Search results for ""SPCK Publishing""

This BIG book is ideal for shared reading. Derived from the award-winning My Very First Bible, this well-known Bible story is presented in simple words and illustrated with child-friendly paper collage illustrations. Notes are included for parents and teachers putting the story in context and giving ideas for discussion. The story is written in full on the back cover to help show the illustrations at the same time as reading to a large group.

Read more less

Young detectives will never tire of this picture-search puzzle book. Readers can pore over 17 cleverly illustrated scenes of events from the life of Jesus to find the answers to the questions posed on each page. Some puzzles involve looking for details of everyday life, others highlight things that happened in the Bible stories - offering hours of fun to readers as they search for the answers. With lots to find, this kind of picture book is particularly great for reluctant readers and visual learners, helping all children gain key insights into the life of Jesus as they super-sleuth their way through the book. Warning: may be addictive!

Read more less

The voices of those who actually lived through the hell of blood and pain during the Great War have fallen silent. But every now and then a treasure is unearthed - a secret memoir. Walter's War is one such book. Written without his family's knowledge and not discovered till after his death, this is the gripping account of an ordinary soldier, Walter Young, who battled through Ypres, Loos, and many of the key engagements, and was awarded the Military Medal for gallantry at Bullecourt. Although he never talked about the war, his writings vividly capture the mixture of boredom and terror that were so familiar to the soldiers on both sides. No one knew that he had captured his experiences so accurately but this book gives us an extraordinary and moving insight into what life in the trenches was really like.

Read more less

Christianity Today's 2023 Book Awards - WINNER Books most likely to shape evangelical life, thought, and culture. Across the continents, this beautifully illustrated book of prayers reflects on God's amazing world, celebrating different countries, landscapes and traditions. From fishing villages to the African plains, farming in Peru to the snowy landscape of Greenland, blossoms in Japan and leaf kicking in eastern Europe and to the shores of the Pacific ocean, these prayers share God's love and care for his world.

Read more less

"Do you see this child?" - said Jesus. "He's the most important in the kingdom of heaven." An elegantly illustrated collection of favourite Bible stories with an interesting twist. Children are at the heart of many well-loved Bible stories and some of Jesus' most powerful acts and teachings. Margaret McAllister imaginatively retells these tales from the point of view of the children involved. Alida Massari's illustration style, inspired by ancient art and architecture and full of grace and sophistication, is perfectly suited to the book. A beautiful and informative title. Discover these tales as told by the children and by those who loved them best. Samue, David, Elijah and the Widow's Son, Elisha and the Boy from Shunem, The Baby in the Temple, Blessing the Children, Beth, Daughter of Jairus, Bread and Fishes, The Child in the Middle, Helen, the Jailer's Daughter.

Read more less

Caravan Bear once again hitches up Hector the horse to the brightly painted gypsy-style caravan and, with Whitby the dog and Christopher Rabbit, set off in search of new adventures. Enjoy Rabbit's storytelling from the Old Testament along the way, interrupted with frequent questions from the travellers and other animals they meet. The Animals' Caravan, has echoes of children's classics such as Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland as Rabbit leaves his home to set out on an unexpected journey - a journey to find friendship and make sense of the world around him. He also finds himself on a journey of faith as he and his new friends wrestle with some of the often difficult concepts in the bible, thereby gaining fresh insights and understanding of God's loving involvement and care for the world. The travelling life of the caravan and its occupants provide the opportunity for Rabbit to share these tales with other animals they meet and they join Caravan Bear, Whitby and Hector in listening - and learning from - the stories. He is frequently interrupted by questions from his listeners, the kind of questions any child - or adult - might ask. The real and often humorous events that happen to Rabbit and his friends are mirrored by the stories from the Bible enabling children to realise that the stories have relevance and meaning today. Contents 1 The Grumbling Israelites 7 Exodus 13-17 2 God’s Ten Laws 24 Exodus 19-34 3 In the Lions' Den Daniel 6 39 4 David and the Giant 1 Samuel 17 54 5 Joseph's Revenge Genesis 39-45 68 6 The Donkey and the Angel 89 Numbers 22-24 7 Jacob and Esau 105 Genesis 25, 27-28 8 Esther, the Queen Esther 2-8 122

Read more less

Eleanor Stewart had always had a difficult relationship with her mother, but when her mother's persistent ill-health, caused by Parkinson's Disease, meant she needed a new home, Eleanor offered her one. 'It will only be for six months' she assured her husband - but it wasn't. It was for ten years. And, initially, those years were hard. Her mother, Mary, had very little interest in Eleanor's life, or even in her two grandchildren. So if a bridge was to be built between the two women, Eleanor would have to build it - and find the necessary solid ground to do so. She found it by exploring her mother's past with her. Mary had had a fascinating life, which included being shelled during the Second World War, shipwrecked and a passionate affair while sailing to India. As Mary Stewart reveals more and more of her past, Eleanor discovers a woman she has never really known, and the two forge a strong relationship that was not possible before.

