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Why Would Anyone Go to Church?: A Young Community's Quest to Reclaim Church for Good
There are plenty of reasons to criticize, judge, and even walk away from the church. Many of us have been hurt and rejected. We may see church as insular and irrelevant. Despite this, Kevin Makins believes that the church still matters--perhaps more than ever.
When Kevin was 23 and didn't know any better, he started a congregation with some friends who were on the edge of faith. Together they hoped to discover if the church was worth fighting for. In this brutally honest account, he shares their story of becoming a community of misfits, outcasts, and oddballs who would learn that, even with all its faults, the church is worth being a part of . . . and must be reclaimed for good.
If you've been burned or burned out by the church, if you've been silenced or misunderstood, if you've left or never even joined in the first place, this candid, hopeful book is your invitation to consider what you miss out on when you give up on church--and what the church misses out on when it gives up on you.
When Kevin was 23 and didn't know any better, he started a congregation with some friends who were on the edge of faith. Together they hoped to discover if the church was worth fighting for. In this brutally honest account, he shares their story of becoming a community of misfits, outcasts, and oddballs who would learn that, even with all its faults, the church is worth being a part of . . . and must be reclaimed for good.
If you've been burned or burned out by the church, if you've been silenced or misunderstood, if you've left or never even joined in the first place, this candid, hopeful book is your invitation to consider what you miss out on when you give up on church--and what the church misses out on when it gives up on you.
192 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2020
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June 30, 2020
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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I'm sort of torn about this one. So bear with me. Let's start with the book blurb:
That last paragraph is the dicey one for me—it fits the title, Why Would Anyone Go to Church?. But I don't think the book delivers that, at all. That's what I read the book for, that's what I wanted to get (don't get me wrong, I have answers already, I just wanted to see what this "Young Community" had to offer along those lines), but on those counts, I came away empty-handed.
So what did Makins fill these 192 pages with? Well, something along the lines of the subtitle, A Young Community’s Quest to Reclaim Church for Good.* The church that Makins pastors, Eucharist Church in Hamilton, ON, began meeting in 2010 in an impovrished—and largely churchless—part of the city. They struggled with focus, with identity, with location. But what they had—a sense of community and purpose—carried them through. The book outlines their struggles, triumphs, failings, and perseverance.
* I do think it's unnecessarily combative—also unproven—to say that the Church is in need of any such reclamation. But that's for another day.
That's all I found in these pages, and that's more than enough. It's an inspiring story. I'm not sure I'd have picked the book up if that's what was advertised, but I might have. It would've been my loss if I hadn't.
Are there some lessons that new—or established churches—can take from their story? Yes, there are several that can be extrapolated. But as Makins makes a point of—often—this is a congregation that takes its shape and identity from its community. So much of what he recounts isn't something that can be duplicated, nor should anyone try (I don't think Makins suggests that, either).
I've repeatedly resolved to read outside my tradition, and repeatedly failed—I do it occasionally, but not as often as I could. I'm pretty sure Makins is about as far outside as I can go and still remain in the bounds of orthodoxy. While I have some problems with the book, it was an encouraging read, reminding me of the truth that, "the purest churches under heaven are subject both to mixture and error" and that part of that mix is a faith that can inspire. Just be sure you know what you're getting into with this book.
If you come into it with the proper expectations, you should come out of it with a valuable experience. If you come for what the blurb and title suggests? You'll be disappointed.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Baker Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.
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I'm sort of torn about this one. So bear with me. Let's start with the book blurb:
A young community discovers why, despite everything, church still matters
There are plenty of reasons to criticize, judge, and even walk away from the church. When Kevin was twenty-three and didn't know any better, he started a congregation with some friends who were on the edge of faith. Together they hoped to discover whether the church was worth fighting for. In this brutally honest account, he shares their story of becoming a community of misfits, outcasts, and oddballs who would learn that, even with all its faults, the church is worth being a part of . . . and must be reclaimed for good.
If you've been burned or burned out by the church, if you've been silenced or misunderstood, if you've left or never even joined in the first place, this candid, hopeful book is your invitation to consider what you miss out on when you give up on church—and what the church misses out on when it gives up on you.
That last paragraph is the dicey one for me—it fits the title, Why Would Anyone Go to Church?. But I don't think the book delivers that, at all. That's what I read the book for, that's what I wanted to get (don't get me wrong, I have answers already, I just wanted to see what this "Young Community" had to offer along those lines), but on those counts, I came away empty-handed.
So what did Makins fill these 192 pages with? Well, something along the lines of the subtitle, A Young Community’s Quest to Reclaim Church for Good.* The church that Makins pastors, Eucharist Church in Hamilton, ON, began meeting in 2010 in an impovrished—and largely churchless—part of the city. They struggled with focus, with identity, with location. But what they had—a sense of community and purpose—carried them through. The book outlines their struggles, triumphs, failings, and perseverance.
* I do think it's unnecessarily combative—also unproven—to say that the Church is in need of any such reclamation. But that's for another day.
That's all I found in these pages, and that's more than enough. It's an inspiring story. I'm not sure I'd have picked the book up if that's what was advertised, but I might have. It would've been my loss if I hadn't.
