Anglican and Episcopalian Churches Books

Book SynopsisTHE INSTANTLY ICONIC NO. 1 BESTSELLER''Devotees of Midsomer Murders and Agatha Christie''s Miss Marple stories will feel most at home here'' Guardian''I''ve been waiting for a novel with vicars, rude old ladies, murder and sausage dogs... et voila!'' Dawn French''Cosy crime with a cutting edge'' Telegraph''Whodunnit fans can give praise and rejoice'' Ian Rankin''Charming and funny'' ObserverEven better than I knew it would be'' India Knight''Quintessentially English'' Sunday Express''An absolute joy'' Adam Kay''''Wry, tongue-in cheek and whimsical'' Daily Mail''Glorious'' Robert Webb ''Beautifully written, charming, funny, intelligent and mordant too'' Sunday Times''Pitch perfect'' Philip Pullman''A cunning whodunnit'' Daily ExpressCanon Daniel Clement is Rector of Trade ReviewI've been waiting for a novel with vicars, rude old ladies, murder and sausage dogs ... et voila! * Dawn French *The Reverend Richard Coles gives us a serpent in England's pastoral Eden - and whodunit fans can give praise and rejoice. * Ian Rankin *Cosy and charming, Murder Before Evensong is less about the shock and gore of murder than its ripple effect on a small, close-knit community. Devotees of Midsomer Murders and Agatha Christie's Miss Marple stories will feel most at home here. -- Fiona Sturges * GUARDIAN, Audiobook of the week review *Britain's favourite vicar might be hanging up the dog collar, but in Murder Before Evensong he proves to be the unlikely heir to Barbara Pym...Coles is free here to unleash a splendidly caustic wit on those parishioners who deserve it... as Daniel locks horns with his flock over the matter of whether the vintage pews in St Mary's can be moved to make way for a new lavatory, Coles rivals Barbara Pym in his ability to make supremely low-stake conflict gripping... Like all the best cosy mysteries, this is comforting but not anodyne. And the style suits the content perfectly: wonderfully feline when it comes to jokes, but moving easily to unselfconscious wisdom when required. Auden would have admired this novel for meeting his requirements for the classical detective story: but he might also have recognised Coles as being, at his best, a fellow artist with words. -- Jake Kerridge * THE DAILY TELEGRAPH *Even better than I knew it would be. Really well plotted... beautifully written, charming without being twee, funny, intelligent and mordant too. It's cosy, yes, but waaay better than "cosy crime" suggests. -- India Knight * SUNDAY TIMES *Murder Before Evensong is like a walk in the country on a warm summer's evening... one during which your fellow ramblers can be murdered horribly at any moment. Canon Daniel Clement is an inscrutable and erudite detective, while four-legged sidekicks Hilda and Cosmo are his delightful foils. You'll want to take a front row pew in Champton while this delicious series unfolds. * Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal *An absolute joy from cover to cover - funny, clever and wonderfully plotted. Praise be! * Adam Kay *Beautifully written and a warm funny joy from start to finish. * Sarah Millican *Perfect for those who like their cosy crime to have a cutting edge. * Ben Aaronovitch *Glorious. * Robert Webb *Champton joins St Mary Mead and Midsomer in the great atlas of fictional English villages where the crimes are as dastardly as the residents delightful. Canon Daniel Clement must solve mysteries temporal and theological while surviving his parishioners tender ministries. Delightful! And only Richard Coles could pull this off so joyfully and with such style. Biscuit-thieving Cosmo, too, will soon have his own fan club. * Damian Barr *Coles has a gift for subtle comic writing... beyond the fascinating story with its rich characters, the real discovery here is the sniffing out of the author's formidable talent for writing about English life with English humour. Roll on the rest of the series! -- The Reverend Jonathan Aitken * THE OLDIE *Coles does a wonderful job of bringing his congregation to life... [and] moves seamlessly between humour and something deeper... Charming and funny, it is just what you'd expect from the excellent Coles. -- Alison Flood * THE OBSERVER, Thriller of the Month *Coles' murderous take on a quintessentially English parish makes for a likeable, cosy crime caper. -- Jon Coates * SUNDAY EXPRESS *Cosy crime with a cutting edge. * SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *A good old page-turner with brilliantly drawn characters, from the aristocratic de Floures to Daniel's astute, snobbish mother, and dachshunds so real you can almost smell them. -- Rose Shepherd * SAGA, Book of the Month *[A] cunning whodunnit... This wise and often beautifully written novel remains most memorable as a sharp but sympathetic portrayal of everyday life in a small community and a clergyman's role within it. -- Jake Kerridge * DAILY EXPRESS *Richard Coles is one of the most sparkling, entertaining, clever and lovable people in public life, as rare and precious to British culture as a Norman cathedral. * Victoria Coren Mitchell *Murder Before Evensong has all the elements that make up a classic detective story: a pitch-perfect setting, a genuine puzzle, a gruesome murder (or more) and engaging characters. I enjoyed it very much. * Philip Pullman *Coles' rendering of his fictional church, St Mary's, in the village of Champton, twinkles with quirky detail and sharp humour. -- Paul Connolly * METRO *A wry, tongue-in cheek and whimsical debut with more than a trace of G. K. Chesterton's Father Brown... charming. -- Geoffrey Wansell * DAILY MAIL *Violent deaths aside, it's a cosy world of Desert Island Discs, flower rotas and walnut cakes, beautifully written and evocative, run through with the comforting, ancient liturgical rhythms that transport you to Evensong and gentle organ music in a cool country church on a summer's evening. -- Kate Green * COUNTRY LIFE *This has all the ingredients of a brilliant new cosy crime series. -- Susan Watson * MY WEEKLY *A brilliant crime romp set in a village full of gossip and secrets. -- Zoe West * WOMAN'S WEEKLY *A deliciously thrilling murder mystery. -- Susan Watson * WOMAN'S WEEKLY SUMMER SPECIAL *He's very good on the nitty-gritty of a clergyman's life. His likable protagonist Canon Daniel Clement's struggle to get parishioners to accept the installation of a new church toilet is every bit as gripping as his investigation of the inevitable series of mystifying murders. -- John Williams * MAIL ON SUNDAY *Coles is a sharp observer of human nature, but his observations are tempered with both humour and compassion, and much of the pleasure in the book lies in the incidental asides. -- CAROLINE CHARTRES * CHURCH TIMES *Coles adds another string to his bow with this witty, Barbara Pym-ish village whodunnit about a crime-solving cleric. * THE DAILY TELEGRAPH, Best Holiday Reads *

