Book Discussion: Neighbor Love through Fearful Days with Dr. Jason Mahn

Join Dr. Jason Mahn, professor of religion, as he discusses his new book, Neighbor Love through Fearful Days. 

In the book, Jason reflects on pandemics--the Covid-19 pandemic, the accompanying economic collapse, a summer of climate chaos, and the pandemic of racial violence--as well as on the calling to “serve the neighbor” and work toward the common good, even and especially in times of crisis. Jason’s real-time reflections begin with an entry dated March 17, 2020, after Augustana moved online and his family began sheltering in place; they end with an entry dated August 31, 2020, when Augustana reopened for an unprecedented fall term.

In the pages between, Jason features many stories from Augustana students and alumni who also feel summoned to care for others during these difficult days, including that of “E,” who copes with his own mental health by getting involved in mutual aid networks in Boston and Chicago, as well as “C.” who finds herself making triage decisions as a medical intern in a hospital ravaged by Covid. These former students—and many others—become Jason’s teachers, as together they find ways to care for their communities and work toward healing and justice.

Please join Jason and several recent alumni they discuss the book and tell their own stories of surviving and thriving—of finding meaning and purpose—throughout these difficult days.

Purchase the book via Fortress

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