Destination Bethlehem

"We couldn't have a better guide to light the way to Bethlehem than Shepherd. . . . Even if you've made dozens of trips through Advent-Christmas, Barrie will enable you to walk toward the Incarnation again as if for the first time."

--Will Willimon, United Methodist Bishop (retired), Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry, Duke University



"This book is a treasure. . . . Shepherd's poems and meditations will be a valuable resource for preachers searching for creative ways to tell a beloved story everyone knows, and a gift to all of us who look forward to Advent and Christmas every year."

--John M. Buchanan, Editor/Publisher, The Christian Century



"J. Barrie Shepherd obviously learned long ago to take words seriously. Like all poets, his economy in the use of them reveals his respect for their extraordinary power. As he shows us here they can ever so gently lead us to the Word made flesh. This book will remain as one of my cherished pastoral guides for the annual calling of inviting others to discover the quiet miracles in Advent."

--M. Craig Barnes, President, Princeton Theological Seminary



"Whether in a sermon, poem, or prayer, Shepherd's rich imagery is arresting. Like the Advent season itself, Shepherd's words wake us up, slow us down, and invite us to anticipate with joy the coming of Emmanuel."

--Jill Duffield, Editor of The Presbyterian Outlook



"I am so grateful for this Advent book. In these meditations he leads us into the wonder of waiting, which we so often resist, not realizing the riches therein. With engaging narrative and vivid poetry Shepherd evokes essential Advent moments for reflection. Destination Bethlehem promises to open new perspectives on this Christian season for anyone who opens these pages."

--Jeannie Crawford-Lee, Editor, Weavings: A Journal of the Christian Spiritual Life