'Wonderful' JUSTIN WELBY 'Tarry Awhile... is one of the most profound and beautifully written Lent books that I have ever read.' CHURCH TIMES Tarry here and watch with me . . . (Matt 26.38, KJV) Tarrying is a Black Christian spiritual practice in which believers actively wait to experience the manifestation of God's presence. It answers yes to the question Jesus once asked his disciples: will you tarry here and watch with me? Whether in the vibrancy of music and singing, or in the hushed silence of the congregation, people of all ages anticipate an encounter with God that will transform what they know, feel and experience day to day. This book makes the wisdom of Black spiritualities and faith available for all people. It focuses on seven themes: darkness as a place of encounter with the divine; the unity of all things; movement, belonging and migration; the Spirit as one who moves in unexpected ways; quiet contemplation as essential to spiritual growth; healing in community; and weeping that turns to joy. Tarry Awhile centres the stories of often overlooked people and communities, offering wisdom for all people who hope to encounter God in the midst of wearying times. It provides fresh reflections on familiar biblical passages, and draws on personal stories, theology and the spiritual wisdom of ancestors who have gone before us.
Dr Selina Stone is Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theological Education at Durham University with Common Awards. Her research, writing and speaking address a range of themes including theological ethics (particularly power and justice), spirituality and church history. Dr Stone is the author of The Spirit and the Body: Towards a Womanist Pentecostal Social Justice Ethic (Brill/Schöningh, October 2023) and a wide range of journal articles, book chapters and reviews. She is also the host of Sunday School for Misfits, a podcast that examines faith, theology and the church through the lens of Black millennial experiences.
