RELIGIOUS VIEWS: New Books Examine Victims, Criminal Justice, and Punishment from a Faith Perspective

Five books addressing religion and its role in coping with violent crime are now available:

“Healing Violent Men: A Model for Christian Communities” - This book by religion professor David Livingston explores domestic violence. It offers practical advice for pastoral and programmatic efforts to embrace the twin Christian imperatives of forgiveness and responsiblity. (Fortress Press, 2002).

“When Violence is No Stranger: Pastoral Counseling with Survivors of Acquaintance Rape” - In this book by Kristen Leslie, an assistant professor at Yale Divinity School, the author provides in-depth interviews with survivors of date rape and offers recommendations for those who minister to these victims. (Fortress Press, 2003).

“Beyond Prison: A New Interfaith Paradigm for Our Failed Prison System” - Offers a 12-point plan for immediate changes to the American criminal justice system by restorative justice experts Harmon Wray and Laura Magnani. The authors explore alternatives to incarceration and the prison-industrial complex. (Fortress Press, 2006).

“Through the Fire: Spiritual Restoration for Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse” - This book by counselor Rick Meyer addresses how victims of childhood sexual abuse can find healing and recovery. (Augsburg Books, 2005).

“The Executed God: The Way of the Cross in Lockdown America” - This work by theologian Mark Lewis Taylor addresses how Christians can use biblical teachings to transform the death penalty and America’s criminal justice system. (Fortress Press, 2001).

See Books and Religious Voices.