When Faith Catches Fire

When Faith Catches Fire by Rev. Samuel Rodriguez and Dr. Robert Crosby is the story of the passionate fires of worship flaring among Latino and Hispanic churches worldwide. Discover how you can experience a more dynamic walk with God! Sharing compelling insights and personal stories, Rodriguez and Crosby will help you become immersed in the Spirit; transform your friendships, family, and community; and embrace unity amidst diversity in the church.

My review: The book is well written and has some stories and statistics I fully agree with...especially the reminders that ALL Hispanics and Latinos do not think alike or vote alike. I have never understood why the myth of "Group Think" continues to be popular among journalists and analytical "experts." Much of the information, especially stories of Billy Graham and Martin Luther King Jr., was things I already knew, too. Although I was VERY struck by the statement that many of the White churches were more concerned with handing out hope and the Black churches cared more about help. I am not sure I entirely agree with the statement, but I do believe that we need a combination of both help and hope.

To be fair, I am not exposed much to the Hispanic community, so I am unaware of any bridge being built to inspire the Church by Hispanics and Latinos. According to the book: At the core of this dramatic shift is a call to embrace a more soulful, passionate faith. In this powerful book, Christians will gain valuable insights on how to:

•  Fully experience the joy of God and the passion of His Spirit.
• Develop a true sense of unity amidst diversity in the body of Christ.
• Make an eternal impact on their families, communities, and the world.
  

I have heard Samuel Rodriguez preach 2 or 3 times and am always inspired and revitalized by what the Holy Spirit is doing through him and the message he has. However, I struggled to get through both this book, and another that I read. His fire and passion do not translate into the written word as well for me...but I still recommend him based on what I hear. It was another perspective to look at when trying to see what the Church needs to be doing today, but I did not entirely catch the vision...at least to the point of disregarding all other views.

I received a copy of the book at no cost to myself from Blogging For Books.

Changing Churches: A View From the Pew

• Are you a "church hopper" or thinking of becoming one? • Do you look down on Christians who change churches? • Did you know that 76% of "church switchers" are devout Christians? • Do you wonder about vast changes in church? • Do you wonder what will bring church unity and transformation? Changing Churches describes, through the eyes of one couple, the difficult journey that "church switchers" travel-a journey often precipitated by disruptive church changes. The book encourages Christ-like transformative change in churches rather than man-devised makeovers. As you read you will learn about: • The right reasons to leave a church. • How to manage the pain and angst of leaving a familiar church. • How to search for another church-the anxiety and adventure. • How to handle conflict between spouses about leaving and searching. • How to find the new church that fits you and fits God's plan for you. Changing Churches is helpful in understanding the sweeping changes in churches and what we can do to build up the church.

My Review: First of all, I want to say that I did like the last section of the book more than I did the first. My initial impression brought to mind people I know who are constantly complaining. I am not saying that they don't have legitimate reasons, but I don't understand why someone remains somewhere that they obvious dislike. Part of my lack of understanding is probably due to the fact that the first half of my life involved a lot of moving; I simply don't have emotional attachments to a particular church, school, etc. The other is due to a church split due to people who were extraordinarily attached to the building, yet held a lot of resentment toward the preaching, the music, the increased attendance, etc. So, while I did understand reasons Mrs. Parish wanted to leave each church, I guess I simply don't understand the emails and drama attached. To her credit, she did stick with some of them longer than I would have, but it came across like she was upset because the churches weren't following her personal preferences. 


But, the later half of the book went more into the reasons for leaving in a more factual, impersonal way that was more helpful (in my view) for those considering changing churches and gave a fuller insight into the church as a family from the lay persons view on to the pastor's responsibilities and needs. There are many reasons for leaving a particular church, but as Mrs. Parish herself suggests, this is a something that should be done prayerfully. I even understood better about discussing it with the pastor, especially if you feel that a false doctrine is being taught. This is a book that goes into detail and one you may want to consider purchasing if you are having doubts about whether you should be seeking another church.

Disclaimer: I'm a part of the CWA Review Crew and I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself in exchange for my honest opinion.

Rufus and Ryan Go To Church

 Rufus and Ryan Go to Church! is a board book that is sure to be a hit with your pre-schooler. Ryan is a 4 year old whose favorite companion is his stuffed monkey. On Sunday morning Ryan and his family go to church and, of course, Rufus goes with them. Ryan explains what is happening to Rufus so he will know when it is time to sing, pray, or to be quiet and listen. They also share play and snack time together.

Even if you attend a church that has a separate pre-school worship area, this is a good book for kids to learn how they should be have in "big" church. At the least, it will explain what you are doing while they are in their own class. It is a simple book with brightly colored illustrations to hold a child's attention and is very sturdy and the perfect size for a child who wants to "read" alone.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a copy of this book for review purposes by FlyBy Promotions. The were no requirements that they review be good---only honest and fair.

About the Rufus and Ryan

Rufus and Ryan is a new series of books for preschoolers, featuring Ryan, an energetic little boy, and his stuffed monkey Rufus. Basic Christian and church concepts serve as the foundation of the series, with an additional focus on character traits and development. The text is presented in young Ryan’s voice as he teaches Rufus about the concepts he is learning himself. Each story is about 150 words, using age-appropriate vocabulary and themes.

Also available now, Rufus and Ryan Say Their Prayers

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About the Author

Kathleen Long Bostrom is a published children’s author in both the Christian and trade markets. She has a Master’s in Christian Education and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching, and she has worked in children’s ministry for many years. Kathy and her husband, Greg, have three grown children and live in Illinois. 

About the Illustrator 

Rebecca Thornburgh began illustrating children’s books full-time in 1996 and today has almost 100 books to her name. Rebecca’s vibrant watercolors have been showcased in previous Ideals titles, including the new edition of The Story of Christmas. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters.