three Cups of Tea is the story of that promise and its extraordinary outcome. Over the next decade Mortenson built not just one but fifty-five schools – especially for girls. His story is at once a riveting adventure and a testament to the power of the humanitarian spirit. LARGE PRINT AVAILABLE.

NURTURING FOR COMMUNITY

ACTS OF FAITH – The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of a Generation

Eboo Patel 216 pages

Beacon Press, 2007

Growing up outside Chicago and subjected to bullying and feelings of uncertainty of what it meant to be Muslim, Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith Youth Core, had the anger and gut-wrenching feeling of being excluded from mainstream society. He soon learned that anger is not an identity, and discovered how an angry youth can be transformed—by faith, by the community and, most of all, by himself—into a profound leader for the cause of peace.

AMISH GRACE – How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy – A Bonus Book

Donald B. Kraybill, Steven M. Nolt, David L. Weaver-Zercher 237 pages

John Wiley & Sons, 2007

The remarkable response of the Amish community to the horrific shooting of ten schoolgirls at Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania, in October 2006 stunned the world. Amish Grace tells the incredible story of this community’s reaction to this senseless shooting and explores its profoundly counter cultural practice of forgiveness informed by deep faith.

CRISIS IN THE VILLAGE – Restoring Hope in African American Communities

Robert M. Franklin 271 pages

Fortress Press, 2007

This is a contribution to the conversation about what can and must be done to do a better job of making better families, communities, and hopefully, a better nation and global community. This is the work that Dr. King referred to as building the “beloved community,” work what will require the collective efforts, cooperation, and investment of the entire nation.

FAITH & FITNESS – Diet and Exercise for a Better World

Tom P. Hafer 142 pages

Augsburg Books, 2007

Faith & Fitness offers a balance between fitness and wealth that leads to a longer, more fulfilling life of socially responsible Christian discipleship. While it is a book about fitness - emphasizing disability-free living through diet and exercise - another goal is to help you realize the value of community; a more simple life with fitness and wealth in their proper places in your community of family and friends. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

HERE IF YOU NEED ME – A True Story

Kate Braestrup 240 pages

Back Bay Books, 2008

Here If You Need Me is the story of Kate Braestrup's remarkable journey from grief to faith to happiness - as she holds her family together in the wake of her husband's death, pursues his dream of becoming a minister, and ultimately finds her calling as a chaplain to search-and-rescue workers. It is dramatic, funny, deeply moving, and simply unforgettable--an uplifting account of finding God through helping others.

RECOVERING THE SACRED – The Power of Naming and Claiming

Winona LaDuke 294 pages

South End Press, 2005

How does a community heal itself from the ravages of the past? This book documents some of the Native American community’s work to recover the sacred and to heal. Taking an in-depth look at the challenges of maintaining spiritual practice while that which is needed for ceremonial practice is destroyed, we learn that despite centuries of spiritual challenges, native people continue to express thankfulness to Creation, in prayer, song and understanding of the sacredness of the land. Additional resource for Native American study.

WHO STOLE MY CHURCH? – What to Do When the Church You Love Tries to Enter the 21^st Century

Gordon MacDonald 247 pages

Thomas Nelson, 2007

A storm hits a small New England town, but the pelting rain can’t keep a small group of church members from gathering to discuss issues that have lately been brewing beneath the surface of their congregation. Who Stole My Church ?,is a fictional story that reflects the all-too-real situation of many church communities today, where loyal and long-standing members can feel pushed aside by the new demands of evangelism in the 21^st century.

SOCIAL ACTION

BLESSED ARE THE PACIFISTS – The Beatitudes and Just War Theory

Thomas Trzyna 136 pages

Herald Press, 2006

Thomas Trzyna takes a fresh look at pacifism as a practical method of conflict resolution grounded in Scripture, particularly the Beatitudes. Based on a study of just war theory (the attempt to distinguish between justifiable and unjustifiable uses of organized armed forces), and contemporary world events, Blessed Are the Pacifists does not rehearse familiar debates about how to justify war. Rather Trzyna views pacifism as a way of life, its success measured not in years but generations. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

