What Inspires Us

The books, movies, and resources that have informed our justice journey and perspective over the years.  And a few new ones, that are causing us to ponder new questions.

Shalom: The Bibles Word of Salvation, Justice and Peace

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Shalom: The Bible’s Word of Salvation, Justice and Peace

By Perry Yoder

This classic book provides some of the best framework for peace-making and justice work.

Why this book interests me:

This book provides a great foundation for understanding the thread and intention of peace with justice throughout the Bible.  An excellent starting point. -Nikki T-S

God of Justice

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God of Justice

By Nikki Toyama-Szeto and Abraham George

An easy to use guide, walking through various texts, this course provides a way to journey through scripture and through your community with a justice lens.

Why this book interests me:

A resource that was developed by a great team of educators, this is still one of the first books I recommend for someone who doesn’t just want to read about justice but also wants to do something.  –Nikki T-S

Violence of Love

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Violence of Love

By Oscar Romero

This is a collection of sermons and writings by Oscar Romero.  His prophetic voice, on behalf of the oppressed, explores suffering, vulnerability and the costliness of following Jesus.

Why this book interests me:

A compelling example of both courage and costly faithfulness, these writings by Oscar Romero provide hope and perspective for those in justice work.  He speaks with authority because he has drawn near to those who are suffering.  –Nikki T-S

Transforming Society

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Transforming Society

By Melba Padilla Maggay

Transforming Society provides prophetic insights into the interaction between faith and politics.  From experience in the frontlines work in the Philippines,  Dr. Maggay presents timeless principles.

Why this book interests me:

When I was working and learning among global slum communities I was introduced to Dr. Maggay’s work. Her insights were monumental in helping me understanding how limited my western lenses were.  -Nikki T-S

Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger

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Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger

By Ronald J. Sider

Dr. Sider speaks with both humility and confidence to his sisters and brothers in Christ, inviting us to choose trust over self-protection, courage over complacency. He asks us to live as if we actually believe Jesus when he calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves and when he tells us that in caring for the least of these we care for Christ himself. A challenging and uplifting read.

Why this book interests me:

When I picked up Ron’s book for the first time in 1982, as a college student, it brought muscle, shape and the excitement of possibility to my faith, which was hungering for real-world, practical ways to put that faith into action. It was a formative text for me. -Kristyn K