October 31 was the publication date for See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship with Congregational Leaders of Color by Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers. It was also the one-year book birthday of the first two Mouth House books: Ashes to Action: Finding Myself at the Interaction of the Minneapolis Uprising and Call to Allyship: Preparing Your Congregation for Leaders of Color.
Read more about the connections between Rev. Angela !Khabeb, the editor of Call to Allyship and author of its first and final chapters, and the other Mouth House contributors.
How do you know your fellow authors, and what gifts do you see them and their books offering the broader church?
The Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers is a compassionate, wise leader. Her voice is vital and valued in the ELCA. Rev. Dr. Denson-Byers is a gift to the body of Christ. She is a wife and mother, and friend to many. Rev. Yolanda embodies God’s grace and mercy. Personally, I bear witness. I cannot count how many times she has helped me in different situations. I am so blessed to see her in what I call “Gospel action.”
The “Street Preacher” Shari Seifert is a treasure for the ELCA. She is actively on the ground talking to people and learning from them. Her book Ashes to Action is vital to our congregations and to our country. We praise God that we have Shari Seifert as a friend and leader in the ELCA. Personally, when my family moved to Minneapolis in 2018, she was instrumental in my family becoming homeowners. She fights racism and other injustices daily.
What you have been hearing from folks who have read Call to Allyship? What is changing?
We are heartened to have received overflowing positive feedback from church councils, book clubs, congregations, and individuals. This brings us joy that all the authors can share with their community and, by extension, God’s good creation. In an increasingly divided nation, it is refreshing that this book can spark unity and grace. Call to Allyship is for everyone.
Click here to order Shari’s book Ashes to Action.
Click here to order Pastor Yolanda’s book See Me, Believe Me.