If Christians acting on their faith have been agents of change in the world before, there is hope they can be again, says Maloof, an international peace activist and former investigative reporter. Tracing trends throughout history, the author examines how Christians following Christ’s example have influenced justice, made peace, helped the poor, and generally improved society. Chapters—some more in-depth than others—are anchored in the Beatitudes and study historical circumstances and the numerous believers who were catalysts for change. “Blessed Are the Merciful,” for example, covers a wide range of topics in various sections (not in sequence), including movements for eliminating female infanticide, establishing hospitals and access to health care, forging democratic governments, and demanding civil rights. Education and economic reform, peacemaking, and foreign relations are some of the other topics explored. Maloof cites believers who have made a difference over the years and includes many women (some famous, some lesser known) in the account. He challenges readers to master what he terms the ninth Beatitude—forgiveness—and follow “Beatitudinal Christianity,” which, he asserts, can result in personal as well as societal benefits in modern times. (BookLife)