In the tradition of Garrison Keillor, Open Secrets captures the friendships, rivalries, and rumors of small-town life by chronicling the liv...
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reviews
Apr 04, 2011
Jonelle
rated it: 
I'm leading a discussion on spiritual memoirs for a Sunday School class soon and I decided to read memoirs written by pastors. This was the second book that I've read on the topic. Lischer, a Lutheran who now teaches at Duke, recounts the story of his first church in a rural, conservative midwest town in Illinois in the 60's. It was a very revealing story about many of those in his congregation, and really seemed to showcase all the things that he would have, or should have done differently.
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Feb 09, 2011
Todd
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A young Lutheran pastor tries to make changes in a staunchly conservative and set in their ways church. The toughest nut to crack in America is the traditional church. Members think they are the owners of the building, beliefs and those that serve in them. This pastor tries to make his way and does make a difference. Good read, very enjoyable.
Apr 07, 2010
Bill
rated it:
Powerful book about a new pastor's first church. Insightful reflections on the struggles, joys, and adventures of a first church as a pastor out of seminary. Highly recommended for pastors or anyone who wants a little window into the life of a pastor.
Apr 02, 2008
Carole
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This book is about a Lutheran Pastor's first parish. He is very honest about the mistakes he made (which lets me feel better that I don't have all the answers.) He doesn't tow the party line when he feels it is wrong. A nice story about learning to adapt and not trying to change people to be like you , but learning to work well with others. A great book by a man who now teaches at Duke University.
Jan 18, 2008
RF
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How what we learn in the academy trains... or doesn't train... how to connect with living life day by day in the context of relationships... this is a really great book!
May 23, 2009
Katherine
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Beautiful. Reminiscent of Gilead - or vice-versus; this came first, but I read it after. I highly recommend this one!!
Dec 16, 2009
Billy
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A great read for clergy struggling to make the transition from seminary to the parish.
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