CONFRONTING THE CONTROVERSIES – Biblical Perspectives on Tough Issues

Adam Hamilton 157 pages

Abingdon Press, 2005

In this thought-provoking book, Adam Hamilton explores some of the most controversial and divisive issues of our time. By showing you how to look at them from a biblical perspective in order to arrive at faithful Christian response, and hoping that after reading, thinking, and praying with him about these issues, you will have better understanding of how the Christian faith relates to critical issues in contemporary society, and come away with a deeper desire to connect your faith to your daily life. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

ENERGY – Use Less – Save More

Jon Clift & Amanda Cuthbert 77 pages

Chelsea Green Publishing, 2006

Did you know … lowering the temperature of your thermostat by a mere 2°F could reduce your energy bill by 10 percent? Or that energy-efficient light bulbs last about 12 times longer than ordinary bulbs and consume one-fifth the energy? That’s just the tip of the iceberg in this handy book with 100 ideas for saving energy and money in the home. Most ideas cost nothing; others pay back in spades and will help you take your first steps in the fight against global warming.

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE – An Easy Household Guide

Nicky Scott 94 pages

Chelsea Green Publishing, 2007

This companion to Energy is an easy to use guide answering all of your recycling questions. Its A-Z listing of everyday household items shows you how to recycle most of your unwanted things, do your bit for the planet, and maybe make a little money. Packed with ideas to cut consumption and reduce trash, it’s an invaluable guide for anyone who wants to stop the Earth from going to waste.

THE 51% MINORITY – How Women “Still” are not Equal and What You can do About it – A Bonus Book

Lis Wiehl 266 pages

Random House, Inc., 2007

Besides being the majority of the population, women also control the economy spending 80% of every discretionary dollar; and given that 54% of voters are female, can swing an election. Yet women still aren’t treated equally to men in areas that matter most. At this critical moment women can either take the road toward equality or be driven further away from fair treatment. The 51% Minority is a call to the silent majority to take a stand.

“THEY TAKE OUR JOBS!” – and 20 other myths about immigration

Aviva Chomsky 236 pages

Beacon Press, 2007

This groundbreaking work dismantles twenty-one of the most widespread myths and beliefs about immigrants and immigration. “They Take Our Jobs!” challenges the underlying assumptions that fuel these misinformed claims about immigrants, radically altering our notions of citizenship, discrimination, and U.S. history. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

WILLIAM WILBERFORCE – A Biography – A Bonus Book

Stephen Tomkins 238 pages

Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2007

This biography of William Wilberforce transports you back to a dramatic age of conflict and upheaval. In the 1780’s, almost 40,000 people were taken from Africa in British ships, through the notorious Middle Passage to the Caribbean. In 1787 William Wilberforce was invited by William Pitt, then British Prime Minister, to introduce a parliamentary bill outlawing the slave trade. Neither imagined the twenty-year political campaign that would consume the rest of Wilberforce’s life. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

A PERFECT LOVE – Understanding John Wesley’s A Plain Account of Christian Perfection

Steven W. Manskar, Marjorie Hewitt Suchocki, Diana L. Hynson 144 pages

Discipleship Resources, 2006

This expanded version of A Perfect Love makes the works of John Wesley accessible to those who want to understand his spiritual significance. Dr. Manskar’s modern-language version includes guidance to help us better understand our spiritual journey. Also provided by the authors is a careful theological and spiritual reflection on Wesley’s work, and a study guide for individuals and small groups. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

THE GIFT OF CHANGE - Spiritual Guidance for a Radically New Life

Marianne Williamson 356 pages

HarperCollinsPublishers, 2004

This honest and uplifting book offers spiritual wisdom to help people of all ages navigate life’s significant transitions. Far from being something to fear and avoid, Williamson says, every change – even the most difficult and painful – gives us an opportunity to receive the miraculous gift of personal transformation.

HOLY STUFF OF LIFE - Stories, Poems, and Prayers about Human Things

Heather Murray Elkins 145 pages

The Pilgrim Press, 2006

Holy Stuff of Life is a narrative “treasure hunt” for the hidden holiness of human things and a quest for a transformative encounter that turns consumption into blessing. Throughout the pages of this whimsical yet profoundly spiritual work, readers will explore the holy human connections of things such as apple seeds, a tattoo, dish towels, a broken chalice, a carpenter’s level, and extra virgin cooking oil blessed by a pope.

