May 3, 2005

MINNEAPOLIS – In the newly released Through the Fire: Spiritual Restoration for Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse, Rick Meyer shows how the cross can be a significant emblem for adult victims of childhood sexual abuse – their source of courage, comfort, and transformation. He relates how Jesus becomes an experienced guide who can and will assist them in their journey toward renewal.

As a pastoral counselor, the author has helped survivors of abuse discover the path to spiritual renewal and healing. At first, many see God as having failed to protect them. Yet, as they begin to see how Jesus was rejected and tormented, they come to understand that only a God who knows pain and death can provide regeneration and fullness of life. Using case study examples, Meyer demonstrates effective methods of assisting adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse to experience deep spiritual healing.

"Through the Fire is a volume of healing and hope. The journey, while not easy or fast, is worth every liberating step. The truths in this work serve as a key that unlocks the dungeon of painful abuse and leads to the higher paths of freedom." –Patsy Clairmont, Women of Faith speaker, author of Pillow Prayers to Rest Your Mind.

"Through the Fire leads the reader through the experiences and dynamics of the adult survivor and the healing and recovery process. . . . Filled with case studies, the text is easy to understand and engaging without overpowering the reader. . . . A much needed resource in the field." –Michael Walcheski, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, Concordia University, St. Paul.

"An intensely practical, biblically, and pastorally excellent volume. Meyer's book is grounded in the stories of a dozen abuse survivors, and enriched by the description of his sophisticated clinical responses. . . . The book is a powerful aid to healing for educated survivors, any pastor, and most pastoral counselors." –Brian W. Grant, Director, Pastoral Counseling Center, Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis.

"Dealing with such a difficult topic as sexual abuse is exceedingly hard for anyone. Pastor Meyer has written in such a way that combines both clinical skill and pastoral application to the pain and trauma experienced by the victim. . . . I recommend this book to anyone who has been sexually abused and to those who provide help and healing." –Bryan Salminen, Professor of Practical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.

Rick Meyer is co-founder of Lutheran Counseling Services, Inc., in Dallas, Texas. He is the author of I Love You, Son: What Every Boy (and Man) Needs to Hear (Augsburg Books).

Format: Paperback 160 pages 5.5 x 8.5 inches; Item No: 0806651326; Publisher: Augsburg Books; Price: $11.99.

To order Through the Fire please call Augsburg Fortress at 1-800-328-4648 or visit the web site at http://www.augsburgfortress.com/.

Augsburg Fortress