Library

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

A House Without Windows. Nadia Hashimi, 2016 [Fiction] A moving story of an Afghan women who accepts responsibility for the murder of her abusive husband for reasons that are not a part of our American experience.  While awaiting trial Zeba is sent to a women’s prison where she befriends others whose own misfortunes reflect the life of women in Afghanistan.

Waiting for Superman – How We Can Save America’s Failing Public Schools. Karl Weber, Editor, 2010 [379.10]  “The American Public School System is in crisis, failing millions of students, producing almost as many drop-outs as graduates, and threatening our economic future…an inspiring call for reform…”

Traverse City State Hospital – Images of America. Chris Miller, 2005 [970]  “…traces the history of this great institution, from the local and mental health context in which it was founded…”

The Spiritual Lives of Great Composers. Patrick Kavanaugh, 1992 [780] “…will lead you on a brisk walk through the innermost thoughts of twelve masters of western music…[including] Handel, Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Liszt, Wagner, Dvorak, Ives and Stravinsky…”

The Christian Atheist – Believing in God but Living as if He Doesn’t Exist. Craig Groschel. 2010 [DVD]  The six-session group study is the DVD version of the book already on our library shelves under Classification 248.2.

In Pursuit of Paul the Apostle – Our Daily Bread Ministries. Dr. Constantine Campbell, 2017 [DVD] “Apart from Jesus, no one had a greater influence in founding Christianity than the Apostle Paul.”

Landmarks – Turning Points on Your Journey Toward God. Bill Delvaux, 2013 [232] “…a spiritual growth experience that takes you on a journey to think, act and be more like Jesus.”

Doorways to Greater Faith – A Personal and group study book. William D. Gainey, 2009 [232]  “…takes us through various facets of faith…a state of continual growth…”

You are the Treasure That I Seek – But there’s a lot of cool stuff out there, Lord. Greg Dutcher, 2009 [248.4] “…exposes the myth that idols are only wood or stone statues that belong to primitive, ancient cultures…will help you identify twenty-first century idolatry…”

Not Seeking But Found – A Memoir of God’s Faithfulness. Steven Reiff Lorenz, 2009 [920] Raised in a Christian family who never talked about their spiritual lives outside of church, the author has experienced several “miracles” which have directed his life in new unexpected directions.

Do I Know God? – Finding Certainty in Life’s Most Important Relationship. Tullian Tchividjian, 2007 [234]  “To know that you know God and God knows you is life’s greatest source of peace, joy and strength for the journey”

Radical – Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream.  David Platt, 2010 [261] “…challenges you to consider with an open heart how we have manipulated the gospel to fit our cultural preferences.  He shows what Jesus actually said about being his disciple – then invites you to believe and obey what you have heard.”

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am in the Westminster Room at the church.

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

10/1/2019         Educated                                        Tara Westover

11/5/2019         Someone Knows My Name      Lawrence Hill                  

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

Quick, Call Me a Taxi. Judy Ziegler, 1991 [Child] A 7 year old’s (and up) first book of jokes and riddles.  Beware – You’ll be hearing these over and over.

Behold the Dreamers. Imbolo Mbue, 2016 [Fiction]  “…about one African couple starting a new life in a new land…will teach you as much about the promise and pitfalls of life in the U.S. as about the immigrants who come here in search of the so-called American dream.”

A Sister’s Secret – Book One, Sisters of Holmes County. Wanda Brunstetter, 2007 [Fiction]  “…secret brings danger and deception to an Ohio Amish community.”

Traces of the Trade – A Story from the Deep North.  Ebb Productions, 2008 [DVD] Filmmaker, Katrina Browne discovers her “New England ancestors were the largest slave-trading family in U.S. History.”  She and her family face the reality of their family past.

Ministry Among the Maya – A Missionary Memoir. Dorothy Dickens Meyerink. 2011 [920]  “…a thrilling story of evangelism and church growth in one of the most challenging places in Latin America.”

Your People Shall Be My People – How Israel, the Jews, and the Christian Church will come together in the Last Days. Don Finto, 2016 [289.9] ”…presents a biblical and exciting perspective of God’s heart toward the Holy Land.”

Believe – Living the Story of the Bible to Become Like Jesus. Randy Frazee, 2015 [220.6] “…a spiritual growth experience that takes you on a journey to think, act and be more like Jesus.”

None Other – Discovering the God of the Bible. John Macarthur, 2017 [231]  “…get beyond the mere facts of who God is and develop an understanding of His character.”

The Magnificent Story – Uncovering a Gospel of Beauty, Goodness & Truth. James Bryan Smith, 2017 [248] “Within these pages lies the chronicle your life has been waiting to read, to hear, to live.”

