Just Spirituality: How Faith Practices Fuel Social Action
Description
Throughout history, Christians have been called by God to active engagement in society on behalf of the poor and oppressed. Christian leaders have been instrumental in caring for people who are poor, fighting injustice and advocating for social change. But they have never done so on their own power. Their energy and zeal were fueled by inner spiritual practices that propelled them forward into the world. Activist and historian Mae Elise Cannon explores the direct connection between Christians' personal relationship with God and outward actions of kindness, mercy, compassion and advocacy. She looks at how notable Christian leaders were able to face societal challenges because of the rich depths of their spiritual practices. For example:
- Mother Teresa's practice of silence compelled her to service.
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer's prayer life equipped his discipleship.
- Martin Luther King Jr.'s beloved community empowered his proclamation.
- Oscar Romero's discipline of submission prepared him to face martyrdom.
Biographical profiles of these and other key figures from around the world give us concrete examples of how activism and advocacy can be sustained over the long haul. Cannon also describes modern-day activists who embody the synergy of faith and action, with practical lessons for our own lives. Find yourself spiritually transformed by these examples, and follow in their footsteps in just service to the world.
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About the Author
Mae Elise Cannon is the senior director of advocacy and outreach in the Middle East for World Vision USA. She is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Covenant Church and a doctoral candidate at the University of California--Davis. She is also the author of Social Justice Handbook.
Reviews
"Cannon has presented a timely and well-written book on how spirituality can fuel social action. Her decision to show this process through the lives of seven Christian leaders helps make the book more effective. The Christian church has wrestled with the interplay of spirituality and mission from the start. Cannon helpfully adds to this discussion with a clear call that, when it comes to spirituality and mission, it is not a case of either/or but both/and."
Steve L. Porter, Journal of Spiritual Formation Soul Care, Fall 2013
"I comment Cannon for lifting up the examples of these historic Christian individuals and thereby challenging contemporary Christians working for social justice to attend to their inner lives. I applaud her for remind us that there is an inviolable connection between a disciplined spiritual life and a commitment to social justice."
Drick Boyd, PRISM, Fall 2013
"Just Spirituality is an interesting read for those wishing to review the lives of social activists with an eye on the spiritual disciplines they practiced. The reflections are encouraging in that they help show how leaders of historic justice movements were ordinary people who also struggled with spiritual disciplines. The bottom line is that these disciplines lead us into closer relationship with God, a relationship that should prompt us to work for restoration and justice in our communities and around the world."
Jared Klassen, MB Herald, June 1, 2013
