A View From the Pews – The Inside Story of a Broken Church: “Between the covers of this book, Joy S. Taylor exposes the true story of a thriving mega=church as it succumbs to leadership failures wrought by the driving force of its “Lead Minister’s” actions and spiritual abuse of those surrounding him. Joy’s personal experience with, and insight into the ugly face of an abuser, gives her an acute perception to recognize the insidious characteristics of abuse.” –Rick Knoop, former Elder, FCCF. Florissant, MO
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“As a former member of the church this book is based upon and someone who endured this tragedy along with the author, I am in awe how Joy was able to capture the complexity and connections of a multitude of errors and unsound judgment which created an unhealthy environment of fear and secrets. What is hidden in the dark will come to light; I am appreciative of Joy bringing light to this and in doing so, allowing the sins of the church to lose power. This book is a reminder that when one is not repentant of their sin, sin multiplies creating a web that is impossible to escape. One must own their wrongdoings and ask for forgiveness.
“My hope is Joy’s words are read by many and taken to heart. For years, my family saw many questionable actions and heard many concerning words; actions and words we brushed aside as they were spoken by one deemed “a man of God.” My advice to anyone who’s gut is saying this is not right, listen to your gut. Go to God in prayer. Don’t sit in silence. Ask the questions. Talk to others. Churches should be a safe place; we must hold them accountable even when they won’t hold themselves accountable. Joy, thank you for words of healing and words of accountability.” — C.E. Horton, St. Louis, MO.
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“While this is a tough read, it is one that I believe is necessary for anyone serving in a leadership role in a church, for someone seeking a healthy church, and for individuals in ministry. This book should be added to curriculum at Bible colleges as a guide on how to properly handle abuse and as a guide on how not to handle abuse.
“I’m grateful for this read, not just as an individual who lived through this situation, but as someone who serve full time in ministry now as an adult. I hope people will be open minded to learning from and listening to the victims and whistleblowers always.” — J. N. Hanks, USA
Clergy Cover-up Does It Work?: “There is a slow train coming. Its track is being laid, not by the glossy steam-engine leaders in their notoriety and reach, but rather by one strike of each John Henry steel-driving gospel hammer at a time. I do not know if Joy S. Taylor’s Clergy Cover-up, Does It Work? is the hammer, the steel or John Henry himself, but I do know the Slow Train is gaining ground because of this work. If you are struggling to find your way out of the church machine that has burned you without going off the rails, or struggling to find a hammer of your own to strike a blow for justice, or if you need wisdom to know where to lay the steel God is calling you to set in place on behalf of someone else. Clergy Cover-up Does It Work? will help you find what you seek. I am grateful for the must-read account.” –Keith Kepley, Ingraham Christian Church, Ingraham, IL.
Before You Kiss the Frog…Can We Talk?: “The book is filled with insightful Scripture, and I like the contrast between the secular approach to relationships and the Christian mindset. Topics I was pleased to see covered in this book include examining a partner’s family, observing temperament, observing how one is treated, and observing how a person interacts with the world (such as generosity and forgiveness). –Tim Remington Website Specialist, Longmont, CO.
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“Great perspective for teens today. Best book to give my grand kids, bought 3. THANK YOU FOR YOUR great perspective, fun delivery and down to earth biblically. THANK YOU. — Iris, USA
Drops of Joy – A Devotional Journey of Healing: “Joy Taylor has created a powerful devotional, inviting readers to come along with her on a journey of recovery and restoration. She accomplishes this with a phenomenal weaving together of her varied real-life experiences of pain and joy with a diverse range of related biblical stories, original, emotionally moving poetry, and transparent, heartfelt recorded prayers. Joy has a unique way of showing the reality of her own brokenness and the hope of her redemption in Christ. Readers will want to go walk slowly through this devotional, to drink deeply of the lessons and wisdom Joy has learned over decades of walking with Christ.
“Joy is a gifted poet, a talented storyteller, an insightful Bible teacher, and a faithful prayer warrior. You will be blessed, encouraged, and strengthened. Thank you, Joy.” –Douglas Lay, Pastor and Retired College English Professor
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“Having just finished a second reading of ‘Drops of Joy,’ I can’t recommend enough the beautiful and insightful poetry of my sister in Christ, Joy S. Taylor. With a program on Christian radio in St. Louis for 10 years, I always looked forward to the days when Joy would join me to read and discuss her writings. Now, 30 years later, reading some of her earlier works along with many new ones, I encourage you to dive in, reflect, and apply these meaningful words to your own life—just as I have. Her honesty and transparency’ll truly bless you as you incorporate pieces of her testimony and prayers into your journey. I certainly have. I thank God for the incredible gift Joy shares with us, and I wholeheartedly recommend that you read her work and invite the Holy Spirit to use it to touch your heart as well.” — Dr. Debra Peppers, National Teachers Hall of Fame -Retired High School and University Instructor, 20-year Radio and TV Host -Author and Speaker