The Meaning of Faith by Harry Emerson Fosdick

The Meaning of Faith
Harry Emerson Fosdick
Association Press, New York — 1918

Description:
The Meaning of Faith is an early and influential work by renowned American Protestant minister and theologian Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick (1878–1969). Written during the upheaval of World War I, the book examines faith not as rigid doctrine, but as a living, practical force capable of sustaining individuals through uncertainty, suffering, and moral struggle.

Fosdick was one of the most prominent liberal Protestant voices of the early 20th century and served for many years as pastor of Riverside Church in New York City. His writing emphasized honesty, personal responsibility, and spiritual transformation—ideas that would later resonate deeply within Alcoholics Anonymous.

Significance to Alcoholics Anonymous:
Harry Emerson Fosdick played a meaningful role in the early public acceptance of Alcoholics Anonymous. In 1939, shortly after the publication of the first edition of the Alcoholics Anonymous “Big Book,” Fosdick wrote a landmark review that provided critical early legitimacy to the fledgling fellowship.

His review was widely circulated by The Alcoholic Foundation (A.A.’s earliest service organization) and appeared in early A.A. pamphlets and literature. As a respected national religious leader, Fosdick helped bridge the gap between medicine and religion, validating A.A.’s non-denominational, spiritually based approach to recovery at a time when alcoholism was still widely misunderstood.

Fosdick’s endorsement placed Alcoholics Anonymous alongside emerging psychological and spiritual movements and helped introduce the Twelve Steps to a broader audience. He is frequently cited alongside other early thinkers who recognized the revolutionary potential of A.A.’s program to address addiction.

Because of this connection, The Meaning of Faith is of particular interest to Alcoholics Anonymous collectors, historians, and students of early recovery literature, offering insight into the spiritual environment that supported A.A.’s earliest growth.

Condition:

Very good condition overall. Minimal wear to the cover and spine. Name handwritten on the first title page. Markings present on several interior pages. Binding is solid and the book is fully intact.

Please review all photos carefully for condition details.