Read more less

Jesus made sick people well, he made food for thousands, cared for the lonely and the needy. He was like no one else, and the people believed the Promised One - God-on-earth - had arrived. But others were not so sure. But God always has a plan, and this is the story of God's plan, and how Jesus came for everyone, everywhere, for all time. Let Antonia Woodward's beautiful retelling take you back to the heart of the very first Easter.

Read more less

This book addresses one of the oldest questions posed to religious believers: if God made everything, who made God? Most recently levelled by the New Atheists, the question was asked in ancient Greece and has preoccupied religious believers in the centuries since. Here, renowned scholar Robert Banks explores the history of the objection - from its earliest vocalization in the ancient world to its most famous opponents, Freud, Marx, and others. Ideal for anyone with a general interest in new atheism, for those studying religion, or wanting to sort out what (if any) elements of their idea of God are man-made.

Read more less

The great stories of the Bible have been treasured for generations. They are astonishing and inspiring tales of people who came to know and believe in God, and the miracles and teachings of Jesus. Most of all, they tell of the love of God. This collection of 30 favourite stories are selected from the Old Testament and the New Testament and retold by acclaimed writer and dramatist Brian Sibley. Stylish and witty illustrations by Stephen Waterhouse make the book a visual treat to enjoy while reading and sharing with children.

Read more less

God has given us lots of clues about how He made the world. This is how we think He did it. Discover how our world was made, beginning with His amazing stars. Follow the process of how Earth was formed and filled with amazing life. The 'God made' series encourages young children to explore and discover the world around them and tells them about the loving God who made it all. Scientific ideas about how and why everything was created are simply explained through the lively narrative and wonderful illustrations, leaving children marvelling at God's creativity, love and power. With additional information by the Faraday Institute about Science and the Bible for parents to open up discussion and some simple science experiments to engage budding young scientists.

Read more less

Why just read the Christmas story when you can make it? Gather up the glue, collect your cardboard, pick up your pens and pencils, secure you safety scissors, and get making! With 50 different activities and crafts you can make in the run up to the Christmas period, including decorations, scenes from the Nativity story, Christmas cards and many more, you have have the most hands-on Christmas ever! Simply laid out with illustrated, step-by-step instructions for every craft that children from ages 5 upwards will love to make, and stick, and colour with.

Read more less

'Too often science and faith are pitted against each other. This book breaks down that split in a creative and engaging way. It shows the scope of science in our lives and how the study of science and the study of God feed and magnify each other.' Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury Join Harriet, Darwin's pet tortoise, and Milton, Schrodinger's indecisive cat on a time-travelling quest of discovery, unravelling scientific exploration and religious beliefs and how they fit together. Throughout the centuries humans have been looking for answers to BIG questions - how did the universe start? Is there a God behind it? Has science explained away the need for a God, or can faith enhance scientific discovery? On this adventure, Harriet and Milton are investigating the beginning of the modern scientific age - experiment with Boyle and Hooke, and meet Newton. Step into Harriet and Milton's time machine, bring some snacks, and enjoy this curious quest of discovery. Written by Julia Golding, winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2006, and the Nestle Smarties Book Prize 2006.

Read more less

ABC Prayers is the perfect children's prayer book that helps establish a routine bedtime prayer time and provides a helpful starting point for children wondering what they can speak to God about. A beautiful padded hardcover picture book featuring charming illustrations of a family of mice who play, share, forgive, and celebrate together, all the while wrapping around the letters of the alphabet throughout the prayer book. Each prayer begins with the next letter of the alphabet, and includes prayers for families, friends, celebrations, peace, love, forgiveness, and the importance of kindness.

