Searching for Sunday

3.5*
I can relate in some ways to a lot of this book. I was particularly moved by the Marriage section of the book.

I just finished reading this book for probably the third time... but the first time after Rachel's death. It has been both healing and heart-breaking to read her words and hear her voice reading the audiobook now that she's gone... especially her words about death and resurrection... I miss her so much and I still can't believe she's not here with us anymore... not in the same way, not this side of eternity...

Even before she died, this book was a lifeline to me. When I read it the first time in 2015 I had stopped going to church all together. I was pretty sure I would find my way to a progressive church eventually, but I wasn't there yet.

This is one of my favorite quotes:
“The gospel doesn't need a coalition devoted to keeping the wrong people out. It needs a family of sinners, saved by grace, committed to tearing down the walls, throwing open the doors, and shouting, “Welcome! There's bread and wine. Come eat with us and talk.” This isn't a kingdom for the worthy; it's a kingdom for the hungry.” - RHE

But this part really struck me this time also:

““Do you ever doubt?” I asked both Susan and Brother Brendan. It is a question I often ask of the devout, and I can always guess the answer within seconds of posing it. For those who have doubted, a flash of warm recognition spreads across their faces, as if they've just discovered we share an alma mater, a hobby, or an old friend. Those who haven't look back at me perplexed, like I've begun speaking Swahili.” - RHE

Rachel let us know we were not alone in our doubts and struggles with our faith. She gave voice to what so many of us were thinking and feeling but were too afraid to say out loud. She helped us find each other. I miss her so much.