Membership in the United Methodist Church in the United States has been shrinking since the merger of 1968. Yet the bishops and young clergy who contributed essays to "Do Not Be Afraid" are unconvinced by the constant claims that the church is dying. The authors provide powerful stories pregnant with hope. Editor Dr. John Harnish masterfully weaves the chapters together so that the readers understand why each writer was included, as well as how each comes from a unique context.