Read more less

Enter a world - full of exciting quest, danger, and miracles. Follow Moses's life from his unique childhood to his incredible journey out of Egypt. Witness as God speaks to him through a burning bush and how, with God's help, he faces up to the evil Pharaoh - all created in Minecraft®! - Uses images taken from specially crafted scenes all made in the Minecraft world - Easy-to-read text panels and dialogue boxes - Humour of in-game jokes and visuals - Minecraft has won a BAFTA game award, and a Nickelodeon award

Read more less

2017 marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Jane Austen, whose six completed novels have never been out of print. Best known for her novels, 'Sense and Sensibility', 'Pride and Prejudice', 'Mansfield Park', and 'Emma', first published anonymously, Jane commented, critiqued and illuminated the life of the English upper classes. But did Jane's writings highlight anything about her own spirituality? In this celebratory book, Paula Hollingsworth explores Jane Austen's gentle but strong faith and the effect it had both on her life and her writing. Drawing on Jane's life story, her letters, her friendships, her books and the characters portrayed, Paula shows the depth of Jane Austen's spirituality.

Read more less

What did you do in the war, daddy?' It's a classic question - and maybe one that expected the answer to be stories of brave attacks on enemy lines, pressing forward against overwhelming odds. But to Gethin Russell-Jones, the question was not one to ask - he knew what his father had done and, growing up, would have summed his father's contribution to the war effort under one word: 'Nothing.' As a conscientious objector, and despite the fact that his fiancée was cracking German codes at Bletchley during the Second World War, John Russell-Jones exhibited a different kind of courage to that shown by most of his peers. Convinced that Christ's teaching forbade him to take the life of another, he faced ignominy, insults, and opposition, from the state, his friends, and even his own family. As an adult, Gethin decided it was time to look for the man his father had been, and to see if he could regain respect for him. And as he finds out what led his father to the decision he made, he discovers a man he never really knew - one who was prepared to suffer for an unpopular and unfashionable belief, and who exhibited a different kind of courage in doing so.

Read more less

Featuring more than sixty brand new maps, graphics and timelines, the Atlas of the European Reformations is an essential companion to any study of the Reformation era. The concise, helpful text written by acknowledged authorities, guides the experience and helps readers to interpret the visuals. Consciously written for students of all levels, this volume is perfect for individual or course-based study.

Read more less

The Lion Storyteller Bible broke new ground in its presentation - both verbal and visual - of Bible stories. It has been immensely popular, with sales in the UK exceeding 130,000 copies and editions printed in more than 11 languages. Since The Lion Storyteller Bible was first published Bob Hartman has established an international reputation as a storyteller and writer. This new book integrates more than 20 new Bible story retellings with the 50 tried and tested originals. It also includes a useful appendix of Bob Hartman's hints and tips for storytelling. Newly commissioned illustrations throughout will capture as much warmth and appeal as those in the first edition.

Read more less

Much progress has been made to understand the intricacies of the brain's workings. Some have claimed, and many assumed, that these findings have challenged faith in God to the point of destruction. Are we not mere neural machines? Are religious experiences not just 'in the mind', the products of abnormal 'brain events'? Is faith not just a side effect of evolution? Not so, according to neuroscientist Peter Clarke, after a lifetime's study of the brain. In this comprehensive book, the current state of neuroscientific evidence is weighed up alongside ideas of what it means to be human, the idea of the soul, near-death experiences, and questions of free will and responsibility. He engages with the leading thinkers in these areas, including Francis Crick, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Sam Harris, and Daniel Wegner.

Read more less

Following on from the successful One-Stop Bible Guide and One-Stop Bible Atlas, this guide to the history of the Bible traces its origins and reveals how it has shaped history and nations. In a highly visual way,The One-Stop Guide to the History of the Bible tells the story of how the Bible was written down, how the books of the Bible were selected, how and when the first translations happened, as well as exploring how key moments in both World and Church history affected the Bible. This is an ideal point of reference for those who wish to explore the history of the Bible.

Read more less

Andrew White is something of a legend: a man of great charm and energy, whose personal suffering has not deflected him from his important ministry of reconciliation. Andrew grew up in London, the son of strongly religious parents: by the age of five he could repeat the five points of Calvinism. As a child and young man he was frequently ill, but his considerable intelligence meant that his studies did not suffer. He set his heart on becoming an anaesthetist, an ambition he achieved, only to be redirected by God to Anglican ministry. Since ordination he has had a considerable role in the work of reconciliation, both between Christian and Jew and between Shi'ite and Sunni Muslim. Often in danger, and always in pain, he has nevertheless been able to mediate between opposing extremes. A man of God, he is trusted by those who trust very few.