INNER HEALING FOR BROKEN VESSELS – A Domestic Violence Survival Guide

Linda H. Hollies 123 pages

The Pilgrim Press, 2005

Inner Healing follows the late UM minister Linda Hollies’ healing process as she made the decision to move forward with her life after being a victim of childhood incest. She outlines the seven steps she identified as necessary for this type of healing: recognition, admission, sharing, confession, reconciliation, choosing to be different and choosing daily, and parallels them to profiles of both biblical and modern-day women who have struggled with similar issues.

MATTHEW – The Book of Mercy

Megan McKenna 200 pages

New City Press, 2007

Known as a scribe, minor tax collector and public sinner, Matthew sought to create an identity for the fledgling Christian community as it struggled against persecution by the Romans and ostracism by the Jewish leadership. In her new book, Megan McKenna shows how this identity is forged of forgiveness, reconciliation and atonement.

PEACE IN THE STORM – Meditations on Chronic Pain and Illness

Maureen Pratt 321 pages

Random House, Inc., 2005

In this practical and spiritual guide Maureen Pratt, who has had lupus for more than a decade, shares how she navigates through the frustrations, fears, and complexities of living, like millions of Americans, with chronic pain and illness. Using a combination of Bible passages, personal observations, insights and prayer, she provides help on issues that include dealing with isolation, medical expenses, and saying no.

SHARING FOOD – Christian Practices for Enjoyment

L. Shannon Jung 197 pages

Fortress Press, 2006

This book explores how everyday eating practices contribute to delight and sharing, the twin purposes for which God designed eating, and help us discover the path toward eating enjoyably. That, in turn, will lead us to thank God for our daily bread and to see even the preparing of meals as a spiritual practice. Can be used as additional resource for 2009-2010 study Food and Faith. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

THE GIFT OF CHANGE - Spiritual Guidance for a Radically New Life

Marianne Williamson 356 pages

HarperCollinsPublishers, 2004

This honest and uplifting book offers spiritual wisdom to help people of all ages navigate life’s significant transitions. Far from being something to fear and avoid, Williamson says, every change – even the most difficult and painful – gives us an opportunity to receive the miraculous gift of personal transformation.

LARGE PRINT

Nurturing for Community

HERE IF YOU NEED ME – A True Story

Kate Braestrup 240 pages

Back Bay Books, 2008

Here If You Need Me is the story of Kate Braestrup's remarkable journey from grief to faith to happiness - as she holds her family together in the wake of her husband's death, pursues his dream of becoming a minister, and ultimately finds her calling as a chaplain to search-and-rescue workers. It is dramatic, funny, deeply moving, and simply unforgettable--an uplifting account of finding God through helping others. ALSO AVAILABLE IN REGULAR PRINT PAPERBACK.

SETTLING IN – My First Year in a Retirement Community

Richard L. Morgan 187 pages

Upper Room Books, 2006

Author Richard Morgan takes us through his decision making process related his and his wife’s move to a continuing care retirement community, addressing the fears of life after seventy-five, including loss of health, cognitive ability, short-term memory, and social status. Fifty-two scripture passages, meditations, and prayers offer hope to all who are considering the option of retirement community living.

Spiritual Growth

THE GIFT OF CHANGE - Spiritual Guidance for a Radically New Life

Marianne Williamson 356 pages

HarperCollinsPublishers, 2004

This honest and uplifting book offers spiritual wisdom to help people of all ages navigate life’s significant transitions. Far from being something to fear and avoid, Williamson says, every change – even the most difficult and painful – gives us an opportunity to receive the miraculous gift of personal transformation.

WHY? – Trusting God When You Don’t Understand

Anne Graham Lotz 191 pages

Thomson/Gale, 2004

Can you keep on trusting God when bad things are happening all around you – when pain is sharp and doubt is deep and it’s impossible to see the sense in it all? You can, says Anne Graham Lotz, if you keep your eye on the big picture of who God is, what His purposes are, and just how passionately he cares about His children.

Education for Mission

THREE CUPS OF TEA - One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace - One School at a Time

Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin 349 pages

Penguin Group U.S.A., 2006

In 1993 mountaineer Greg Mortenson drifted into an impoverished Pakistan village in the Karakoram mountains. Moved by the inhabitant’s kindness, he promised to return and build a school. Three Cups of Tea is the story of that promise and its extraordinary outcome. Over the next decade Mortenson built not just one but fifty-five schools – especially for girls. His story is at once a riveting adventure and a testament to the power of the humanitarian spirit. .

