Lauren F. Winner

Being a (fairly) devout Christian who is still searching, I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. I found it strangely inspirational and quite informative. I learned much that I did not know about Orthodox Judaism. I found her path from Judaism to Christianity to be interesting and more realistic than some I've heard. It wasn't a quick transformation but one that ebbed and flowed, full of questions, interspersed with her real life. She isn't perfect, but none of us are. I was inspired to do a few things myself, hoping to increase my own faith.… (more)

With an approach befitting her personal and professional background, Christian writer and Divinity Professor Lauren Winner revisits her Orthodox Jewish roots in an updated version of this spiritual practices guide.

Subtitled “An Invitation to a Life of Spiritual Discipline,” Winner explains for readers Orthodox Jewish practices surrounding the Sabbath, fasting, mourning, prayer, hospitality and more, with suggestions on ways Christians could incorporate aspects of these practices into their own lives. The book is short and interesting reading for the curious and open minded person. I enjoyed learning about Orthodox Jewish customs, and well as their history and context as I was only familiar with some of them.

Although this book was originally published in 2003, it is being re-released with updated material and discussion questions in each chapter, which would make this a good book for church groups or book clubs open to spiritual discussion. 3.5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Paracelete Press for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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A short and sweet intro into how the church and its believers can incorporate some of the practices of its spiritual forebears.

Not too heady or emotional, this book is a nice change of pace from the trendy books published recently that are high in anecdotal reasons for remaking all of Christianity, but low in cogent reasoning. As this book is meant to whet the reader's appetite for further reading / learning, Winner produces the right mix of intellect and humor.

Recommended as a starting point for those who are seeking further depth in their spiritual walk, as well as for those who would like to complement their faith with more meaningful practices.… (more)