Why Banned Books at Church?

 Our library at St. Andrew’s is home to a number of banned books, from picture books to young adult novels. We are a safe haven for controversial narratives right in the heart of Texas, the state that takes the top prize in challenged books. Take a moment to browse our collection of banned books and see what you notice...common themes…particular experiences and identities being censored. 

As a church, we feel it’s important to make these books available to the community. One of our core values as a progressive Christian community is to, “strive for peace and justice among all people, knowing that behaving with compassion and selfless love towards one another is the fullest expression of what we believe.” Reading stories written by people with identities and life experiences different from our own helps us shift our perspective, develop empathy, and see more clearly the call to justice among all people. We can also find parts of ourselves in these stories, which helps us grow into the fullness of our being. Children, teens, young adults, and older adults can find affirmation in the books they read. Sometimes, stories even shine light on hidden and painful experiences letting readers know they are not alone. 

As progressive Christians, we are committed to a path of life-long learning. We can’t keep growing if we close our minds and shut out different ways of being in, experiencing, and understanding the world. Caring for the stories in banned books is one small, but important way of proclaiming our love for everyone, everywhere, all the time. Let’s read and celebrate banned books together!