COVER STORY—The publishing arm of one of America’s oldest Protestant denominations is producing exciting new books that range from an angry, prophetic call to action over racism and injustice—to a warm-hearted embrace of young families trying to help children discover the spiritual wonders in daily life. And, a word of warning: A few of the new books from Chalice Press may seem downright dangerous if you carry them around in traditionalist congregations.
In our overview of this remarkable publishing house, we explain the compelling vision behind these books—and why that vision is making the world a better place. At ReadTheSpirit, we find that Chalice’s mission echoes a kindred spirit—and we quote from those inspiring principles. This week, you’re likely to find a couple of books you’ll want to order—plus there’s a link to a special sale. So, please, read our new Cover Story about Chalice Press and share this news with your friends.
RESPONDING TO TRUMP—In the middle of Stakes Is High, a short chapter zeroes in on the challenge of preaching truth in the Trump era, when entrenched camps of Americans now argue there are multiple, conflicting truths. These confrontations over truth have accompanied a dangerous rise in “hate speech” nationwide, studies are showing. One of our most popular ReadTheSpirit authors, Michigan State University’s Joe Grimm, just published a magazine story about the impact of this ideological chasm on two American newspapers. His story is headlined: Newspaper Wars in a Trump World.
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AN IMMIGRANT’S STORY
GOD SIGNS—Each week, columnist Suzy Farbman brings us a real-life story of men and women making a difference in the world. This week, meet Walid Al Houssami whose life as a driver has carried him—and his family—to some remarkable places.
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‘NEVER LONG ENOUGH’
THE RABBI & THE ARTIST—Many of our readers are talking about the unique new picture book about the end of life, called Never Long Enough. (Here is an earlier story introducing the book and the creators: Rabbi Joseph H. Krakoff and artist Dr. Michelle Y. Sider.) This week, you can listen to the rabbi and the artist via streaming radio. Michelle and Joseph will be on “Grief Chat” with Mitchell D. Carmody, via KDMA AM Radio (based in Minnesota). You can listen to the hour-long conversation via http://kdwa.com/listen/ It is on Tuesday, August 8th, from 11 a.m. to Noon CST. (Check your time zone—it’s streaming Noon to 1 p.m. EST).
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LIFE WITH A TRICKSTER
RODNEY CURTIS—One of our beloved authors, Rodney Curtis, occasionally adds a quirky personal story to our online magazine—a hallmark of his several books about his various adventures. This week, Rodney shares photos and a tale of an old friend who Rodney compares to the classic “Trickster” of mythology. Enjoy!
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HOLIDAYS!
Want to see all the holidays? Remember www.InterfaithHolidays.org.
RAKSHA BANDHAN—It’s a heart-warming festival that originated in India—an occasion for brothers and sisters. Stephanie’s column describes the custom of tying a “knot of affection” around the wrist on this holiday.
OBON—This international summertime celebration has Asian roots. Stephanie’s story includes links to Do-It-Yourself lanterns.
KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI—Hindus around the world celebrate Krishna’s birthday, also known as Janmashtami. In Stephanie Fenton’s column, she explains: “An observance that lasts eight days in some regions, Krishna Janmashtami honors the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.”
HONORING MARY—In the Catholic world, August 15 marks the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In Eastern Christianity, it’s called the Dormition of the Theotokos. The event remembered is the same: Mary, the mother of Jesus, taken up into Heaven. Stephanie Fenton explains the traditions around this ancient Christian festival.
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FAITH & FILM
ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published at VisualParables.org. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with complete study guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.
Among Ed’s latest free movie reviews are:
- THE BIG SICK—Delightful, says Ed. (4.5 out of 5 stars)
- DESPICABLE ME 3—It’s a “bubblegum movie,” writes Ed. (4 stars)
- RADIO DREAMS—4 stars for this unusual film that Ed describes as: “What might be regarded as an Iranian version of WKRP in Cincinnati combined with Waiting for Godot has its share of laughs, but also many quieter moments.” (4 stars)
- MAUDIE—Look for this terrific film about the unusual life of the Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis. (5 out of 5 stars)
- BEATRIZ AT DINNER—Ed writes, “The film’s fish-out-of-water story shines a spotlight on the darker side of American business practices.” He urges us not to miss it. (5 stars)
- BABY DRIVER—Ed describes this as “an unusual, fast-paced heist film with a romantic plot highlighted by some of the most stunning car chases ever caught on camera.” (5 stars)
- AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL—Want the latest on climate change from the point of view of real scientists? Catch this new documentary featuring Al Gore. (4 stars)
- WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES—”Who is truly humane?” That’s the thought-provoking question swirling through the action and excitement of this movie, writes Ed McNulty (5 out of 5 stars)
- DUNKIRK—Director Christopher Nolan divides this epic into three areas: Land, Sea and Air. (4.5 stars)
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