CHILDREN

Education for Mission

CROSSING BOK CHITTO – A Choctaw Tale of Friendship and Freedom

Tim Tingle 40 pages

Cinco Puntos Press, 2006

In this poignant story of family and friendship, Martha Tom, a Choctaw girl becomes friends with Little Mo, a boy from a plantation across the great river, and when she learns that his family is in trouble, about how she helps them to freedom.

Dibé Łizhíní Jílíigo Bee Shánáh ĺdlį – Proud to Be a Blacksheep

Roberta John 30 pages

Salina Bookshelf, Inc., 2006

Curious, headstrong, and impatient, Shundeen is always in search of adventure. As the only Navajo in her school, and growing up away from the Navajo Reservation, Shundeen faces some difficult issues retaining her culture while surrounded by peers who don’t understand it. When a day of adventure culminates in a terrifying accident, Shundeen discovers there is more to herself – and to her clan - than she ever imagined.

Spiritual Growth

ANGELS AMONG US

Leena Lane 30 pages

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2007,

The Bible is full of stories about angels. Some angels bring messages revealing God’s purposes, others provide strength and courage, and yet others simply praise and worship God. From the majesty of the angels in Jacob’s ladder to the protection of Elijah’s guardian angel, this beautifully illustrated Bible story picture book celebrates the mystery of these heavenly beings as they appear to people on earth.

CIRCLES OF HOPE

Karen Lynn Williams 30 pages

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2005

Young Facile wants to plant a tree in honor of his new baby sister, but he faces many obstacles: the first seed he plants is eaten by a goat, the second is washed away in a storm, and another is burnt b a scrub fire. How will Facile ever be able to plant a tree that will grow strong for baby Lucia?

Nurturing for Community

ONLY ONE YOU

Linda Franz 30 pages

Rising Moon, 2006

“There’s only one you in this great, big world. Make it a better place.” Adri’s mama and papa share some of the wisdom they have gained through the years with their eager son. Their words, simple and powerful, are meant to comfort and guide him as he goes about exploring the world. Can you spot the mama fish?

STILL MY GRANDMA

Véronique Van den Abeele 28 pages

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2007

Camille and her grandma have a special friendship. They have sleepovers, bake cupcakes together, go out shopping, and giggle at old photographs. But one day Grandma forgets Camille’s name. Then she can’t remember where to put her shoes. This story gently introduces young readers to the realities of Alzheimer’s disease and reminds them that love is more powerful than any illness.

Social Action

FOUR FEET, TWO SANDALS

Karen Lynn Williams 32 pages

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2007

When relief workers bring used clothing to the refugee camp, everyone scrambles to grab whatever they can. Ten-year-old Lina is thrilled when she finds a sandal that fits her foot perfectly. Then to her surprise she meets Feroza who is wearing the other sandal! Portraying the strength, courage and hope of refugees around the world, together these two girls solve the problem of having four feet and two sandals.

JOURNEY FOR THE PLANET – A Kid’s Five Week Adventure to Create an Earth-friendly Life

David Gershon 67 pages

Chelsea Green, 2007

You and your friends are about to go on a fun, challenging and amazing journey – one that will help you and the planet. You will learn how to take action to use our Earth’s precious and limited natural resources with greater care. Your efforts to live an Earth-friendly life will help make sure there are enough resources so that others can live their lives now and in the future, and you will become part of the global warming solution.

YOUTH

Education for Mission

WALKING THE CHOCTAW ROAD – Stories from Red People Memory

Tim Tingle 142 pages

Cinco Puntos Press, 2003

The eleven stories in this book explore the heart of what it means to be Choctaw. Tim Tingle doesn’t shy away from describing the painful and tragic history of the Choctaws and the United States; but through this hurt, he reveals the deep faith, abiding hope and spiritual underpinnings of his people. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