Read more less

'The brilliant and entertaining illustrations in this series enliven a clear and enjoyable text that should stimulate serious thought about the world and our place in it.' Lord Rees, Astronomer Royal, President of the Royal Society 2005-2010 Join Harriet, Darwin's pet tortoise, and Milton, Schrodinger's indecisive cat on a time-travelling quest of discovery, unravelling scientific exploration and religious beliefs and how they fit together. Throughout the centuries humans have been looking for answers to BIG questions - how did the universe start? Is there a God behind it? Has science explained away the need for a God, or can faith enhance scientific discovery? Harriet and Milton start their investigation with trying to discover when humans started asking these questions. First stop on the quest is cave paintings - who did them? What did they mean, and what can they show us about our ancestors? Step into Harriet and Milton's time machine, bring some snacks, and enjoy this curious quest of discovery. Written by Julia Golding, winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2006, and the Nestle Smarties Book Prize 2006.

Read more less

Based on the wisdom and practical advice of the well commended Rachel Waddilove, it provides a place to journal your experiences, your memories and to track your baby's development. More than just a beautiful record book, this book contains checklists, charts, and practical advice for you to refer to at every stage of your story.

Read more less

Evocative and full in scope, The Bible Story Retold in Twelve Chapters is a flowing retelling of the Bible's great stories. In twelve chapters, Andrea Skevington brings together all the Bible's treasured tales to reveal the overarching story of God and his people. Skilfully crafting her stories with care and consideration for the biblical original, yet with the energy of the story front-of-mind, the result is a text with a compelling pace, which is at once fresh and original for new readers, but with an underlying depth and perspective that will delight those already familiar with the stories - whatever their age. Bound in a quality hardback with silver foil detail on the cover, this Bible is one to enjoy giving, receiving, reading, and treasuring.

Read more less

Hazel had been scared of horses all her life, and an earlier attempt to overcome her fear had ended in failure. She was still overcoming fear in other areas, travelling around the world with her job, reporting on areas recovering from war, famine, disease and catastrophe. And eventually she took up riding again - only to face bigger fears, when illness struck her. Even worse, her father's dementia grew so bad that her mother had a heart attack and Hazel had to put her father into a home. As poor health threatened to derail her career, and family tragedy looked likely to break her heart, she was loaned a big old horse called Duke. He stood far taller than her at every point, and she was afraid. Yet somehow, as she rode him through the Hampshire countryside, she found solace and healing. Gradually her fears began to subside.

Read more less

IIt is a frequent complaint that women have been airbrushed out of history, their contributions forgotten, their voices silenced. In this superbly written book, historian Derek Wilson redresses the balance, showing how women were crucial to the Reformation. Working alongside men - and sometimes in opposition to them - women were able to study, to speak, to write, to struggle and even to die for what they believed, and to leave behind a record of all these achievements. From Catharina Luther, through English martyr Anne Askew to Elizabeth I and onwards out into Europe - this book reveals the rich threads women brought to the tapestry of history.

Read more less

Accomplished author and illustrator team, Lois Rock and Sophie Allsopp, have come together again to create another beautiful Bible story collection. Twenty parables, widely loved for their insight and wisdom, are retold and illustrated with elegant pictures to make an anthology with a classic feel. Contents: The Sower, A Lamp Under a Bowl, The Mustard Seed, Hidden Treasure, A Perfect Pearl, The Man Who Had Everything, Rich Man Poor Man, The Great Feast, The Two Men at the Temple, The Unforgiving Servant, The Growing Seed, Wheat and Weeds, The Lost Sheep, The Runaway Son, Knock, Knock, Knocking, The Widow and the Judge, The Good Samaritan, The Two Sons, The Two Servants, The Two Builders.

