The wonder of a human hand; the tenacity of trillium; the restorative power of a hymnal: these topics and many more are explored in this thought-provoking collection of 80 spiritual essays from author-journalist Monica Graham. Taken from the best of the Chronicle-Herald column of the same name, In the Spirit explores with wit and wonder our human relationship with spirituality and religion. With a journalist s curiosity, Graham asks the tough questions on a variety of subjects, from the implications of declining church membership, to Sunday shopping, to the merits of curiosity and acceptance in faith, but urges readers gently to come to their own conclusions. Whether we pray out loud or in silence, at the pub or the pew, this collection boldly holds each of us accountable to and responsible for our own spirituality, however we may choose to practice."