Nurturing for Community

THE MAKING OF ISAAC HUNT – A Novel

Linda Leigh Hargrove 342 pages

Moody Publishers, 2007

Who is Isaac Hunt? When his granddaddy's deathbed confession reveals that Isaac is adopted and his birth mother lives in North Carolina, Isaac can't let it rest, even though his adoptive parents do everything they can to discourage him from finding her. Isaac begins a journey that will take him to the small town of Pettigrew--ruled by the powerful Benson family--and uncovers secrets that some would prefer remain buried. Along the way, Isaac meets people who challenge his perceptions--of others, of himself, and most importantly, of God. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

WILLIAM HENRY IS A FINE NAME – A Novel

Cathy Gohlke 250 pages

Moody Publishers, 2006

The shadow of a face in the window; the quilt on the line; howling dogs; threatening intruders and a railroad that runs underground. Thirteen-year-old Robert had known little of these things growing up. Then there was William Henry, Robert’s best friend. They did everything together - until the summer of 1859. That’s when Robert realizes William Henry knows more about these mysteries that he does. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

Spiritual Growth

IN THE BEGINNING – 50 Devotions for Teens on Genesis

Laurie Polich 111 pages

Dimensions for Living, 2005

You know the Creation story. You’ve studied Noah and the Ark, Abraham and Sarah, and Joseph and his brothers. But do you really know these great stories of our faith? Laurie Polich takes you on a journey through Genesis, where you’ll meet some familiar and some not-so-familiar characters. Then she challenges you to find your place in God’ story and to cling to God’s promises.

Social Action

A LITTLE PIECE OF GROUND

Elizabeth Laird 216 pages

Haymarket Books, 2006

Twelve-year–old Karim Aboudi is stuck in his Ramallah home during a strict curfew, longing to be outside playing soccer with his friends. When the curfew ends he and his friend discover a perfect site for a soccer field, but in this city there’s constant danger even for schoolchildren. When soldiers find Karim outside during the next curfew, it seems impossible that he will survive. Elizabeth Laird creates a fascinating metaphor for the Israeli occupation of Palestine allowing young and old to witness it through the salvaged play of Palestinian youth. LARGER THAN AVERAGE PRINT.

SPANISH LANGUAGE

Education for Mission

Los Hechos del Espíritu Santo,

Editorial Letra Grafica, 2002 232 págs.

Samuel A. Grano de Oro Smith

La manera en que el Espiritu Santo nos prepara adecuadamente para responder en fidelidad a los desafios personales y sociales en el presente.

Me Llama Gabriela /My Name Is Gabriela,

Rising Moon/Luna Rising 32 págs.

Monica Brown, 2005

La historia tan lirica y cautivante de Gabriela Mistral, la poeta chilena que nos enseñó a redescubrir el poder de las palabras y la importancia de seguir el rumbo de nuestros sueños.

Nurturing for Community

Necesito Ayuda! Podemos Hablar?

Editorial Mundo Hispano, 2007 253 págs.

Muriel L. Cook & Shelly Cook Volkhardt

Los interrogantes que confrontan las mujeres en situaciones de crisis y los recursos biblicos y teológicos más útiles para un ministerio de consejeria diinámico y creativo.

Social Action

Discernimiento Moral

Colección Teología Latinoamericana, 1998 149 págs.

Roy H. May

Cómo reconocer las implicaciones éticas de nuestra fe personal y tomar las decisiones más apropiadas como individuos y como miembros de una comunidad?

Spiritual Growth

Los Hábitos de Jesús

Editorial Mundo Hispano, 2007 239 págs.

Jay Dennis

Una guía para familiarizamos con las disciplinas espirituales sobre las que se edificó sólidamente la vida, el comportamiento y el ministerio de Jesús, y ayudamos a redescubrir la importancia de “imitar” a Cristo.

LIBROS PARA LA NIÑEZ Y LA JUVENTUD

El sueno pegado en la pared de Blanca /The Dream on Blanca's Wall

Boyds Mill Press, 2004 48 págs.

Jane Medina

La historia tan familiar y conmovedora de una jovencita hispana/latina que anhela ser maestro y de su búsqueda de identidad cultural y étnica en el barrio.

KOREAN LANGUAGE

Spiritual Growth

Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World

Henri Nouwen

IVP (Korean Christian Students Association), 2002, 126 pages

What is our place in the world in God's eyes? How can we blend service and spiritual worship with the harshness of the everyday world? How can we, imperfect and each broken in a unique way, feel beloved by the Almighty? Nouwen ponders these topics in an open letter to a troubled friend. The former instructor at both Harvard and Yale walks us through analogies and insights that bring us to a place of feeling beloved.

