Why did God have to murder his only son to pay our debts? What kind of vengeful, violent God can only be satisfied by vicarious blood atonement? In "Executing God," theologian Sharon Baker presents a biblically based and theologically sound critique of popular theories of the atonement. Concerned about the number of acts of violence performed in the name of God, Baker challenges cultural assumptions about the death of Jesus and its meaning to Christians. She ultimately offers a constructive alternate view of atonement based on God's forgiveness that opens up salvation to a wider group of people.

The idea of hell can haunt dreams and disturb sleep. Many wonder at the justice (or injustice) of it all, feeling confounded by a God who deems it necessary to send the majority of humanity to burn there forever. Seventy percent of Americans believe in hell, as do ninety-two percent of those who attend church every week. Clearly, it's a hot topic. Baker offers readers a safe space to contemplate tough issues as they rethink traditional views of hell. In her candid and inviting style Baker explores and ultimately refutes many traditional views of hell, presenting instead theologically sound ways of thinking that are more consistent with the image of God as a loving creator who desires to liberate us from sin and evil. This is an excellent selection for general readers, students, pastors, professors, and grief counselors, and will provide clarity for those with questions about hell, God's judgment, and what happens to us when we die.

Is it the church's role to sustain cultures and empires? Or should churches take a prophetic stand in relation to the human situation? Can the church both stand for justice and continue in the way of peace? This book offers proposals for those who want to carry forth Christ's benediction of peace. As Nancy Heisey, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies and Church History, Eastern Mennonite University, observes, "From a concrete story of a real congregation trying to be faithful among its neighbors to discussions of just policing, white superiority, and excommunication for refusal to forgive, this collection offers a challenging and worthwhile read for those who care deeply about how Christian commitment to peace is lived out in our complex world." James E. Brenneman, President, Goshen College, says that "This volume captures not only the good news proclaimed in Christ's benediction to his disciples but also the imagination of its contributors--who propose creative, inspiring, practical and prophetic ways to create a more peaceful planet. Let's hope the contagion spreads." J. Denny Weaver, Co-Author; Defenseless Christianity; and Author, The Nonviolent Atonement, thinks that Peace Be With You offers some soul-satisfying responses to empire. But equally as important, other essays offer needed critique of ways the peace church is drifting toward assimilation to American empire and the ways of empire."

How can public libraries successfully meet the needs of their patrons and their communities, and build support for their endeavors? Focusing on the heart and soul of the library-its collection-the authors show how proven marketing techniques can be applied to library collection development in today's high-tech environment. With examples and statistics from more than 200 libraries of all sizes, the book gathers decades of pertinent research and a wealth of creative ideas and winning tactics for public libraries. After a brief discussion of the rationale for a marketing approach, the book takes you through each step of an effective marketing initiative: from market research and creating a master plan through collection evaluation, selection, costs, access, and promotional policies and practices. A great idea-generator and how-to guide for any library staff member, especially those in management positions, this is also essential reading for LIS students preparing for careers in public libraries.