Cultivating Community in the Patient Way of Jesus
Starred review from April 14, 2014
Smith, editor of The Englewood Review of Books, and Pattison, a writer and critic, propose a new model of community based on the transforming power of God in ordinary life. The authors write that “in a world where God is at work reconciling all creation, everything matters.” Taking as their model the Slow Food movement, the authors divide the book into three “courses”: ethics, ecology and economy. Work, family, place, rest, food, and money are the possible venues, the authors write, where transformation might take place. The authors write clearly and persuasively; each section of the book offers a theoretical and scriptural basis for the ideas discussed and practical suggestions for their implementation. Every chapter ends with “Conversation Starters”—questions useful for groups that might be reading this book together. Though primarily focused upon church communities, the ideas presented here may appeal to other types of religious or intentional communities. Individuals who are attempting to bring their own lives into line with their ethics and values will also find help.