This book was born in response to personal requests asked by a variety of people--many of whom are far removed from any traditional religious base--for Nouwen to describe the way to live a spiritual life in a material world. Nouwen's answer is both a challenge and a promise that life works, has deep meaning, and is worth despite all the pain and struggle. Anyone who is searching for the Spirit of God in the world today will benefit from reading it.

Education for Mission:

Healing Our World: Inside Doctors Without Borders

David Morley

Para Books, 2003, 179 pages

This is an excellent account about the work of ‘Doctors without Borders,’ a humanitarian organization, by a former executive director of the Canadian section of the organization. The author introduces the organization's history and current efforts to provide health care where it is needed most. The balanced survey, illustrated with black-and-white photos, presents alarming statistics (one billion people live without clean drinking water; two million young people between the ages of 15 and 24 are infected with HIV) while guiding readers away from paralyzing despair: "It is easy to feel hopeless when images of human tragedy fill the TV screen. …. When you look closer, the picture changes. You see people caring for each other, and helping, not just destroying." The easy-to-read text will introduce readers to a dedicated organization that gives people who live in forgotten places evidence that someone actually cares.

Nurturing for Community:

Marching off the Map

Biya Han

Purun Sup Books, 2005, 308 pages

This is an easy-to-read text written by a Korean woman team leader of emergency relief for the World Vision. This book consists of personal, detailed accounts that summarize the organization's work. It includes efforts to recover victims of war in Afghanistan, a treatment of the AIDS epidemic in Malawi and Zambia, relief works in war-torn zones such as Iraq, Israel and Palestine, in Tsunami-stricken Indonesia, and also in North Korea. It also contains lots of funny episodes that she has experienced on the fields due to cultural differences.

Biya Han points out that hunger can destroy not just life, but also the hope of development.

This book will help readers to realize not only that millions of people around the world are on the verge of starvation but also that the causes of hunger are often connected with arms conflict and thus avoidable by peace making efforts.

Social Action:

La Faim Dans Le Monde Expliquee a Mon Fils (Why is a Half of the World Population Hungry?)

Jean Ziegler

Galapagos Books, 2007, 201 pages

Why are 100,000 people dying of hunger everyday (or a child per 5 seconds), while food is produced enough to feed 12 billion? How has this kind of absurd and inhumane world order come into being? Who is responsible for this? Ziegler, Swiss sociology professor who served as special food investigator for the Committee of Human Rights for the UN, explains about the realities of world hunger and its causes in a dialogue style in which he answers to his son’s questions; the reality in which relief measures become useless due to war and political chaos in the region, the reality in which lots of people barely manage to live by garbage thrown away by the rich, the reality in which cows are fed heartily while people are starving, and an effect that desertification and deforestation have on decrease of food production. The author emphasizes relief operations alone, even if successful in terms of saving lives, are not a sound basis for a sustainable future and much more is needed. This book which deals with the apparently heavy issue of global hunger awakens lay readers to the significance of the issue.

Recommended Reading – These books may be read for credit, but are not available at Mission Resource Center.

Education for Mission

Ordinary Man Extraordinary Mission, The Life and Work of E. Stanley Jones, Stephen A. Graham, Abingdon Press, 2005.

Social Action

Middle Church, Bob Edgar, Simon & Schuster, 2007.

Understanding the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict – A Primer, Phyllis Bennis, Interlink Publishing Group, Inc., 2007.

Spiritual Growth

Overcoming Life’s Disappointments, Harold S. Kushner, Anchor Books, 2007.

Joshua’s Family, Joseph F. Girzone, Random House, Inc., 2007.

Nurturing for Community

A Thousand Splendid Suns, Kahled Hosseini, Penguin Group USA.

Walking in Two Worlds – Mixed Blood Indian Women Seeking Their Path,

Nancy M. Peterson, Caxton Press, 2006.

Upcoming Mission Studies:

2009

Food and Faith – Spiritual Growth

Sudan – Education for Mission

2010

For the Love of God – John’s Letters – Spiritual Growth

Mission and Evangelism - Education for Mission