Are there some lessons that new—or established churches—can take from their story? Yes, there are several that can be extrapolated. But as Makins makes a point of—often—this is a congregation that takes its shape and identity from its community. So much of what he recounts isn't something that can be duplicated, nor should anyone try (I don't think Makins suggests that, either).
I've repeatedly resolved to read outside my tradition, and repeatedly failed—I do it occasionally, but not as often as I could. I'm pretty sure Makins is about as far outside as I can go and still remain in the bounds of orthodoxy. While I have some problems with the book, it was an encouraging read, reminding me of the truth that, "the purest churches under heaven are subject both to mixture and error" and that part of that mix is a faith that can inspire. Just be sure you know what you're getting into with this book.
If you come into it with the proper expectations, you should come out of it with a valuable experience. If you come for what the blurb and title suggests? You'll be disappointed.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Baker Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.
June 23, 2020
What a great book! I laughed, I cried. I'm so thankful for the story of Eucharist as it embodies the Church. Kevin Makins lets us see both the great vibes moments and the heartbreak and humiliation of living in spiritual community. You should read it!
July 14, 2020
Just finished reading #WhyWouldAnyoneGoToChurch by Kevin Makins and reading it is a bit like curling up with your craziest friend’s diary except that instead of the red ink warning DO NOT READ (“This Means You, Mom!!”), the diarist invites you in, even dedicating the book to his wife, mother and “that guy on a writing retreat at the monastery who… spent twenty minutes telling me how much our church had let him down.”
But... this book isn’t a memoir complaining about people like that, rather it's a collection of stories that highlight Kevin’s unique observations about how people’s stories connect in church and how Jesus is the sneakiest character of all.
The stories are a beautiful portrait of Christian community today, written without the churchy language that is incomprehensible to anyone who hasn’t be raised in Christian subculture. The book opens with a story about a parishioner Kevin calls “Dopey Eyes” – a hilarious anecdote about an emo-dance party gone wrong –and the “inconvenient and infuriating” ways church connects us to individuals who sideline our best efforts to be cool.
Kevin writes, “the Jesus-followers I know aren’t sticking with the church because church is better than a concert or more interesting than a podcast…” which begs the question, so why are people sticking with it? And this is where the magic of the stories unfolds.
As he relates misadventure after misadventure you would imagine the young community is doomed, but Kevin relates the failures of the church and humans to the boondoggles in the Gospel stories and the adventures of hapless disciples. The church may have “adventure in her DNA” but she also has a propensity for disaster, like say, throwing all one’s resources into a Hallowe’en party nobody comes to.
My favourite anecdote in the book involves a cross-country trip to participate in “Church Plant Boot Camp”. I’m not going to give any spoilers here, except to say I cringed, laughed and cried all the while thinking I would try to find someone to embroider “The Grace of God Is Not Like Selling Cars” and hang the sampler on my wall.
I said that reading this book was akin to reading Kevin’s diary, but that’s not completely true. It’s more like reading the sticky notes in his Bible. In one part of the book he relates the story of Jesus healing the man dropped through the roof by his friends, and points out that the Gospel accounts are filled with stories of people helping one another experience Jesus’s healing and that the same magic happens today if we are brave enough to do this weird, countercultural thing. We want life to be like a restaurant menu, Kevin writes, but church is a potluck and sometimes everyone brings potatoes. But somewhere in the midst of all that disorder, God shows up.
Even though none of us can physically walk into a church at the moment, reading this book is kind of like slipping back into the pew for a few hours and taking a peek behind the curtains of a church community that looks different from what you might expect (hello “Nap Sundays”!). Kevin’s writing is funny, insightful and honest and I fell into these stories of healing (and heartache and U-Hauls) and was reminded of what is possible; that despite what things look like in the future, the adventure of church is worth it.
But... this book isn’t a memoir complaining about people like that, rather it's a collection of stories that highlight Kevin’s unique observations about how people’s stories connect in church and how Jesus is the sneakiest character of all.
The stories are a beautiful portrait of Christian community today, written without the churchy language that is incomprehensible to anyone who hasn’t be raised in Christian subculture. The book opens with a story about a parishioner Kevin calls “Dopey Eyes” – a hilarious anecdote about an emo-dance party gone wrong –and the “inconvenient and infuriating” ways church connects us to individuals who sideline our best efforts to be cool.
Kevin writes, “the Jesus-followers I know aren’t sticking with the church because church is better than a concert or more interesting than a podcast…” which begs the question, so why are people sticking with it? And this is where the magic of the stories unfolds.
As he relates misadventure after misadventure you would imagine the young community is doomed, but Kevin relates the failures of the church and humans to the boondoggles in the Gospel stories and the adventures of hapless disciples. The church may have “adventure in her DNA” but she also has a propensity for disaster, like say, throwing all one’s resources into a Hallowe’en party nobody comes to.
My favourite anecdote in the book involves a cross-country trip to participate in “Church Plant Boot Camp”. I’m not going to give any spoilers here, except to say I cringed, laughed and cried all the while thinking I would try to find someone to embroider “The Grace of God Is Not Like Selling Cars” and hang the sampler on my wall.
