No comments about Francis Ridley Havergal Hymnwriter.

No comments about At Home with the Poor.

2 comments about Loyalty Demands Dissent: Autobiography of an Engaged Buddhist.

1. On 26 April 1995, the eminent Thai social critical and writer, Sulak Sivaraksa, wes declared innocent of charges of lese majeste and defaming the former military strongman, Suchinda Kraprayoon. The final decision by the court to hear this case was almost simultaneously followed by Sulak's nomination for the Bobel Peace Prize, inviting obnoxious but inevitable comparisons between Thailand and the military junta's suppression of Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi in Burma (Myamar). This book is Sulak's autobiography as well as memories. From my viewpoint, nevertheless, this book deserves to be an important reference for those who explore the socio-political changes and democratisation in modern Thailand.

   Also recommended: David Streckfuss, ed.,1996. Modern Thai Monarchy and Cultural Politics - The Acquittal of Sulak Sivaraksa on the Charge of Lese Majeste in Siam 1995 and Its Consequences, Bangkok, Santi Pracha Dhamma Institute.




2. This is one of the best books by Sulak. It is not only exciting to learn about his narrow escape from the threat from the military dictatorship in 1991, but also interesting to learn about this man's fight for social justice and democracy both domestically and globally. Daring to criticise the revered monarchy, he is undoubtedly the most frank and outspoken among the Thai social critics.

   The foreword is given by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

No comments about Missionary Women: Gender, Professionalism and the Victorian Idea of Christian Mission.

3 comments about Kathryn Kulman: A Spiritual Biography of God's Miracle Working Power.

1. Roberts Liardon has no doubt studied greatly into the life of this evangelist of God. However, in his book he relates Kathryn's life from a largely spiritual point-of-view. He also shares with us lessons to learns from this woman of God. A thoroughly good and edifying book to read. Roberts Liardon has the rare ability to capture the fire of this woman and then transfer it to the reader.



2. The power of the Holy Spirit is here for ALL if they will only believe! I love this book about Kathryn Kuhlman's life. I have researched her myself, and have come to find out that she read a book entitled "Atomic Power with God with fasting and prayer". Kathryn Kuhlman touched the lives of many people and her best friend, "The Holy Spirit", moved mightily in her meetings. God's anointing is upon all who will read, and learn from this book. If anyone wants to find the book "Atomic Power with God", let me know, and I will e-mail you an address for it. God bless!



3. THIS BOOK IS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ EVEN THOUGH MISS KUHLMAN HAS BEEN WITH THE LORD FOR YEARS SEVERAL YEARS THE WORDS ARE A GREAT UNTIL NOW ALSO. MY SISTER-IN-LAW WAS HEALED IN ONE OF MISS KUHLMAN MEETINGS IN ST. LOUIS IN 1978.

5 comments about Messengers: Portraits of African American Ministers, Evangelists, Gospel Singers and Other Messengers of the Word..

1. David Ritz and Nicola Goode have given the world a memorable, moving and beautiful book in Messengers. Ritz brings together the stories and words of God's messengers from all walks of life--preachers, musicians, singers, teachers, the well-known and those known only to the people they serve. Goode's vivid photographs breathe life into the messengers' stories.
   
   Messengers is filled with stunning black and white photographs that capture the heart and soul of the subject. Accompanying the photographs is the individual's powerful and inspirational stories. And they are stories that will enlighten, empower and warm your heart.
   
   What is unusual about Messengers is the journey of author David Ritz. He tells his own story of becoming a Christian in such a powerful way that my eyes filled with tears and my heart was filled with joy.
   
   Messengers is in the tradition of one of my favorite books-- Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats. See our Armchair Interviews review under non-fiction.
   
   Armchair Interviews says: Messengers is stunning and is highly recommended for Christians, no matter your race or denomination. It is a celebration of faith and the beauty of God's love.



2. 
   
   The human expression of faith is uplifting in an entirely personal way, the voices of the faithful, the believers, joyfully speaking their truths. In a striking combination of text and photography, Messengers is a book of faith, through works and pictures, the reflections of ministers, musicians, singers, teachers and preachers, African American messengers of the Word.
   
