I did not grow up Church of Christ (pause for the gasps to die down). I actually grew up Methodist, went to a Baptist school for undergrad, and then ACU, a Church of Christ school for graduate. The Church of Christ tradition is certainly not in my blood or bones.

Yet, the stories that come out of the Church of Christ tradition are important and valuable. Through satire and humor, Perry C. Cotham colorfully brings to life these practical insights about church life in general and pulpit ministry specifically. He presents a unique view of authentic Christian men and women and the joys, pains, and serendipities they experience along their faith journey.

Cotham’s purpose for this book is twofold: One, to invite people to smile, at times even to laugh, but always reflect on some of their own personal memories of their early church life; Two, to play a small role in preserving a valuable part of one church’s heritage. While some will have the mindset that the church is not for laughter or merriment, Cotham wants us to rethink how we view church and how we view those early disciples and Jesus. Can we really imagine anyone going to a wedding reception and not enjoying the moment with laughter and smiles? Overall, Cotham offers a collection of humorous, irreverent, and sometimes sad stories and observations from his long career within one unique Christian tradition, bringing about a new commandment: “Thou shalt not take thyself seriously” (19).