He Remembers the Barren - by Katie Schuermann (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

He Remembers the Barren is a tender conversation with women in the church who wrestle with the issue of barrenness in marriage. Addressing questions frequently asked by those struggling with infertility, Schuermann examines the source of conception, control of our bodies, family planning, and adoption through the lens of the theology of the cross, always pointing the reader to her identity in Christ.

This revised and expanded second edition boldly confesses the author's growing understanding of barrenness and related life issues. With Psalm readings, beloved hymn texts, and prayers at the conclusion of each chapter, He Remembers the Barren resonates on a devotional level that offers comfort not only to those who ache under the cross of barrenness, but to anyone who knows the grief and shame of suffering. It is a valuable resource for family members, friends, pastors, and anyone seeking to better understand and empathize with the childless experience of a loved one. Schuermann gives voice to those who are barren but not broken, drawing the reader away from the temptation to despair and always bringing the focus back to the Gospel and the peace that only Christ can give.

Review Quotes

Katie Schuermann's He Remembers the Barren is a powerful testimony marked to the author's continuing struggle with barrenness held within the firm confidence that all of life is to be received as a gift from the hand of a faithful Creator. Rich with insights from the Holy Scriptures, Katie Schuermann gives voice to lament while remaining full of the hope which does not disappoint. This second edition carries with it the added bonus of reflections on medical ethics, giving thoughtful acknowledgement that while medical technology is a gift, it never is to become a substitute lord for the Christian. This is a book worthy of reading not only by women who have not been given the gift of children but also for pastors and Christian friends who care for them.
-John T. Pless, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Mission/Director of Field Education, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN

Rarely have I met a woman so eloquently able to describe the valley of the shadow of death with such honesty. Even rarer to find someone who can thus acknowledge that even there, "Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me." Having traveled that valley, those of us who "mourn in Israel" are deeply moved and also comforted by Katie's stubborn faithfulness, which turns our hearts and minds not only to the reality of the cross, but also to the greater reality of God's unfailing love, which made that cross necessary. Katie reminds us again and again that Christ will give us "beauty for ashes, a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness..."
-Dr. Donna Harrison, MD, OB-GYN, LCMS member

In the second edition of He Remembers the Barren, we are blessed to receive the same compassion and care of the first edition, along with a considerable infusion of courage. Katie Schuermann takes up new, challenging topics with careful attention and firm truth, spoken always in love. This book would be helpful to those who are without children and are eager to receive more of the promises of Christ concerning their station in life. For those who do not know the reality of barrenness personally, this book is incredibly valuable. It is for every Christian. It helps me in my desire to understand, relate to, and care for those who hurt with a pain that I myself have not experienced. The cover artwork is a beautiful illustration of the book's central theme of redemption and hope in Christ.
-Dcs. Rose Adle, co-author of LadyLike: Living Biblically