And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers

And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers – A Powerful Contemporary Christian Fiction Novel About Faith, Ambition, Church Leadership & Hearing God’s Call

In the Old Testament, God called His people to action with the blast of the shofar—a ram’s horn. He still calls His people today.

From New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers (creator of the beloved classic Redeeming Love) comes And the Shofar Blew, a gripping, thought-provoking contemporary Christian novel that explores the high cost of ambition in ministry and the quiet power of true faith.

Dynamic young preacher Paul Hudson accepts the call to pastor the struggling Centerville Christian Church in a small California town. He seems like the perfect pastor. His wife, Eunice, seems like the perfect pastor’s wife. Almost overnight, Paul turns the declining congregation around—attendance soars, programs expand, and a building project begins. Everything looks successful… if only Eunice could see it that way.

As Paul’s zeal and drive for growth intensify, he begins to lose sight of the One who called him. Caught between his desire to build something impressive and the subtle, persistent voice of God, Paul and those around him must confront hard questions: What does it truly mean to live out faith? When does “building the church” become building one’s own kingdom? And what happens when a pastor’s ambition threatens his marriage, his family, and the spiritual health of the people he leads?

This timely story delves into themes of church growth vs. genuine discipleship, pastoral leadership, pride, humility, marital strain in ministry, and the importance of hearing and obeying God’s voice over worldly measures of success. With richly drawn characters and Rivers’ signature emotional depth, And the Shofar Blew delivers a powerful, almost prophetic look at the modern American church.

Perfect for readers who love:

• Christian stories about faith and family
• Stories of pastors, ministry challenges, and spiritual awakening
• Inspirational novels with discussion questions ideal for book clubs
• Fans of Francine Rivers’ other works (Redeeming Love, The Masterpiece, the Mark of the Lion series)

Key details: First published 2003 by Tyndale House | Approximately 440–480 pages (depending on edition) | Contemporary Christian fiction | Includes discussion questions for small groups and book clubs | Winner of a 2004 Retailer’s Choice Award from Christian Retailing

Whether you’re seeking a compelling page-turner that examines the heart of ministry or a faith-deepening read that challenges priorities, And the Shofar Blew will stay with you long after the final page. Discover why readers and leaders alike call this novel a must-read wake-up call for the church today.

Order your copy of And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers and listen for the sound of the shofar in your own life.