What We’re Reading:
Books, Blogs and Podcasts Too
Dave Grishaw-Jones
 
 
Colum McCann has written a compelling story about pain, loss, violence and reconciliation.  At its heart is a true story about a Palestinian father and an Israeli father–each of whom has lost a beloved daughter to bloodshed and civil strife.  Around that story, McCann evokes the possibility of community, brotherhood and new pathways to healing old wounds.  Five stars! (DGJ)
 
OTHER BOOKS:
 
 
Jesus: Miriam’s Child, Sophia’s Prophet by Elisabeth Schussler Fiorenza
+ Fiorenza’s work has long challenged narrow and patriarchal interpretations of Jesus with bold possibilities, shaped by feminist christologies and ideas.  I love this kind of work, and find such power and hope in it.
 
The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin
+’A tender, soul-searching exploration of a mother’s mourning; a searing, stunning work.’
 
PODS:
 
“Turning to the Mystics” with James Finley: This is a fabulous series introducing listeners to the timeless wisdom of ancient Christian mystics. MORE HERE!
 
“On Being” with Krista Tippet: She’s a masterful interviewer, exploring spirituality, ideas and contemporary concerns with a wonderful range of friends, thinkers and believers.  MORE HERE!
Kristin Forselius
 
BOOKS:
 
 
+ This book is written so young people will feel empowered to stand up to the adults in their lives.  This book will give them the language and ability to understand racism and a drive to undo it.
Women’s Book Group:
 

 
The Awakened Brain
 by Dr. Lisa Miller
 
The Women’s Book Group has chosen The Awakened Brain by psychologist Dr. Lisa Miller as our choice for the 2025-26 church year. As the book jacket states: “Weaving her deeply personal journey of awakening with groundbreaking research, Dr. Lisa Miller’s book reveals that humans are universally equipped with a capacity for spirituality, and that our brains become more resilient and robust as a result…The Awakened Brain combines cutting-edge science with on-the-ground application for people of all ages and from all walks of life, illuminating the surprising science of spirituality and how to engage it in our lives. The awakened decision is the better decision…The awakened brain is the healthier brain…The awakened life is the inspired life.”
 
All women of the church and friends are invited to participate in our lively discussions from 10-11:30 am on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the church parlor.