I said that reading this book was akin to reading Kevin’s diary, but that’s not completely true. It’s more like reading the sticky notes in his Bible. In one part of the book he relates the story of Jesus healing the man dropped through the roof by his friends, and points out that the Gospel accounts are filled with stories of people helping one another experience Jesus’s healing and that the same magic happens today if we are brave enough to do this weird, countercultural thing. We want life to be like a restaurant menu, Kevin writes, but church is a potluck and sometimes everyone brings potatoes. But somewhere in the midst of all that disorder, God shows up.
Even though none of us can physically walk into a church at the moment, reading this book is kind of like slipping back into the pew for a few hours and taking a peek behind the curtains of a church community that looks different from what you might expect (hello “Nap Sundays”!). Kevin’s writing is funny, insightful and honest and I fell into these stories of healing (and heartache and U-Hauls) and was reminded of what is possible; that despite what things look like in the future, the adventure of church is worth it.
August 1, 2020
I first heard of Kevin Makins through my friend Rielly McLaren. He told me about his college friend that was planting a cool church in Hamilton. I next heard of Kevin as a guest on New Leaf Network podcast where he talked about his ‘Holy Shift’ tour, as he and some of his friends cycled to bars to do stand-up comedy, have conversations about Jesus and have one of his friends perform music on a bicycle. I was not surprised when we first met at Eucharist Church and he showed up on a one-wheel motorized skateboard.
So when the opportunity to read his book and interview him for my podcast came up, I knew that this would be time well spent. So, let me share my thoughts on Kevin and his book ‘Why Would Anyone Go To Church?’
First of all, there was no stalling out as I read through 150,000 words. You know how you can get bogged down finishing a read? You keep reading because you hope that something profound or insightful is coming and when it does not, you stick a marker in the page and say, “I’ll come back to it.” This was one of the gems that I could not put down. I did not find my mind wandering to other things or set it aside for a nap.
Secondly, Kevin is a brilliant communicator with a mix of bratty wit and humble confession of his weakness and mistakes. Now, stir in some deeply profound theological reflection and you have a book that gives great insight into a millennial leader that believes in Jesus and the Church he is building.
My third observation is that Kevin is as sincere as he is experimental in hacking liturgy to find relevance and meaning for the urban neighbours he cares deeply for. Anything edgy that Kevin does is deeply rooted in a theological sweet spot. Ten years ago he planted Eucharist Church in downtown Hamilton and the book chronicles how a 23-year-old wrestled through the dynamic tensions of his Lutheran (Missouri Synod) childhood, youth group conversion and choice to become church in one of Hamilton’s toughest neighbourhoods.
Possibly I was riveted to his story because of my own youthful church planting experience and the reckless sincerity that took me there in the first place.
Finally, the book asks a really great question and draws the reader into the possibility that being part of Jesus’ church may be exactly what our world is missing.
"Book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications and Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. Available through major book sources."
So when the opportunity to read his book and interview him for my podcast came up, I knew that this would be time well spent. So, let me share my thoughts on Kevin and his book ‘Why Would Anyone Go To Church?’
First of all, there was no stalling out as I read through 150,000 words. You know how you can get bogged down finishing a read? You keep reading because you hope that something profound or insightful is coming and when it does not, you stick a marker in the page and say, “I’ll come back to it.” This was one of the gems that I could not put down. I did not find my mind wandering to other things or set it aside for a nap.
Secondly, Kevin is a brilliant communicator with a mix of bratty wit and humble confession of his weakness and mistakes. Now, stir in some deeply profound theological reflection and you have a book that gives great insight into a millennial leader that believes in Jesus and the Church he is building.
My third observation is that Kevin is as sincere as he is experimental in hacking liturgy to find relevance and meaning for the urban neighbours he cares deeply for. Anything edgy that Kevin does is deeply rooted in a theological sweet spot. Ten years ago he planted Eucharist Church in downtown Hamilton and the book chronicles how a 23-year-old wrestled through the dynamic tensions of his Lutheran (Missouri Synod) childhood, youth group conversion and choice to become church in one of Hamilton’s toughest neighbourhoods.
Possibly I was riveted to his story because of my own youthful church planting experience and the reckless sincerity that took me there in the first place.
Finally, the book asks a really great question and draws the reader into the possibility that being part of Jesus’ church may be exactly what our world is missing.
"Book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications and Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. Available through major book sources."
June 24, 2020
Wow. I ripped through this book in two days, because I just wanted to keep on reading - I was so attached to the story of this little community and the incredible ways that God was using its imperfection to bless its members and the city around it. The Little Church Plant That Could.
The chapter on place should be mandatory reading for anyone who is part of a community that takes mission seriously. The chapter on potlucks, the chapters about the church planting boot camp, and the last chapter had me fighting away tears.
Kevin has a real gift for storytelling and is so attuned to where the Spirit is moving in any particular moment - even when it's a little harder to see. He processes grief and imperfection remarkably - he doesn't rush past them but isn't masochistic - he understands the power of redemption.
Full disclosure: I've been a part of Eucharist Church for about a year (more recent than the stories Kevin shares in the book), and reading this made me grateful to be here now, sharing in this community. But even more than that, it made me more convinced of the role and the beauty of the capital-C Church and grateful to be part of her too.
The chapter on place should be mandatory reading for anyone who is part of a community that takes mission seriously. The chapter on potlucks, the chapters about the church planting boot camp, and the last chapter had me fighting away tears.