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis essential handbook for the preparation of worship presents the authorised Bible readings (references only) for the liturgical year beginning Advent Sunday 2025. It includes: - a full calendar of the Christian year - a simple code indicating whether celebrations are mandatory or optional - complete lectionary references to the Principal, Second and Third services for Sundays and Principal Feasts and Holy Days - lectionary references for Morning and Evening Prayer - the Additional Weekday Lectionary - general readings for saints days and special occasions - a guide to the liturgical colours of the day. A must-have reference guide for every vestry and parish office. This is the standard pocket-book size edition.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis essential handbook for the preparation of worship presents the authorised Bible readings (references only) for the liturgical year beginning Advent Sunday 2021. It includes:- a full calendar of the Christian year;- a simple code indicating whether celebrations are mandatory or optional;- complete lectionary references to the Principal, Second and Third services for Sundays, Principal Feasts and Holy Days;- lectionary references for Morning and Evening Prayer;- the Additional Weekday Lectionary;- general readings for saints days and special occasions;- a guide to the liturgical colours of the day. A must-have reference guide for every vestry and parish office. This is the standard pocket-book size edition.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHymns A&M was first published in 1861. The new standard edition was introduced in 1983 containing 533 hymns including 333 from the 1950 Revised Edition plus 100 Hymns for Today and More Hymns for Today.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIncludes general hymns; hymns for feasts, seasons and saints' days; office hymns for the liturgical year; an enlarged eucharistic section; responsorial psalms and a new English folk mass setting.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOne of C. S. Lewis' works of fiction, or more specifically allegory, this book is clearly modelled upon Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, as Lewis cleverly satirizes different sections of the Church.Written within a year of Lewis' conversion, it characterises the various theological and temperamental leanings of the time. This brilliant and biting allegory has lost none of its freshness and theological profundity, as the pilgrims pass the City of Claptrap, the tableland of the High Anglicans and the far-off marsh of the Theosophists. As ever, Lewis says memorably in brief what would otherwise have demanded a full-length philosophy of religion.Trade Review‘I have myself been divided by every one of these false answers in turn, and have contemplated each of them earnestly enough to discover the cheat.’ C.S.Lewis, from the Introduction

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Common Worship Main Volume is the primary worship and service book for the Church of England. It contains material used on Sundays by most churches: a variety of Communion services and non-eucharistic forms of worship, as well as the basic Baptism service and the Psalms.First published in 2000, this revised and updated 2024 edition contains fully updated royal prayers throughout, plus additional material authorised for use in the intervening years, including:Additional collectsAlternative baptismal textsAdditional Eucharistic Prayers Full contents:The Declaration of AssentThe CalendarA Service of the WordMorning and Evening Prayer on SundayMorning and Evening Prayer from the Book of Common PrayerNight Prayer (Compline)Night Prayer (Compline) in Traditional LanguagePrayers for Various OccasionsThe LitanyThe Litany from the Book of Common PrayerAuthorized Forms of Confession and AbsolutionCreeds and Authorized Affirmations of Faith Holy Communion including A Form of Preparation, Ord

Read more less

Book SynopsisA twelve-month wall calendar featuring Revised Common Lectionary readings as used in the Episcopal Church.The 2025 Episcopal Church Revised Common Lectionary Lesson Calendar includes daily eucharistic and office readings according to the use of the Episcopal Church. An ideal resource for worship planning, the calendar also includes hymn suggestions from The Hymnal 1982 and other authorized hymnals.

Read more less

The world’s most famous hymn book has undergone a complete revision and now offers the broadest ever range of traditional hymns and the best from today’s composers and hymn/song writers. 150 years since its first publication and after sales of 170 million copies, this brand new edition contains over 840 items, ranging from the Psalms to John Bell, Bernadette Farrell and Stuart Townend. The guiding principles behind this collection are: • congregational singability • biblical and theological richness • musical excellence • liturgical versatility • relevance to today’s worship styles and to today’s concerns New features include added provision for all the seasons of the Church year, new items for carol services and other popular occasions where the repertoire is in need of refreshing, more choices for all-age worship, fresh translations of some ancient hymnody, beautiful new tunes, short songs and chants – alleluias, kyries, blessings etc. and music from the world church. A full range of indexes (including biblical and thematic) and a helpful guide to choosing hymns for every occasion will help to make Ancient & Modern the premier hymn collection of choice. This is the Melody edition.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn outreach edition of the New Testament, using the ESV translation in British English perfect for church groups and to give away at events.Passing on the Christian faith is at the heart of our calling, and this outreach edition of the New Testament means that there is a cost-effective way to share the Gospel, using a translation you can trust.Created by a team of more than 100 Evangelical Bible scholars, the ESV is the fastest-growing translation, and is the go-to Bible for church leaders and ministries around the world.More evangelical churches than ever before are using the ESV. Now you can reach out beyond your church with this attractive and affordable New Testament, bringing the life-giving Gospel to your friends and neighboursTrade Review‘An accurate, consistent, and readable Bible translation is essential. The ESV is all those things.’- William Taylor, St Helen’s Bishopsgate ‘It provides the continuity and modern accuracy I longed for.’- John Piper, desiringgod.org ‘Confidence. That’s what every Christian can have when they use this version.’- Steve Timmis, Acts 29

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn illustrated appointment calendar with readings for the Daily Office and Sunday EucharistConsisting of two facing pages and an illustration for each week, the Episcopal Liturgical Appointment Calendar includes ample space to note appointments. In addition to religious and secular holidays, the calendar includes Daily Office readings appointed in the Book of Common Prayer and Revised Common Lectionary readings for the Sunday Eucharist.