Living in Christ’s Presence – Final Words on Heaven and the Kingdom of God. Dallas Willard, 2014 [248.4] “…reflects on the power of the Trinity in our lives, the meaning of knowledge, the importance of spiritual disciplines and much more.”

Surprised by Hope – Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church. N.T. Wright, 2008 [236]  “…takes on the controversial topic of life after death and reveals how most Christians get it wrong – and why it matters.”

Walking with God through Pain and Suffering.  Timothy Keller, 2013 [248.6] “When pain and suffering come upon us, we finally see not only that we are not in control of our lives but that we never were.”

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am in the Westminster Room at the church.

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

9/3/2019           The Women in the Castle        Jessica Shattuck

10/1/2019         Educated                                        Tara Westover

11/5/2019         Someone Knows My Name      Lawrence Hill                  

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

Sparrow Migrations. Cari Noga, 2013 [Fiction] “Life after the Miracle on the Hudson landing puts three families on another crash course…with their own fragile humanity.”  This local author spoke at our book discussion group about another of her novels.

The Bartered Bride – Romance Collection of 9 Historical Stories of Arranged Marriages. Cathy Marie Hake, Kelly Eileen Hake and others, 2007 [Fiction]  “…marriage has often been used as a means to gain money, social status, and security, as well as basic companionship, domesticity, and family…filled with inspiration and faith, each story will transport readers to a different era of American history.”

Locking Arms:  Joining Together With All of the King’s Men. Stu Weber, 1999 [cassette book]  Learn about how men can join together in effective, valuable relationships.

After the Wind – Tragedy on Everest – One Survivor’s Story. Lou Kasischke. 2015 [920]  This is the author’s (northern Michigan man) story of his experience on an ill-fated Mount Everest expedition in 1996 until recently considered the worst tragedy in Mount Everest history.

Help Yourself – Finding Hope, Courage, and Happiness. Dave Pelzer, 2000 [158.1] ”Free yourself from the pain and negativity of the past.  Know what you want out of life and make it happen.  Celebrate who you are and what you have.”

Leaving the Suburbs – A journalistic primer on politics, climate change, and unsustainable debt. John Ernest Duke, 2018 [500] “…blends his experience with a 3200 mile bicycle ride across the continental US 27 years ago with his instinct for reporting on current environmental issues facing humanity…”

The Ignatian Workout – Daily Spiritual Exercises for a Healthy Faith. Tim Muldoon, 2004 [248.3]  “…presents St. Ignatian’s wisdom in today’s language – as a daily program of ‘workouts’ to achieve spiritual fitness, tailored to people with busy schedules.”

Christ Came to Set The Captives Free From Drug Addiction.  Minister James Britton, 2013 [248]  ”…over 100 people a day are dying in the USA from prescription drug addiction or abuse….[the author prays] that GOD will minister to you as he did to him earlier in his life”

What Does God Want From Me? – Learning to Hear God’s Voice. Peggy Merritt Hammond, 2012 [248] “Peggy shares her personal journey to the heart of God.”

Seasons of a Family’s Life – Cultivating the Contemplative Spirit at Home. Wendy M. Wright, 2003 [248.4] “A must-read for family life ministers and parents who struggle to find spiritual meaning in everyday family experiences.”

Interior Castle – The Classics Text with a Spiritual Commentary. Teresa of Avila, 2007 [248.4]  “..one of the most celebrated books of Christian mysticism…provide[s] spiritual nourishment in an accessible form.”

God is….  Metanoia Services, 2011 [248] What is God?  Consider many ideas and consider your own perception.

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am in the Westminster Room at the church.

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

                                         NO Meeting in July

    8/6/2019                The Romanov Empress        C.W. Gortner                    

   9/3/2019                 The Russian Five                     Keith Gave                 

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

Celine. Peter Heller, 2017 [Fiction] “…a luminous novel of suspense…”  But this story is so much more as it follows Celine, an “elegant, aristocratic private eye [how’s that for an odd combination] who specializes in reuniting families a she tries to make amends for a loss in her own past.”

Survivors – The Empty City. Erin Hunter, 2012 [Child]  “Lucky is a golden-haired mutt with a nose for survival”  Used to being independent, it becomes necessary for him to rely on other dogs to survive.  This is a great story for 10 to 13 year olds.

Parenting Someone Else’s Child – The Foster Parents’ ‘How-To’ Manual. Ann Stressman, 2004 [649]  This book helps “bridge the gap”:  “most children raised in a different socioeconomic class from their foster or adoptive parents have very different viewpoints, values, and learning styles from those parents.”

