A Thousand Resurrections: An Urban Spiritual Journey

by Maria Garriott

What would make a young, privileged college student well postured to achieve her place in the American dream decide to pursue another dream—one that would force her to take food stamps and move into an at-risk urban community? What would sustain her for over two decades while she raised five children in a context of failed educational systems, lead poisoning, and chronic theft? What would eventually compel her to move and yet still embrace the issues of city? This is one woman’s story of a return to a city that many have fled. It is about the challenges, heartbreaks, lessons, and joys of a woman participating in the transformation of the city while being transformed herself.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian Living

288 pages, Paperback

First published March 20, 2006

Reviews

[Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is written by our pastor's wife. It tells the story of them, a young white middle class couple, moving to inner city Baltimore arguably one of the worst neighborhoods. You see how God provided for them during their many struggles, and how the church (Faith Christian Fellowship)became what it is today. A must read for any FCFer and anyone interested in urban ministry.

[Debbie Swanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting in 1980 fresh out of seminary you'll read about the struggles and joys as this couple follows God's call to plant a church in the inner city of Baltimore. A book that will encourage you in the hardships that you face as you struggle to faithfully serve the Lord. And give you a lot to think about.

[Joshua Reitano · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's only January, but I'm certain this will be near the top of my list for best books I read in 2017. An incredibly engaging story of church planting in inner-city Baltimore. Realistic, hopeful, heart-breaking, insightful. It's really, really good. I can't recommend it highly enough.

[Tara Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic journey through the highs and lows of incarnational love in an incredibly stressful and challenging environment. This book is a great window into a family who starts a church in the poorest, roughest part of the inner city.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Members of my son and daughter-in-law's inner city church were reading this book which is how I came upon it. Maria Garriott and her husband moved to inner city Baltimore as newlyweds. They lived and ministered and raised five children there over the course of 22 years. The book gives a painful description of how difficult life is for poor people in urban areas where their schools are inferior, and life is very dangerous and deadly on the streets. These hard stories are balanced by many faithful believers who were born and raised in these neighborhoods or who moved there to serve the poor in Jesus' name.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria Garriott and her pastor husband moved to inner-city Baltimore as young newlyweds. Over the next two decades they raised five children, started a church, and sought to help the individuals and community in which they lived. A compelling story, you'll laugh and cry and flinch and rejoice and mourn and long for God's Kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven.

[Joni Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story of how a committed Christian couple who wanted to make a difference in an urban environment, gave their lives to serving in inner city Baltimore. Maria gives an honest, up-close look at what life is like a black community, what effects living there 20 years had on her family, and lessons we all need to learn about racial reconciliation. HIghly recommend!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this is not the best written book, the content is worth the read. Having worked in inner city missions I found it encouraging. I felt alone when I was struggling with things and discouraged by lack of change. I liked reading through this for a better perspective.

[Candice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read, and very raw perspective on community development and christian evangelism. Some of the poems and stories really wove the book together.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A most interesting and enjoyable read! I learned a lot about the history of our church.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I attended this church in Baltimore and can attest that it is a wonderful place where God's Spirit is working for racial reconciliation.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this, felt I had found a kindred spirit.