MARY RUTH WOLF
FBC Montgomery
“Becoming Odyssa: Epic Adventures on the Appalachian Trail” by Jennifer Pharr Davis
It’s the true story of a girl who, after graduating from Samford University in Birmingham, decided to make the iconic 2,200-mile trek that rambles through 14 states. Would I ever do this? No. But I’m totally intrigued by people who attempt such adventurous endeavors.”
SCOTT BULLARD
Judson College
“The Christian College Phenomenon” edited by Samuel Joeckel and Thomas Chesnes from Palm Beach Atlantic University, a Christian college in Florida
The book’s contributors, all employees of Christian colleges, explore practices at America’s fastest-growing colleges and make a compelling argument that the reason many of the fastest growing colleges are Christian colleges is because Christian institutions are by their very nature called to provide what today’s young people desire: to be challenged within the walls of the classroom but also outside of the classroom. The book’s contributors also emphasize that Christian colleges are no less academically rigorous than their secular counterparts; indeed data suggests that Christian colleges and universities are engaging in some of the finest teaching in America. The book, although it covers several themes that have been traced before, is worthwhile reading.”
LESA MOORE
University of Mobile
“The Noticer Returns” by Andy Andrews
In this book Andy Andrews meets his old friend, Jones, again after many years. He tells the story of several individuals and families who are struggling with various issues such as success, careers, relationships and parenting. Their encounters with Jones lead them to change their perspectives on life and circumstances in order to find solutions to the problems they face. Andy Andrews is a wonderful storyteller and I love how he incorporates the culture of the Gulf Coast into his stories. One of my favorite parts is his emphasis on the importance of faith and trust in God to fulfill our assignments here on earth using illustrations of the legendary ‘jubilee’ that takes place in Fairhope.”
Kevin Blackwell
Samford University
“Church Unique: How Missional Leaders Cast Vision, Capture Culture and Create Movement” by Will Mancini
It is not your average church strategy book. As a matter of fact Mancini suggests that taking the average cookie-cutter strategic process may not be the best idea for a church. The author emphasizes finding the unique vision for your church by understanding the ‘culture’ of ministry in the congregation. I am enjoying Mancini’s perspective on vision because it is fresh and unique. Many leaders succumb to the temptation of trying to replicate the vision and strategy of other churches and then force it into their congregational structure. Wise leaders find God’s unique vision for their ministry context and then develop a strategic approach that matches that vision. It is not a book that you can read quickly — it is one that you need to slowly and meticulously work through.”
Rick Lance
Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions
“Onward: Engaging the Culture Without Losing the Gospel” by Russell Moore
This is a very well-written and timely book authored by the leader of our SBC Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission. In this work Moore makes a strong case for what he calls ‘convictional kindness’ in relationship to a culture that is increasingly in opposition to our biblical worldview. Each chapter spotlights a major issue that is a matter of concern for evangelical Christians.”
Rosalie Hunt
Retired missionary
“Who Is This Man?: The Unpredictable Impact of the Inescapable Jesus” by John Ortberg
It is amazing to realize how much I didn’t know about Jesus, especially about the dominating role He has played in creating our history and our culture. I find Ortberg easy to read but it certainly isn’t fluff. Ortberg gives remarkable insight into how Jesus, 2,000 years after He lived, is still impacting the everyday lives of people across the globe. No one else in history has had near the influence of the Son of God, who lived among men for a mere 33 years. This talented author has written the most refreshing perspective on Jesus and His conversation with the Samaritan woman that I have ever read. This book is one I plan to keep and read again.”
Tell us what you are reading, a quick summary of what it is about and your response to it so far. Email news@thealabamabaptist.org or send us a message on Facebook. You may also mail your information to 3310 Independence Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209.
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