CityView Magazine

CityViewNC.com | 49 who don't think of themselves as particularly religious recognize that religion has shaped and defined the region. Wendy Reed has brought together the works of Southern women writers who represent a wide variety of faiths – Catholic, Baptist, Jewish, Buddhist and others in between. eir essays and stories reflect the faith and passion of women from the South. e importance of place in Southern literature is discussed, along with the transformative power of art, religious fervor and the excitement of being saved, the relationship of faith and sexuality, and the role of women in southern religions. Over a dozen of the best known Southern women writers have contributed to this book including Barbara Kinsolver, Pauli Murray and Lee Smith. 5. "WHY DID JESUS, MOSES, THE BUDDHA, AND MOHAMMED CROSS THE ROAD? CHRISTIAN IDENTITY IN A MULTI-FAITH WORLD" BY BRIAN D. MCLAR EN Can you be committed to your religion without trying to condemn or convert those of different faiths? Is it possible to affirm other religions without being unfaithful to your own? Author and speaker Brian D. McLaren proposes an alternative construct that is built on "benevolence and solidarity rather than rivalry and hostility." As a Christian, he believes one can be strong in their own religion while still reaching out to those of other faiths by showing an interest in theirs and even collaborating on shared concerns. is can allow us to view other religions in a positive light and at the same time strengthen our commitment to our own. 6. "THE EPICENTER" BY DR. JIM MARTIN What would this list of suggested readings on faith be without the inclusion of a novel? We can learn a lot from well-written fiction, even when the plot centers on religion. Local writer Jim Martin, Director of Camp Rockfish, has written a story about two very different men on their separate but intersecting journeys of doubt, fear and conflict. When Tom Morris, the seasoned pastor of a local church, faces unexpected challenges, he finds himself about to leave the ministry. Even his faith in God hangs in the balance. As he seeks answers to his crisis of faith, he meets a cynical, wounded veteran, William Jackson, who has his own set of questions and struggles. As they begin their journey toward friendship, growth and faith, they encounter Emily Little, who may just help them say "Yes" to God's call. With her help, their own faith in God is restored and a faith in each other is born. "e Epicenter" has been described by one reviewer as a journey "on someone else's faith pilgrimage into a holy experience." Martin blends humor with the struggles of faith and a few amazing twists along the way on a roller coaster ride to an inspiring conclusion. Whatever your own personal faith, we can all benefit from examining and questioning those beliefs, especially when we feel challenged, incomplete, or lost. Whether you do this alone or with others, one of these books may help guide you on this journey. Diane Parfitt can be contacted at citycentergallerybooks@gmail.com. Summer at Sea! Summer at Sea! Summer at Sea! Ages 6-9 | $200 Session 1: June 21-26, 2021 Session 2: July 19-24, 2021 Ages 10-14 | $350 Session 1: June 7-19, 2021 Session 2: July 5-17, 2021 Ages 15-19 | $450* July 26-August 21, 2021 *Work Study Offered- please contact mdelaconcha@cfrt.org if you are interested Campers learn the fundamentals of musical theatre and collaboration while working with their peers to put on a fantastic production!

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