Kevin has a real gift for storytelling and is so attuned to where the Spirit is moving in any particular moment - even when it's a little harder to see. He processes grief and imperfection remarkably - he doesn't rush past them but isn't masochistic - he understands the power of redemption.
Full disclosure: I've been a part of Eucharist Church for about a year (more recent than the stories Kevin shares in the book), and reading this made me grateful to be here now, sharing in this community. But even more than that, it made me more convinced of the role and the beauty of the capital-C Church and grateful to be part of her too.
September 7, 2020
In "Why Would Anyone Go to Church?" Kevin Makins gives a wonderful testimony to how God works in his life and in the lives of obedient Christians to bring about His kingdom on earth. Makins offers very personal stories regarding the planting of a congregation in Hamilton, The Eucharist Community. These stories explore both victories and setbacks, joys and struggles in order to share the process by which Eucharist came to be. In sharing these personal and communal moments, Makins also provides a sound theology of the church. He considers the church's mission to reach all people. He considers the diversity that should exist within the community of God. He considers the richness of community and relationship. He considers how the church should relate to the surrounding culture. In doing these things, Makins provides a method for people to reflect on their own church and how each church plays a unique part in the wider body of Christ.
I received this book from the publisher as part of their blogging program.
I received this book from the publisher as part of their blogging program.
August 1, 2020
Sometimes it seems that we do everything right, but things don’t turn out the way they should; at other times, regardless of how many mistakes we make, things turn out just the way we had hoped. It happens, in life, it happens in business, and it happens in church. Sometimes even the least likely person in the room is the one that succeeds. We may not understand why, but we certainly like to analyze the situation; and when we do, sometimes we have to come to the realization that things turn out the way they do because God is in control, and He’s decided how things are going to turn out.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s what happened with Eucharist Church.
Kevin Makins got the idea that he was supposed to start a church. His church-planting associates told him that he was going about things all wrong, but he decided not to listen. If he followed their advice, this dream would be set back months, or even years. His recent book ? Why Would Anyone Go To Church: A Young Community’s Quest to Reclaim Church for God, (Baker Books, 2020) is the story of how some promptings from the Spirit led Makins to plant a church, and what has happened in the life of that church over the past 10 years.
At first glance, I was confused by the title—it seemed like this was going to be an exposé of everything that’s wrong with the church, and why people shouldn’t bother. But instead I found a delightful reminder that regardless of her faults, the church is still THE place where people should be gathering. No she’s not perfect, but the church is still better than most of what’s out there for hurting people, for people who are questioning their beliefs, their lives, and their very existences. And given even the least of a chance, the church comes through with shining colors.
Makin’s book is filled with stories of people being transformed because of this little church, even when things weren’t going well with the church itself. Makin describes with a refreshing honesty and humility how God continued to work, even when he himself was trying to get in the way.
It’s a book full of lessons, of honesty, of candor and confession.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a member of their blogger program. I was asked to provide an honest review
5/5
And maybe, just maybe, that’s what happened with Eucharist Church.
Kevin Makins got the idea that he was supposed to start a church. His church-planting associates told him that he was going about things all wrong, but he decided not to listen. If he followed their advice, this dream would be set back months, or even years. His recent book ? Why Would Anyone Go To Church: A Young Community’s Quest to Reclaim Church for God, (Baker Books, 2020) is the story of how some promptings from the Spirit led Makins to plant a church, and what has happened in the life of that church over the past 10 years.
At first glance, I was confused by the title—it seemed like this was going to be an exposé of everything that’s wrong with the church, and why people shouldn’t bother. But instead I found a delightful reminder that regardless of her faults, the church is still THE place where people should be gathering. No she’s not perfect, but the church is still better than most of what’s out there for hurting people, for people who are questioning their beliefs, their lives, and their very existences. And given even the least of a chance, the church comes through with shining colors.
Makin’s book is filled with stories of people being transformed because of this little church, even when things weren’t going well with the church itself. Makin describes with a refreshing honesty and humility how God continued to work, even when he himself was trying to get in the way.
It’s a book full of lessons, of honesty, of candor and confession.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a member of their blogger program. I was asked to provide an honest review
5/5
July 10, 2021
This was such an enjoyable, interesting, and insightful read. If I'm being fully honest, I read this because of a book club, and I wasn't excited when this was the book that was chosen. I'm not usually a fan of books about church plants (aka new faith communities), written by "young, dynamic leaders", as in my experience they tend to be pretty preachy and focus on how well they're doing, and how anyone can do it too, if they just try harder and pray more, without any practical insight. Often this is done in a way that can come across as bashing other congregations or denominations as well.
This book wasn't like that at all, and definitely exceeded my expectations. Kevin Makins is an engaging story-teller, and what he shared felt so honest that it was liberating to read. Yes, he shared their successes, but more often than not he was sharing the realities and challenges they faced, and even some ways in which he, personally, made mistakes. I laughed out loud several times per chapter (and the chapters are quite short), and felt seen in many ways, as a young(ish) Christian caught between a world that isn’t super interested in the traditions of generations past and a denomination that really is. Although I'm not someone who feels called to plant a church, there was lots of wisdom shared for those who sit inside the established church (and seemingly lots for those who may not feel connected to any form of church whatsoever). I'm not quite sure that the book offers a clear answer on "why anyone would go to church", per se, more of a story about this particular worship community, but it was an engaging read nonetheless. And it definitely inspired some interesting conversations for our book club!