Left to Tell – Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust. Immaculée Ilibagliza, 2006 [282.092] “It [Immaculée’s account of genocide survival] gives us hope of overcoming the divisions deliberately created by those with self-serving agendas and no thought for humanity.”

Set-Apart Femininity – God’s Sacred Intent for Every Young Woman. Leslie Ludy, 2008 [248.8]  “Do you need a fresh vision of God’s amazing purpose for your life as a young woman?  Are you ready to become one of the few in this generation who will make an eternal impact upon this world?”

Five Voices Five Faiths – An Interfaith Primer. Amanda Millay Hughes, Editor, 2005 [200]  “in this unique book about the major religious traditions of the world, a practitioner from each tradition-Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam -introduces the basics of his or her faith …”

Green Leaf In Drought. Isobel Kuhn, 2012 [266] “…story of the escape of the last China Inland Mission members from Communist China.”

Between The World and Me.  Ta-Nehisi Coates, 2015 [305.8] “…a profound work that pivots from the biggest questions about American history and ideals to the most intimate concerns of a father for his son…what is it like to inhabit a black body and find a way to live within it?”

Believe – Living the Story of the Bible to Become Like Jesus-Study Guide. Randy Frazee, 2015 [248] “…explore the 30 essential beliefs, practices, and virtues that every Christian needs to know and live”  This study Guide accompanies the video based study already elsewhere on our shelves.

Theology – For Liberal Presbyterians and Other Endangered Species. Douglas F. Ottati, 2006 [230] “Writing out of the reformed tradition and a theology of grace and with a dose of humor, he [the author] addresses current issues…”

Deep Peace – Healing in Our Lives. J. Ellen Nunnally, 2003 [234]  “…explores the dimensions of human suffering and the redemptive power of prayer.”

The Lost Art of Praying Together – Rekindling Passion for Prayer.  James Banks, 2009 [248.3] “Praying together is an opportunity to enter into the presence of God in a unique and powerful way.”

The Christian Atheist – Believing in God but Living as If He Doesn’t Exist. Craig Groeschel, 2010 [248.2]  “Christians and Christian Atheists everywhere will be nodding their heads as they are challenged to take their own honest assessment and ask the question, Am I putting my whole faith in God but still living as if everything were up to me?”

Believe – The Words and Inspiration of Desmond Tutu.  Desmond Tutu, 2007 [248]

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am in the Westminster Room at the church.

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

     5/7/2019                Saving Arcadia                         Heather Shumaker   

    6/4/2019                The Orphan Daughter           Cari Noga                       

                                      NO Meeting in July

    8/6/2019                The Romanov Empress        C.W. Gortner                    

   9/3/2019                 The Russian Five                     Keith Gave                 

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

The Next Person You Meet in Heaven. Mitch Albom, 2018 [Fiction] “In this long-awaited sequel, Mitch Albom reveals Annie’s story, [the girl saved in The Five People You Meet in Heaven] and what happened next.”

The Last Ten Percent. Michelle McKinney Hammond, 2006 [Fiction]  As the future unfolds, these longtime friends discover that love comes in unique and amazing ways.”

Turtle in Paradise. Jennifer L. Holm, 2010 [Child]  “…historical novel, rich in historical detail, humor, and the unique flavors of Key West.”  This story, especially for 8 to 12 year olds, also tells a lot about the great Depression.

In the Garden – An Ordinary Woman, An Extraordinary Life — Ellen – A Memoir. Janet Hasselbring, 2013 [920] “…a testimony to the power of faith and surrender to God’s will.”  Ellen, the author’s mother lived in western Michigan.

Everything Happens for a Reason. Kate Bowler, 2018 [920] The author, a professor at Duke Divinity School subscribes to “the prosperity gospel which sees fortune as a blessing from God and misfortune as a mark of God’s disapproval.”  When she becomes seriously ill she is faced with reconciling her faith and understanding.

Rekindling the Romance – Loving the Love of Your Life. Dennis & Barbara Rainey, 2004 [248.8]  “The God who makes all things new is waiting to work a miracle in your marriage.”

For Parents Only – Getting Inside the Head of Your Kid. Shaunti Feldhahn & Lisa A. Rice, 2007 [248.8] For every bewildered parent, there’s a kid longing to be understood.”

Be Still And Know That I am God – 31 Days to a Deeper Meditative Prayer Life.  Amy and Judge Reinhold, compilers, 2007 [248.4] “…invites you into the joy and peace that can be found in the age-old practice of contemplative prayer…”

23 Minutes in Hell – One Man’s story about what he saw, heard, and felt in that place of torment.. Bill Wiese, 2006 [236] “…since this life-changing ordeal, he [the author]has spent the last seven years studying the Scriptures to find answers and has listed more than 130 Bible verses referencing hell.”

