The 2012 Lenten study Open to Me the Gates, by Gradye Parsons, stated clerk of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), is now available from Witherspoon Press.

Exploring how gates are conceptually used throughout the Bible in both Old and New Testament stories, this Lenten devotional examines the metaphors of gates for modern Christian beliefs and practices, such as justice and equality.  

“Gradye opens the gates from the stories in Scripture that we might enter more fully into God’s presence,” said Laura Mendenhall, senior philanthropy advisor for the Texas Presbyterian Foundation and president emerita of Columbia Theological Seminary. “This Lenten guide invites you to take such a journey, offering hymns to sing along the way, that we might fully engage Christ’s ministry together. Enter and be blessed.”

Whether used for congregational study or personal reflection, this captivating collection of readings—enhanced by hymns, a study guide, and questions for reflection—invites readers to discover the many connections between the gates, and how God would have God’s people live every day as disciples in Christ.

Brian McLaren, author, speaker, and activist said, “This Lenten devotional offers exactly what we all need—not only during Lent, but throughout our year. Gradye Parsons uses the vivid image of city gates to picture key passages on the path of discipleship . . . the path that leads first to God, and then through and with God, into the world to our neighbor. Highly recommended.”

Open to Me the Gates is now available for purchase at store.pcusa.org or by calling the Presbyterian Distribution Service at (800) 524-2612.

Open to Me the Gates
Gradye Parsons
Witherspoon Press
ISBN: 978-1571532152
$12.95
Discount Price: $8.16

Author Bio: Gradye Parsons is stated clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He has served as associate stated clerk and director of operations for the Office of the General Assembly (OGA), Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), as well as executive presbyter/stated clerk of Holston Presbytery and as pastor of two Presbyterian churches in Tennessee.