Most of all, I'd love for Makins to produce a version of his translation or a paraphrase of the Bible! He retold biblical stories a few times with such flair that I would love to read more. It really brought the stories to life, and I would imagine this could translate well into his preaching too. Overall, I look forward to whatever Makins does next, and I hope I can visit Eucharist Church someday!
This book wasn't like that at all, and definitely exceeded my expectations. Kevin Makins is an engaging story-teller, and what he shared felt so honest that it was liberating to read. Yes, he shared their successes, but more often than not he was sharing the realities and challenges they faced, and even some ways in which he, personally, made mistakes. I laughed out loud several times per chapter (and the chapters are quite short), and felt seen in many ways, as a young(ish) Christian caught between a world that isn’t super interested in the traditions of generations past and a denomination that really is. Although I'm not someone who feels called to plant a church, there was lots of wisdom shared for those who sit inside the established church (and seemingly lots for those who may not feel connected to any form of church whatsoever). I'm not quite sure that the book offers a clear answer on "why anyone would go to church", per se, more of a story about this particular worship community, but it was an engaging read nonetheless. And it definitely inspired some interesting conversations for our book club!
Most of all, I'd love for Makins to produce a version of his translation or a paraphrase of the Bible! He retold biblical stories a few times with such flair that I would love to read more. It really brought the stories to life, and I would imagine this could translate well into his preaching too. Overall, I look forward to whatever Makins does next, and I hope I can visit Eucharist Church someday!
September 7, 2020
I read this book in the hope to achieve some kind of clarity on why in fact, anyone would go to church.
This book did not deliver that, instead is a count of the trials and tribulations of a young “edgy” pastor planting a church that goes against the more fundamentalist views of the long standing traditional church communities.
I’m not a religious person, but have always been curious about the draw of a church community. Does it offer something more than what I experience in my community? Is there something I’m missing out on?
I was rubbed the wrong way a few times upon reading this book. While I’m sure the intention was to highlight the “edginess” of this church.. it did not read that way to me. In calling someone “dopey eyes” or “rage vein”, read as condescending and out of touch.
There are assumptions made in this book, that while I understand where he is coming from, I don’t think it’s fair to state these are things that can only be found in a church community. I’m speaking in particular when he talks about how the congregation coming together to help a new member move, questioning “what other community would come together to do something for a complete stranger” my answer is...many communities. How do I know this? From experience.
While the intention of highlighting the queer and mental ill members of the community was meant to again, highlight the edginess of this church, did not read that way. Instead it read as tokenism, a prop to prove to the world that church can be inclusive to the more alternative members of society.
The appeal of this book is lost after the cover page, and is written more as a confirmation for those who are apart of a congregation, not so much for those of us wavering on the outside.
The title is misleading and would have been more appropriately titled “hipster youth plants church that’s better than your church” but that’s wordy and less catchy.
This book did not deliver that, instead is a count of the trials and tribulations of a young “edgy” pastor planting a church that goes against the more fundamentalist views of the long standing traditional church communities.
I’m not a religious person, but have always been curious about the draw of a church community. Does it offer something more than what I experience in my community? Is there something I’m missing out on?
I was rubbed the wrong way a few times upon reading this book. While I’m sure the intention was to highlight the “edginess” of this church.. it did not read that way to me. In calling someone “dopey eyes” or “rage vein”, read as condescending and out of touch.
There are assumptions made in this book, that while I understand where he is coming from, I don’t think it’s fair to state these are things that can only be found in a church community. I’m speaking in particular when he talks about how the congregation coming together to help a new member move, questioning “what other community would come together to do something for a complete stranger” my answer is...many communities. How do I know this? From experience.
While the intention of highlighting the queer and mental ill members of the community was meant to again, highlight the edginess of this church, did not read that way. Instead it read as tokenism, a prop to prove to the world that church can be inclusive to the more alternative members of society.
The appeal of this book is lost after the cover page, and is written more as a confirmation for those who are apart of a congregation, not so much for those of us wavering on the outside.
The title is misleading and would have been more appropriately titled “hipster youth plants church that’s better than your church” but that’s wordy and less catchy.
August 3, 2020
If you’re one of those people who skim to the end of a review first (perhaps to see how long it is), you’ll note that Kevin Makins’ Why Would Anyone Go to Church? had a mid-June release date in the year 2020. Yes, right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. It might, thus, seem a little odd to be reading a book about going to church at this particular time when church is not being housed in a building, but is now more about community — a community of Zoom participants, perhaps, but a community nonetheless. Thankfully, though, Makins’ book isn’t very dated in the least or made irrelevant by COVID. It’s more of a memoir about the author’s attempt to plant a church in downtown Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It’s worth noting that Makins is a bit of a progressive (he refers to the church as a “she”) and is young — he was born in 1986, which places him in his mid-30s.