The Gospel of Ruth– Loving God Enough to Break the Rules. Carolyn Custis James, 2008 [222] “…provides a compelling and riveting reading of the book of Ruth that reveals a grace-ful message and will change your assumptions about Ruth as well as Naomi and Boaz.”

Just Walk Across the Room– Simple Steps Pointing People to Faith. Bill Hybels, 2006 [248]  “What if you knew that by simply crossing the room and saying hello to someone, you could change that person’s forever?”

Steadfast Hope – The Palestinian Quest for Just Peace.  Israel/Palestine Mission Network-PCUSA, 2009 [263 & DVD] Read this account (and watch this DVD) to gain perspective and knowledge of the long-lasting conflict and the Presbyterian church’s stand.

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)                   

4/2/2019                The Indigo Girl                        Natasha Boyd                  

5/7/2019                Saving Arcadia                         Heather Shumaker   

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

The Heartache No One Sees – Christ’s Promise of Healing for a Woman’s Wounded Heart.  Sheila Walsh, 2004 [248.8]  “You’re invited to join her on a prayer-filled, God-seeking journey to understand how to live in this world, with all its potential for hurt, pain and fear . . .”

In the Sanctuary of Women – A Companion for Reflection & Prayer. Jan L. Richardson, 2010 [242]  This refreshing resource widens the mind, deepens the heart, and strengthens the soul of spirituality.”

The Kurds – Creation of the Modern Middle East. Heather Lehr Wagner, 2003 [956] “…the 20 million Kurds living there [at the intersection of Iraq, Iran, and Turkey] find themselves without a homeland, unwanted guests of unfriendly regimes.”  Read this to get a better understanding of the situation faced by the Kurds for whom we support a missionary who serves them.

The New Faces of Christianity – Believing in the Bible in the Global South. Philip Jenkins, 2006 [270.8] In the global south [e.g. Nigeria, Indonesia and Sudan]…Christians are persecuted just as early Christians were.”  This is another book which will enlighten you regarding the lives of people being served by our Presbyterian missionaries.

Take Charge of Your Destiny. Dr. Alan Keiran, 2008 [241] “Taking Charge of Your Destiny means listening to God and following His plans for your life – every day.”

Climbing the Sycamore Tree – A Study of Choice and Simplicity. Ann Hagmann, 2001 [241]  “…examines economic decision making in light of what Jesus taught.”

Safe Haven Marriage – Building a Relationship You Want to Come Home To. Dr. Archibald D. Hart & Dr. Sharon Hart Morris, 2003 [616.89] “Whether you have been married for years or are just beginning your marital journey, the biblical principles in this book will help you heal and strengthen your marriage by making it emotionally closer and safer than ever before.”

No Perfect People Allowed – Creating a Come As You Are Culture in the Church.  John Burke, 2005 [253] We need to “…follow the example…in creating a grace- and gospel-friendly church culture.”

Quite a Year for Plums. Bailey White, 1998 [Fiction] “Heartbreakingly tender, often hilarious…[story of the] peculiar yet lovable people who inhabit a small town in south Georgia.”

The Last Days. Joel C. Rosenberg, 2003 [Fiction] “ The eerily prophetic…bestseller that predicted the last days of Yasser Arafat and Israel’s stunning withdrawal from Gaza…but was written before any of it happened.”

Eat, Pray, Love. Elizabeth Gilbert, 2006 [Fiction]  “…insightful, funny account of her [the author’s] travels.”

The Candlestone – Dragons in our Midst #2.  Bryan Davis, 2004 [Fiction] “Excitement, danger, and inspiration as two teens combat a dragon slayer.”

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

3/5/2019                The Drummond Girls            Mardi Link                       

4/2/2019                The Indigo Girl                        Natasha Boyd                  

5/7/2019                Saving Arcadia                         Heather Shumaker   

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

The Puzzle Bark Tree. Stephanie Gertler, 2002 [Fiction] Secrets kept to protect from grief often effect those around us in unintended and monumental ways.

The Rent Collector. Camron Wright, 2012 [Fiction] “… a story of hope…” despite relating a life of survival for a family in the largest municipal waste dump in all of Cambodia.

In a Sunburned Country. Bill Bryson, 2000 [919] This is memorable travel literature – entertaining and full of humor as well as information.

