Chris Haw

Chris Haw is an American Catholic theologian, author, and professor known for his work in Christian devotional literature and social justice. His writings explore themes of new monasticism, self-denial, and the intersection of faith with social activism. Born in the Chicago metropolitan area in 1981, Haw's spiritual journey led him to establish the Camden Community House in 2004, an intentional Christian community in Camden, New Jersey. This community aimed to recreate early Christian practices of shared resources and active community engagement. Haw's notable works include "Jesus for President: Politics for Ordinary Radicals," co-authored with Shane Claiborne in 2008, and "From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart," which chronicles his religious journey. His academic background includes theological studies at Villanova University, where he also explored Christian environmentalism during studies in Belize. The author's work bridges traditional Catholic theology with contemporary social issues, drawing from his experiences in intentional community living and academic study. His writings reflect themes of religious transformation, social responsibility, and faith-based activism.

Readers commend Chris Haw's ability to weave personal narratives with theological and social commentary, particularly in "Jesus For President" and "From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart." Multiple reviews note his honest portrayal of faith struggles and spiritual transformation. Readers appreciated: - Clear explanations of complex Catholic traditions - Raw accounts of urban ministry experiences - Balance of scholarly research with accessible writing Common criticisms: - Some passages meander from main points - Political views can overshadow religious insights - Occasional repetitive sections Ratings: Goodreads: "From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart" - 4.0/5 (448 ratings) "Jesus For President" - 4.1/5 (2,873 ratings) Amazon: "From Willow Creek" - 4.5/5 (89 reviews) "Jesus For President" - 4.5/5 (141 reviews) One reviewer on Amazon stated: "Haw writes with humility and vulnerability about his journey without condemning those who remain in evangelical traditions."

Jesus for President: Politics for Ordinary Radicals (2008) A theological examination of Christianity's relationship with empire and state power, co-authored with Shane Claiborne.

From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart: Rekindling My Love for Catholicism (2012) A personal account of the author's spiritual journey from evangelical protestantism to Catholicism through experiences in Camden, New Jersey.

Eight Popes and the Crisis of Modernity (2020) A historical analysis of papal responses to modernity from Pius IX through John Paul II.

Shane Claiborne combines Christian activism with radical discipleship, writing extensively about social justice and community living within faith contexts. His work parallels Haw's focus on new monasticism and faith-based social reform.

Dorothy Day founded the Catholic Worker Movement and wrote about voluntary poverty and social justice from a Catholic perspective. Her writings on intentional Christian community and social activism mirror themes found in Haw's work.

Thomas Merton wrote extensively about contemplative spirituality and social justice from a Catholic monastic perspective. His integration of faith, activism, and critique of modern society aligns with Haw's theological approach.

Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove writes about new monasticism and intentional Christian community based on his experiences in faith-based activism. His focus on practical spirituality and community living connects directly with Haw's themes.

Henri Nouwen explored themes of spiritual formation and social engagement through a Catholic lens. His writings about community life and spiritual transformation reflect similar interests to Haw's work on religious conversion and intentional living.