Read more less

Book Synopsis Published in collaborationwith the National Churches Trust, this fascinating book is a sumptuous and authoritative photographic history of churches in England, as told through the objects inside them. Arranged chronologically from the Roman era to the present day, it covers a huge range of church objects including ornate fonts, beautiful stained glass windows, carved bench ends and rood screens, precious silverware and even church organs, and each piece has a fascinating story to tell. Within these pages, you''ll discover: The Hinton St Mary mosaic in Dorset, created in the early 4th century AD and showing the first depiction of Jesus Christ in Britain. The full Norman repertoire of abstract geometrical forms displayed in the Tower Arch, St John's Church, Northampton. The Becket pilgrims represented in glowing medieval stained glass in Canterbury Cathedral. Exquisitely carved misericords showing scenes from spiritual life through the yea

Read more less

Book SynopsisA book of consolation and compassion, offering encouragement and hope from the PsalmsFor those who are made to endure betrayal, affliction, adversity and suffering, the Psalms can be a source of wisdom and comfort. In this remarkable book, Martyn Percy offers a new reading of the Psalms to shed light on the help and comfort we can find in the midst of darkness and solitude.Martyn Percy explains how the Psalms fortified him during a time of great difficulty, and how they can help others who encounter difficulties of their own whether as a result of Covid, recession, grief, abuse or personal hardship.In three sections - Going Through Fire, Being in the Darkness and the Grace of God Percy walks us through the meaning of the Psalms that are meant to sustain us through times of intense personal suffering. Peppered with anecdotes, reflections and spiritual wisdom, this book will be a treasure trove of consolation and compassion for those who find themselve

Read more less

Book SynopsisA compilation of the Books of Homilies, collections of model sermons produced by the Church of England during the 16th century, and which offer an enduring insight into Anglican doctrine of the period.Trade Review"The Homilies are of major significance for understanding Church of England doctrine and discipline at the Reformation. We are in Gerald Bray's debt for this new critical edition for a modern readership, which at last moves us beyond the familiar Victorian reprints. It is a perfect combination of careful scholarship and accessibility, and essential reading for every serious student of Anglicanism." Andrew Atherstone, Latimer Research Fellow, Wycliffe Hall, Oxford "Gerald Bray deserves thanks for producing in a modern critical edition The Books of Homilies, one of the key texts from the English Reformation, and making it more accessible for those interested in the Anglican tradition, homiletics, theology, and history." -Jane E.A. Dawson, The Expository Times, Vol. 128 No. 3, December 2016 "[This book] offers a valuable insight not only into the relative doctrinal positions of those on both sides of the English Reformation divide, but also into the various social ills of the period." -Paul F. Bradshaw (University of Notre Dame), Worship, Book Reviews, Volume 91, May 2017 "Gerald Bray's critical edition of the Book of Homilies is a welcome addition to the few modern texts available. Bray provides a concise and detailed discussion of the expected critical issues related to all three books of homilies." Benjamin J. Snyder, Asbury Theological Seminary, July 2018 On one point is his edition clearly superior to the old (on the internet thought google books freely available) Griffiths eidition: It makes the Homilies Collection available, it's squeezed in between the first and second book of Homilies -Martin Ohst, Theologische Literaturzeitung, June 2019Table of ContentsBiblical and Other Ancient Names Introduction The First Book of Homilies Bishop Bonner's Homilies The Second Book of Homilies Subject Index Names Index Scripture Index Author Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe complete readings of the Revised Common Lectionary, years A, B and C as authorised by the Church of England in 2006, together with readings for the Major Holy Days of the Church Year, all in the NRSV translation.The Lectern Edition is bound in sturdy red binding with gold blocking on the cover, and is intended for use by the priest on the altar and the lectern.Table of ContentsIntroduction: How to use the Lectionary Calendar Sundays and Festivals Festivals Supplement 1. Alternate First Readings for Sundays in Eastertide 2. Saints for Ireland, Scotland and Wales Index of Script Readings

