How to Love the World Anyway with Nadia Bolz-Weber and Sarah Bessey

In 'Pastrix: The Cranky, Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint,' Nadia Bolz-Weber chronicles her life from being a stand-up comedian to becoming a pastor. The book is a candid and humorous narrative that explores her struggles with faith, addiction, and her role in the church. Bolz-Weber reclaims the term 'pastrix,' which some Christians use derisively to refer to female pastors, and shares her experiences with a community of misfits, including alcoholics, depressives, and cynics. Her story emphasizes the transformative power of grace and challenges traditional representations of faith, offering a refreshing perspective on what it means to walk alongside others in their struggles.

A Rhythm of Prayer provides curated prayers, liturgies, and daily practices designed to help readers cultivate a sustainable prayer life. Sarah Bessey draws on diverse Christian traditions to offer accessible, bite-sized prayers suitable for hectic schedules. The book aims to make prayer feel attainable and nourishing, integrating spiritual practice into ordinary days. Bessey's pastoral voice encourages readers to build consistent rhythms that foster presence and gratitude. The collection is intended for both newcomers to prayer and seasoned practitioners seeking fresh language and structure.

In 'Accidental Saints,' Nadia Bolz-Weber shares stories from her life as a pastor, detailing her encounters with grace through the lives of people who might be considered 'wrong' or unconventional. The book is characterized by Bolz-Weber's confessional style, where she candidly discusses her own mistakes and shortcomings, as well as those of the people around her. It emphasizes the idea that God uses broken people to do His work and that grace can be found in the most unexpected places. The stories are often funny, sometimes tragic, but always vulnerable and true, reflecting Bolz-Weber's unique blend of humor, intelligence, and theological insight.

Braving the Truth collects influential blog posts and essays by Rachel Held Evans, with editorial context and reflections by Sarah Bessey and other contributors. The volume preserves Evans' thoughtful, vulnerable, and prophetic writing—addressing issues like patriarchy, white supremacy, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and faithful resistance—while offering guidance for future generations of the church. Bessey's editing situates these pieces historically and thematically, highlighting Evans' emphasis on nuance, relationship, and embodied faith. The book serves both as an introduction to Evans' work for new readers and a restorative resource for those who followed her voice during pivotal cultural moments. It aims to equip readers to practice long-term faithfulness and to be outposts of goodness in their own communities.

string

string