The Time Is Now

A Call to Uncommon Courage

By: Joan Chittister

Narrated by: Joan Chittister

A beloved nun and social activist offers a soul-stirring guide for all who feel disillusioned and dissatisfied with the power-hungry institutions and systems of this world

“A cri de coeur against the status quo and for a bold spirituality to fight injustice.”—The New York Times

In The Time Is Now, Sister Joan Chittister—a rabble-rousing force of nature for social justice and fervent proponent of personal faith and spiritual fulfillment—draws on the wisdom of prophets, both ancient and modern, to help us confront the societal forces that oppress and silence the sacred voices among us.

Pairing scriptural insights with narratives of the truth-tellers that came before us, Sister Joan offers a compelling vision for readers to combat complacency and to propel ourselves toward creating a world of justice, freedom, peace, and empowerment.

For the weary, the cranky, and the fearful, this energizing message invites us to participate in a vision for a world greater than the one we find ourselves in today. This is spirituality in action; this is practical and powerful activism for our times.

Praise for The Time Is Now

“For decades Chittister has been a prolific author and advocate for women and social justice inside and outside the realm of the Catholic Church. Here she shares her perspective on the current state of equity, social justice, and the environment and calls on all Christians to explore the traits of prophets, many of which they can find within themselves . . . offering motivation as well as ways to accomplish change.”—Booklist

“A series of short essays to encourage and refresh the spirit of activists . . . applicable to both progressive and conservative Christians. Will appeal to spiritual readers seeking an encouraging book for social justice advocacy.”—Library Journal (starred review)

Critic reviews

Praise for Joan Chittister and The Time is Now

“Chittister’s voice has a clarity and a vigor that encourages us, in spite of everything, to look ahead with optimism and a sense of endless possibility.”—Catholic Outlook

"A modern prophet."—Judith Valente, author of Atchison Blue and correspondent for PBS's "Religion & Ethics Newsweekly"

"Joan Chittister is that rare combination of a gifted spiritual writer and a great prophetic voice in our church, speaking out for women, for minorities, and for all marginalized people. When I think of someone who speaks truth to power, I think of Joan."—James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage

"Chittister has earned her place as one of the illuminators of our age."—Chicago Tribune

“As always, Joan has put her finger and her pen to the right and needed words.”—Richard Rohr, O.F.M., founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation and author of Falling Upward

“Joan Chittister is a legend…she invites you to cling to Jesus, dive into the world’s pain, and do something daring and beautiful with your life.”—Shane Claiborne, cofounder of The Simple Way and author of Common Prayer

Prophetic

What a great and timely book! Please, please send to each of the senators in the US Congress.

Excellent

The author made me think below the surface., and to exam my motives. I realize it takes grit and action to initiate change.

Uncommon Courage Stirred

Truly a call to spiritual arms and modern prophecy. Passion filled and inspiring. A must read for someone desiring to BE change.

Wonderful

Insight with clarity. Easy to comprehend and appreciate her sense of urgency in today’s world. First heard her on an interview with Oprah and had to get the book.

Calling all prophets!

I don't consider myself a God-fearing Christian, but I believe in the work of Jesus Christ. This book calls all of us to action. Sister Joan lets us know we cannot simply remain in our comfort zone or hide behind our fears of not being good enough to lead. She calls us out on our fears of not measuring up, of selfish perfectionism, of hiding our brilliance. She is calling us to lead from where we are, right now. Incredibly timely and compelling.