First published 2013
Nadia Bolz-Weber never imagined herself as religious leader material. The heavily tattooed former stand-up comic found her calling in an unexpected place: leading a funeral in a smoky downtown comedy club. Surrounded by recovering alcoholics, depressives, and fellow comedians, she recognized her tribe and embraced her role as their pastor. Bolz-Weber combines personal stories, sharp-tongued observations, and theological insights to chronicle her unexpected faith journey. She presents both congregations and spiritual seekers as imperfect beings pursuing authentic connection with the divine. Through sardonic wit and uncompromising honesty, she challenges conventional religious expectations while exploring grace's ability to transform lives. Her narrative reveals how ministry can flourish in unlikely spaces among society's outcasts and wounded souls.
Genres: contemporary, religion, memoir, christian-living
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, unconventional-protagonist
208 pages · Paperback · Canterbury Press