Augsburg Fortress

"Without Oars takes readers on an inspiring journey of rethinking Christian discipleship as an embodied reality rather than just a 'belief in beliefs.' There is no better guide for this excursion than Wesley Granberg-Michaelson, with his deep wisdom, pastoral sensitivity, and gift for storytelling. Readers will reconsider their own ways of walking through the world."

"Reading Wes's remarkable pilgrimage, I found myself--somewhat like John, imprisoned on the isle of Patmos in the Bible--caught up 'in the Spirit,' there in the story, in the insights, in the wisdom, in the pilgrimage. I found myself 'lost in wonder, love and praise,' as the old hymn says. I sensed what the Bible calls 'the joyful liberty of the children of God.' Wow!"

"Wes Granberg-Michaelson describes the promise and joy of 'casting off into a life of pilgrimage' in ways that make us want to start walking. A wonderful book."

"This book is really special. It's an adventure. You get all of Wes's great ideas, stories, and theology, but this time you feel like you are walking alongside him on the Camino. And he'll be inviting you to let go of some of the extra baggage so you're a little freer to enjoy the journey. This book will help you declutter your soul."

"Compelling and beautifully written, Granberg-Michaelson's writing invites us into a deeper reality. Take the journey of reading Without Oars and experience the spiritual transformation and blossoming of the soul that await."

"Up until now, when you think of spirituality and prayer, you may think of churches, sermons, organs, and words, words, words. If you dare to read this beautiful, courageous, and truly unforgettable book, you will think of feet, dirt, water, food, and dancing. As I read, I saw my past in a new light, and my present and future as well. This book stands out and gives extraordinary gifts."

"Wes's pilgrim journey invites us into places of disruption, uncertainty, even surrender. He's a wise guide for this necessary journey. I commend this book to anyone who is open to discovering the treasure found in the detours and disruptions of an authentic faith journey."

"Without Oars is a lovely reminder that walking with Christ is a pilgrimage where we are accompanied and nourished in ways that touch the body and soul. This book is soothing and centering without ignoring the hard truths of our lives."

"In Without Oars, Wes Granberg-Michaelson shares the deep wisdom he has gained as a lifelong and contemplative pilgrim whose spiritual practice leads him to strong and effective social action for justice. This book is a genuine must-read for anyone who wants to apply faith to public life. I can't recommend it highly enough."

"This enchanting book takes readers on a journey into the ancient and sacred terrain of Christian pilgrimage. Here we learn that pilgrimage is both a 'be-wilding,' external journey and an interior, mystical one."

"Drawing on the rich Christian history of pilgrimage, Wes Granberg-Michaelson encourages us to turn off the phone, take a break from 'efficiency,' shed the political baggage of the culture wars, and learn to listen to the Holy Spirit. Part memoir, part sermon, Without Oars invites us to experience an enchanted world defined by peace, spiritual wandering, and a deeper experience with God."