Read more less

Toby's cat, Jack, is THE best cat EVER. But Jack is getting old, and Toby will miss his furry best friend terribly when he's gone. Then Toby meets a crazy cat called Humphrey. In this charming and beautifully illustrated picture book Rebecca Elliott addresses the difficult subject of a child's first experience of the death of a pet with warmth, sensitivity and well placed humour. Awards: 2012 - DOLLY GRAY CHILDREN'S LITERATURE AWARD - WINNER 2011 JUNIOR MAGAZINE DESIGN AWARDS Most Promising New Talent - SHORTLISTED 2011 NASEN AWARDS (National Association of Special Education Needs) Inclusive Children's Book of the Year - SHORTLISTED 2011 NURSERY WORLD AWARDS Three to Fives New Launch - FINALIST 2010-11 PEOPLE'S BOOK PRIZE Children's Book of the Year - FINALIST 2012 - KATE GREENAWAY MEDAL - LONG LIST

Read more less

This new starter Bible introduces 20 favourite stories from Creation through to the Resurrection. They are told with utter simplicity and with a sense of wonder expressing God's overwhelming love for the world and all his creation, and especially little children. The illustrations tell the stories in pictures and provide a focus as parent and child share this delightful book together.

Read more less

A beautiful, classic book to be given as a special christening gift. The themed arrangement of Bible passages and classic prayers makes this a book to be used and enjoyed by the child when they are old enough. The book also includes a keepsake element for the parents to fill in as a personalised record of their child.

Read more less

The story of outspoken pacifist bishop Edward Hicks throws new light on the problems of conscience created by World War One. Edward Hicks, Bishop of Lincoln, was already regarded as a maverick for his stance on the education of women, teetotalism, social justice, and votes for everyone. He came from a different class to that of most bishops. When war came, he was a rare dissenting voice amidst the Church's vocal support for its morality. Acclaimed author G. R. Evans draws upon Hicks's detailed diaries to reveal Edward Hicks as a man battling with his own conscience and principles, not least at seeing his sons go off to fight - one never to return. This is a fascinating glimpse into the impact the War had on an individual and those around him, who waited at home - and tried to hold onto their humanity.

Read more less

The Children's Bible in 365 Stories is amongst Lion Publisher's most popular children's books. It contains 365 charming stories from the Bible that are told in child-friendly detail. Mary Batchelor's book includes all of the most loved Bible stories, plus some that you may not have come across before. Children's Bible in 365 Stories also contains special features such as poetry, prophets, New Testament letters and more! There are also delightful illustrations throughout the book that will help children to engage with the stories. The Children's Bible in 365 Stories is a comprehensive book for children which contains features that most children's bibles do not have space for. The book is bright and engaging, with a story for each day of the year! "An imaginative arrangement, preserving the on-going interest of a serial.. The illustrations are excellent. and will hold the listener's eye if the book is being read aloud.. This selection provides a built in continuity which other collections lack." Church Times "Many children's books retell Bible stories. This is one of the best for its factual, sensitive and imaginative approach. The stories are allowed to speak for themselves in a panorama of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, and each is beautifully and imaginatively illustrated. Here is storytelling par excellence, clear, uncomplicated, concise, superlative." Churchman

Read more less

This book tells a surprising story. Many think of Christianity as a Western faith, which grew out of its origins in the Middle East towards Rome and into Europe, paving the way for the Enlightenment, science and modernity. However, Philip Jenkins reveals, the largest and most influential churches of Christianity's youth lay to the east of Rome, covered the world from China to North Africa, encountered a full spectrum of acceptance to persecution under Islamic rule and only expired after a thousand-year reign after Constantine. This is the story of these churches of the East and how they became extinct - but not before becoming the dominant expression of Christianity for its first 1,000 years and helping to shape both the Asia and the Christianity we know today.

Read more less

Have the Church of England lectionary calendar at your fingertips with Common Worship Lectionary 2024. Featuring readings and Bible passage for the whole of the liturgical year, this little book is an essential resource for church readers. Its clear, streamlined presentation, laid out a week to view with both the Common Worship and the Book of Common prayer calendars on facing pages, makes it incredibly easy to use. Covering Sunday and major festival as well as weekday services, the Common Worship Lectionary 2024 is a simple and thorough resource for anyone following the Anglican church calendar. It also features the Additional Weekday Lectionary, making it the most complete lectionary available. A5 sized, this paperback edition of the lectionary is light and portable, perfect for carrying on the go, while featuring plenty of space for any notes you want to make. There is no better way of following the Church of England calendar than with the Common Worship Lectionary 2024.

Read more less

Do you feel weary, tired, dry? Do you feel in need of spiritual refreshment? It's time for us to become a people saturated by God. Many of us believe revival is possible, but sometimes it feels so far away - we hear of astonishing accounts from across the world or read about remarkable stories in the pages of our history books. This is a book for those thirsting to see revival bubble up in our post-pandemic time and place today. Exploring the profound images of water in scripture, from baptism to an ‘outpouring’ of the Holy Spirit, Saturated With God paints a compelling vision of what the Church can be today - shining with the love and power of God - and stirs up the call on every Christian to more closely follow Jesus today.