Read more less

Book SynopsisA charming and witty history of the quirky - but surprisingly widespread - craft of embroidering kneeler cushions. The perfect gift book this Christmas, for those who love kneelers and those who don't!'A lovely look at a not-quite-vanishing craft that lies, literally, below our knees ... Inventive and interesting' The Oldie, 'Best Reads for All Ages This Christmas''A treasure of a collection' Amber Butchart, of BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee'I think I may already have discovered the best non fiction book of 2023' Reverend Richard Coles, author of A Murder Before EvensongKneelers is a celebration of the most widely practised - but often overlooked - folk art in England and Wales over the past ninety years: the design and craft of church kneelers. Featuring charming stories and enchanting designs from churches across the country, the book traces the history of kneelers; from their spectacular beginnings at Winchester in the 1930s to their booming popularity after Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and the present-day congregations who are keeping the tradition alive.In their range and diversity, the kneelers collected here form a fascinating social record of the concerns and interests that occupied their makers - including local fauna and flora, cricket, dragons, post-war tributes and the thrills of high-speed travel.Filled to the brim with beautiful full-colour images, Kneelers displays the quirky artistry and widely varied (and often surprising) motifs which have characterised church kneelers in the twentieth century. It rejoices in the personal stories of some of the people who have practised and advanced the art form, and is a wonderful commemoration of what happens when communities come together to celebrate their history and their environment.'A glorious and delightful salute' Tracy Chevalier, author of A Single Thread'This book is a Godsend!' Alan Titchmarsh, author of The Gardener's AlmanacTrade Review'I think I may already have discovered the best non fiction book of 2023' * Reverend Richard Coles, author of A Murder Before Evensong *'A glorious and delightful salute to some of the UK's most neglected folk art and its makers' * Tracy Chevalier, author of A Single Thread *'For anyone who has been grateful for a kneeler, and found solace in them during a challenging sermon, this book is a Godsend!' * Alan Titchmarsh, author of The Gardener's Almanac *'A treasure of a collection' * Amber Butchart, of BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee *Gives praise at last to an overlooked form of British folk art * Sunday Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA short guide to the origins, structure and values of the Churches of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Paul Avis explains and clarifies the history and theology involved, and introduces concepts in a structured way, making the book clear to those who may be coming to these issues for the first time.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe personal qualities of a priest

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis essential handbook for the preparation of worship presents the authorised Bible readings (references only) for the liturgical year beginning Advent Sunday 2024. It includes: - a full calendar of the Christian year - a simple code indicating whether celebrations are mandatory or optional - complete lectionary references to the Principal, Second and Third services for Sundays and Principal Feasts and Holy Days - lectionary references for Morning and Evening Prayer - the Additional Weekday Lectionary - general readings for saints days and special occasions - a guide to the liturgical colours of the day. A must-have reference guide for every vestry and parish office. This is the standard pocket-book size edition.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn attractive, compact edition of the English Standard Version of the Bible; the world's fastest-growing Bible translation. Ideal as a gift or for personal use.This teal edition features a protective zipper and is perfect for reading on the move. Its many helpful features include:British English TextCompact, portable sizeDouble-column format with black letter textConcordanceProtective zipperPresentation pageRibbon markerGilt page edgesThe English Standard Version is a great choice for personal reading and study, for private devotions and family prayers, and for teaching, preaching, and worship. An essentially literal' translation, the ESV Bible combines word-for-word accuracy with readability, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. More than 100 of the world's leading Bible scholars and teachers were involved in creating the ESV Bible. Trusted worldwide, the ESV is a treasure for life.Trade Review‘This is a fine, fresh and faithful translation, combining both elegance and accuracy to bring us a version of the bible that is anything but standard. The ESV brings us a text that is both readable yet scholarly. It is quite simply the best version we have today – clear, simple and illuminating‘ MARTYN PERCY, Principal of Ripon College Cuddesdon At last a translation that majors on accuracy, combined with a modern, fluent style. I am confident that in time the ESV will become the standard translation for the English-speaking world.’THE RT. REV. WALLACE BENN, Bishop of Lewes, England ‘Meticulous care and passionate research make the ESV a crisp, accurate, and valuable translation.’ MAX LUCADO, Minister, Oak Hills Church of Christ ‘The ESV satisfies the preaching memorizing, studying and reading needs of our church, from children to adults.’ JOHN PIPER, Pastor for Preaching and Vision, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat is Anglicanism? How is it different from other forms of Christianity, and how did it come to have so many different versions throughout the world? Although originally united by location and a common belief, Anglicanism has gradually lost its pre-eminence as the English state church due to increasing pluralisation and secularisation. While there are distinctive themes and emphases which emerge from its early history and theology, there is little sense of unity in Anglicanism today. In Anglicanism: A Very Short Introduction, Mark Chapman highlights the diversity of contemporary Anglicanism by exploring its fascinating history, theology, and structures. Putting the history and development of the religion into context, Chapman reveals what it is that holds Anglicanism together despite the recent crises that threaten to tear it apart. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of Contents1. What is Anglicanism? ; 2. Establishing the Church ; 3. Struggles for Identity ; 4. The Global Communion ; 5. The Future of Anglicanism