I Don’t Want to Go To Church – Practical Ways to Deal with Kids and Religion. Scott Cooper, 2007 [248.8] “…provides constructive ideas and resources for all parents – including those who might be more or less religious and more or less orthodox in their traditions…”

Noah’s Ark. Sally Lloyd-Jones, 2017 [Child] “Introduces little ones to the inspiring story of Noah…with this sturdy stand-up board book…”

Dog Lover’s Devotional – What We Learn about Life from Our Canine Companions. Katherine A. Douglas, 2012 [242] “You can find a lot of truth in the life of a dog…”

Secrets of the Vine – Breaking Through to Abundance. Bruce Wilkinson, 2001 [248.4] “Is it time to trade in mediocrity for a life of consequence? Do you want to experience the joy of making maximum impact for God?”

The Hole In Our Gospel – The Answer That Changed My Life and Might Just Change the World. Richard Stearns, 2010 [248.4] “What does God expect of us? Is our faith just about going to church, studying the Bible and avoiding the most serious sins – or does God expect more?.”

Buddha – A Story of Enlightenment. Deepak Chopra, 2007 [813] “…creative and dramatic retelling of Buddha’s life…”

Where I Am – Heaven, Eternity, and Our Life Beyond. Billy Graham, 2015 [248.4] “ Although Billy Graham may no longer preach from the stadiums of the world, in this book you will sense his heart still beats strong with the resounding assurance that he will spend eternity with Jesus Christ”

God’s Problem – How the Bible Fails to Answer Our Most Important Question – Why We Suffer. Bart D. Ehrman, 2008 [231] “…addresses one of the most compelling issues in all of human experience …with clarity and insight…you will certainly be challenged and moved…”

Devotional Stories for Women – 101 Daily Devotions to Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire Women. Susan M. Heim & Karen Talcott, 2009 [810.8] Another title in the Chicken Soup for the Soul tradition.

Book Discussion Group: Meets the 1^st Tuesday each month at 10 am

Date                            Title                                                  Author(s)        

3/5/2019                The Drummond Girls            Mardi Link                       

4/2/2019                The Indigo Girl                        Natasha Boyd                  

5/7/2019                Saving Arcadia                         Heather Shumaker   

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

Educated – A Memoir. Tara Westover, 2018 [920] “…the [true] story of a young girl’s escape from violence and emotional prison.  About the love of family and the pain of family both, the ferocity of the human spirit, and the power of education to change lives.”

I Am Malala – The girl who stood up for education and was shot by the Taliban. Malala Yousafzai, 2013 [920]  Malala was a courageous campaigner for education for girls at age eleven.  She survived being shot by the Taliban and became the youngest person ever nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize.

One Soldier’s Story – A Memoir. Bob Dole, 2005 [920]  “Dole tells the moving story of his harrowing experience on and off the battlefield and how it changed his life”

The Shoemaker’s Wife. Adriana Trigiani, 2012 [Fiction] “…an historical epic of love and family, war and loss, risk and destiny . . .” inspired by the author’s own family history and immigration from Italy.…”

Mountain Magic – Spellbinding Tales of Appalachia. Brian J. Hatcher, Editor. 2010 [Fiction]  “The power of magic is the power of story.  Both use illusion to illustrate the truth…both have the power to change us forever.”

Holding Out for a Hero – A new spin on Hebrews. Lisa Harper, 2005 [227.87 & DVD] “The first century Hebrews knew what it felt like to be so discouraged and disheartened that they lost focus on what was really important….Two thousand years later, nothing has changed.”

Belief – Readings on the reason for faith. Francis S. Collins, Editor, 2010 [202] “…more than an anthology…[a] wide-ranging, and powerful series of readings on the possibilities, problems, and mysteries of faith.”

A Brief History of the Presbyterians. James H. Smylie, 1996 [285]  “…chronicles the origins of the Reformed tradition and carries the saga through each subsequent era up to the eve of the twenty-first century, focusing on Presbyterianism in North America.”

On Grief & Grieving – Finding the Meaning of Grief through the Five Stages of Loss. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, M.D. & David Kessler, 2005 [152] “…weaves together theory, inspiration and practical advice, including sections on sadness, hauntings, dreams, isolation, and healing.”

The Concise A to Z Guide to Finding it in the Bible. Seth Ehorn & Linda Washington, Compilers, 2010 [Ref] “…wonder where to find a word or topic in the Bible?  Looking for texts to support or refute an argument?  Just curious about what the Bible has to say about [an issue]?”

Best Inspirational Stories of the Year. Honor Books, 2004 [248]  “…true stories that will warm your heart, lift your spirits and enrich your life.”

The Big Book of Church Jokes.  Barbour Books 2009 [102] “…features clean, good-natured humor plus quality cartoons, arranged by topics…”

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

Diary of a Teenage Girl.  Melody Carlson, 2005 [Fiction]  Kim is in danger of losing her driving privileges but strikes a deal with her dad to write a teen advice column for his newspaper.  When a classmate is killed, the letters she receives and the answers she strives to write lead to questions about life and death and what her adoptive Christian faith or the Buddhism of her Korean heritage have to offer.

