Working in the intersection between theology and practice, academy and “the ground,” the Center seeks to produce fresh literature to energize and sustain Christian life and mission in a broken and divided world.

The Center’s first project is a series of accessible books written not only for “professionals” but for everyday Christians, churches, and leaders.  Each volume will weave together biblical/theological vision, practical wisdom, stories, and appropriate social analysis in an engaging format.  Books will address a range of themes around pursuing hope in areanas of brokenness — families, the environment, cities, the poorest of the poor, the disabled, Christianity and Islam, racial/ethnic divisions, and violent conflicts.

Each book will be authored by two leading voices, one in the field of practice/rich grassroots experience, the other from the academy.  The lead title is being written by the Center’s co-directors, Chris Rice and Emmanuel Katongole. American and African, white and black, practitioner and scholar, Protestant and Catholic, Chris and Emmanuel speak  from their journeys in Mississippi and Uganda, laying out a framework for the recovery of visions and practices that will help the church be both a sign and and agent of God’s mission of reconciliation in the fragmented world of the 21^st century.