American Christians have long touted the goal of “racial reconciliation,” but Reggie Smith’s story makes clear that healing the racial divide doesn’t happen through quick fixes. Transforming a church requires changed hearts and transformed lives.

Wonderful book! I am so grateful for this book. I found reading it profoundly moving. Often, I was moved to tears by how Reggie was treated by a church community that I love, but, in the end, I was also moved to hope and gratitude. We owe so much to Reggie and others who have hung in there with their courageous commitment to the grand vision of a racial justice grounded in the power of the Gospel.

Roosevelt Park Rising is a beautifully written chronicle of everyday heroism—courageous, honest, funny, and full of authentic faith in action. You can keep your Marvel Universe. When it comes to fighting for justice and bringing peace, I’ll take Rev. Reggie Smith.

A gifted storyteller, Reggie Smith writes with great force and beauty of a ministry deeply felt and closely observed. Unsparingly honest about the pain of ministry, he is also supercharged with hope and with the awareness of God’s merciful presence.  Unforgettable!