Four new books for leaders are now available through Westminster John Knox Press. While some of these resources provide tools for pastors and church educators, others would be perfect for church group study and reflection.

In How Odd of God: Chosen for the Curious Vocation of Preaching, William Willimon uses Karl Barth’s doctrine of election to explore the wonder and “oddity” of being called to preach. He highlights preaching as the essential ministry to which pastors are elected and called by God. In doing so, he provides pastoral encouragement and theological insight for pastors struggling with the purpose and effectiveness of their preaching.

Walter Brueggemann provides candid commentary about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in his new book Chosen? Reading the Bible amid the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. He explains how to read Scripture given the current context by answering difficult questions such as, Was the promise of land to Moses permanent and irrevocable? Is the state of Israel the same as the Israel in the Bible? Who are the Zionists?

Noted Christian educator Carol A. Wehrheim explains the importance of the children’s message in Feasting on the Word Children’s Sermons for Year C. Offering practical suggestions for preparing and delivering the children's sermon, this book also provides a retelling of each Sunday’s Bible story—based on the Revised Common Lectionary—for the entire church year.

In a follow-up to The Way of Discernment, The Soul of Discernment: A Spiritual Practice for Communities and Institutions helps people incorporate spiritual discernment practices into the various institutions and systems in which we all live. Whether a decision must be made in one’s family, workplace, or church, Social Discernment helps us decide what the “right thing” might be for the situation, and, together, take the first step.

How Odd of God, Chosen?, Feasting on the Word Children’s Sermons for Year C, and The Soul of Discernment are available for purchase through Westminster John Knox Press and other major retailers.