The journey : walking the road to Bethlehem

 by Adam Hamilton. It is undoubtedly a challenge to bring a fresh perspective to biblical texts that many Christians have heard in church and read countless times. But Hamilton (24 Hours That Changed the World), founding pastor of the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kans., brings careful research, the perspective of an experienced minister, and an eye for detail to his work that will appeal to many. Beginning with the Gospel reading appropriate to his meditation, he draws on historical information as well as his own travels to take the reader on a spiritual walk, beginning with the angel Gabriel's annunciation to Mary that she will bear God's son and ending with the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem. Threaded with the stories of people he met along his way, and of others who have represented God's purposes in his own life, Hamilton also attempts to separate biblical facts, from a Protestant point of view, from traditions he appears to consider more speculative. While the writer doesn't break much new ground, the book serves as an inviting window into familiar texts that many Christians may be at risk for taking for granted-always a helpful exercise. --Publishers Weekly (Check Catalog)

Catholicism : a journey to the heart of the faith

 by Robert E. Barron. The Catholic Church has certainly faced some difficult challenges in recent years. Sex scandals, bishops who looked the other way, and a shortage of priests are seared into the consciousness of many within and outside this faith tradition. Barron, a Catholic priest and professor of theology at Mundelein Seminary near Chicago, draws attention back to the beautiful and rich tradition of this two-millennia-old religion. The author is able to set politics aside and examine the true heart of the Catholic faith-God, Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the numerous devotional practices and dogmas that have developed over the centuries. He casts a spotlight on some of the holy people who have helped build up the church, such as Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, Katharine Drexel, and Mother Teresa. Barron's engaging stories help to dissect and explain complex theological tenets. One comes to understand that Catholicism transcends religious practice; it is a lifestyle. Those who would like a concise but substantive introduction to the Catholic faith need look no further. --Publishers Weekly (Check catalog)

Living beyond your feelings : controlling emotions so they don't control you

 by Joyce Meyer. Evangelical Christian author and speaker Meyer explains in her typical straightforward style how controlling emotions can be when they take over an individual's life. Meyer is known for her bold delivery and in this work maintains that standard, offering readers plain truth on taking back a life that has been ruled by emotions for too long. The author recounts generously from her own life episodes of comical (or otherwise) moments when she allowed her emotions to overrule her better judgment, with disastrous repercussions. Readers will resonate with Meyer's ability to relate biblical principles to daily life as she tackles the gamut of emotions: anger and resentment; sadness, loss, and grief; fear; guilt, and regret. Meyer focuses on learning to think biblically, speak biblically, and then see lives and emotions transformed. Her many fans will not feel disappointed in her latest work. --Publishers Weekly. (Check Catalog)

Surprised by Oxford : a memoir

 by Carolyn Weber.  Weber's transformation from agnostic to Christian occurs in the intellectually rigorous setting of Oxford University, where brainy students and brilliant professors both lead her to salvation and threaten to draw her away from it. Conveying the effects of unbridled inquiry and open-mindedness, this memoir of obtaining a degree in literature, and much more, also offers a peek inside of what many consider the world's most prestigious university, which Weber portrays as a place both steeped in great traditions yet tolerant of youthful exuberance. One of the best parts of the book is the author's self-deprecating sense of humor, which she uses to transcend challenging moments. Brimming with inspiring quotes from literary giants and great artists, this is a truly endearing work that offers great comfort and delight as it celebrates the Christian faith. --Booklist (Check Catalog)