First Love Forever– Romance Collection of 9 historical romances where first loves are rekindled.  Vetsch et al, 2018 [Fiction]  “Travel back to a gentler time in American history and meet nine couples who never forgot how their hearts were once bound by love.”

The Power of Kindness for Teens – True Stories Written by Teens From the Pages of Guideposts.  Mary Lou Carney, Editor, 2004 [177] “…these teens not only reveal the joy of serving others with kindness but also celebrate the kindness of true friends.”

The Happiness Hypothesis – Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom. Jonathan Haidt, 2006 [170] “…ten great ideas…discovered by several of the world’s civilizations…question it in light of what we now know from scientific research and to extract from it the lessons that still apply to our modern lives.”

Learning to Walk in the Dark. Barbara Brown Taylor, 2014 [248.4] “We can’t always see the light.  It waxes and wanes or can go out altogether.  What we need is a spirituality that works in the nighttime.”

Sacred Rhythms– Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation. Ruth Haley Barton, 2006 [248.4]  “…offers wise, sane and concrete help for people who are ready for the “more” of God amidst their busy lives, and want a better way to arrange their lives to receive God’s transforming presence.”

The Secret of Whispering Woods – The Journeys of Jessie Land #6. Jerry Jerman, [Children’s Books] Jessie, and her “almost-brother” Leo Little Wolf join forces to rescue their new friend.

Stalked in the Catacomb – A Daring Adventure. Peter Reese Doyle, [Children’s Books] Three teens are stalked in Paris as they journey into the dark catacombs beneath the streets.

God’s Quiet Things. Nancy Sweetland, 1994 [Children’s Books]

Cats and Bats and Things Like That. V. Gilbert Beers, [Children’s Books]

I Have Two Daddies – An Earthly Daddy and A Heavenly Daddy. Lynn Calvin, 2008 [Children’s Books]

– NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY –

The Noticer – Andy Andrews, 2009 [Fiction]  “…grapples with life’s biggest questions… It only takes a little perspective to recognize the miracles in our moments, the seeds of greatness tucked into our struggles.”

Experience, Strength & Hope.  Alcoholics Anonymous, 2003 [362]  A collections of stories back to the initial 56 members of A.A. Fellowship and through tremendous growth of membership of this healing organization.

The Purpose Driven Life – Devotional for Kids. Rick Warren, 2015 [Children’s books] This book of devotionals, first donated to the orphanage in Bolivia, has now been donated back to the church.  “….devotions meant to help you discover who you are in God’s eyes and help you find your purpose in relation to Christ.”

Lazarus, Come Forth! – How Jesus Confronts the Culture of Death and Invites Us into the New Life of Peace. John Dear, 2011 [232.9] “… reading it will lead us away from the culture of death all around us and into the new life of peace Jesus offers to those who accept His radical way of active love.”

The Broken Truth. Karl Olson, 2017 [248] “We all live in a broken world and this explains my brokenness and how we can overcome it with his help!”

On Living. Kerry Egan, 2016 [170]  “…allows us a glimpse into a little-known world where ordinary people face death with wit, humor, sadness, and regret.”

Zealot – The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth. Reza Aslan, 2013 [232.9] “This is Jesus as a passionate Jew, a violent revolutionary, a fanatical ideologue, an odd and scary and extraordinarily interesting man.”

Peace Be Upon You – Fourteen Centuries of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish Conflict and Cooperation. Zachary Karabell, 2007 [201] “…thoughtful and passionate, hopeful but without illusions … reveals the history of peaceful coexistence among Muslims, Christians and Jews over the course of fourteen centuries until the present-day.”

Non-Religious Christian – Finding Faith Outside the Church. Vern Jones, 2012 [201] “…debunks so-called biblical truths and the whole notion of biblical inerrancy… puts forward a new and exciting way of looking at faith, without the restrictions placed by organized religion…”

Exuberance – The Passion for Life. Jay Redfield Jamison, 2004 [152.4]  “…something wonderfully different: an exploration of exuberance and how it fuels our most important creative and scientific achievements.”

The Man Who Planted Trees – A Story of Lost Groves, the Science of Trees and a Plan to Save the Planet. Jim Robbins, 2012 [333.75]  This is the story of our own Northwest Michigan nurseryman, David Milarch and “his near-death experience in which he was shown an image of a devastated Earth, …was tasked with cloning the champion trees of the world.”

Comfort and Joy – Volume One. Cantus, 2004 [CD] Enjoy this lovely collection of the male choir, Cantus, in performing wonderful Advent music.

