Christine Wicker

In the 1970s, conservative evangelicals declared themselves defenders of the American way and protectors of the moral majority. Thus began a long and bitter culture war for the soul of America. Among…

People who want to stop abortion are quick to publicly ask God’s aid in ending a practice they think is murder. It’s easy to find examples of their public prayers. But people who believe women ought to be in charge of when they bring life into the world are less apt to pray their cause publicly. Many of those people are acting out of religious faith that is every bit as deeply held.

The title of Anne Lamott’s new book Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers is such a boldly brilliant summation that I laughed with delight the first time I heard it. So much truth in three words.