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Book of Common Prayer is the traditional prayer book of the Church of England and an important source of its doctrine. This historic pew edition is perfect for both communal worship and liturgical study. Bound in sturdy faux leather, lightweight, and small enough to fit in a pocket, it is also ideal for on-the-go use.This edition contains the new prayers for His Majesty King Charles III and the Royal Family.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe soulful, hilarious memoir of a chronic people pleaser who surprised everyone in her life by abandoning an unfulfilling career and marriage to join a convent?and learned how much we stand to gain when we fully embrace our authentic selvesIn her twenties and thirties, Monica Clare was a talented but exhausted photo editor who spent her days getting yelled at by clients who were often strung out on cocaine and megalomania. For years, the voice calling her to a simpler, quieter life had been getting louder. As a little kid, she?d seen Audrey Hepburn in The Nun?s Story and thought: That?s me. That?s how she found herself straightening her habit nervously as she walked into a convent, preparing to live alongside eleven other sisters who?d taken the same vow of poverty and celibacy . . . indefinitely. Could a chronically fidgety, pop culture?obsessed woman of the world ever fit in? she wondered. And why did the other nuns seem so cold and disapproving?As the months went on, she realized the other nuns were shy, not unfriendly?much like herself. The culture at the convent discouraged giving compliments or even saying ?please? or ?thank you,? since acts of generosity were to be freely given and received. But when Monica rose to the role of Sister Superior, she got the policy against compliments changed. Relationships started to blossom, first awkwardly and then more easily. Who would have predicted that Sister Christina, the one she thought had deeply disliked her from the start, would turn out to be a huge hugger? Or that they?d spend entire afternoons trying to keep a wild turkey from running amok in their community garden?Equal parts tell-all and rallying cry, A Change of Habit reveals how much we can say yes to when we stop laboring to prove our worth to ourselves and others.In her role as a spiritual counselor, Sister Monica guides people from all walks of life toward resisting the false promises of capitalism, finding healing in small acts of nurture and connection, and ultimately, restoring themselves to a place of wholeness, all while living in this gorgeously messy world of ours.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe 2024 Bloomsbury Lent Book invites you on a six-week journey in the company of the ''beloved disciple'' as found in the narrative of the Gospel of St John.As the only disciple to have stayed close to Jesus at every stage from the Last Supper to the Crucifixion at Calvary, this eagle-eyed eyewitness intentionally records certain subtle details and signs which, when perceived with the eyes of faith, indicate a deeper and far lasting significance.Michael Marshall explores what these signs are and how, with prayerful reflection, they draw us ever more deeply into the personal, eternal and cosmic significance and awareness of all that Christ accomplished by his death and resurrection the Paschal Mystery.Ideal for both individual use and for small group study, Lent with the Beloved Disciple takes us into the heart of that Paschal Mystery, by which all things in heaven and earth are ultimately fulfilled in the risen and ascended Christ, who is ''alTable of ContentsDedication Acknowledgements Introduction The Gospel According to the Beloved Disciple The Fourth Gospel & The Beloved Disciple Interpreting the Signs in the Gospel of John The Paschal Mystery Journeying on the Pilgrim Way The Sign of the Nautilus Suggestions for the Study of this Course Prologue From the Old to the New The Withdrawal of John the Baptist From the Law to the Lawgiver The End of Religion Seeking and Searching Information and Transformation The Pilgrimage of Faith Disciples and Discipleship Witnessing from Experience What’s in a Name? CHAPTER ONE From a Different Perspective The Seating Plan for the Supper A Dispute among the Disciples Servant Leadership Stooping to Conquer Christ as the High Priest of our Calling From Rituals to Reality Baptized for ministry Judas CHAPTER TWO A Night to Remember The Arrest of Jesus Power and Authority The Impetuous Simon The Courtyard Scene The Charcoal Fire ‘Flawed but called' God’s Choices CHAPTER THREE The Power Game The Abuse of Religious Power People Power A Different King and a Different Kingdom Power or Authority Judgement and Mercy Power and Powerlessness CHAPTER FOUR The Transforming Power of Unconditional Love The Death Sentence The Achievement of the Cross A Seamless Garment Atonement and the Reordered Family of God Atonement and the Unity of the Church Peace and the Dividing Walls of Hostility An All-embracing Love In the Meantime CHAPTER FIVE The Dawn of the New Life While it was still Dark Vision and Perception The New Life Witnessing to Resurrection On the Way and all the Way Letting go and Moving on The Apostolic Message The Power of the Resurrection Here, there and everywhere CHAPTER SIX Empowered for Mission Rumours of Resurrection A Transforming Encounter The Credentials of the Risen Christ The vulnerability of love Christ’s Mission and our Mission The Transforming Power of the Holy Spirit Walking by faith Homeward Bound EPILOGUE The New Life in the Meantime From the Old to the New From Futile to Fruitful Visibility and Recognition Ownership and Partnership A Charcoal Fire A Greater Love Knowledge and Love The Way of Discipleship And Finally

Read more less

Book SynopsisA powerful collection of essays that detail the history, practices, reflections, and legacy of 50 years of Education for Ministry. Education for Ministry (EfM) celebrates its 50th anniversary with a collection of essays from people whose lives have been touched by their program. Founded by the School of Theology at The University of the South, EfM has included participants from all over the globe in its mission to serve the Episcopal Church and other Christian denominations in seeking a deeper relationship with God. Delving into their history and mission, this collection captures the core of the EfM program and looks to their future through the perspectives of a diverse group of writers.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDeals with all aspects of the role and responsibility of being a Churchwarden. The aim of this book is to encourage Churchwardens to approach their role with confidence, and with the knowledge that much can be achieved in their term of office. The C of E has 30,000 churchwardens, of which several thousand are elected for the first time every year. “Churchwardens are the great unsung heroes of the Church of England” says the Rt Rev Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield, in his foreword to this book. “The great strength of Matthew Clements’ writing is that he sets the sometimes dry duties and responsibilities of wardenship within the warm context of human lives lived joyously and devotedly in the service of Christ and his beloved Church. All will find in this book practical wisdom, shrewd commonsense and indefatigable commitment to a noble cause.” The role of the churchwarden in the Anglican Church has not changed much over the years, although perhaps the respectability and authority of the role has diminished. It is a responsible and important role which, if done conscientiously, will augment the efforts of the clergy and encourage the congregation, thus strengthening the Body of the church. This book is for all current churchwardens as well as all those (sometimes reluctant) volunteers who are considering the possibility of becoming churchwardens in the future. Additionally, it will be useful for anyone else in the church who is able to admit to themselves that they don’t really know what the churchwarden actually does. Told with gentle humour based on solid experience and pragmatism, Matthew Clements details the extensive boundaries of a churchwarden’s responsibilities and gives many examples from his own experience of just what the job can entail. There are many pitfalls that await the unwary, and there are many joys as well.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHenry Beeching (18591919), Dean of Norwich, was a popular preacher, celebrated man of letters and journalist. This is the first full-length biography of this popular poet, professor of English, and a much loved priest.

