On Communion Sunday, June 7, 2020, Pastor Jenny Smith Walz preached the second sermon titled “Move-In,” based on John 1: 1-18, in the “Longing to Belong” Worship series. As her message was about belonging, for this week’s reading she recommended:
“Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone” by Brené Brown
The book published by Random House Publishing Group, 2017, deals with how to build and maintain connections and a sense of belonging amid the anger and unrest linked with feelings of unbelonging.
In “Braving the Wilderness,” Brené Brown redefines what truly belonging means to most people, especially in this age of increased polarization. She says, “True belonging does not require you to change who you are. It requires you to be who you are.”
The book also deals with those struggling with loneliness, isolation, and disconnection while longing to belong. Because loneliness is dangerous and can contribute to early death, Pastor Jenny calls on us to “find ways to reconnect with other people, overcome our fear and grow in our compassion and love for one another.”
If you feel like you do not fit in and have feelings of anger, or suffer from loneliness, read “Braving the Wilderness.” Also, watch this video
Written by Isabella Dougan