It’s one thing to have a talented, theologically well-formed Reformed pastor. It’s quite another thing for that pastor to be honest, truthful, courageous, eloquent, and interesting. Douglas Brouwer is that pastor. His book is bound to be known as one of the finest ministerial memoirs to come out of the last days of mainline Protestantism. Here’s a life, a ministry well lived, an inspiring testimonial to the grace of God in calling a life to service.”— Will Willimonauthor of Accidental Preacher“Douglas Brouwer is a fine writer and a compelling storyteller who, with disarming honesty, provides an intimate look at the unique life of a pastor. At the same time, with a light touch and winsome self-deprecation, he invites us into his own one and only life. He falls in love with the church, then falls out of love, and finally falls back in love, this time with no illusions, grateful for ‘holy bits’ and moments of grace. Chasing after Wind is a deeply satisfying read and I recommend it highly.”— John M. Buchananformer editor and publisher of The Christian Century“In these pages, we encounter a thing far too rare—a pastor skilled in stringing together artful sentences, writing as a genuine human rather than a religious delegate clinching the script. If we had more stories like this, those of us who wear the stole would have a little more fear and trembling, and more wonder and laughter too.”— Winn Collierauthor of Love Big, Be Well“Douglas Brouwer’s memoir is an intelligent, candid, and absorbing account of a deeply felt ministry. He tells the truth about ministry in all its pain and joy. Absolutely compelling!”— Cornelius Plantingaauthor of Morning and Evening Prayers“An absorbing account of the quibbles, foibles, hassles, and hangups of a life in ministry—which weave in and through all the joys, surprises, marvels, and vistas of a Spirit-led life. The Christian life is full of surprises, and this memoir invites us to see in each one an opportunity to ‘walk in step with the Spirit.’”— John D. Witvlietdirector of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship“Douglas Brouwer’s memoir on pastoral work is a gem and a treasure that will be known as such for a long time to come. Eugene Peterson lamented in Working the Angles: The Shape of Pastoral Integrity, ‘Pastors are abandoning their posts, left and right, and at an alarming rate. . . . The pastors of America have metamorphosed into a company of shopkeepers.’ He certainly wasn’t thinking of Douglas Brouwer when he wrote that. I have known Doug for a very long time, and he is the real deal. His memoir is pure gift!”— Timothy L. Brownprofessor of preaching and president emeritus at Western Theological SeminaryPublishers Weekly“A somber, meditative reflection that will give the fellow faithful, be they pastors or congregants, much to ponder.
