Although interest in spiritual practices has grown in recent years, most of the books available address individuals who wish to try Christian disciplines such as fasting or fixed-hour prayer. This book, by contrast, offers guidance and examples to Christian leaders as they seek ways to involve their congregations or small groups in spiritual practices.

In Joy Together, Lynne M. Baab describes six spiritual practices that congregations can attempt together: thankfulness, fasting, contemplative prayer, lectio divina, hospitality, and Sabbath keeping. She goes on to explore how these practices can help with congregational life and discernment and provides practical instructions for communicating with group members. Discussion questions are included at the end of each chapter so groups can delve into the topics more fully.

About the Author
Lynne M. Baab, Ph.D. (www.lynnebaab.com) is the author of several books and Bible study guides on spiritual practices, including Sabbath Keeping and Fasting. She has also written books on online communication, such as Friending and Reaching Out in a Networked World. She is a Presbyterian minister and teaches pastoral theology at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand.

Reviews
"In her typically wise and inviting manner, Lynne Baab offers a distinctive approach to cultivating deeper spiritual lives in congregations by engaging ancient faith practices in fresh and timely ways. Her writing shimmers on every page. Her insights motivate. Her approach captures the deep joy of active Christian faith lived well with others in community." -Allan Hugh Cole Jr., Academic Dean, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and editor of A Spiritual Life "In Joy Together Lynne Baab exuberantly-and realistically-displays the way spiritual practices can strengthen groups or whole congregations of Christians. Her illustrations are convincing; her experiences, vast and confirming; her explanations, constructive. I heartily urge every Christian to read this book, significant as it is, because we who respond to the Trinity with practices need to learn to live more as a community!" -Marva Dawn, Theologian, author of Keeping the Sabbath Wholly and Unfettered Hope



Book Information
ISBN 9780664237097
Author Lynne M. Baab
Format Paperback
Page Count 214
Imprint Westminster/John Knox Press,U.S.
Publisher Westminster/John Knox Press,U.S.