Opening Hearts by Opening Minds
Opening Hearts by Opening Minds

Author: Connie Wineland

Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers

Published: 2007-06-01

Total Pages: 201

ISBN-13: 1556353871

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This book is for Christian readers of fiction who might experience difficulty trying to make an informed choice beyond what is being published by evangelical presses. Marketed to a specific target audience, evangelical fiction oftentimes leaves a reader with a strong emotional response but lacks the literary depth or the breadth of subject that could inspire life-changing spiritual growth. With this premise at the heart of her book, Connie Wineland includes her own story of conversion to Christianity by way of reading fiction. During her late twenties and early thirties, particularly while in graduate school, Wineland became immersed in literary and rhetorical studies while also practicing an Eastern form of religion as well as Native American spirituality. However, despite all her training in literary theory, her readings in Romantic, Victorian, modern, and postmodern literature (which she explains), as well as her personal interest in mythology and world religions, kept her questioning the existence of God and the possible nature of God. Then, as a relatively new convert to Christianity, she faced several challenges at a small Christian college where she taught literature and writing courses. Eventually wanting to reach beyond the academic community, Wineland began a local Christian readers' group, which she ran for four years. She includes in this book resources and materials such as sample syllabi and study-guide questions, useful Web addresses, and plenty of how-to information for starting and running your own book club. Also included is an extensive list of annotated titles of recommended reading to get anyone started!

Empty Pockets, Open Hearts
Empty Pockets, Open Hearts

Author: Jim Strietelmeier

Publisher: AuthorHouse

Published: 2016-12-29

Total Pages: 100

ISBN-13: 1524657433

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Empty Pockets, Open Hearts is a story about the troubles of ministering American poverty. It opens biblical passages with a biblical application. Empty Pockets, Open Hearts could easily be used for Bible studies, midweek book studies, Sunday Bible studies, and Bible colleges. It would make a good info textbook for anyone studying urban ministry. The problems of American poverty grow larger. A great gap has divided those who have from those who have not. Empty Pockets, Open Hearts embraces the great suffering that come with incarnational ministry to the poor. It also tells you that our God has a plan. That plan is victory and joy for those who lay down their lives in service to God and the people that God calls the least of these. God grants victory to the following: Anyone who will first seek his kingdom and righteousness Children in need of education The hungry Strangers in the land or immigrants Orphans and widows The fatherless The addicted Prostitutes The oppressed And all of us trying to help

Opening Hearts, Changing Lives: The Beauty of Foster Adoption
Opening Hearts, Changing Lives: The Beauty of Foster Adoption

Author: Aurora Brooks

Publisher: BabyDreamers.net

Published: 101-01-01

Total Pages: 42

ISBN-13: 177698160X

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Opening Hearts, Changing Lives: The Beauty of Foster Adoption Are you considering foster adoption? Do you want to learn more about the process and the benefits it can bring to your life? Look no further than "Opening Hearts, Changing Lives: The Beauty of Foster Adoption." This short read book is a comprehensive guide that will take you through every step of the foster adoption journey, from preparing for the process to building a brighter future for your family. Table of Contents Chapter 1: The Foster Adoption Process In this chapter, you will learn about the steps involved in foster adoption, including home studies, background checks, and the legal process of finalizing the adoption. Chapter 2: The Benefits of Foster Adoption Discover the many ways in which foster adoption can positively impact your life and the life of a child. From providing a loving home to experiencing the joy of parenthood, you will be inspired by the transformative power of foster adoption. Chapter 3: Creating Forever Families Learn about the importance of creating a sense of permanency for children in foster care and how you can build a strong and loving family through adoption. Chapter 4: Supporting Adoptive Families Explore the various support services available to adoptive families, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. Discover how these resources can help you navigate the challenges of foster adoption. Chapter 5: The Challenges of Foster Adoption This chapter addresses the unique challenges that adoptive families may face, such as managing trauma and behavioral issues. Gain valuable insights and strategies for overcoming these challenges and providing a nurturing environment for your child. Chapter 6: Accessing Post-Adoption Services Discover the post-adoption services available to you and your family, including educational resources, counseling, and support networks. Learn how these services can help you and your child thrive after the adoption is finalized. Chapter 7: Preparing for Foster Adoption Get practical tips and advice on how to prepare yourself and your family for the foster adoption process. From educating yourself about adoption to building a support network, this chapter will guide you every step of the way. Chapter 8: Building a Support Network Learn the importance of building a strong support network of friends, family, and professionals who can provide guidance and assistance throughout your foster adoption journey. Chapter 9: Financial Considerations Understand the financial aspects of foster adoption, including adoption subsidies and funding options. Discover resources that can help alleviate the financial burden of adoption. Chapter 10: Preparing This title is a short read. A Short Read is a type of book that is designed to be read in one quick sitting. These no fluff books are perfect for people who want an overview about a subject in a short period of time. Table of Contents Opening Hearts, Changing Lives: The Beauty of Foster Adoption The Foster Adoption Process The Benefits of Foster Adoption Creating Forever Families Supporting Adoptive Families The Challenges of Foster Adoption Managing Trauma and Behavioral Issues Accessing Post-Adoption Services Preparing for Foster Adoption Educating Yourself and Your Family Building a Support Network Financial Considerations Navigating Adoption Subsidies Exploring Funding Options Preparing Your Home for Foster Adoption Childproofing and Safety Measures Creating a Supportive Space Building Relationships with Birth Families Open Adoption and Contact Agreements Supporting Birth Family Connections Sharing Your Adoption Story Advocacy and Education Supporting Other Families Celebrating Foster Adoption Success Stories Building a Brighter Future Frequently Asked Questions Have Questions / Comments?

Journey Guide
Journey Guide

Author: R. Neighbour

Publisher:

Published: 1993-06

Total Pages: 20

ISBN-13: 9781880828670

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This booklet is designed as a road map to guide the believer who desires to become a disciple toward spiritual maturity. It gives opportunity for taking a spiritual history, assessing Bible knowledge, gaining insight into personality, identifying areas of challenge, among others.

Open Hearts, Closed Doors
Open Hearts, Closed Doors

Author: Nicholas T. Pruitt

Publisher: NYU Press

Published: 2021-06-22

Total Pages: 289

ISBN-13: 1479803545

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A history of mainline Protestant responses to immigrants and refugees during the twentieth century Open Hearts, Closed Doors uncovers the largely overlooked role that liberal Protestants played in fostering cultural diversity in America and pushing for new immigration laws during the forty years following the passage of the restrictive Immigration Act of 1924. These efforts resulted in the complete reshaping of the US cultural and religious landscape. During this period, mainline Protestants contributed to the national debate over immigration policy and joined the charge for immigration reform, advocating for a more diverse pool of newcomers. They were successful in their efforts, and in 1965 the quota system based on race and national origin was abolished. But their activism had unintended consequences, because the liberal immigration policies they supported helped to end over three centuries of white Protestant dominance in American society. Yet, Pruitt argues, in losing their cultural supremacy, mainline Protestants were able to reassess their mission. They rolled back more strident forms of xenophobia, substantively altering the face of mainline Protestantism and laying foundations for their responses to today’s immigration debates. More than just a historical portrait, this volume is a timely reminder of the power of religious influence in political matters.

Building a Church of Small Groups
Building a Church of Small Groups

Author: Bill Donahue

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: 2005-09-29

Total Pages: 226

ISBN-13: 0310267102

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This book provides pastors and church leaders with the vision, values, and initial steps necessary to begin building a church where small groups are integrated throughout the entire ministry.