NEWEST TITLES IN THE LIBRARY

The Jesus Film. The Dove Foundation, 2006 [DVD]  “The timeless story of the most beloved – and yet the most controversial – figure ever to walk the earth.”

The Cross and the Switchblade.  Gateway Films, [DVD] “The change in the life of notorious gang leader Nicky Cruz, as shown in the film, proved to be wonderfully lasting and real.”

Jesus Always – Embracing Joy in His Presence. Sarah Young, 2016 [242] Enjoy this delightful little book of devotionals because ”Life is full of difficulties and joy often feels out of reach.”

Adventures in Daily Prayer– Experiencing the Power of God’s Love.  Bert Ghezzi, 2010 [248.3] “If you want to grow in your spiritual life, read this book, implement some of its suggestions, and you will be on your way.”

The Great Omission – Reclaiming Jesus’ Essential Teachings on Discipleship. Dallas Willard, 2006 [248.4] “The last command Jesus gave the church before he ascended to heaven was the Great Commission, the call for Christians to ‘make disciples of all the nations.’  But Christians have responded by making ‘Christians’ not ‘disciples’.”

The Apostles’ Creed for Today. Justo L. Gonzalez, 2007 [248.4] “…serves as a wise guide through the thorny issues of the past that gave rise to the statements of the Creed.”

The Reason for God – Belief in an Age of Skepticism. Timothy Keller, 2008 [239] “…addresses the frequent doubts that skeptics, and even ardent believers, have about religion.”

Discovering Jesus. William Barclay, 2000 [248] “…takes us through the key events in the life of Jesus.  Using maps, charts, tables, and lists Barclay illuminates the historical background, making it clear, lively, and exciting for readers of all ages.”

World on the Edge – How to Prevent Environmental and Economic Collapse. Lester R. Brown, 2011 [500] “…looks at our economic future through an environmental lens to develop a plan that will sustain civilization.”

Why I am Not an Arminian. Robert A. Peterson & Michael D. Williams, 2004 [230] “…Arminian’s have too lofty a view of human nature and an inadequate understanding of God’s sovereign love, in Christ.”

Why I am Not a Calvinist. Jerry L. Walls & Joseph R. Dongell, 2004 [230] “Is God a master puppeteer, pulling our strings?  Or has he graciously given his children freedom to respond to his love?”

Who Are You to Judge? – Learning to Distinguish Between Truths, Half-Truths and Lies. Erwin W. Lutzer, 2002 [241] “Our task is to make wise judgments in a nonjudgmental world!”

Unspeakable – Facing Up to Evil in an Age of Genocide and Terror. Os Guinness, 2005 [170] “…offers a brilliant map to help us navigate and confront the difficult landscape of modern life, and modern evil.”

Practicing Your Path – A Book of Retreats for an Intentional Life. Holly W. Whitcomb, 2002 [248] “…offers seven one-day retreats that can be followed in the privacy of your own home – or in the company of other spiritual seekers.”

The Book on Leadership. John MacArthur, 2004 [253] “…presents the ’26 Characteristics of a True Leader’.  Whether you are a business leader, civic leader, church leader, parent, teacher, or student, the life of Paul will empower you to unleash your own capacity for leadership.”

NEWEST TITLES IN OUR NEW RICHARDSON LIBRARY –

Random Acts of Kindness. Conari Press, Editors, 1993 [177] “Be a force of kindness…will inspire you to start – with the small, the particular, the individual – to bring delight and goodness to yourself and others.

16 Lighthouse Road. Debbie Macomber, 2001 [Fiction] Another story of people in a small town (Cedar Cove, Washington) living regular, complicated lives of struggle and joy.

The Last Rhinos – the Powerful Story of One Man’s Battle to Save a Species. Lawrence Anthony, 2012 [599.66] When the author (owner of a Zululand game reserve) “…heard that there were only a handful of northern white rhinos left in the wild…he knew he had to take action.”

10 Gospel Promises for Later Life. Jane Marie Thibault, 2004 [248.8] “Many older adults experience a spiritual crisis as they face what seems to be ongoing diminishment. How does the Good News speak to their fears?”

God Whispers – Learning to Hear His Voice. Margaret Feinberg, 2002 [248] “The majority of Americans pray, but how many recognize when God has answered?

Light in the Shadow of Jihad – The Struggle for Truth. Ravi Zacharias, 2002 [239] “Where was God on September 11? …searches through the rubble – and the Bible for the answers people need to their searing questions?”

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven – A remarkable account of miracles, angels and life beyond this world. Kevin & Alex Malarkey, 2010 [236] When six year old Alex “…awoke from a coma two months later [after a terrible car wreck], he had an incredible [true] story to share.”