   Dr. Mable John, formerly a Raelette, a backup singer for Ray Charles, heard a clear message while performing onstage, "Go home, Mable. I have something for you to do." Learning Greek to study the original language Bible, Dr. John set up a ministry in South Central Los Angeles. Her faith sustained her through her ministry and the loss of family, her anthem: "I saturate the house with praise... I stay strong before God so I can do what I have to do." Pastor Jesse Andrus has taken his time coming to the knowledge of the Lord, working a number of jobs that brought him close to the troubles of others, for example, as custodian in a maximum security correctional facility; but he was called to acknowledge his own flaws in order to preach effectively, learning along the way that "Jesus is about change" and "grace is embracing the love that comes with faith."
   
   Preaching since the age of four, Dr. Arlene Churn has been spreading the Word for fifty-nine years, watching enormous changes unfold around her, championing a woman's right to preach that is questioned even today: "The Word confirms the equality of women in the sight of God." In the latest phase of her life, Dr. Churn is a grief counselor and life coach, offering comfort "whose source is God Himself". Chapter after chapter introduces these incredible messengers, each with a particular call to God, hearts overflowing with generosity and limitless faith: Reverend Professor Peter J Gomes, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Reverend Doctor Calvin Butts, Candi Staton, Pastor Marvin L Winans, Bishop Alice Pope, Reverend Altagracia Perez and many more.
   
   Each call to ministry is highlighted with an appropriate quote, but the most joyful aspect of this book, beyond the text, is the quality of the photographs, hope shining from the eyes of God's messengers, singing, smiling and embracing their calling. For those who enjoyed Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats, Messengers is a powerful testament to faith wedded to action in the African American community, beautifully arranged and thoughtfully collected. Luan Gaines/ 2006.
   The human expression of faith is uplifting in an entirely personal way, the voices of the faithful, the believers, joyfully speaking their truths. In a striking combination of text and photography, Messengers is a book of faith, through works and pictures, the reflections of ministers, musicians, singers, teachers and preachers, African American messengers of the Word.
   
   Dr. Mable John, formerly a Raelette, a backup singer for Ray Charles, heard a clear message while performing onstage, "Go home, Mable. I have something for you to do." Learning Greek to study the original language Bible, Dr. John set up a ministry in South Central Los Angeles. Her faith sustained her through her ministry and the loss of family, her anthem: "I saturate the house with praise... I stay strong before God so I can do what I have to do." Pastor Jesse Andrus has taken his time coming to the knowledge of the Lord, working a number of jobs that brought him close to the troubles of others, for example, as custodian in a maximum security correctional facility; but he was called to acknowledge his own flaws in order to preach effectively, learning along the way that "Jesus is about change" and "grace is embracing the love that comes with faith."
   
   Preaching since the age of four, Dr. Arlene Churn has been spreading the Word for fifty-nine years, watching enormous changes unfold around her, championing a woman's right to preach that is questioned even today: "The Word confirms the equality of women in the sight of God." In the latest phase of her life, Dr. Churn is a grief counselor and life coach, offering comfort "whose source is God Himself". Chapter after chapter introduces these incredible messengers, each with a particular call to God, hearts overflowing with generosity and limitless faith: Reverend Professor Peter J Gomes, Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry, Reverend Doctor Calvin Butts, Candi Staton, Pastor Marvin L Winans, Bishop Alice Pope, Reverend Altagracia Perez and many more.
   
   Each call to ministry is highlighted with an appropriate quote, but the most joyful aspect of this book, beyond the text, is the quality of the photographs, hope shining from the eyes of God's messengers, singing, smiling and embracing their calling. For those who enjoyed Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats, Messengers is a powerful testament to faith wedded to action in the African American community, beautifully arranged and thoughtfully collected. Luan Gaines/ 2006.