Read more less

Book SynopsisCast in the form of an autobiography covering period between 1940 and 2015, After the Order of Melchizedek is, in effect, an account of the Church of England as she was during the second half of the 20th century. Anecdotal, humorous and allusive, much of the material is drawn from Adrian Leak’s life as an Anglican priest including chapters on life at Oxford University, at York Minster and three country parishes. “Melchizedek gives us a glimpse of the Church of England in the second half of the 20th century, seen through the eyes of a priest whose contrasting ministries in council estate, rural parishes, and cathedrals ancient and modern, describe a mostly vanished church and different world. It is a timely warning to the Church of England not to discard completely its care for everyone, whether they go to church or not.” – Nigel McCulloch, former Bishop of Manchester

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Book of Common Prayer is one of the most influential books in history. First published in the reign of Edward VI, in 1549, it was a product of the English Reformation following the break with Rome. For nearly five centuries, it has formed the order of worship for established Christianity in England. More listeners have heard these prayers, it is said, than the soliloquies of Shakespeare. As British imperial ambitions spread, the Book of Common Prayer became the primary instrument (at least as much as the King James Bible) of English culture, firstly in Ireland in 1551. When the Puritans fled to America in 1620 it was to escape the discipline imposed by of the Book of Common Prayer, yet the book came to embody official religion in America before and after Independence, and is still in use. Today it is a global book: it was the first book printed in many languages, from north America to southern Africa, to the Indian sub-continent. In this Very Short Introduction Brian Cummings tells the fascinating history of the Book of Common Prayer, and explains why it is easily misunderstood. Designed in the 1540s as a radical Protestant answer to Catholic superstition, within a century (during the English Civil Wars) radical Christians regarded the Book of Common Prayer as itself superstitious and even (paradoxically) Papist. Changing in meaning and context over time, the Book of Common Prayer has acted as a cultural symbol, affecting the everyday conduct of life as much as the spiritual, and dividing conformity from non-conformity, in social terms as well as religious, from birth to marriage to death. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewCummings' work is a great gateway for anyone looking to start their adventure in the historical studies of The Book of Common Prayer. * Isaac Brown, Riverview, New Brunswick, Religious Studies Review *Insightful * Mary Laven, Times Literary Supplement *[Brian Cummings's] text is challenging, informative, and even swashbuckling, by turns ... His book is a must for all, but, take it slowly and savour it: a huge amount is packed into these 120 pages. * Stephen Platten, Church Times *The Book of Common Prayer: A Very Short Introduction is an excellent summary of the origins of The Book of Common Prayer and its impact on history, from the Tudors to the present. Cummings's accessible prose makes for an enjoyable read that is not overburdened with technical or theological jargon. * Tanner J. Moore, Reading Religion *One of the foremost British scholars of Renaissance and Reformation literature, Brian Cummings has given us a vivid and multi-dimensional portrait of how one of the most influential books in the English language was constructed, reconstructed, and disseminated across several centuries, helping us see just how it played the role it did in shaping a common imagination as well as a common spirituality. * Rowan Williams, Master, Magdalene College, Cambridge *Table of Contents1: Ritual and the Reformation 2: The making of The Book of Common Prayer 3: Word, body and gesture 4: Politics and religion 5: Empire and prayer book 6: Modernity and the Book of Common Prayer References Further reading Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA collection of talks and sermons from Rowan Williams, one of the finest theological minds of our day, covering a range of issues from war, social justice and sexuality to prayer, spirituality and evangelism. Williams shows the connections between contemporary issues, biblical texts and the Christian tradition, each element drawing new and often surprising things out of the others, and challenges us to make our own connections between the gospel, contemporary problems and our personal struggles.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA joyous collection of life lessons from the UK''s favourite vicar! The perfect gift for fans of Kate Bottley and her charm, wit and wisdom.Hello there, come on in. I know what you're thinking: I'm not religious, so I'm not sure if this is for me'. But the truth is, this book is simply about being human. Believing in something, no matter what it is, gives us hope, and that's what helps us get through this messy, joyful, unexpected ride we call life. Over the years I've sat on plenty of sofas, drunk plenty of (questionable) cups of tea and learned endless lessons from the wonderful people I've met. Above all, they have taught me that there is no right way to do things and that's OK. In these pages I have shared everything I have learned about how to deal with life's biggies like love and death, as well as confidence, conflict and loneliness in the hope that I can make you feel less alone and arm you with the tools to face the tougher times. Trade ReviewA magnificent read, full of wisdom love and magic * Zoe Ball *One of life's great books. It's honest, real, funny, humane, powerful and profound * Emma Freud *Thank God for Kate and this book * Dawn French *Kate's natural warmth, wit and wisdom shines through every page * Sara Cox *Warm and comforting, like a cup of hot chocolate * Su Pollard *You can always rely on Kate to bring humour, warmth and cracking anecdotes. This book, unsurprisingly, has shed loads * Steph McGovern *I loved this enormous warming hug of a book. Kate writes beautifully and humanely about the ups and downs of life and the role of faith (and lasagne!). A must read for people of all faiths and none. * Fergus Butler-Gallie (author of Touching Cloth) *Written not just for those who actively practise a religion, this book of life lessons speaks on faith in all its guises, and how everyone can benefit from a little belief -- Radio Times‘The wisdom that shines through this unshowy and compassionate book suggests our public life is much enriched by her presence’ * Mail on Sunday *[Kate's] wisdom is delivered with humour and compassion...and [makes] you feel that life is always worth living * Psychologies Magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Anglican parish is uniquely embedded in English culture and society, by virtue both of its antiquity and close allegiance with secular governance. Yet it remains an elusive and surprisingly overlooked theme, whose 'place', theologically, is far from certain. Whilst ecclesiastical history has long formed a pillar of academic training for ordained ministry, ecclesiastical geography has not contributing to the often uninformed assumptions about locality in contemporary church debate and mission strategy. At a time when its relevance and sustainability are being weighed in the balance and with plans progressing for the Church in Wales' abandonment of parochial organisation, there is an urgent need for a clear analysis of the parish's historical, geographical and sociological - as well as theological significance. Parish examines the distinctive form of social and communal life created by the Anglican parish: applying and advancing, the emerging discipline of place theology by fillingTrade ReviewThis wonderful study of the parish is unrivalled as a scholarly study of the parish, charting brilliantly the determinative role that that it has played in English history. As well as being an invaluable work of social and ecclesiological history, it demonstrates masterfully and imaginatively how crucial place is to any adequate understanding of Christian theology. It deserves to be very widely read not only by all who are committed about the Church of England and the gospel it seeks to proclaim, but also by all who care about the future of England. -- Rt Revd Dr John Inge, Bishop of WorcesterPlace is back on the agenda today: in books and on television, place and places fascinate scholars and the general public alike. This magnificent book weaves a wide range of perspectives together lyrically with ease. Here, theology finds itself at home with geography, philosophy and the study of history on the widest scale, and at the most local. At a time when church strategy is often ill at ease with the apparent lack of novelty in abiding with a community, where it is, for the long run, Rumsey’s book offers what we need, and yet it is low on polemic, and big on pastoral insight. -- Andrew Davison, Starbridge Lecturer in Theology and Natural Sciences, University of Cambridge, UKAndrew Rumsey sees with the eyes of a poet, writes with the hand of a scholar, and loves with the heart of a priest. His call to re-examine the myths, meaning, purpose and promise of the parish is as persuasive as it is timely. He is a faithful storeholder who has found in the history and soil of this evocative theme something old and something new. This is a study to be cherished, enjoyed – and lived. -- Rev Dr Sam WellsThis book is like discovering a legacy left by a long-lost relative. Parishes are a precious inheritance left to the present generation by its forebears. Cultivated both physically and spiritually for centuries, parishes are not just areas of land, they are repositories of densely-woven human relationship based on principles of reciprocity, generosity and care. In their particularity, they are seed banks of future forms of human community as our global monocultures come under strain. Above all, they proclaim the Christian belief that God’s self-disclosure in a living, walking human being was a local affair, and still is. Rumsey’s is a profound summons not to take for granted what has been bequeathed to us. -- Ben Quash, King's College London, UKThis book is a must read for all Anglicans thinking about mission, the significance of place, and the “parish system”. Andrew Rumsey has done something truly astonishing. Each page is packed with worthwhile insights, and more elegant writing than this review could readily quote. He has written the book one wishes one could write, and discussions of the parish and its future must use this wonderful work as their starting place. -- Zachary Guiliano, ANVIL: Journal of Theology and Mission, VOL 34, ISSUE 2Just as we are encouraging pioneer ministry, when rural parishioners find their ancient churches designated ‘festival churches’ (i.e. not used very often) along comes this well-researched theological study of an Anglican theology of place. Rumsey says, ‘Parish is the place where we belong, it is local, and God is only ever encountered locally, not because He (sic) is local, but because we are.’ The book finishes with three challenges: the viability of the parish system; finding a contemporary response to the mission challenges; and the necessity of reframing our contribution to the common good. Reading it is worth the challenge. -- Christine McMullen, The Reader, Winter editionTable of ContentsPart One - Christ in Our Place: The Anglican Parish in Theoretical Perspective Introduction 1. Steadying Jacob's Ladder: A Place- Formation Cycle 2. The Lord is Here: Towards a Christology of Place 3. Sheer Geography: Spatial Theory and Parochial Practice Part Two - Common Ground: The Anglican Parish in History and Practice 4. Another Country: Parish and the National Myth 5. Good Fences: Parish as Neighbourhood 6. A Handful of Earth: Parish, Landscape and Nostalgia Conclusion: A Kind of Belonging

