Corrie ten Boom, The Hiding Place (1971)

Recommended by Meg Ramey, Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies

For many years, The Hiding Place has been a companion of mine, which is precisely the role that spiritual memoirs can play in our lives. In this work that centers the ten Boom family’s experiences during World War II, Corrie tells stories from her childhood in Haarlem through her prison years and into the postwar, reconstruction years. The memories that she shares have left an indelible impression on me and often force themselves upon me at just the right moment. For instance, at times when I have found myself angry with people, I have remembered how Corrie refused to let cruelty cause her to hate, choosing instead to turn the other cheek and love her enemies. Corrie’s story is one faith, hope, and love that triumph even in the world’s darkest corners. 

Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline (1978)

Recommended by Eric Seibert, Associate Professor of Old Testament

Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline is a wonderful resource for Christian spiritual formation that explores twelve disciplines: meditation, prayer, fasting, study, simplicity, solitude, submission, service, confession, worship, guidance, and celebration. By discussing so many different practices, Foster reminds us there are many ways to mature as Christians. Foster describes each discipline and offers many helpful suggestions about how to practice them. Those wishing to expand their options for growing more Christ-like will find this book a helpful and very practical guide.

George Appleton, ed., The Oxford Book of Prayer (1985)

Recommended by David Weaver-Zercher, Professor of American Religious History

Sometimes prayer doesn't come easily to me, which is why I appreciate this book: it offers words to me so that I can pray in fresh and meaningful ways. I've used prayers from this book when leading worship, when praying for myself, and when praying for others. Its presence on my shelf reminds me that we're surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses to God’s love and grace.