I Stand by the Door

by Helen S. Shoemaker

The title of this biography comes from a poem by the subject, Samuel Moor Shoemaker, and the author is his wife. Widely known for his twenty-six years as rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City, and later for his work in ""The Pittsburgh Experiment"" while rector of Calvary church in that city, ""Sam"" Shoemaker proved himself to be a vigorous evangelist and a forceful influence in the lives of many persons, especially college students and business men of the executive class. His approach was strongly colored by his early involvement in the Oxford Movement, under the leadership of Frank Buchman; and although in his later years he separated from the Moral Disarmament Movement, the spirit and method of his ministry was largely formed on the lines of the Oxford Group. The biography follows a chronological order, for the most part.

Genres: Biography

220 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Bill Search · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a biography it meanders. Considering it’s the reflections of a loving wife about her beloved husband pulled together shortly after his death it’s remarkable. Shoemaker was on the list of who’s who of influential Christian leaders on the first half of the 20th century. He’s largely forgotten today, which is sad. Missing is Sam’s point of view on theology, race, and politics. It would be great if a modern biographer would take a swing at this subject. In the meantime, this is a delightful reflection on a truly influential pastor of the Episcopal Church. If there were more Episcopal priests like him perch the denomination would not be in such tragic decline.

[Nancy Nehila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very old book. But I’m a member of Alcoholics Anonymous. It amazed me how much his philosophy is part of the AA program. Father Sam was a wonderful example of God’s love manifest through a person.

[Bob Mehlhoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Biography of the Rev. Samuel Moore Shoemaker by his wife, Helen Smith Shoemaker.