The perennial debate between Christianity and commerce needs to be put into historical perspective. Schmiesing is the first writer to do so within the American context. His presentation is not only insightful but nuanced because of his methodology, the stories he relates. Hopefully, this will become a trend in the future scholarship on this subject.

Nicholas Capaldi, Chair in Business Ethics, Loyola University of New Orleans

This book provides a fascinating and briskly written survey of the engagement of commerce and religion in America from colonial times to the modern era. In doing so, it complements numerous histories of business or religion with a perspective that reveals the abiding concern that each had for the other. Anyone interested in how business can be faithful or how faith can be practical will certainly benefit from the fine and careful treatment offered in Merchants and Ministers.

Robert Kennedy, University of St. Thomas