by Associate Pastor Todd Holdridge

Most of us have experienced seasons of loss. Perhaps some of us are in the midst of it now. Almost 20 years ago, Gerald (Jerry) Sittser, professor of Christian History at Whitworth University, was surprised by the catastrophic loss of several family members in a tragic auto accident. In the years to follow his thoughts, journals, and reflections came together in A Grace Disguised, How the Soul Grows Through Loss.

“Sooner or later all people suffer loss, in little doses or big ones, suddenly or over time, privately or in public settings. Loss is as much a part of normal life as birth…”

“The experience of loss does not have to be the defining moment of our lives. Instead, the divining moment can be our response to the loss. It is not what happens to us that matters so much as what happens in us.”

— from the book

In two months , our congregation will have the unique opportunity to host Dr. Sittser for a weekend at Bethany (Oct 30-Nov 1). More information about his visit will come. But for now, you can get ready by reading A Grace Disguised, and join us for our next installment of “Read Good Books,” a conversation about this book on Sunday, Oct 25. Dan will lead us in discussion following the second service.

The book is available across the street from Bethany at Queen Anne Books.