Water in the Desert: Progressive Christianity for the Spiritually Thirsty - Softcover

Jim Burklo

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0827243529 ISBN 13: 9780827243521

Publisher: Chalice Press, 2026

Synopsis

Feeling parched in a spiritual desert? Turned off by rigid dogma and the unholy marriage of faith and reactionary politics? Discover Water in the Desert, your invitation to a progressive Christianity that trusts your common sense, embraces all, and offers a life-giving way beyond fear and judgment. End your spiritual drought.

If you’ve been burned by religion that prioritized rules over love, Water in the Desert is here to help you find your way forward. This book is your companion on the journey to a deeper, freer faith—one that welcomes your questions, trusts your experiences, and makes room for everyone at the table. You’ll learn how to reframe the Bible as rich metaphor and myth, not a rigid rulebook, and explore spiritual practices that awaken awe, connection, and inner peace. Along the way, you’ll discover a path of progressive Christianity that embraces LGBTQIA+ people, fights for justice, and builds authentic community. You don’t have to stay stuck in fear or shame. A more honest, life-giving faith is possible—and it starts here.

About this title

About the Author

Jim Burklo is a trusted voice in progressive Christianity, helping individuals and communities explore deeper meaning with compassion and clarity. He serves as Senior Associate Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life at the University of Southern California and is an ordained United Church of Christ pastor. The author of six books, Jim also advises ProgressiveChristianity.org and serves on the board of Progressive Christians Uniting, offering thoughtful guidance to those seeking a more inclusive, authentic spiritual path.

Edition details

• Publisher: Chalice Press
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0827243529
• ISBN 13: 9780827243521
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 128