Language matters. It shapes how we connect, guide, and nourish one another. In an era of pervasive dishonesty and vitriol, Marilyn McEntyre’s book Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies calls us to the stewardship of language as a moral and spiritual act. This January, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center invites you to a two-session online book club to explore McEntyre’s wisdom and the twelve strategies of nurturing truth and grace in our words.

Book Club Details:

Dates: Thursdays, January 9 & 23, 2024

Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM (AZ/MST)

Facilitator: Sheri Brown

Discussion Schedule:

• January 9: Chapters 1-6 and the strategies of Love Words, Tell the Truth, Don’t Tolerate Lies, Read Well, Stay in Conversation, and Share Stories.

• January 23: Chapters 7-12 and the strategies of Love the Long Sentence, Practice Poetry, Attend to Translation, Play, Pray, and Cherish Silence.

Rooted in theological reflection, McEntyre’s book resonates with the ELCA’s October 2024 Conference of Bishops’ statement on the need to speak the truth. Her updated second edition includes new cultural insights and reflection questions, making this the perfect time to engage with her transformative ideas.

McEntyre, an award-winning author, invites us to think deeply about the power of language to sustain our communities and restore civility in public discourse. As one reviewer put it, “Language is the basic tool for preserving civilization.” This thoughtful discussion is ideal for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and anyone seeking to reclaim the power of words in our fractured world.

Register today to secure your spot and receive additional resources for reflection and discussion. Visit Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s event page for more information.