Most Christians resist the idea that we are to pursue happiness. We are more comfortable with the idea of finding joy or being blessed. But seeking happiness seems too superficial or too flighty for people of faith. In Happy Church, Tim McConnell offers a radical call for Christians to reclaim happiness. Happiness flows from the joy of the Lord and being glad in Christ. When the church expresses happiness, we are making a countercultural choice that the world cannot help but notice. "It's time to bring the happy back," he says. "It's time to get serious about happiness. "This is a book to read with your small group or congregation, with discussion questions to help you become happy together. You'll discover that God's call to the church is to radiate happiness―because we live in a world that desperately needs it.
"Authentic Christianity is hugely attractive-it is also happy. The church in the West could learn much from our biblical ancestors-and also our brothers and sisters who worship in less hospitable conditions, yet display a deeply irrepressible vibrancy, life in all its fullness. This book argues the point and is rooted in practice. The biblical church is enthusiastic, passionate and energetic: a community of people whose encounter with God has made them genuinely happy. This book reflects TimMcConnell's authentic Christian faith and the happy attitude that characterizes his growing church. Authentic book, authentic pastor, authentic man."
Andrew Alden, vicar, St. Paul's Church, Weston-super-Mare, UK
"I am delighted and honored to recommend to you a wonderful resource titled Happy Church. My good friend Tim McConnell has done an outstanding job of capturing the essence of why the church should be the happiest place on earth. For any pastor or staff member attempting to instill a spirit of joy, this is a must-read!"
Dwight "Ike" Reighard, president and CEO, MUST Ministries, senior pastor, Piedmont Church
