PW Stars Peterson Memoir
February 23, 2011–Eugene Peterson’s long-awaited memoir, The Pastor: Every Step an Arrival (HarperOne), received a starred review in this week’s Publisher’s Weekly:
“Theology professor, author (The Message), and long-time pastor Peterson brings his remarkable storytelling skills and empathic understanding of human nature to this insightful and entertaining exploration of his evolving vocational discernment as pastor and writer. With short story-like chapters named after people, places, and spiritual disciplines, such as ‘Uncle Sven,’ ‘My Father’s Butcher Shop,’ and ‘Eucharistic Hospitality,’ Peterson brings to life the environments and relationships that shaped him: his Norwegian-immigrant, Pentecostal upbringing in small-town Montana; seminary professors and Presbyterian pastors in New York City; and his lengthy pastorate in Maryland, a ministry fully shared with his wife, Jan. With wisdom and humility, Peterson grapples with challenges particular to parish ministry, such as the desire to fix parishioners’ problems, the compulsion to work long hours in compensation for being ‘invisible six days a week,’ and an emotional malaise he terms the “badlands.” By sharing disciplines that enabled him to enjoy a long, healthy pastorate, such as Sabbath Mondays, Emmaus walks, the company of other pastors, and extensive reading, Peterson offers concrete guidance to those engaged in or considering a pastoral vocation. Introspective, thought-provoking, and entertaining reflections from one of America’s spiritual leaders. (Mar.)”
The publishing deal was negotiated by Alive’s President Rick Christian, who said the book is “must-reading” for pastors, lay leaders and seminarians. Peterson will be interviewed widely in conjunction with next month’s release of the memoir, including Feb. 26th on NPR’s Weekend “All Things Considered.”–RC