Parenting: The Complex and Beautiful Vocation of Raising Children - Paperback

by Holly Taylor Coolman (Author)

Books on parenting abound, with many suggesting that specific strategies will produce desired results. Gifted theologian Holly Taylor Coolman offers something different: a theologically and biblically rich commentary on the theme of raising children.

As a mother of five who is known for approaching parenting in a theological way, Coolman is often asked for advice. In this book, she explores parenting as a complex and beautiful vocation in which mothers and fathers themselves are made and unmade, offered troubling sorts of gifts, and drawn deeper into connection not only with their children but also with God, others, and themselves. Coolman describes child-rearing as a vocation to which parents are called that requires them to develop the skills of apprenticeship and invitation. She also locates raising children firmly within the context of the church.

This book will appeal to Christian parents, especially adoptive and foster parents, as well as pastors, church leaders, and students.

Back Jacket

"A beautiful perspective on the challenges and rewards of parenting"

In this theologically and biblically rich commentary on the theme of raising children, Holly Taylor Coolman describes child-rearing as a vocation to which parents are called that requires them to develop the skills of apprenticeship and invitation. She also locates raising children firmly within the context of the church.

"I simply adored this book. Who doesn't want to love their children better? To know them more fully? To have more peace and joy in their home? Coolman writes like a friend who's been there, bringing a lifetime of wisdom and scholarship."
--Anna Keating, author of The Catholic Catalogue: A Field Guide to the Daily Acts That Make Up a Catholic Life

"As a fellow theologian mom, I have long admired Dr. Holly Taylor Coolman. She's been an example to me both in the work of theology and in the vocation of parenting. I recommend Parenting to anyone who cares about children, parents, and the vocation of child-rearing in God's kingdom."
--Emily Hunter McGowin, Wheaton College

"I literally learned parenting and theology on Holly's couch, and I'm so glad her wisdom is now available in this book."
--Beth Felker Jones, Northern Seminary; author of Practicing Christian Doctrine

"Coolman offers people of faith and indeed all people a beautiful perspective on the challenges and rewards of parenting. Read, and then share this book with parents and those involved in family ministries!"
--Tim Muldoon, Boston College; coauthor of The Discerning Parent

"Coolman writes out of her deep faith, theological understanding, and profound experience. Reading this book was like having a long conversation with a very wise friend about things that matter most. I look forward to recommending this book to parents in my congregation."
--L. Roger Owens, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

Author Biography

Holly Taylor Coolman (PhD, Duke University) is assistant professor of theology at Providence College in Providence, Rhode Island, and a senior fellow of the Principium Institute. Her areas of expertise include Christology, ecclesiology, Christian theologies of Judaism, and Jewish-Christian relations. She has written about topics at the intersection of culture and moral theology and about family life, particularly adoption.