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Book Cover for: Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith and Meaning, Russell J. Levenson

Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith and Meaning

Russell J. Levenson

From a high profile author, a series of interviews with extraordinary people to explore the reasons for and impact of their faith in their lives.

Through interviews with twelve remarkable and renowned people of various Christian faiths, Levenson explores different ways people come to faith, sustain it, and how it impacts their daily lives. The subjects share intimate details of their lives that are rarely seen by the public. For instance, Secretary Rice noted that she knelt down to pray every night when she worked in Washington, but often was so tired she fell asleep during prayer time; Denzel Washington asked to begin and end the interview for this book in prayer with Levenson; and Amy Grant shared that because of a brain injury she now has trouble reciting scripture, so she sings it instead. Each interview delves into the private, spiritual side of public figures and reveals that behind success and fame there is often a vibrant, personal faith in God that sustains them. Other interviewees include Jim Nantz, Dr. Francis Collins, Sam Waterston, Gary Sinise, Brit Hume, James A. Baker III, Admiral William McRaven, Jane Goodall, and Nikki Haley.

Praise for Russell J. Levenson Jr.'s Witness to Dignity
"To whom much is given, the scriptures teach us, much is expected, and George and Barbara Bush always sought to keep this injunction in mind. They were not perfect, but as Russell Levenson's personal and pastoral memoir tells us, they strove to be faithful people of God. Which is, when you think about it, am illuminating lesson for the rest of us."―Jon Meacham, Canon Historian for Washington National Cathedral, Pulitzer Prize Winning Author and Historian

"Reverend Levenson was a dear friend and spiritual mentor to both my beloved grandparents. His stories of friendship will fill you with hope and inspire grace."―Jenna Bush Hager, Co-Host, NBC News' TODAY with Hoda & Jenna

"Congratulations to my friend Russ Levenson. He has captured a compelling story of faith, family, love, and leadership. Because of his unique relationship with President George and First Lady Barbara Bush, he can describe the principles and priorities which defined their lives. Readers will be informed and inspired. Thank you, Russ!"―Max Lucado, Minister, Oak Hills Church, San Antonio

"It was truly an honor and privilege to work side by side with our 41st president. Like Russ Levenson, I too was blessed to be a "witness to dignity." As Americans we are searching for the values that made this country great. George and Barbara Bush lived a life of grace, honor, determination, and doing what is best for their country. Russ has a unique perspective to this wonderful and respected couple who served our country for decades. This book captures the real personalities of the Bushes and reveals some untold vignettes which makes this book a must read."―The Honorable Dan Quayle, 44th Vice President of the United States

Book Details

  • Publisher: Morehouse Publishing
  • Publish Date: Oct 7th, 2025
  • Pages: 272
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 9.00in - 5.90in - 1.20in - 1.00lb
  • EAN: 9781640658578
  • Categories: Christian Living - InspirationalInterviewsChristianity - General

About the Author

Levenson, Russell J.: -

Russell J. Levenson Jr. is a major faith leader and a beloved spiritual advisor to many, including the late George H.W. and Barbara Bush. He has been featured by outlets including The New York Times, CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and NPR, and has published op-eds and articles in leading news platforms and journals. He served as Rector of St. Martin's Episcopal Church, the largest Episcopal Church in North America, for seventeen years until his retirement. He is the author of many books, including the acclaimed Witness to Dignity and In God's Grip. He lives in Birmingham, Alabama.

Praise for this book

"Russ Levenson's collection of heartfelt conversations is a book that you will just want to savor, sitting in your favorite chair with a fresh cup of coffee, getting to know this diverse group of famous people on a far deeper level, as they share heartfelt stories about faith and life and abiding hope. By the time you get to the end, you will be ready to start reading it all over again!"

-- "Bishop Michael Curry, world-renowned preacher and author of Love is the Way, The Power of Love, and Songs My Grandma Sang"

"The secret to the ministry of Jesus, was that God was at the center of it. The profiles in this fine book, Witness to Belief, invite us all to follow and stay anchored to our 'center.'"

-- "Gregory J. Boyle, S.J., founder, Homeboy Industries"

"The sincerity with which each interview subject details their personal faith is refreshing, and the differing perspectives on complex issues like evil and altruism are enlightening. The result is an openhearted testament to the power of religious belief in a chaotic world."

-- "Publishers Weekly"

"The sincerity with which each interview subject details their personal faith is refreshing, and the differing perspectives on complex issues like evil and altruism are enlightening. The result is an openhearted testament to the power of religious belief in a chaotic world."

"The secret to the ministry of Jesus, was that God was at the center of it. The profiles in this fine book, Witness to Belief, invite us all to follow and stay anchored to our 'center.'"

"Russ Levenson's collection of heartfelt conversations is a book that you will just want to savor, sitting in your favorite chair with a fresh cup of coffee, getting to know this diverse group of famous people on a far deeper level, as they share heartfelt stories about faith and life and abiding hope. By the time you get to the end, you will be ready to start reading it all over again!"

"Russ Levenson' book is not only interesting, it is inspiring. Each interview witnessed to a unique aspect of a vibrant faith for today's world. Indeed, each person's story is an authentic and clear statement of the power of faith."

-- "Jeanie Miley, author, spiritual director, retreat leader"

"Russ Levenson' book is not only interesting, it is inspiring. Each interview witnessed to a unique aspect of a vibrant faith for today's world. Indeed, each person's story is an authentic and clear statement of the power of faith."