Overview

They say there's no such thing as a perfect church. Well, one author decided to test that theory out for himself. Peter DeHaan spent an entire year roaming from one church to another, visiting 52 different Christian congregations. In the process he learned what makes these places of worship unique, what makes newcomers feel like they belong, and what cringe-worthy shenanigans are guaranteed to keep visitors from ever coming back. In his travels, Peter learned about different denominations and worship styles as well as what happens when imperfect humans gather together in the name of a perfect God. What he discovered was occasionally funny, always interesting, and at times absurd. So absurd that he wrote a book about his experiences. 52 Churches is part religious exposé, part travel memoir, and 100% authentic. Peter refuses to hold back his punches. You'll cringe when this Christian author is singled out by a fire-and-brimstone preacher, unnecessarily determined to save his soul out of hell. You'll find yourself thankful that you weren't in Peter's shoes when the pastor told his congregation to greet one another with a holy kiss. You'll read about Christian practices that are far different from your own, and in the process gain a deeper understanding of believers from all walks of life and denominational backgrounds: Protestant mainline, evangelical, and charismatic, Roman Catholic, and more. If you're a pastor trying to engage newcomers, a seasoned church member looking for some chuckles, or a spiritual lurker curious about what goes on beneath the steeples of America's churches today, this book was written for you. Read 52 Churches now for an insightful, unforgettable read about the strange and mysterious believers who meet together behind closed doors each and every Sunday.

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9781948082075

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Reviews

The insights from this book are unique, engaging, and a must read for anyone involved in ministry! -Pastor Scott 52 Churches is an eye opening and insightful read as to how we Christians interact with and welcome visitors into our places of worship. -Teri Block An interesting and intriguing experiment, I'm glad Peter and his wife invited us along on their journey! -P Robertson DeHaan writes for everyone whether they have a connection with a church or not. I highly recommend this book. It was great read the first time. I plan to read it again. -Justin Bessert Loved this book! I was pleasantly surprised with Peter DeHaan's down-to-earth, real-people look at how visitors experience church. -Amazon review His observations should cause us to look at how we, as a church body, behave when we think no one is looking. -Lynn McG Love the fact that Peter DeHaan notices everything . . . love the uptakes. Positive eye opener. -Penny Goldman

"""The insights from this book are unique, engaging, and a must read for anyone involved in ministry!"" -Pastor Scott ""52 Churches is an eye opening and insightful read as to how we Christians interact with and welcome visitors into our places of worship."" -Teri Block ""An interesting and intriguing experiment, I'm glad Peter and his wife invited us along on their journey!"" -P Robertson ""DeHaan writes for everyone whether they have a connection with a church or not. I highly recommend this book. It was great read the first time. I plan to read it again."" -Justin Bessert ""Loved this book! I was pleasantly surprised with Peter DeHaan's down-to-earth, real-people look at how visitors experience church."" -Amazon review ""His observations should cause us to look at how we, as a church body, behave when we think no one is looking."" -Lynn McG ""Love the fact that Peter DeHaan notices everything . . . love the uptakes. Positive eye opener."" -Penny Goldman"

Author Information

Peter DeHaan, PhD, often makes religious people squirm, but spiritual seekers cheer. He's not trying to be provocative, but he seeks truth, even if it makes some people uncomfortable. He yearns for Christians to push past the status quo and reconsider how they practice their faith in every area of their lives. Peter earned his doctorate, awarded with high distinction, from Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary. He lives with his wife in beautiful Southwest Michigan and wrangles crossword puzzles in his spare time.

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