Read more less

Book SynopsisLiving in the Gaze of God offers an accessible exploration of the theme of ministerial accountability through the lens of one reflective tool that of formal supervision of ministerial practice. Bold and far-reaching, the book addresses the key presenting issues around a need for a change of culture in the church as regards accountability for ministerial practice. It outlines a theological and practical model of 1-to-1 supervision, arguing that such an approach enables the development of greater attentiveness to God, the self and others and thus enhances accountability. Laying aside the need to offer a ''how-to'' approach, Helen Cameron instead brings us a rigorous and dynamic consideration of the interface between supervision, accountability and ministerial practice, and offers a theological underpinning for the issues.Trade ReviewThe Methodist Church has been on a journey of increasing understanding about the need and benefits of improving the wellbeing of ministers. This includes ensuring church environments and work is safe and appropriate for our current understanding of safeguarding. This comprehensive and accessible guide has skilfully integrated these elements into a compelling agenda to help the whole church move forward in confidence and expectation. -- Tim CarterThis is a book for those who desire to know God, to know themselves and to serve others. It offers a poetic and deeply biblical invitation into a deeper relationship with God, self and other as part of the transforming work that God is doing through those called to minister. Writing out of her experience of 30 years as a Methodist minister and at the start of the British Methodist Church’s journey into mandatory supervision for its ordained ministers, Helen advocates the value of supervision in the maturation of those called into public ministry. She sees this process as one for which the body of Christ bears responsibility alongside the minister, offering a ‘shared agenda’ model of supervision that allows both the supervisee and the supervisor to bring issues for exploration. Reflecting on the need for ministry to be accountable to those it serves, this book is a timely discussion of some of the spiritual, theological and ethical foundations for practising supervision in an ecclesial context. -- Jane LeachTable of ContentsContents: Preface 1. Ministerial Growth and Flourishing 2. Supervision and Oversight 3. Attentiveness to the Gaze of God 4. Attentiveness to the Self and to the Other 5. A Supervised Ministry Appendix Acknowledgement of Sources Index of Names and Subjects

