Recommended Resources
The clergy and staff at Holy Communion are often asked for their recommendations for good reading, online learning, and ways to engage with kids about faith. How do we take faith beyond Sunday worship and formation? In the pages below, you will find some suggestions for reading, watching, listening, and doing. We hope some of these recommendations spur your journey of faith. If you'd like to learn more, or make your own recommendation. Speak to a member of our clergy and staff.
Recommended Reading
Below you’ll find a few recommended books for folks looking to get to know The Episcopal Church, Contemporary Theology, or to go deeper in prayer and reflection. The clergy will be adding to this list as time goes on. Many of the books are available from the parish library. Email office@holycommunion.net if you’d like to borrow a copy, or make a suggestion.
The Episcopal Church:
The Episcopal Handbook (Revised Edition) by Tobias Haller
This little snarky book answers a lot of the common questions about The Episcopal Church. We give it to all participants in our Pilgrimage class for newcomers.
The Book of Common Prayer 1979 by The Episcopal Church
In the Anglican/Episcopalian Tradition we put the liturgies we pray together most often in a book called “The Book of Common Prayer.” Episcopalians do not have a shared "dogma." We stay instead that the rule of prayer is the measure of belief. We are united in prayer rather than by theology.
The Bible
The CEB Women's Bible
Folks often ask what kind of Bible they should buy (there are a lot of options). This new edition of the Common English Bible is the most recent translation authorized for use in worship by The Episcopal Church. The Women's Bible edition has really helpful commentary addressing issues of justice, particularly around gender.
The Good Book by Peter Gomes
The late Peter Gomes, minister of the University Church at Harvard opens the Bible. He examines what Scripture really says about women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of color. With compassion, humor, and insight, he gives readers the tools and understanding they need to make the ancient wisdom of the Bible a dynamic part of their modern lives.
Holy Imagination: A Literary and Theological Introduction to the Whole Bible by Judy Fentress-Williams
This introduction is informed by both literary theory and theology. It groups sections of the whole Bible together by genre. Our imagination spans the gaps left by sparse language and incomplete narratives. We return again and again, with more information and perhaps more experiences. The words are the same, but we are not; and for that reason there are always new discoveries.
How Can I Live Peacefully with Justice? by our former Rector
“How Can I Live Peacefully with Justice? is part of the “Little Books of Guidance” series from Church Publishing. The book narrates several stories from the life of Holy Communion, talking about how the former rector first came to know the church at a Ferguson protest, the development of our Laundry Love ministry and our relationship with El Salvador. The book is dedicated: ““to all the folks with whom I’ve marched (in church or the streets), and especially to Ellis and Silas.”
Take this Bread by Sara Miles
Sara is a fantastic writer. This book is part memoir, part theology, part manifesto. She talks about encountering Christ in the Eucharist, being converted and then reaching out with her local Episcopal church, St. Gregory of Nyssa in San Francisco.
Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor
Barbara Brown Taylor is an Episcopal priest and bestselling author. This memoir asks folks to take seriously their sense of calling, their sense of humor, and to ask how they relate to institutional religion. For many in our pews, this book helped reconcile a decision to leave the church in which they were brought up, and to join in the holy mess of Episcopalianism.
Holy Envy by Barbara Brown Taylor
In her latest memoir, Barbara Brown Taylor tells the story of how her faith became open to the faith of those who don't share her Christian tradition. She writes: "The only clear line I draw these days is this: when my religion tries to come between me and my neighbor, I will choose my neighbor. Jesus never commanded me to love my religion."
Holy Longing by Ronald Rolheiser
Alan Jones writes: "Spirituality is often given a bad name because it can mask a damaging sentimentality. The Holy Longing is a bracing alternative to religious posturing. Truly incarnational, Ronald Rolheiser grounds his vision of the spiritual life in hard real-life experiences and tells tough truths. In the end, it is the hard truths of compassion, forgiveness, and action in the world, that give us a true and lasting hope. A much needed antidote to the consumerist view of religion..."
This Is My Body: Embracing the Messiness of Faith and Motherhood by Hannah Shanks
Hannah's book is honest, funny, and profoundly theological. She notes that nothing and no one is born without a breaking, without pain. This is what mothers, and those of any gender identity who practice mothering love know: Mothering requires honesty, openness, and an ability to work through pain. The church will be blessed by Hannah's expansion on the words "This is my Body." These words include all kinds, and shapes, and gender expressions. These words are words for all of us.