3. I have read several books by David Ritz. I have always liked his writings and the way his style takes a backseat to his subject(s). I was suprised to find his name as the author of "Messengers" because it is so far away from what I've known of him. This book is a truly beautiful and simple glimpse into the motivations, consecration and blessings of African-Americans who have dedicated themselves to the Ministry of the Gospel. Mr. Ritz has written the book as a tribute to his conversion to Christianity. I can not imagine a more fitting tribute.
   
   The short biographical sketches paired with the beautiful photography by Nicola Goode make Mr. Ritz's latest an unflawed gem. He gives us insight into the hearts of the famous (Marvin Winan, Calvin Butts, Kirk Franklin, and former disco diva Candi Staton) to lesser known but equally dedicated ministers. The biggest suprise of the book was to find out that Mable John, Berry Gordy's first female artist at Motown is an ordained minister.
   
   Whether you purchase this for your own inspiration, as a gift or to grace your coffee table "Messengers" is a simple and elegant offering by David Ritz. I suppose that "Messengers" is not really all that far away from what David has given us in the past. He has always given us a chance to look into the lives of our favorite singers and musicians. Now we have a view of those who stand behind pulpits, in sick rooms, prisons, by deathbeds and with us in times of of birth, dedication and joy. I love this book.



4. "Messengers by David Ritz, portrays divine revelations imparted with inspiring stories provided by astute African American Ministers, Evangelist, Gospel Singers, and other Messengers of the Word. This inspirational book is presented with a diverse group of individuals encompassing several generations, empowering readers with their ministry."
   
   "These wise men and women generously share their life altering stories, offering their adversities and ultimately their walk with God, as a testament to their faith."
   
   "Through these wonderful messengers of God, an inspiring word is heard and felt. Their reflections are powerful and expressed with moving words gently ushering messages of tranquility, deliverance and reconciliation."
   
   "Photographer Nicola Goode does an excellent job in illustrating this eloquently designed book."



5. If you don't believe me, just think of the Apostle Paul and Peter. Both Orthodox Jews by todays standards (both before AND after they got to know Jesus) although Peter's practice of Kashrut was reportedly spotty as time went on!
   
   And David Ritz is no exception. When asked by Tavis Smiley during an interview regarding this book about what drew him to Jesus (or religion as secular liberals like to euphemize) he said simply 'The Holy Ghost.'
   
   My only regret is that it wasn't until he was about 60. That's right Six-Oh, that David actually decided to give Jesus his life. What a tragic waste of life of such a wonderful person.
   
   But I'm sure that God can redeem much of what David missed out on in the years to come and he has gotten off to a GREAT start with this book.
   
   Generally I reject the notion of the 'Black' church (or the 'white' church for that matter.) There is only THE CHURCH. The set apart redeemed of the Lord.
   
   Now we have free association in this country and it's perfectly wonderful if black people/asian people and or white people wish to congregate together so long as nobody is excluded by fiat.
   
   So, I've never been to a 'Black' church nor would want to. But I have been to plenty of GREAT churches where just about everybody was black. And the reason it was great had nothing to do with race and everything to do with that Holy Ghost that David speaks of.
   
   So, in that context, this book is awesome. It tells you of the working of God's spirit amongst congregations populated largely by black people.
   
   And the stories are tremandous.
   
   Inspirational. Heart warming. Life Changing.
   
   Heck, if it could result in someone who considered himself an unbelieving Jewish person for SIXTY YEARS to finally open himself to Jesus, imagine what it could do for you!

1 comments about Ignatius of Loyola: The Psychology of a Saint.

1. This is a difficult book to read unless you happen to be a psychiatrist. This book blends biography with psychological analysis. It took me at least eight months to finish this 400 pages plus book. The story of Iñigo, later to become Ignatius, is a remarkable one. You will witness the transition of Iñigo from a pugnacious young man, brave and passionate, into a mystic and an exemplary Christian (but still brave and passionate).
   
   The author threads between two poles; on one hand you have the Grace of God acting on a broken (physically and spiritually) man making him fit to be called a saint and a mystic and, on the other hand, you have a man oppressed by psychological issues (narcissism, sublimation of libido and aggression). Somehow Ignatius reconciles both poles.
   
