Revive Thy Church Beginning with Me - by Dr. Samuel M. Shoemaker - 1948

Revive Thy Church Beginning with Me by Samuel M. Shoemaker (1948)

Publisher: Harper & Brothers | New York, 1948

Hardcover with Original Dust Jacket | First Edition

This is the First Edition (1948) of Revive Thy Church Beginning with Me by Dr. Samuel M. Shoemaker, the influential Episcopal minister whose teachings helped shape the early spiritual foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.).

About the Book

In Revive Thy Church Beginning with Me, Shoemaker issues a stirring call to personal and collective spiritual renewal within the Christian church. Writing in the aftermath of World War II and amid growing moral uncertainty, Shoemaker challenges readers to begin revival not in institutions or programs, but within their own hearts and lives.

Through chapters such as “Making Faith Real to People,” “The Working Cell,” and “Some Spiritual Principles,” Shoemaker offers both a diagnosis of modern spiritual malaise and a prescription rooted in surrender, honesty, and practical faith in action — principles that resonate strongly with the Oxford Group and Twelve Step traditions.

Shoemaker’s approach, emphasizing spiritual transformation through self-examination, confession, and daily practice, closely parallels the principles formalized in A.A.’s Steps. His influence on co-founder Bill W. was so significant that Bill later wrote,

“Dr. Sam Shoemaker was one of A.A.’s indispensables. Had it not been for his ministry to us in our early time, our Fellowship would not be in existence today."

Condition: This book is in very good condition. The original dust jacket is present, showing moderate wear and small edge chips, but remains bright and intact. The book itself is clean and square with minimal external wear. There are pen markings and some underlining throughout the text, as shown in photos. The binding is tight, and all pages are secure and legible.

Please review all provided photos for details on condition.