I was approached by the author to review this book (I guess he’s a bit of a fan of my work), and I’m going to be candid and say that I probably wouldn’t have reviewed this book otherwise because much of the book is life-story interspersed with bits of Christian theology. In other words, this is the type of book that is both hard to review and is a bit critic-proof because it is so personal. For me to cut deeply into this book would risk wounding the author, and my interactions with him, albeit limited, seem to suggest that he’s a nice guy who could do without the grief. Thankfully, I don’t have much, if anything, that is critical to say because this is a well-written, entertaining, thoughtful and funny book in equal measure.
Read the rest of the review here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
I was approached by the author to review this book (I guess he’s a bit of a fan of my work), and I’m going to be candid and say that I probably wouldn’t have reviewed this book otherwise because much of the book is life-story interspersed with bits of Christian theology. In other words, this is the type of book that is both hard to review and is a bit critic-proof because it is so personal. For me to cut deeply into this book would risk wounding the author, and my interactions with him, albeit limited, seem to suggest that he’s a nice guy who could do without the grief. Thankfully, I don’t have much, if anything, that is critical to say because this is a well-written, entertaining, thoughtful and funny book in equal measure.
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November 16, 2020: Just read Kevin Makins' Why would Anyone Go To Church, in 2 days no less!. Makins' manifest is a primer in Adventures in church planting. The book reminded me of reading Life Together by Bonhoeffer, and Messy Spirituality by Yanconelli in college. Pastor Kevin shares a poignant, painful, passionate and powerful story of trusting Jesus to do something no sane person has any business contemplating let alone actualizing-ie starting your own church and in a poor, urban setting. It is tale told not by an idiot but by a true follower and lover of Jesus, signifying both steps forward and backwards in the arduous process. Ministering at all hours of the day and night, dealing with feelings of elation, frustration, jealousy and redemption-Kevin shows us how we are all sinners, in need of Jesus and community. HIs intoxicating interactions with characters from "every tongue and tribe" also reminded me of Billy Joel's immortal words how "I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints". The story of how his church organized a Christmas party for Syrian refugees damn near brought me to tears, as I imagined what dancing with Jesus must be like. And if you buy the book for no other reason, the agony and ecstasy Kevin and his wife experienced in "church planter's boot camp" is must reading for anyone contemplating starting your own church. Finally, this book reminded me that despite my painful experiences in church, we all are messed up and broken people who desperately need Jesus, community, forgiveness and redemption. And more than ever-what I wouldn't give to me part of a church plant some day!!!
March 27, 2021
Makins offers a genuine look at his life in ministry. He doesn't hide the ugly parts. I was laughing so hard at some of his more embarrassing moments and cheering him on at others. You don't have to agree with 100% of his methods (he doesn't either) to appreciate this book. It's short enough to read in one sitting and long enough that I was able to share several stories with my husband afterward. It's more entertain than most of Netflix and all of Hulu. But even more than entertainment value is the deep conviction Makins shows he has to truly be the body of christ to a lost and dying world. I loved the part where he confessed his sin to his pastor friend. That takes guts and humility when we don't see that from the pulpit much nowadays. The whole book reminded me of Mother Teresa "God has not called me to be successful but to be faithful." If you want to read the story of an amazing CEO-pastor who leads his customer-congregants, this is not for you. If you want to read about how God can use even someone who was deemed "uncalled to start a church" by a bunch of people in Vancouver, then you will enjoy this book. It's a book that is about God getting glory through the mistakes and successes of humans.
June 24, 2020
So... I’ve been reading this book called “Why would anyone go to church” by Kevin Makins. As a matter of fact, I’ve already read it twice, and I’ve just finished my third read (it was delivered Wednesday and it’s Tuesday evening as I’m writing this). Every time I’ve read it, God highlights something new for me to wonder about; reflect on; something new that moves in me.
One of my favourite quotes from the book is this : “In God’s reality, everything is flipped upside down. God isn’t impressed with our achievements; he’s looking for people who will show up and bring what they’ve got, even if they don’t have much.” (Makins, P. 72-73).
Kevin, thank you for this book. Sincerely, It moved me in ways I’ve never experienced with a book before. I laughed, cried, got angry and felt immensely vulnerable. I am so grateful for this book. And I think you should all read it.
Another favourite quote is “ when the church draws in different people, she also connects their stories…” (Makins, p.126) There were so many more quotes from the book that I could add, but I think you should all just read the book instead!
One of my favourite quotes from the book is this : “In God’s reality, everything is flipped upside down. God isn’t impressed with our achievements; he’s looking for people who will show up and bring what they’ve got, even if they don’t have much.” (Makins, P. 72-73).
Kevin, thank you for this book. Sincerely, It moved me in ways I’ve never experienced with a book before. I laughed, cried, got angry and felt immensely vulnerable. I am so grateful for this book. And I think you should all read it.
Another favourite quote is “ when the church draws in different people, she also connects their stories…” (Makins, p.126) There were so many more quotes from the book that I could add, but I think you should all just read the book instead!
July 10, 2020
I enjoyed this book for so many reasons, the first being that I lived thru a lot of these stories, and have watched Kev pastor and create since those early FT days. And this book captures those moments in a really authentic way. But I also learned a lot in reading it too, and gained a new appreciation for the story of Eucharist and what God has been doing thru this particular church in Hamilton. Kev is engaging and that shines thru in the pages, and you probably won't want to put this book down, and won't have to, since it's a quick read.