   It is inappropiate for me to assign a rating for this book based on the merits of the psychological assesment made by the author, consequently, I am rating this book as a reflection of how much did I like it. I will give four stars to this book just because it is intricate and difficult to digest.

No comments about Fire in His Heart: Bishop Benjamin Tucker Tanner and the A.M.E. Church.

5 comments about Times Square Rabbi: Finding the Hope in Lost Kids' Lives.

1. The message Yehudah Fine brings to parents and teens in his book is that even when a teenager's life is in crisis, caring can produce profound transformation. The author's unique street experiences opened up a window into the world of disconnected teens. Fine's message should resonate in every home.



2. I never thought I would read a heart pounding thriller based on a real life rabbi and gripping inspirational tales from the street. Want to learn about life after midnight in NYC, then read this book.It reads like a novel and yet is a true tale of NYC street life. Why this book is not a bestseller is beyond me. This is a powerful book that features true to life stories of teens caught in the web of drugs, prostitution, family violence and world that does not care. In that world walks Yehudah Fine, a real time hero whose human side is so real and vivid you feel after reading the stories in his book that you know him and the kids who he loves and cares about.This is a one of a kind read that will give you hope springing from the darkness forever. It will inspire you and make you cry.



3. Special News: For all of you who have enjoyed reading Yehudah's book, Times Square Rabbi-Finding The Hope In Lost Kids' Lives (Hazelden) there is some exciting news. Yehudah just signed a movie/tv rights contract for his book. Pamela Hayden, one of the voice stars of the TV show, the Simpsons, purchased the rights to his book.



4. "Religion is for people who wish to avoid going to hell. Spirituality is for people who have been there." So wrote Abraham Twerski, founder of Gateway Rehabilitation Center, in his cover blub for Yehudah Fine's book, "Time Square Rabbi." Rabbi Fine (who prefers to be called "Yehudah") has that rare balance of religion and spirituality, combined with a down-to-earth love of sports, music, and life itself, that enables him to reach lost teenagers on the mean streets of New York.

   His writing style is clear and poignant, combining good descriptive details with well-written dialogues. Each story illustrates one of the 8 steps in a recovery program that Yehudah has developed, based on the writings of Maimonides. Although the characters and stories are composites (to protect the kids' privacy), they are so well done that they virtually leap off the page.

   Every parent should read this book. Yehudah pulls no punches about how these kids ended up on the streets. For many, it was an escape from unbearable home situations. In other cases, the parents kicked their kids out of the house with no idea what would happen to them out there. In still other cases, kids from "good homes" set out with high hopes and unrealistic fantasies, only to be victimized by the predators that roam "The Way Beyond." That's Yehudah's name for the street culture that exists in the same physical space as up-scale Manhattan, but in a different world entirely. Like real life, some of these stories have happy endings, others do not. But all of them will make you think. As the subtitle says, this is a book about finding hope.




5. Had I not fallen, I would not have risen
   had I not sat in darkness,
   God would not have been a light for me.
   ~Midrash Tehillim Socher Tov, Psalm 5
   
   Yehudah Fine is The Times Square Rabbi who can now be found spreading his message of hope on radio shows and in nationwide seminars. He works as a family therapist and lecturer and continues to share his wisdom with parents and teens across the country.
   
   Finding the Hope in Lost Kids' Lives is the story of eight kids involved in the street culture in New York City's Times Square. Through the example of eight lives, he explores eight steps towards spiritual renewal. These stories can be read by anyone to encourage their own awakening and to give a pathway to hope for anyone trying to climb out of their own painful situation.
   
   "While change at a profound level is rare on the street, nevertheless it does happen. And when you witness such a change, first was darkness and then came the light." ~pg. 4
   
   You don't need to live on the street to hit an all time low in your life but the gritty lifestyles these kids lead exposes them to a world of danger and vulnerability. The first step in this book begins when the pain of life has become unbearable. An analysis of action follows along with a renewal in self-esteem. As the stories progress we witness a separation from an old way of living in order to embrace a new life. There are sad and happy endings, but all have a profound message of love and compassion.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review

5 comments about The Life and Times of Muhammad.