The Cross and the Lynching Tree: James Cone
Before his death, James Cone was a leading voice in Black Liberation theology. He asks how Jesus' death resonates with the lynching tree. How does a savior executed by a police state speak to the souls of Black folk? How does his death give meaning to the unjust deaths of so many?
A Theology of Liberation by Gustavo Gutierrez
The seminal work on Latin American Liberation theology by the Peruvian Friar Gustavo Gutierrez, this book introduced the church to God's "option for the poor and marginalized."
Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening by Cynthia Borgeault
A simple practical introduction to the work of Centering Prayer, with ways to connect inner work to your daily life. Cynthia Borgeault is an Episcopal priest, and a student of the leader of the Centering Prayer movement, Thomas Keating
Everything Belongs by Richard Rohr
Richard Rohr is an Franciscan monk and a celebrated contemplative teacher. He has become a leading voice for a new vision of Christianity and prayer. This classic of Rohr's introduces his vision of a generous and engaged spiritual life. Our rector re-reads this book at least once every couple years.
The Dream of God by Verna Dozier
Verna Dozier was an Episcopal lay preacher. She had a career as a DC public school teacher. She was a graduate of Howard University two times over, and though she held no theological degrees, she became one of the most influential African American theologians our church has ever known.
Joy Unspeakable: Contemplative Practices of the Black Church
Joy Unspeakable focuses on the aspects of the Black church that point beyond particular congregational gatherings toward a mystical and communal spirituality not within the exclusive domain of any denomination. This mystical aspect of the black church is deeply implicated in the well-being of African American people but is not the focus of their intentional reflection.
Grace Gathering Recommends:
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Demystifying Disability by Emily Ladau
Grace Gatherings highly recommends our current read: Demystifying Disability..
Emily Ladau holds the reader's hand through what not to say, and what to say. She clarifies definitions. Empowered and effective allyship is the result.
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Disability in the Christian Tradition (edited by John Swinton and Brian Brock)
Wanting to go into deeper scholarship?
This collection looks at our traditions' attitudes and theology over time. Reading these essays will open up one's approach and interpretation of scripture.
Online Resources
In our digitally connected world, how can we keep plugged into our faith? Our Values? Scripture and the Christian Community? Below you’ll see a growing list of online resources is curated by our clergy and staff, places online where they find food for reflection, thought, and listening. What are your favorite places to learn, grow, and reflect? Let us know at office@holycommunion.net
Holy Communion Podcast
Did you know that you can listen to all our sermons forums, and even Theology on Tap online, or download them as a podcast for whatever audio player you favor?
Holy Communion's App and Directory
Our App makes all of our online content a little easier to navigate. You’ll be able to use it to find all of our recent sermons, recent emails, worship and classes. The App will also make signing up for events and groups more accessible. In the App you have easy access to our new online giving platform as well.The online directory is a pretty powerful tool for leaders and members. It also interacts directly with our church app and giving software
On The Way of Podcast
This podcast from St John’s Cathedral in Brisbane Australia features conversations exploring the deeper mysteries of faith, meaning, and beauty that people from all over the world are able to listen to on their Smartphone or computer. .
A Brave Place with Dr. Meeks
A Brave Space with Dr. Meeks supports the work of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing in the Diocese of Atlanta The Center seeks to create brave space where the truth can be told. The sessions explore various topics that address the intersections between slavery, lynching, the prison industrial complex, the death penalty and 21st-century police killings and the ways in which these issues prohibit racial healing in America.
Daily Office on the Go: Mission St. Clare
This app puts the daily office of The Episcopal Church in your hand. All of the readings are pre-loaded as are cycles of prayer. You can make your way through every word, or simply scroll and pray the parts you need most.
Centering Prayer App
The Centering Prayer application will support your daily prayer practice commitment. Beautiful and peaceful, the app includes an adjustable timer, as well as opening and closing prayer options that you may read before and after your silent prayer time. An assortment of sounds and backgrounds allow you to choose the type of environment you want to create for your prayer time. Brief instructions for learning Centering Prayer are also included.
On Being with Krista Tippet
A great collection of reflections and interviews on faith, life, spirituality. If you're looking for an episode to begin your journey, listen to "A God of Surprises" with Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Daily Meditations from Richard Rohr and the Center for Action and Contemplation
Wisdom in your email box. Over the course of this year’s Daily Meditations, Richard Rohr explores how we can incarnate love in our unique context by unveiling the image and likeness of God in all that we see and do. Each week builds on previous topics, but you can join at any time!