I think I also loved this book because I really struggle with my relationship with the church, and frequently question why we bother, why we put in so much blood sweat and tears to make Sunday service happen, why we bother entering into the mess that is community and accountability and serving one another. And Kev renews my hope in that, concretely in these pages, by reminding me of Eucharist's mountaintop moments, where the veil is torn and God is so close, but also of the value of the deeply mundane and boring parts. And he also renews my hope in person on Sundays, and his commitment to our community thru thick and thin is hope-inspiring.
I think I also loved this book because I really struggle with my relationship with the church, and frequently question why we bother, why we put in so much blood sweat and tears to make Sunday service happen, why we bother entering into the mess that is community and accountability and serving one another. And Kev renews my hope in that, concretely in these pages, by reminding me of Eucharist's mountaintop moments, where the veil is torn and God is so close, but also of the value of the deeply mundane and boring parts. And he also renews my hope in person on Sundays, and his commitment to our community thru thick and thin is hope-inspiring.
August 28, 2020
Why Would Anyone Go to Church is the story of the Eucharist Church that was founded in downtown Hamilton, Ontario. It's a story of the first six years of the church and one congregation's experience. While this book held an intriguing story and was well-written, it did not live up to its promise.
Let me say this: if you are on the verge of walking away from the church or are not sure where you fit in, the story of the Eucharist church may give you hope that there is a congregation out there for you. It may give you the desire to seek out a like-minded set of believers and who knows you may remember why the church is necessary for the believer.
Pastor Kevin was upfront about his struggles to plant a church and some of the successes and failures of his congregation. His honesty encourages you to be honest about what you need from your church body. He also reminds you that no two congregations have to be the same. Enjoy the differences in your congregation. Choose to be a part of the body of Christ knowing that you have a unique role to play.
I received an advanced reader's copy as part of the Baker Bloggers program; a positive review was not required.
Let me say this: if you are on the verge of walking away from the church or are not sure where you fit in, the story of the Eucharist church may give you hope that there is a congregation out there for you. It may give you the desire to seek out a like-minded set of believers and who knows you may remember why the church is necessary for the believer.
Pastor Kevin was upfront about his struggles to plant a church and some of the successes and failures of his congregation. His honesty encourages you to be honest about what you need from your church body. He also reminds you that no two congregations have to be the same. Enjoy the differences in your congregation. Choose to be a part of the body of Christ knowing that you have a unique role to play.
I received an advanced reader's copy as part of the Baker Bloggers program; a positive review was not required.
June 16, 2020
Kevin writes of a community where no two people are the same. But they’re differences have shown them God’s grace and forgiveness. He presents a different way of doing church. Nothing radical or new but the art of sticking around - even when it’s difficult, even when people leave, even when forgiveness seems impossible. He sprinkles biblical stories and stories of personal short comings amongst really beautiful illustrations of a community just trying to love like Jesus. It’s a reminder that we need each other, in the flesh. I couldn’t get through a few pages without my eyes welling up or saying out loud to myself, “YES!”
I hope you read it and yell some YES’s too. Because it is possible to take up the same space as others so different than you with grace and love and forgiveness. I hope you find your church and if it’s helpful, read this book to see what that could look like.
I hope you read it and yell some YES’s too. Because it is possible to take up the same space as others so different than you with grace and love and forgiveness. I hope you find your church and if it’s helpful, read this book to see what that could look like.
July 16, 2020
I've heard of Eucharist church and Kevin before but never met nor visited the church. But after reading the book I felt like I was walking through the journey. I'm thankful for the candid invitation to walk into joys and trials of starting something new; the tears shed when things "seemingly" gone wrong but also the seemingly "mundane" miracles of the every day. Kevin's book really offers a fresh narrative of what church can be and not what church ought to be. It isn't about another novel model of church but to the perseverance and the gentle divine presence at work in birthing something new. It is an important resource for those wrestling with church especially in complex urban centers in Canada.
August 16, 2020
I received a complimentary copy through Baker Books Bloggers. Opinions, expressed in this review are completely my own. "Why Would Anyone Go To Church" by Kevin Makins, is a story about this pastor's journey starting a church. It has some good points in the book, but I can not recommend this book. It does not believe the same as I do. It was all over the place in religion. I don't know what religion this church believe in. It was so confusing. This is not commended for "baby" christians. Know putting aside the religion difference, I give the book two stars, because it has wonderful stories but doesn't show the topic very well. It really does not answer the title. It just tells their story of starting a church.
July 26, 2020
#Why Would Anyone Go To Church# by Kevin Makins is an non fiction Christian inspirational book. Kevin Makins is the founding pastor of Eucharist Church in downtown Hamilton Ontario, Canada. He speaks at conferences. He also makes videos on youtube. He is approached by skeptics as well as faithful Christians. He started his church at twenty three. He is creative as a pastor and takes the church to the people. He makes church real and practical for others. Thank you to netgalley, the publisher, the author for allowing me to read and review this book. I will post my review on Amazon, facebook, Bookbub, Goodreads, my blog .
