The Leaven of Laughter for Lent and Easter

About the Book

The Leaven of Laughter provides hundreds of humorous quotes and anecdotes to be found at a moment's notice. The material is prearranged according to 44 themes intrinsic to the Lenten and Easter Seasons and will provide the particular nuance or insight needed in a sermon, lesson plan or article.

The book bears testimony that one of the best tools to "keep the saints awake" is the thoughtful use of humor. Time and again I have seen an appropriate humorous remark refocus and energize a congregation. I have also seen the power of humor:

• Puncture human pompousness and pride
• Combat hypocrisy
• Expose ignorance and bad decisions
• Enable the audience to psycologically identify with the speaker
• Diffuse explosive situations and help resolve conflicts
• Build bridges of understanding and communication
• Release us from the crushing seriousness of life
• Increase concentration and listening capacity
• Heal broken spirits
• Reduce our fears
• Open us up to hear and accept new ideas
• Capture attention of children and youth

About the Author

Jim Atwood is a retired Presbyterian Minister who was born in Detroit, Michigan, but lived most of his life in the South. He has been a son, an athlete, a pastor to three congregations, a missionary and student worker in Japan, and an activist for peace and justice. He is a grateful husband, proud father, doting grandfather, minister's spouse, and is addicted to sports and travel. He graduated in physical education from Florida State University, and holds Master's degrees from Union and Princeton Theological Seminaries, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from McCormick Theological Seminary. He serves on the National Boards of The Presbyterian Peace Fellowship and The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence.
His wife, Roxana, is also a retired Presbyterian Pastor. They have two children, Mebane and David, and four grandchildren. All of the above experiences, interests, avocations and relationships furnish grist for Jim's humor mill.