Deep and Wide
Reflections on Socio-Political Engagement, Monasticism(s), and the Christian Life
- Ethics, Culture & Social Issues
- Prayer & Spiritual Formation
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2023
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Publisher's Description
Commitment to a life of prayer and community can prove to be a great help for those involved in politics. Rather than being distracted away from action, Evan B. Howard argues that committed Christians often find both freedom and empowerment to contribute to the greater good of the world. A review of the history of committed Christian life (monasticism) shows that devout communities have engaged in a wide range of socio-political arenas. We can explore today what nuns and monks have accomplished in the past. We can speak into political conversations. We can care for those in need. We can model new ways of ordering life together. We can take concrete political action in governmental process. We can pray. This book blends examination of history with musings about the Christian life and politics generally. It also offers a collection of monastic practices to equip communities and individuals to embody an appropriate blend of "deep" and "wide" for themselves.
Endorsements (3)
“If, like me, you are searching for a way to remove yourself from the woke/anti-woke echo chamber, and if you are looking for a thoughtful, mature way to think about Christian participation in society, read Deep and Wide. Evan Howard’s exploration of monasticism as a model for socio-political engagement will indeed deepen your understanding and give you an imagination for godly and effective social action.”
“A heartfelt challenge to merge deep contemplative prayer with effective political action through pertinent philosophical musings, thoughtful biblical insights, and ancient and contemporary spiritual wisdom woven together with stories and examples—a message for our times.”
“The political arena attracts corrupt power seekers and sensational headline grabbers more often than people who genuinely seek truth and the common good. By contrast, I heartily commend Evan Howard’s inspiring stories of public witness for social justice and moral integrity from both ancient and contemporary Christian communities. Their witness reaches far beyond their numbers and subsequent generations continue to draw strength from their fidelity.”
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