Money and Faith by Michael Schut

Money and Faith by Michael Schut

Talking about money in a personal way remains more of a taboo than sex or politics. This seems odd within a Christian context, since Jesus addressed topics of money, poverty, and wealth more than any other concerns. For many, money becomes an idol; we see it in our own culture as we pursue economic growth no matter the cost to the overall well-being of God's creation. When that happens, enough is always more than we have right now, and scarcity becomes the lens through which we see the world.

On a personal level, this book opens up issues of scarcity and abundance, idolatry and freedom; on a societal level, it invites exploration of greater equity and sustainability. On both levels, it empowers individuals and groups to apply their faith's values in practical ways while taking pastoral and prophetic stances. The author suggests we need to experience the nurturing companionship of a wise, compassionate pastor or spiritual guide in our relationship to money, while also needing to experience the power, strength, anger, and call to repentance of an Old Testament prophet.

People want to connect their values with everyday concerns, while discovering ways to make a positive difference. This book helps them do both.

Includes a comprehensive study guide within the book for groups and individuals.

Contributors include: Henri Nouwen, Dave Barry, Walter Brueggemann, David Boyle, Lynne Twist, Lewis Hyde, William Stringfellow, John Haughey, Ched Myers, Bill McKibben, Sallie McFague, William Greider, Leonardo Boff, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, Maria Harris, Rich Lang, Wayne Muller, Sharon Parks, Rodney Clapp, Ted Nace, Lester Brown, Pete Barnes, Andy Loving, Edgar Cahn, Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist, Susan Wilkes, Jim Klobuchar

Michael Schut is a popular teacher, speaker, and Morehouse author, focusing on the nexus between faith, sustainability, economics, and justice. He is currently the economic and environmental affairs officer of the Episcopal Church, following 11 years on the staff of Earth Ministry. His latest book is titled Money & Faith: The Search for Enough (2008). Simpler Living, Compassionate Life: A Christian Perspective was originally published in 1999, and won the second best book of 2000 award by the Catholic Press Association. Schut also edited Food and Faith: Justice, Joy and Daily Bread. He lives in Seattle. Visit www.mikeschut.com for more details.