Emma Percy provides a comprehensive and eminently readable pastoral overview of the challenges and stigmas regarding decision-making about reproductive issues. The books compassionate, practical, and even-handed tone makes it a perfect choice for people of faith who want to learn how better to talk about abortion. -- Margaret Kamitsuka Emma Percy has written a much-needed and valuable addition to the theological understanding of abortion. This is a book that speaks realistically about the complexities of ending pregnancy and the Christian teaching that has problematised the experience. Written with clarity and candour, as well as a commitment to contextual experience, this book should be essential reading for Christians, clergy, theologians and - perhaps especially - men. -- Revd Dr Chris Swift How should Christians think pastorally about the reality of abortions? Emma Percys book fills a gap in the literature. She acknowledges that abortions happen. Then, with clarity, sensitivity, and compassion, Percy charts a way forward for better conversations about abortion in Christian communities. With her well-researched overview of the historical, biological, and theological landscape, Percy invites readers to trust that God is with people who navigate all kinds of pregnancy loss. This is an important and timely book. A must read for parish and campus ministers. -- Emily Reimer-Barry How Do We Talk About Abortion? is a refreshing and much needed guide for improving pastoral support through attentive listening and open conversations. In these pages, Emma Percy unmasks assumptions about abortion and gives a comprehensive account of changed social contexts, biblical interpretations, laws and church pronouncements. Percy writes with clarity in an accessible and empathetic style as one who understands the complexities of pregnancy, pregnancy loss, childbirth and post-natal responsibility. Through a feminist and pastoral lens, she explores problematic and sexist language, stigma and taboos associated with sex and abortion. Her nuanced approach offers a convincing theological argument that not all pregnancies are divinely ordained to result in live births. Employing a relational concept of the person, she defines abortion as a maternal decision rather than an irresponsible choice and/or a rejection of motherhood. At its heart, this book advances the conversation around abortion and promotes nonjudgemental pastoral care. How Do We Talk About Abortion? will be a rewarding read and a valuable resource for Christians and church leaders. -- Esther McIntosh
