Holy Spokes: The Search for Urban Spirituality on Two Wheels

Get out from behind the wheel and saddle up behind a handlebar for a whole new spin on spirituality, encourages Everett, a minister in the United Church of Christ and executive director of the Massachusetts Council of Churches. When a car breakdown left Everett stranded, she followed the counsel of her Bible study group to replace it with a bike. Thus began a new relationship with greater Boston and a new way of living out a spiritual life. Bike parts structure the book’s chapters as Everett pairs each with qualities such as habit (wheels), pacing (gears), and limitations (brakes) for contemplation on matters of a spiritual nature. While the metaphors are often predictable, their delivery is fresh and delightful, and the effect is ecumenical enough to suit even the most “spiritual but not religious” reader. With a window into cycling culture, Everett never loses her focus on her belief that commuting by bicycle can be a cosmic and soul-enriching good. (Apr.)