Shooting for Hope

""In Shooting for Hope, Susan Presley's remarkable study examines the stories of three mass shooters and explores in detail those shootings carried out in churches. Presley's analysis highlights the role played by racial animus, social media, and the failure of religious communities to address hatred and racism during these young men's formative years. In the last third of the book, the author provides excellent resources and preventative strategies as the faithful respond positively and proactively to violence in churches. This book should be required reading for all church leaders and educators."" --Dianne Reistroffer, professor emerita of ministry and Methodist studies, Louisville Seminary ""Mass shootings in the U.S. are terrifying, far too common, and rarely addressed by churches. With the training of a journalist and the experience of a pastor, Susan J. Presley examines three mass shootings that took place in churches and were perpetrated by people who had, themselves, attended church. The shooters' prior experiences in Christian churches did not address the realities of violence in our country or challenge cultural norms of violence. With clear guidance and concrete resources, Presley demonstrates how churches can work to prevent mass shootings. In a time when many Christians only offer thoughts and prayers, Presley offers hope and action."" --Shannon Craigo-Snell, professor of theology, Louisville Seminary