The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living and Leaving the White Evangelical Church

 

Most, if not all of us, have heard the admonition: Don’t talk about politics and religion. I think it’s safe to say that they’re both loaded topics in virtually any environment! In that spirit, I’ll keep this review a little more brief.

An “exvangelical” refers to someone who has left the evangelical church. The reasons for that choice are different, but as with any personal journey, be it faith or otherwise, it usually starts with questions that the individual can’t find satisfactory answers to within the culture they’ve been a part of. 

For those who’ve grappled with confusion and disillusionment about their experiences with evangelicalism and are looking for a book that makes them feel seen and heard, Sarah McCammon has written a book that examines the issues sensitively and honestly. Her humility and candor, and that of all the participants she interviewed in the making of this book, were refreshing. It felt like a dialogue - not a judgment.

This book will primarily appeal to those who have been part of the evangelical culture, either through upbringing or choice, though it may appeal to those who are curious to learn more about it as well.  It’s unflinching in its observations, so those who are deeply committed to evangelicalism may find it difficult to read.

One warning: this book does dive into the intersection of the evangelical movement and the political sphere, as well as issues of sexual identity, race, gender roles, various forms of abuse and so on, so the list of potential triggers is long. Having said that, the author handles all the issues with a great deal of care and thoughtfulness.

★★★★