Description
Book Synopsis“War, before it is ever manifested in physical, observable violence, and peace, before it is ever felt as harmony or seen in acts of kindness, are the inner realities of the human heart and mind. They are states of consciousness, conditions of the soul. . . . War is ‘hell’s abyss,’ and peace is ‘heaven’s grace.’ Moment by moment we choose which we will live into; indeed, which we will become.” —from the Introduction In a stirring call to nonviolent resistance, Episcopal priest Larry Hart confronts the compromises Christians around the world have made with their nations’ uses of violence. Comparing Just War theory with the United States’ national history of war and exploitation, Hart voices the need for personal and social transformation to live in keeping with the Gospel. At the center of his argument, Hart lifts up the images of Christian leaders around the world who have chosen nonviolence to resist oppression, showing the real historical possibilities for peace when we bear truth, courage, and faith as our only weapons.
Trade ReviewHell’s Abyss, Heaven’s Grace embraces the weapons of truth, courage and faith as paramount virtues in keeping with God’s law. Highly recommended. -- Michael Dunford * Midwest Book Review *
This is a moving call to examine nonviolent resistance and should be read by Christian leaders, educators, and opinion makers. It is a book destined to leave an impact on the readers of this generation and generations to come. -- Richard R. Blake * Reader Views *
We desperately need a spirituality to lead us beyond the warlike mind, and only an authentic spirituality will do the job. Religion, up to now, has largely failed. Fr. Lawrence Hart offers you a very readable but believable spirituality of peacemaking. This will console your heart and challenge your mind at the same time. -- Richard Rohr, OFM, author, ecumencial teacher, and founder, Center for Action and Contemplation * Center for Action and Contemplation *
Of all the books I have read on nonviolence and on Christian spirituality, I don’t know of any that penetrates so deeply and clearly to the heart of both. This would be enough for any one book, but then Hart goes a step further: He prophetically critiques U.S. empire and exposes the violence that lies behind this country’s many justifications for war. This is a book for anyone who wishes to love as Jesus loved and is not afraid to contemplate the political implications of that kind of love. -- Sheri Hostetler, pastor of First Mennonite Church of San Francisco
