This compilation of stories and essays edited by Anne Eggebroten confronts the reality of abortion as a morally responsible choice being made by countless Christian women of all denominations. This explosive issue was only made illegal in the U.S. in 1873, but the 1960s saw a change in America's attitude towards the ability of women to take control of their own bodies which culminated in the Supreme Court's historic Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. Ever since the faith community has been divided on this subject, but everyone admits women have never stopped having abortions for a variety of reasons–health, rape, incest and unplanned pregnancies among other factors. The essays explore the biblical, theological and other arguments used in this issue.

"A memoir to be enjoyed by all who are interested in our nation's naval heritage of going down to the sea in ships. When Albert Gleaves first entered the fleet after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1877, he served in a navy largely inherited from the Civil War. He vividly describes his experiences in the old navy which was giving way to a modern fleet of steel and steam with colorful accounts of his cruises. This fine work, from the able pen of an officer who served his country with great distinction, is a welcome addition to the published literature about our navy and a reminder that our naval service's traditions and legends were laid by [such] gifted leaders. We owe them a debt of thanks," said Admiral James D. Watkins, former U.S. Secretary of Energy.

Author and former missionary Faith Annette Sand points out that while Jesus was on earth, he never displayed fear. So to be made into the image of Christ we must learn to shed our fears and anxieties. Yet so much of our energy centers on trying not to drown in the turbulent waters where we find ourselves−sinking with worries about our security problems, money problems, health problems, insurance problems, retirement problems, and then all the interpersonal problems of dealing with feuding family members, estranged friends and those who would cheat us, berate us, not give us credit where it is due and generally try–too often successfully–to make our lives miserable. In the face of this, what can we do to be serious about our faith walk?

Margaret Fuad has compiled this excellent resource looking at the role of the church in addressing America's number one drug problem: alcohol. She recapitulates what the Bible says about drinking, noting relevant similarities and differences between biblical and contemporary societies. She also discusses spirituality and alcohol, the difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism, considerations concerning personal use or nonuse of alcohol, and how to meet the needs of the one out of five persons in our society impacted by alcohol abuse. An appendix contains a study/syllabus and various lists of resources. Churches and other groups concerned about alcohol awareness will find these lists invaluable.