The Learner

“Seriousness and humor, discord and kindness, vocational discernment—they are all here in full view. Tom Warren is a layperson who appreciates and understands the many challenges confronting clergy and churches, along with the games that people play.”


—Arland J. Hultgren, Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota





“Interesting and penetrating. As a retired pastor it raises questions I dealt with constantly during my active ministry such as . . . when is there too much ‘honesty,’ and when does ‘honesty’ become a weapon of brutality? The Learner would be a useful tool for a church or clergy study group to explore these issues.”


—Steven Howland, United Methodist minister





“The Learner is a cautionary tale for prospective ministers. . . . Warren expertly limits the subtleties of this story that ranges alternately from philosophical depth to warm humor. Some parts are so good they startle the reader.”


—Jerry Gustafson, professor of economics and entrepreneurship





“Superbly written, The Learner is a thought-provoking treatise on homelessness, the ministry, and that metaphor for many issues of the day: golf.”


—Captain Bill Stark, US Navy (ret).





“The Learner vividly demonstrates the struggles of a pastor to moderate the multitude of voices within a church at odds with itself. Warren adroitly portrays the inside politics of congregational life, illustrating how stagnation often wins out over an entrepreneurial mission of service.”


—Stephen L. Hawkins, author of The Gaslighted Leader: Are Pastors More Susceptible to Systemic Manipulation?