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIssues of gender and sexuality are intrinsic to people's experience: their sense of identity, their lives and the loving relationships that shape and sustain them. The life and mission of the Church of England and of the worldwide Anglican Communion are affected by the deep, and sometimes painful, disagreements about these matters, divisions brought into sharper focus because of society's changing perspectives and practices, especially in relation to LGTBI+ people.Living in Love and Faith sets out to inspire people to think more deeply both about what it means to be human, and to live in love and faith with one another. It tackles the tough questions and the divisions among Christians about what it means to be holy in a society in which understandings and practices of gender, sexuality and marriage continue to change. Commissioned and led by the Bishops of the Church of England, the Living in Love and Faith project has involved many people across the Church and beyond, bringing toget

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis service book offers a complete collection of the authorised Common Worship baptism and confirmation services. Suitable for use at the altar and font, it includes: Holy Baptism Additional Baptism Texts in Accessible Language Confirmation Reception into the Church of England Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child Admission of the Baptized to Communion Public Baptism of Infants according to the BCP Music for the Prayers over the Water President's Versions of all main services

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis essential handbook for the preparation of worship presents the authorised Bible readings (references only) for the liturgical year beginning Advent Sunday 2021. It includes:- a full calendar of the Christian year;- a simple code indicating whether celebrations are mandatory or optional;- complete lectionary references to the Principal, Second and Third services for Sundays, Principal Feasts and Holy Days;- lectionary references for Morning and Evening Prayer;- the Additional Weekday Lectionary;- general readings for saints days and special occasions;- a guide to the liturgical colours of the day. A must-have reference guide for every vestry and parish office. This is the larger-format edition.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this addition to the Reformation Anglicanism Essential Library, Michael P. Jensen examines how the reading and preaching of the Scriptures, the Sacraments, prayer, and singing all inform not only worship in Anglicanism, but worship as it is prescribed in the Bible.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Edge of Words is Rowan Williams'' first book since standing down as Archbishop of Canterbury.Invited to give the prestigious 2014 Gifford Lectures, Dr Williams has produced a scholarly but eminently accessible account of the possibilities of speaking about God taking as his point of departure the project of natural theology.Dr Williams enters into dialogue with thinkers as diverse as Augustine and Simone Weil and authors such as Joyce, Hardy, Burgess and Hoban in what is a compelling essay about the possibility of language about God.Trade ReviewThis is not a long book but it is a profound one. Many readers will find it worthwhile reading each chapter at least twice. The Edge of Words is a book that will influence both the way theologians understand language and their approach to theology -- Paul Richardson * Church of England Newspaper *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction 1 A Future for 'Natural Theology' 2 Can We Say What We Like? Language, Freedom and Determinism 3 Speech and Time: the Unfinishable Business of Language 4 Intelligent Bodies: Language as Material Practice 5 Excessive Speech: Language in Extreme Situations 6 Saying the Unsayable: Where Silence Happens Appendix: On Representation Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisArchbishop Rowan Williams is the most gifted Anglican priest of his generation. His views are consistent and orthodox and yet he has been consistently misunderstood - especially in relation to his views on contemporary society, public morality and the common good.In this, the final published work of his Archepiscopate, Dr Williams has assembled a series of chapters on matters of immediate public concern and the relationship of Christianity to these issues. Among his topics are ''Has Secularism Failed?: Europe, Faith and Culture'', ''Human Rights and Religious Faith'', Changing the Myths We Live By'', ''Housekeeping: The Economic Challenge'', ''The Gifts Reserved for Age: Perceptions of the Elderly'', and ''Analysing Atheism''.Trade ReviewIn this often brilliant, always stimulating, and unfailingly even-handed book, the former Archbishop of Canterbury weaves his erudition and Christian faith into a thread that guides him through the labyrinth where contemporary politics, secularism, ignorance, intolerance, good will, and virtue are to be found ... Williams argues brilliantly for the relevance of both religion and politics, and the contribution of each to the other. -- Anthony J. Gittins * Catholic Library World *Table of ContentsIntroduction Part One: Secularism and its Discontents 1. Has Secularism Failed? 2. Secularism, Faith and Freedom 3. Convictions, Loyalties and the Secular State 4. Law, Power and Peace 5. Europe, Faith and Culture 6. Religion, Culture, Diversity and Tolerance 7. The Spiritual and the Religious Part Two: Liberalism, Pluralism and Law 8. Multiculturalism: Friend or Foe? 9. Faith and Enlightenment 10. Pluralism and the Public and Religious Spheres 11. Religious Hatred and Religious Offence 12. Religious Faith and Human Rights 13. Human Rights and Religious Faith Part Three: Living within Limits: The Environment 14. Changing the Myths We Live By 15. Renewing the Face of the Earth: Human Responsibility and the Environment 16. Climate Crisis: Fashioning a Christian Response Part Four: Housekeeping: The Economic Challenge 17. Ethics, Economics and Global Justice 18. Theology and Economics: Two Different Worlds? Part Five: Justice in Community 19. Sustainable Communities 20. The Gifts Reserved for Age: Perceptions of the Elderly 21. Criminal Justice 22. Big Society-Small World? Part Five: Religious Diversity and Civil Agreement 23. Analysing Atheism: Unbelief and the World of Faith 24. Religious Diversity and Social Unity 25. Faith Communities in a Civil Society Part Six: Rediscovering Religion 26. Religious Lives Acknowledgements Index

Read more less