1. This book is a rather orthodox and uninspiring work. Typical of western scholarship it has toed the line of the fundamentalist arm of modern Islam. Recent scholarship has failed to put forward a revisionist and invigorating analysis of the life of the prophet. Some scholars have already begun to unravel the myths that exist around Muhammad as scholars were able to do with Jesus over a hundred years ago.



2. With the founding of Islam the prophet Muhammad (571-632 A.D.) brought the people of Arabia a new religion which would come to completely transform the Middle East and become one of the major religions of the world. In The Life And Times Of Muhammad, biographer Sir John Glubb (1897-1986 provides an informative, accessible, authoritative, highly recommended account of the life of Muhammad, including the social milieu, religious message, family life battles, personality, and far -reaching influence of the Prophet. The reader is provided invaluable insight into the atmosphere of the times (suffused with Jewish, Christian, and polytheist concepts and philosophies) in which Muhammad perceived his religious mission; his attitudes towards women, and his relationships with his wives. The Life And Times Of Muhammad is the ideal introduction to Muhammad for today's non-specialist general reader with a newly found interest in the origins and theology of Islam.



3. Sir John Glubb, who lived a long time in the middle-east and became proficient in the Arabic language, used original references to write this excellent book on the life of the prophet.

   The book is easy to read, informative and provide a broad understanding of the subject. Sir John is not a Moslem but he understand Moslems and Islam. He writes with the detached historian's perspective and interprets events with a fresh outlook.

   Enjoyable and highly recommended.




4. Sir John Glubb is uniquely qualified to write about Muhammad and the rise of the Arab peoples inasmuch as he lived most of his life as a desert-loving British officer leading the Arab Legion for the Kings of Jordan. Around the time that Israel was born, he took the fall for the increasing unpopularity of British forces from both sides -- Arab and Jew -- and was let go by the late King Hussein.

   Far from being embittered by the experience, Glubb went on to write a number of exciting histories, an autobiography, and this life of Muhammad. In a way, it is good that this book is over 30 years old: It is untouched by any reference to September 11 and allows the reader an unprejudiced view of the Prophet and his followers without rancour or prejudice of any sort. At one point, the author states that he is a Christian, but feels as completely at home with sincere Muslims as with his fellow Christians.

   Three features make this a particularly useful book. For one thing, there are a dozen excellent maps. For those of us who have difficulty distinguishing from Arabic name from another, there are summaries of Notable Dates and Personalities at the end of each chapter to help fix the facts in the reader's memory. Finally, there is a respectable bibliography for further study.

   I was particularly gratified with Glubb's final paragraph, which very much speaks to us today: "If we Christians believe that we are more nearly executing the will of God than are adherents of other religions, it must surely be our duty to lead such lives as will draw all men of good will to ask the reason for our goodness. To treat them with arrogant contempt is more likely to convince them that ours is an intolerant and hard-hearted way of life." To which I can only add, Amen!




5. The brilliant thing about this book is that it merges and yet distinguishes among the different sources of information we have about Mohammed's life. Thus, information from the Quran is very accurate, since it was written contemporaneously. The various biographies, histories and oral traditions are questionable because they were written down 100-200 or more years after Mohammed's death. This is very significant today, because the Quran makes it clear that Mohammed got along well with Jews and Christians, and even honored them for their devotion to the Scriptures. By contrast, the Islamic terrorists make their erroneous claims by referring to histories and traditions that were written down centuries after Mohammed's death, and reflect the writer's views rather than Mohammed's views. Glubb's book weaves all of these sources of information into a fascinating narration of Mohammed's life, but at the same time he indicates the source and validity of the various stories, especially the sensitive ones. That's what makes this book valuable today, since readers can read it and understand why the real infidels are the Muslims who call for jihads against Jews and Christians.