Asphalt Jesus: Finding a New Christian Faith Along the Highways of America

by Eric Elnes

On Easter 2006, Eric Elnes and several companions set out to walk from Phoenix, Arizona to the nation’s capital. They dreamed of fostering deeper conversations about what it means to be progressive Christians in an age of fundamentalism. On their journey they discovered thousands of people in every state—red and blue—and every kind of church who welcomed them and shared their hunger for relationship and conversation about what it means to be  Christian. Asphalt Jesus tells the story of the journey and further articulates a joyous and loving faith that moves beyond simple categories of “Christian Right” and “Christian Left.”   Asphalt Jesus builds on the author Eric Elnes’s previous book, The Phoenix Affirmations. Arising from the three great loves that the Bible reveals (love of God, love of neighbor, and love of self), these twelve affirmations reflect commitments to environmental stewardship, social justice, and artistic expression as well as openness to other faiths. Transcending theological and culture wars, inclusive and generous in spirit and practice, these principles allow believers and seekers alike to affirm their Christian faith in a fresh way.  

Genres: Theology

224 pages, Hardcover

First published August 3, 2007

Reviews

[Sheryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting book by Eric, who is an amazing person. It's not a straight through reading experience, more of a pick up,put down.

[Nichola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew vaguely of the CrossWalk American project (http://www.crosswalkamerica.org) but enjoyed reading this account of the walk across America, during which walkers were hosted by churches and talked about the Phoenix Affirmations, basically a set of tenets for a progressive Christian faith that values other faiths and welcomes all people, including those who identify as LGBT.

The prayer practice Elnes introduces in the first couple chapters is revolutionizing my spiritual life.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being new in town, I visited Rev Elnes' church today. As a newbie gift, I got this book and promptly came home and read it straight through! I have been looking for a church that recognizes that science is real, LBGT are God's children too, separation of church and state is a good thing, and that other faiths are valid. Love is the most important thing here. Awesome church, awesome book. Read it!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really cool book about what happens between Christians of different flavors. I didn't expect to like it (got it as a giveaway at an event) but am really glad I gave it a chance. I'm keeping it to refer to some the interesting takes on certain scripture passages.