Becoming Neighbors: The Common Good Made Local

Peterman, a PhD candidate at the University of Chicago Divinity School, debuts with an optimistic call for readers to build more cohesive communities. Faith, he argues, should spur believers to connect with their neighbors and is, in turn, strengthened as communities work together to enact a “vision of the common good” reflecting God’s love. Readers can create stronger communities by showing compassion toward friends, enemies, and strangers alike; acknowledging how community members of all backgrounds are interconnected; and communicating across cultural divides in ways that make “God’s presence” known without evangelizing. Peterman also advocates for building physical spaces, like community centers or gardens, that foster a sense of mutual belonging. Such practical suggestions are crowded out by abstract theological musings and the occasional strained metaphor (readers are encouraged to recognize possibilities for renewal in the world that mirror how a compost pile transforms food scraps into “new life”). Still, Peterman’s passionate vision for a more connected and harmonious society inspires. Christian do-gooders will find this worth a look. (Mar.)