Whispers in the Pews
“I am ridiculously excited for the stories in this book to be shared. There is an incredible need to discuss the reality of mental illness and how the church can improve how it addresses this.”
Whispers in the Pews
“Compassion is the antidote to stigma, and it only begins when we hear the stories of real men and women who suffer from mental illness. Chris Morris is doing the church a tremendous service with this book. It should be required reading for anyone who considers himself or herself to be a follower of Jesus.”
Whispers in the Pews
“Chris Morris has compiled honest and raw stories that give sight into the heart of many Christians who have battled, or are battling, mental illness. Whispers in the Pews brings to light that mental health matters and how it hasn’t always mattered in the Christian community, and it needs to. Our churches need to be a place where all are welcome, no matter one’s story. Chris has written a thought-provoking book that will stir up your heart to be a part of the change we need to see.”
Whispers in the Pews
“Finally, someone is speaking out on a deep and important issue that simply does not get talked about enough in our faith communities. Thank you, Chris, for your honesty and bravery. May these words move us all to deeper and more compassionate action.”
Whispers in the Pews
“I cannot imagine Jesus scolding someone with a mental illness, telling them to just get over it, try harder, memorize more verses. No, He would listen. He would love. He would be filled with compassion. And even He was deemed mentally ill in his time, his miracles attributed to demonic activity. In short, Jesus empathizes with people who don’t fit a culture’s mold. But the church? We can either cause more suffering or create pathways of hope. Sadly, through ignorance and Christian platitudes we’ve done more of the former than the latter. This book offers incredibly precious insight to help the church become like Jesus for those who suffer. Read this book. Give it to your pastors and leaders. Revolutionary seems too small a word.”
Perfectly Abnormal
“I highly recommend this book to any person or family trying to deal with a chronic illness. In its pages you will find practical help to move forward, and hope to experience a life worth living. Over the past few years I have witnessed the pain and sorrow experienced by Chris and his family. Chris struggles not only the affects of his own physical illness, but the emotional pain of watching his children wrestle with their own sickness. Add to that the silent frustration and distress caused by well meaning individuals, friends and doctors, who question the reality of his sickness.
Through all of this, I have seen his family dust themselves off, pull together, cling to hope, and refuse to give up.”
Perfectly Abnormal
“Perfectly Abnormal is one of those books that should be required reading for churches longing to provide a welcoming environment for all their members.
And it should be required reading for any human who wants to love, empathize, and walk in the shoes of another.
I so appreciated Chris Morris’ wise theology of suffering and his keen insight into those who don’t fit the straightjacket of what society calls “normal.” An excellent book, well written.”
“Chris gave my favorite session ever at a conference. His words brought tears to my eyes, and still do every time I listen to the recording.”
“Chris understands the ways that faith and mental illness combine into powerful and useful ways. He isn’t afraid to stir the pot to get people to think differently about tough topics.”
“Chris is able to speak confidently about chronic and mental illnesses, combining practical points and biblical guidance into a compelling package that’s entertaining and challenging.”
“Chris tackles topics that churches and other groups need to hear, but are often afraid to address. He speaks with a pastoral heart to those who are hurting and to those who lead the church, guiding everyone toward a stronger sense of community and sensitivity.”