In God Laughs and Plays, David James Duncan argues that the de facto political party embodied by the so-called "Christian Right" has turned worship into a self-righteous betrayal of the words and example of the very Jesus it claims to praise. In opposition, Duncan offers a thought-provoking collection of "churchless sermons," stories, memoir, and conversations ? all united by the contention that the way of life preached and embodied by Jesus is apolitical and should be free of media machinery.While reminding us that the true Christian ethos scorns riches and embraces the poor; blesses peacemakers, not war-makers; and asks us to love and serve neighbors and "do good" even unto enemies, Duncan also goes a step further: he offers a poignant and inspiring glimpse into a profound new cosmology that can help humanity manage the epochal challenges of a fast globalizing and ecologically challenged world.Review:"Majestic, rib-tickling, and timeless.These churchless homilies are the gift of innocence wrapped in wisdom, crafted by a superb writer." Paul Hawken, author of Blessed UnrestReview:"The world's futer depends on this consciousness and you will find it shining forth from every page in this book." Brother David Steindl-Rast, author of Benedictine MonkReview:"This is the book for everyone who is allergic to what often passes for Chistianity, but attracted to Jesus.beautifully written, as always with Mr.

Duncan, but also wonderfully, humorously, deeply felt." Bill McKibben, author of The End of NatureReview:"If the essence of religion is to bind together, David James Duncan's wise, eloquent, and humorous churchless sermons are deeply religious. God, I think, likes them too." David Orr, author of Last Refuge.