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  June 2009
In This Issue
Upcoming Events
Suggested Summer Reading
 
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Dear Reader,
 
I am not sure why Madison Avenue thinks of summer as a time for light reading. Most of us seem to be very busy with jobs, graduations, weddings, kids' summer schedules, and family reunions during this time of year. 
 
Yet, there seem to be multiple listings of books to read while we 'vacation.' Books suitable for reading at the beach or in the mountains, volumes about family life or museum visits in big cities, murder mysteries or maybe even long novels for extended travel and trips abroad.  I understand some folks even enjoy reading cookbooks during the summer and trying new recipes on the grill.
 
In any case, we, too, have hopped on the bandwagon. In this issue of The Bridge we offer a few brief suggestions of books from several members of our staff.  You will notice a wide variety. 
 
We pray you will find a moment or two for R & R during your busy summer.  If one of our suggestions fits and provides a brief respite along your journey, we will celebrate with you. 
 
ENJOY
John Adams signature

John B. Adams, M.Div.    
Co-Director, Turner Ministry Resource Center
jadams@pilink.org
 
John Adams 0509
Upcoming Events
  
Mondays in June
The Hire Ability Project - A collaboration with area churches to provide resources for parishioners who have lost their jobs. 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.  Contact Sheila White at 706-649-6400, ext. 1237 for information
 
June 16
Communication at Work -
8 a.m.-12 noon
 
July 21
Time Mastery -
8 a.m.-12 noon
 
July 23
Emergenetics: A Meeting of the Minds -
8 a.m.-12 noon
 
For more information or to register for any of these workshops, click on:
Month Year
Suggested Summer Reading
Down River - by John Hart
Ultimately a story about forgiveness, this compelling thriller is a terrific, well-crafted story that pulls the reader along. A powerful, heart-pounding murder mystery, the worst and best of human nature is revealed through this Southern tale. It's a vacation book that will transport you into another realm. 
Recommended by Ron King
 
Let Your Life Speak - by Parker Palmer
A quintessential read for anyone who is in search of self. Palmer says instead of telling your life what it is you want to do, perhaps you should listen to what your life wants you to do.
Recommended by Kelvin Redd
 
Three Cups of Tea - by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
Describing Mortenson's transition from a mountain-climber to a humanitarian committed to reducing poverty and educating girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan. He founded the "Central Asia Institute" which has built over 78 schools in remote areas of these countries. A wonderful read on overcoming cultural divides.
Recommended by Fran Magoni
 
Now Know Your Strengths - by Marcus Buckingham
The author suggests we focus on our strengths instead of our weaknesses. He discourages parents from centering attention on the one or two things their child does not do well, rather, to encourage them in their positive attributes.
Recommended by Kelvin Redd
 
Between A Rock and A Hard Place - by Aron Ralston
An unforgettable story of the courage one man found to save himself. With his right hand wedged between a boulder and a rock wall in a remote canyon in Utah, Ralston, over the course of five days and nights, arrives at the only conclusion which might possible save his own life. 
Recommended by Mark Strunk
 
Third Degree - by Greg Iles
This is a book with high-intensity and mystery. The complicated relationships of the characters result in a somewhat surprise outcome. 
Recommended by Pat Killough
 
Why Can't We Be Good? - by Jerry Needleman
A very enjoyable, challenging and fresh approach to the problem of inner division of human beings. St. Augustine said, "A question have I become for myself." In this book, Needleman approaches the problem of our lack of interest in becoming aware of and then being able to sustain the effort of bearing the contradictions within ourselves. "An evil man is one who is utterly incapable of ever seeing the contradiction between his two natures, in whom there never has and never can exist a channel for the voice of conscience." 
Recommended by Stephen Muse
 
UnChristian - by David Kinnaman
Extensive polls conducted by the Barna Group serve as foundation for this study of why Americans, age 16-29, are by and large dismissive of religion and religious institutions. Several contributors share their thoughts on some of the findings revealed. 
Recommended by Fran Magoni
 
The Shack - by William Young
Some will like this unconventional look at the Trinity, while others may be dismayed and think it heretical. The author had to publish his book because no publishing houses would do so. The story of a man struggling to make sense of his personal grief and how he ultimately found faith through meeting three unconventional representations of the Trinity. Reminiscent of Charles Dickens story of Scrooge, I found this a good read and highly recommend it.
Recommended by John Adams
 
Anyway: The Paradoxical Commandments -  by Kent M. Keith
This author will open your eyes to an unconventional look at why we should do the right thing and how to find personal meaning in your life when it is so easy to be blinded by these chaotic times.
Recommended by Sandy Harris
 
Creating a Healthier Church - by Ronald Richardson
Applies Murray Bowen's System Theory to congregational life. Good read for clergy and lay leaders on emotional dynamics at work in local church. 
Recommended by John Adams
 
When the Heart Cries - by Cindy Woodsmall
The setting for this book is in Amish Country and you get an insight into the culture and strong family beliefs. Your emotions will be tested as a young woman has to choose between her beliefs, her family and her heart. 
Recommended by Pat Killough
 
The Emotionally Healthy Church - by Peter Scazzero
Many sincere followers of Christ are unaware of the crucial link between emotional health and spiritual maturity. They present themselves as spiritually mature but are stuck at a level of immaturity that current models of discipleship have not addressed. This book offers a strategy for discipleship that accomplishes healthy living and actually changes lives.
Recommended by John Adams
 
 
We invite your feedback. Let us know if you particularly enjoyed one of these recommendations - or not! Tell us what you've been reading this summer. Email us at jadams@pilink.org
 
Month Year
 
In July's issue of The Bridge - Pastoral Leadership
Turner Ministry Resource Center of the Pastoral Institute | 2022 Fifteenth Avenue | Columbus | GA | 31901