Every February, Americans mark both Black History Month and Valentine’s Day on their calendars. This month, celebrate both in Lenny Duncan’s forthcoming love letter to the ELCA, “Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the US.” Duncan’s book will be released this July.
Duncan, a pastor in the ELCA, explores the issues facing mainline denominations in “Dear Church.” After observing shifting demographics and declining membership, Duncan rejects the prevailing narrative about church decline and asks readers to consider how a lack of diversity is connected to a lack of vitality. His book calls for leaders and laypeople alike to unite and renew the church through racial equality. Pointing us to the leadership of Jesus, “Dear Church” offers a path forward.
Pre-orders are available for “Dear Church.” This volume will be a valuable resource for leaders and an ideal book to use in church reading groups.