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While I don’t typically read spiritual texts, I chose to read this after Bishop Budde’s recent plea for mercy for immigrants, LGBTQ+ folks and others in the US who will be greatly affected by the Trump administration. When Trump demanded an apology for her sermon, Bishop Budde bravely stated that she “won’t apologize for asking for mercy��.

Her courage, both in that moment and throughout the many stories in this book, is deeply moving and serves as a powerful reminder to stay brave in the face of dark times ahead. Throughout the book, she is candid about her failures and shortcomings as a leader. She speaks openly about the inequalities, historical and ongoing racism, sexism, and homophobia present in both the church and the United States. But most importantly, she emphasizes how we can move forward—by reckoning with the past, making amends for past wrongs, apologizing to those we've hurt, and embracing bravery in all areas of life.