Deep and Wide: Reflections on Socio-Political Engagement, Monasticism(s), and the Christian Life

by Evan B. Howard

Commitment to a life of prayer and community can prove to be a great help for those involved in politics. Rather than being distracted away from action, Evan B. Howard argues that committed Christians often find both freedom and empowerment to contribute to the greater good of the world. A review of the history of committed Christian life (monasticism) shows that devout communities have engaged in a wide range of socio-political arenas. We can explore today what nuns and monks have accomplished in the past. We can speak into political conversations. We can care for those in need. We can model new ways of ordering life together. We can take concrete political action in governmental process. We can pray. This book blends examination of history with musings about the Christian life and politics generally. It also offers a collection of monastic practices to equip communities and individuals to embody an appropriate blend of "deep" and "wide" for themselves.

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 4, 2023

Reviews

[Tim Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time when Christianity is floundering because it is so politicized and polarized, Evan Howard’s book brings desperately needed historical and theological wisdom. Wrestling throughout the book with the deep of Christianity (its virtues, beliefs, and practices) and how that might interact with the wide (the lure of political involvement and effectiveness) Howard finds surprising ways that the two support and inform one another. He helps Christians see that all of life is political. Power arrangements at home, and leadership structures at church, are political. The Kingdom of God revolution can start in small spaces and spread. Howard shows how Christian monasticism, usually considered to be the “deep” strain of Christianity has often engaged the “wide” of politics. Through his study of monastic history, the Biblical witness, and the practice of contemporary Christians, Howard offers a vision of Christian political involvement that is unifying for Christians, healing for the world, and a testament that the Lord of love reigns.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Dr. Howard's completely reasonable and tangible take on this topic. I can't remember (seriously) the last time I heard anyone speak on socio-political engagement without the requisite TikTok level of fruitless offense and rage. I understand what you feel, but what do you do?

Evan offers up thoughtful suggestions and possibilities from a mix of his encyclopedic knowledge of monastic history mixed with his own life experience. The book is a great length, and well-structured to help an individual or group make a credible plan for Christian action. Good stuff!