Pray as you Go podcast
This daily podcast from the British Jesuits, it reflects on scripture on a daily calendar (pretty close to the Episcopal Church's calendar of readings, but not exact). The short episodes feature questions for reflections, invitations to prayer, and great music.
For Kids and Families
How can you instill and inspire faith at home? We know there are a lot of companies marketing “Christian” stories to kids and families. Below you’ll find a few of our staff and parents’ recommended books and resources for families and kids.
Illustrated Ministry: Worksheets and Coloring
Illustrated Ministry is offering free weekly resources during this time. These are great ways to engage the lessons together as family, and color together. Give them your email address, and download weeks worth of material!
Building Faith: Faith Practices for the Home
The "Building Faith" blog from Virginia Seminary has a fantastic set of posts about different practices families might use together at home to practice their faith.
Today is Baptism Day by Anna V. Ostenso Moore
An ideal book to read with children to wonder and learn about baptism, with illustrations that reflect the diversity of God's people. Grounded in the Episcopal liturgical tradition, it is an accessible and inviting introduction to baptism for children and families of many Christian traditions.
We Gather at This Table by Anna V. Ostenso Moore
Breaking bread with others is central to our faith. This book is an invitation to learn and wonder about why we worship and celebrate the Holy Eucharist. Although grounded in the Episcopal liturgical tradition, it is an accessible and inviting introduction to worship for children and families of many Christian traditions.
Full, Full, Full of Love by Trish Cooke
A story of a family gathered around Grannie's dinner table. This is a great rhythmic book centered on love, family, and food.
All are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
Follow a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms. A school where kids in patkas, hijabs, and yarmulkes play side-by-side with friends in baseball caps. A school where students grow and learn from each other's traditions and the whole community gathers to celebrate the Lunar New Year. All Are Welcome lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place, they have a space, they are welcome in their school.
When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner
God's Love from the very beginning of our life is the center of this book, which centers children of color.
Baby Blessings: A Prayer for the Day you are born by James E. Ransom and Deloris Jordan
A prayer for children, a hope for God's presence and blessing.
Keats's Neighborhood by Ezra Jack Keats
This collection of classic children's stories mark some of the richest tellings of life in a dense urban neighborhood. These stories changed our sense of who is featured in a board book.
The Marvelous Mustard Seed by Amy-Jill Levine
Discover the surprising potential of one small seed in The Marvelous Mustard Seed. Based on Jesus’ parable of the Mustard Seed, this inspiring children’s book shows young readers that one tiny seed—just like one small child—carries a world of potential. The Marvelous Mustard Seed features ethnically diverse characters, and it is ideal for children ages 4-8.
Maybe God is Like that Too
Every child wonders where God lives or what God is like. In Maybe God Is Like That Too, a young boy asks his grandma where God is in their city. She invites him to pay attention to where he sees the fruit of the Spirit. Where love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are, there too is God.
The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Jago
This delightful storybook, with wonderful illustrations reflecting the diversity of Jesus' followers, presents a thoughtful and engaging look at Jesus for kids and families. There’s also an awesome bilingual English/Spanish version.
He's Got the Whole World in His Hands by Kadir Nelson
A classic spiritual and children's song gets it's own book, with beautiful illustration. While this children's book does use male pronouns for God, it is a beautiful and reassuring book for unsure times.
Psalms for Young Children by Marie-Helene Delval
The Psalms are the oldest prayers in the Bible. They express the fullness of human emotion. This beautifully illustrated book helps children learn to bring their joy, their sorrow, and their anger to God.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Madeleine L'Engle, an Episcopalian, won the Newberry Prize for this teen novel. The story features a girl protagonist who is good at science. In 2018 Ava Duvernay adapted the book into a major film for Disney, featuring a diverse cast. This book asks big spiritual and religious questions, and gives loving and generous answers.
Camp Phoenix
Camp Phoenix is the Episcopal Camp Program run one week in late summer each year. Scholarships are available from Holy Communion and the wider diocese. No kid should miss camp because of funding. Horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, crafts and a week of spiritual exploration are all part of Camp Phoenix.
Anytown: Youth Leadership for Social Justice
Church scholarships are available for Anytown: Anytown Youth Leadership Institute is a 6-day, full immersion, residential program for high school youth interested in making their school and community environments more socially just. Participants have the opportunity to explore topics of discrimination through experiential exercises and group dialogue, while making close friends from across the state and St. Louis region.
Calm and Compassionate Children by Susan Dermond
While not directly a resource on faith, this book by a leading educator offers activities and ways of nurturing thoughtful caring kids.