Book Notes, April 2022 April 11, 2022 By Collegeville Institute Leave a Comment In this series, we highlight books we think our readers may enjoy, written by authors affiliated with the Collegeville Institute. The Scandal of Holiness by Jessica Hooten Wilson Brazos Press, 2022 In her new book, Jessica Hooten Wilson encourages readers to answer the call to holiness by cultivating a new imagination–one rooted in the act of reading. Learning to read with eyes attuned to the saints who populate great works of literature moves us toward holiness, where God opens up a way of living that extends far beyond what we can conjure for ourselves. Literature has the power to show us what a holy life looks like, and these depictions often scandalize even as they shape our imagination. As such, careful reading becomes a sort of countercultural spiritual discipline. The book includes devotionals, prayers, wisdom from the saints, and more to help individuals and groups cultivate a saintly imagination. There is No God: Atheism and Agnosticism by Peter A. Huff ABC/CLIO Press, September 2021 This is the age of atheism and agnosticism. The number of people living without religious belief and practice is quickly and dramatically rising. Some experts call nonreligion, after Christianity and Islam, the third largest “religion” in the world today. Understanding the origins, history, variations, and impact of atheism and agnosticism is crucial to getting a grasp of the meaning of the present and gaining a glimpse of the future. Exploring some of the most extraordinary people, events, and ideas of all time, Huff’s book surveys all aspects of contemporary atheism and agnosticism. An overview essay discusses the background and social and political contexts of unbelief, while a timeline highlights key events. Alphabetically arranged reference entries follow, along with cross-references and suggestions for further reading. The volume ends with an annotated bibliography of the most important resources on atheism and agnosticism. Embracing Diversity: Faith, Vocation, and the Promise of America by Darrell Jodock and William Nelson Fortress Press, November 2021 Throughout its history, America has been confronted with two alternative views of its identity. Is it a deeply Christian nation called to purity and uniformity in the face of a challenging world? Or is it a beacon of hope and openness where a variety of people can work side by side in justice and for a common good? In this timely and needed book, the authors challenge readers–especially readers in Christian communities–to step up to the promise of an America that works for the good of everyone who calls this nation home. Certainly, part of that challenge is recognizing where America has failed, and the authors do not step back from that challenge. But a tone of hope prevails throughout as a gracious and compelling case is made that America’s better angels exist and can motivate us to create a more just society. Like this post? Subscribe to have new posts sent to you by email the same day they are posted.