Have a Little Faith- a True Story. Mitch Albom, 2009 [296.7] “…a heartwarming true story about the power of love to triumph over death, and the power of faith.”

The Good and Beautiful God – Falling in Love with The God Jesus Knows. James Bryan Smith, 2009 [200] “Put your ideas about God and how he works to the test to see if they match up with what Jesus himself reveals about God?”

The Good and Beautiful Life- Putting On the Character of Christ. James Bryan Smith, 2009 [200] “We have bought into false notions of happiness and success. These self-centered decisions lead us further into the vices that cause ruin: anger, lust, lying, worry and judging.”

The Good and Beautiful Community- Following the Spirit, Extending Grace, Demonstrating Love. James Bryan Smith, 2010 [200] “…helps us to know how to live in relationship with others as apprentices of Jesus.”

Job – A Man of Heroic Endurance. Charles R. Swindoll, 2004 [222] “…another of God’s amazing men with heroic character qualities worth emulating.”

The Journey- Our Quest for Faith and Meaning. Os Guinness, 2001 [239] “…a carefully conceived collection of readings that illustrate the historical human search for truth, reality and spiritual goodness.” One of the Trinity Forum Study Series, this book includes a reader’s guide.

NEWEST TITLES IN OUR NEW RICHARDSON LIBRARY –

Small Great Things. Jodi Picoult, 2016 [Fiction] The newborn son of a white supremacist dies while under the care of a black labor and delivery nurse.  This story tackles race, privilege, prejudice, justice and compassion with no easy answers.

The Shop on Blossom Street.  Debbie Macomber, 2004 [Fiction] “Four very different women, brought together by an age-old craft [knitting] make unexpected discoveries – about themselves and each other.”

Hemingway– One Man’s Faith, a Family’s Struggle to Forgive.  Core Faith Media, 2012 [DVD-Family] The owner of the Hemingway publishing empire died and surprises the family with his will in which he required that long-time family feuding be resolved within 8 hours or the entire company would be donated to charity.

The Billy Graham Story. John Pollock, 1985 [920] Read this authorized biography of the much respected and revered Billy Graham as a tribute to his life which ended just last month.

Images of My Life. William E. Wilson, 2016 [920] Our own Bill Wilson, recently deceased member of our church has written another memoir – this one relives his long life in Traverse City as well as his experience in World War II.

A Walk in the Woods– Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail. Bill Bryson, 1998 [917.404]  This is another of this author’s wildly entertaining books full of humor and love for nature.

The Lotus and the Cross – Jesus Talks with Buddha. Ravi Zacharias, 2001 [232] “Jesus and Buddha agreed that Truth could withstand scrutiny.  Listen in as the Soul of Truth speaks with the Heart of Compassion.”

Preparing for Heaven – What Dallas Willard Taught Me about Living, Dying, and Eternal Life. Gary Black Jr., 2015 [236] “…a beautiful account of friendship, a profound vision of afterlife, and a wise and inspiring guide for how we can and must live now, given that bright image of heaven.”

Life with God – Reading the Bible for Spiritual Transformation. Richard J. Foster, 2008 [248.4] “…awakens us to God’s continued desire to commune with us despite the deafness of our sin-blunted ears.”

Experiencing God – Knowing and Doing the Will of God. Henry & Richard Blackaby and Claude King, 2008 [231] “When you open this book, you’ll find that you aren’t just reading.  No, you are being remade, reoriented, and restored from the frustration of what you may have known as stale religion.”

Truth & Power – The Place of Scripture in the Christian Life, 1996 [220.1] “…challenges the church to keep the Bible and to keep to the Bible.”

Lifting Up the Poor – A Dialogue on Religion, Poverty & Welfare Reform. Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 2003 [261.8] “…moving, pointed, and informed discussion of poverty, one or our most vexing public issues.”

Is the Market Moral? – A Dialogue on Religion, Economics & Justice.  Pew Form Dialogues on Religion & Public Life, 2004 [261.8] “…grapples with the new imperatives of a global economy while working in the classic tradition of political economy, which has always treated seriously the questions of morality, justice, productivity and freedom.”

Liberty and Power – A Dialogue on Religion & U.S. Foreign Policy in an Unjust World. Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 2004 [261.8] “What role should religion play in shaping and implementing U.S. foreign policy?”

One Electorate under God? – A Dialogue on Religion & American Politics. Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 2004 [261.8] “…voices seeking to promote a greater understanding of American thinking about faith and public office in a pluralistic society.”

A Visual Guide to Gospel Events – Fascinating Insights into Where They Happened and Why. James C. Martin, John A. Beck & David G. Hansen, 2010 [232.9] “…includes hundreds of photographs and maps to bring to life the world in which Jesus lived.”