Present Tense

Ever wonder what Mennonite spirituality is or if there is such a thing? Gordon Houser explores the heart of Mennonite spirituality and how Mennonite spiritual practices may succeed or fall short. In his Foreword, Richard Rohr insightfully places Present Tense in the context of his view of Mennonites then concludes, "That's the way I see it, anyway. But read this inspiring book, and you will know how Gordon Houser sees it-which is much better." Valerie Weaver-Zercher, Contributing Editor to Sojourners, believes that "Houser's gentle, forthright, and theologically astute voice has nothing to prove. His many years as an 'insider'-a church journalist-and 'outsider'-one who did not grow up Mennonite-render these reflections on Mennonite spirituality into a unique alloy of intimacy and objectivity." John D. Roth, Professor of History, Goshen College, sees here, "Wise, gentle and grace-filled reflections on spirituality from a Mennonite perspective. I recommend it highly!" And David Augsburger, Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, School of Theology, Fuller Theological Seminary, concludes that "Houser has looked at the practices valued highly in his Mennonite community-patient following, peaceful reconciling, political integrity, playful relating, prayerful thinking, perfect imperfection and celebrating the present-and allowed them to be a mirror of his own life in the Spirit and as a member of 'the community of the Spirit.' The book is a great read, except for when it starts reading you back and nudging to practice things left unpracticed."