Speaking of Religion . . .

“This is a practical manual for teachers of the academic study of religion. I wish I had this when I first taught world religions. It is a lucid guide to how to create a classroom that is a compassionate, convicted, and civil community. Hammerling effectively uses case studies to show how students bringing very different religious or secular perspectives to the classroom can learn to practice empathetic listening while never being asked to give up thoughtfully held convictions.”


—David B. Myers, Professor of Philosophy, retired, Minnesota State University Moorhead





“At a time when religious illiteracy flourishes and religiously fueled divisions are making our world less kind, Speaking of Religion . . . is a much-needed intervention! This engaging, accessible introduction to the academic study of religion encourages readers to link critical thinking about religion to a compassionate orientation to each other. With humility and passion, Hammerling demonstrates how developing religious literacy through the academic study of religion enhances personal meaning, convicted civility, and collective wellbeing.”


—Michelle Lelwica, Professor of Religion, Women and Gender Studies, and Pre-Law, Concordia College





“Speaking of Religion . . . is a unique and valuable contribution toward introducing the academic study of religion. Both students and teachers will benefit from engaging with Hammerling’s deep and insightful reflections on how we can best explore matters of faith and meaning.”


—Ahmed Afzaal, Associate Professor of Religion and Social Activism, Concordia College