Bad Religion Good News Book Group
WHEN?
Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. October 28, November 4, 11 and 18
WHERE?
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Verona Campus Coffee Bar Area
WHAT?
A weekly discussion on the book Bad Religion, Good News: An Honest Guide for the Spiritually Disappointed by local author Scott Bessenecker – director of Global Engagement & Justice for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.
WHO?
It’s right there in the title of the book! This is a book for the spiritually disappointed – those that have been hurt, let down, frustrated, confused, angry and worn down by the institution we call the church. At some point, that’s likely been all of us. But, importantly, it’s also a book for those who are willing to look in the mirror and be a part of a church that could be different – a church that more closely resembles who it worships.
WHY?
Far too many people experience hurt and disappointment within the church and far too few faith communities grapple seriously with the systems, histories and narratives that shape these experiences. How do we embody a prophetic alternative to the disappointment and domination that the church has often perpetrated? It’s an answer we need to seek in community.
HOW CAN I GET A COPY OF THE BOOK?
You can visit BookShop.org to buy a copy through a local bookstore or visit the publisher’s website for a list of local bookshops.
WORDS OF RECOMMENDATION
“Bessenecker honors the harm that has been done in the name of Christ while inviting us to live out a better version of the faith…he dares us to live out a version of Christianity that reminds the world of Jesus, the one who made it clear that they will know we are Christians by our love”
– Shane Claiborne | Author, Activist and Co-Founder of Red Letter Christians
“Bessenecker notes how personal challenges can help Christians build a deeper faith as they seek God’s ‘companionship’ to endure suffering, and how grappling with the church’s flaws is essential because the faithful are meant to live and grow in community”
– Publisher’s Weekly Review
