Summer is not that far away, and that means (hopefully) time for extra reading. I wanted to share a few recommendations for summer reading: books I’ve especially enjoyed and think are important for spiritual formation. While I may not agree with everything in each of these books, I’ve been shaped by all of them in meaningful ways and trust you could be, too.
The Lord of Psalm 23 by David Gibson. A friend and fellow elder in our church recently recommended this book to me, and it turned out to be one of the most nourishing devotional books I’ve read this year. In this book–best read slowly and prayerfully–Gibson plumbs the depths of what it means that Jesus is the good shepherd.
The Anxiety Opportunity by Curtis Chang. A great book that shows how, in Chang’s words, anxiety “isn’t only a problem we wish would go away; it is also an opportunity for spiritual growth.”
The Gratitude Way by Girma Bishaw. In my endorsement, I said that this book is a “much-needed primer on why and how we can become people whose lives are marked by gratitude.”
Is Easter Unbelievable? by Rebecca McLaughlin. This book will build up your confidence in Jesus’ resurrection and equip you to be better prepared to talk with friends and family about the resurrection.
Jesus, Continued by J.D. Greear. Throughout our sermon series on the Holy Spirit (which concluded yesterday), I mentioned this great book a few times. This book is a helpful guide not only in discovering what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit, but also how to be led by the Spirit in daily life.
Happy reading,
Pastor Bijan
Thursday, June 11 at 7 pm
W83 Opening Reception | “The Gilded Hours”
Step into a luminous solo exhibit by Hannah Robinett, where golden moments unfold with quiet beauty and depth. “The Gilded Hours” references the historical tradition of the Book of Hours—medieval manuscripts created to provide structure and devotion through daily life.
Hannah Robinett is a Brooklyn-based artist primarily focused on works on paper with paint and gold leaf. Her practice examines themes of order, repair, and the emotional process of renewal. Robinett’s work has been exhibited internationally in London, Paris, Berlin, and New York City. Get your free tickets now by clicking here.
Set Up Your Church Center Account
We’ve switched to a new church management system: Church Center!
Church Center gives you simple, convenient access to what’s happening at RWS, serving as a hub for people to connect, register for events, manage giving, access groups, and more. This new online portal is available on Android, iOS, and desktop.
If you previously had a Redeemer account, your contact information has already been transferred. Please log in using your phone number (or your email address) and ensure that your information is correct. If you’re new to Redeemer West Side, we encourage you to set up your account today! Please click here to learn more about downloading.
Upcoming
- May 28 | VBS Preparation Party
- May 28 | Grief & Loss Support
- May 30 | RWS Dashers Running Club
- June 5 | Coffee Clubs
- June 7 | Mandarin Speaking Community Group
- June 11 | W83 Opening Reception | “The Gilded Hours”
- June 12 | Registration Deadline for 9th & 10th Grade Backpacking Trip
- June 14 | Spiritual Practices Workshop: Worship
- June 14 | All Angels’ Community Meal Volunteering
- June 28 | Prayer Walk
Get Involved
| Volunteer with WS Youth on Friday nights. Lend a hand at our Church Family Meals. Serve at our welcome table for one Sunday a month at RWS. Subscribe to our Neighborhood Engagement Newsletter. HFNY: Vote for a nonprofit partner at Pitch Night! Watch four HFNY nonprofit partners pitch big ideas for innovative programs. Then, vote for the idea that will have the biggest impact! |