May 9, 2022
While I found this book entertaining and fun as it chronicles the seven first years of their churches life, I felt as if the author was scattered in his intent for the book. The question that the title poses isn’t really answered in depth and the author comes across a little arrogant at times. To be fair, he has moments of great humility too. I was expecting more theology and conversation about Jesus but this was minimal. I did appreciate his attitude when speaking about the importance of different churches that aren’t cookie cutter and that these churches are part of the wider church. We are one big family.
June 30, 2020
Amazing book - easy to read, hard to put down. Kevin is a great author, humble, funny, down to earth and unafraid to share the normal emotions we all have from fear to uncertainty to guilt to envy. This is the real world of church and definitely something every Christian should pick up if they are going to be reflective about their church and how they represent themselves as people of God.
For those who aren't believers -there are still great lessons about following your dreams or what you believe your calling may be and some great life lessons over all.
For those who aren't believers -there are still great lessons about following your dreams or what you believe your calling may be and some great life lessons over all.
July 8, 2020
I loved this book. The way the world is going maybe the better question is why isn't everyone in church. Thank God for calling people like Kevin Makins to the great commission.
Kevin Makins shares the struggles of planting a church. Through all that he and his family went through to realize his dream, he held tightly to his faith. He got me giggling, tearing up, asking questions and opening my bible to read his references. This is a driven pastor. Thanks Kevin Makins for listening when you were called.
Kevin Makins shares the struggles of planting a church. Through all that he and his family went through to realize his dream, he held tightly to his faith. He got me giggling, tearing up, asking questions and opening my bible to read his references. This is a driven pastor. Thanks Kevin Makins for listening when you were called.
August 7, 2020
This is a great book for people who are looking to belong to something greater than themselves without having to disown who they are in the process. Set against the back drop of the gospels, Makins tells the story of planting Eucharist Church as an updated version of events in Jesus’s life that speak of human struggles. Wanna know how walking on water, feeding five thousand people with a couple of fish and betraying a beloved master fit into the development of an urban church? This book will tell you and leave you in awe how special life is, not as something to recklessly accept but to savour, grow from and love. Kevin Makins’s church is for right now, right here.
August 15, 2020
This book had engaging writing and compelling to read with that also had a very unique story for us to discovery to something that means and we missing out to our community, of our people or event ourself had felt lost, giving up from faith when is that happening to our life and that we make looking for last hope and wish that can be fulfilling to out lost. I highly recommend to everyone must read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Baker Books Bloggers for this review”.
January 5, 2024
Kevin introduces a storytelling journey through the complexities of church tradition and creative community with humour and truth. Probing questions help each of us discover our own authenticity of faith and church experience. Stories of failures and successes encourage a shifting in our own humble spiritual journey. Why would anyone go to church? Kevin redefines church. This book expands our vision to a definition of a larger church, a deeper church and the true purpose of church - celebration and connection of all of us to become all that Jesus invites us to become. Thanks Kevin!
June 17, 2020
I can’t remember the last time I read a book on Church & Community and enjoyed it quite like this. In Makins’ book, Why Would Anyone Go To Church, he writes about the story of starting a church with a bunch of misfits in Hamilton, Ontario. Along the way he also begins writing about how community and church should be, and what it could be. Deep, humorous, and sometimes sad, this book had me engaged from the preface. I can’t recommend it enough.
July 24, 2020
A+
I was completely drawn into the story from my home town of Hamilton. As Makins shared from his experience in church planting, I resonated with so many of his challenges, social encounters, & theological revelations to God’s presence & work in his community of Eucharist Church. As a House Church planter & leader, so many memories flooded back into my mind while reading this treasure. Thank you, Kevin, for enduring & embodying the Eucharist in word & flesh! :)
I was completely drawn into the story from my home town of Hamilton. As Makins shared from his experience in church planting, I resonated with so many of his challenges, social encounters, & theological revelations to God’s presence & work in his community of Eucharist Church. As a House Church planter & leader, so many memories flooded back into my mind while reading this treasure. Thank you, Kevin, for enduring & embodying the Eucharist in word & flesh! :)
August 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this read! In Why Would Anyone Go to Church, Kevin shares how the experience of a young church plant in Hamilton Ontario can help us to consider the role of the Church in our communities and in our lives, and the things we miss when we don't. I was quickly pulled in by Kevin's humour and moved by his honesty and his contextualization of Biblical text in his reflections on Church and faith in community.
August 24, 2020
A phenomenal read. As someone who often feels a little disgruntled in my soul about church, this was a refreshing reminder of why I should keep trying. Or, keep allowing God to help me try? The theology of that always confuses me a bit. Anyway.
The book has something for you, even if you don't struggle with "fitting in" with a church body. There's a lot to absorb and learn about life with God and the love of Christ from the story of Eucharist Church. And it's funny, too! Highly recommend!
The book has something for you, even if you don't struggle with "fitting in" with a church body. There's a lot to absorb and learn about life with God and the love of Christ from the story of Eucharist Church. And it's funny, too! Highly recommend!
July 25, 2022
This book hooked me in from page one due to the author’s personality and writing style. The title grabbed my attention because over the past few years I’ve struggled with realizing that I don’t really fit with the typical evangelical culture - but I really love God and people. The book is the story of a church plant told from the pastor’s perspective. I found this book interesting & inspirational.
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