Twenty years ago, in a small, quiet corner of the Crossroads Ministry Center, a book club was born. Together, a small group of women mapped out a vision for the future of their new club. They carefully chose the name “Lit & Latte,” casting their vision of reading quality literature and crafting a reason for women to gather to experience lively conversation, fellowship, and even a tasty treat. The group is still meeting together monthly and continues to thrive.

Selected books are faith-based and most often fiction. Chosen through many sources and member recommendations, each book is carefully vetted before being added to the reading list. Lit & Latte members gather from all corners of the East Valley one Saturday morning each month. The size and membership of the group have changed over the years. There are currently 17 women participating regularly. They are organized with a plan for upcoming books communicated to the group several months in advance so members can read ahead. Care is taken to ensure the monthly featured book is available in libraries, online, digitally, and even in audiobook format, making it easily accessible to anyone.

The only requirement to participate in this small group is a love of reading. Although reading every book is not necessary, it is recommended to fully benefit from the group. To date, the group has read approximately 240 books and maintains a current log. Through the years, visiting authors have joined meetings to discuss the inspiration behind their books and answer questions from the group.

Beyond the basic purpose of reading and discussing books, this group has become a safe haven where women can laugh, cry, and share their heartaches in a loving place. Prayer is the sustaining foundation of the “Lit & Latte” group. They circulate an updated prayer list to the members monthly. When new requests arise, an open email line is always available for immediate prayer and interventions. Prayer is woven into the fiber of this group where unconditional love and grace abound. God has moved in miraculous ways in the lives of these women and answered many of their prayers during the last twenty years.

For a more in-depth, personal experience of the Lit & Latte meetings, watch our video roundtable discussion with some of the women who have participated in this unique book club on YouTube.

If you are interested in joining the “Lit & Latte Book Club” or if you are interested in launching another chapter, contact

Lucy Barron-Gitter (lbgfr33@gmail.com).