Read more less

Fresh from the Word 2023 aims to help us build the discipline of Bible reading into our lives so we are grounded in God's word and our faith may deepen and develop. By offering accessible and engaging material, it aids our understanding of the Bible and helps us understand it from different Christian perspectives. One of the key themes in this year's edition is ‘Hidden Heroes & Heroines’, characters in the Bible who are overlooked but play a pivotal role in the unfolding of the Kingdom. As we read their stories, we may be encouraged that our lives, though they sometimes feel insignificant, are indeed being used by God in ways possibly beyond our imagining! The book also explores the different types of literature in the Bible. A number of the international and diverse community of writers who have contributed their wisdom, understanding and hard-won insights to encourage and bless us, unpack passages written in each particular style. And so we learn how we might safely interpret poetry, law, prophecy, narrative or apocalyptic. The hope is that these reflections - and indeed the complete volume - will will help us see revealed that which was previously hidden from us. Contributors this year include: Terry Lester, who writes on the Judges of Israel. Terry has been an Anglican priest in Cape Town for almost four decades and currently serves in Constantia. A vocal advocate for justice, he is engaged in projects aimed at restoring dignity and building reconciliation in his fragmented community. Immaculée Hedden, who writes on Healing Divisions in the Old Testament. She and her husband Richard are the authors of Under His Mighty Hand, the story of how she survived the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The couple are currently based in Rwanda, serving in healing and counselling support ministry with YWAM. Jane Gonzalez, who writes on Celebrations. Jane is a Roman Catholic laywoman and an active member of the Justice and Peace Group. Joshua Taylor, who writes on The God of all Comfort and Mercy. Joshua is an Anglican Priest in New Zealand, where he and his family have been exploring what it means to be a family following the way of Jesus. Louise Jones, who writes on Lord of the Sabbath. Working for an embedded, community-based organization (Newbigin Community Trust), Louise has a passion for empowering, resourcing and loving those who have slipped through the cracks of our systems, in order to help people see their immense value and worth in Jesus.

Read more less

‘Mark Vickers has given us a wonderful new reference book of the beliefs (and non-beliefs) of 20th-century PMs – a meaty volume that can also be consumed as a social history of British religion.’ THE TELEGRAPH ‘This carefully researched and well-written study reveals the religious faith of our Prime Ministers, or lack of it, in vivid colours. Prepare to be shocked and surprised as the author lays bare their souls.’ SIR ANTHONY SELDON Mark Vickers’ acclaimed volume on the faith of the twentieth-century Prime Ministers casts a new perspective on these holders of the highest political office in the realm. While there are biographies aplenty on the 18 men and 1 woman who took up residence behind the famous black door, it is notable that that many of these works fail to reflect an important – sometimes the most important – aspect of the life of their subject. God in Number 10 rectifies this omission, offering intriguing insights into Margaret Thatcher’s legendary ‘Sermon on the Mound’, Tony Blair’s perception of Jesus as a modernizer, Arthur Balfour’s recourse to spiritualism, Stanley Baldwin’s mystical experiences, and Winston Churchill’s involvement with astrology. The book considers the role of religion generally in the political classes of the period, the reasons for the declining influence of faith in the public forum, and the relationship between Church and State. The families of H. H. Asquith, Bonar Law, Ramsay MacDonald, Neville Chamberlain, Harold Macmillan, Alec Douglas-Home and Harold Wilson have all expressed their support for God in Number 10 and, where able, helped in the research, while John Major has assisted fully.

Read more less

A Little Bit of Hope is an uplifting book filled with positive, bite-sized affirmations by inspirational TV presenter and charity campaigner Katie Piper. Perfect to take with you wherever you go and are in need a positive boost to overcome your fears and be your best self. This short and empowering collection 100 bite-sized affirmations, abridged from Katie Piper's bestselling book A Little Bit of Faith, encourages us to see that heartbreak and hardship can become fuel for your fight. Whatever life has thrown at you lately, you can fall countless times and still get back up again and succeed – all you need is a little bit of hope. Beautifully designed and wonderfully uplifting, this 100-day devotional is easy to dip in and out of and take with you on the go. It will help you find the strength and confidence when you need it most. Helpful and a great gift for anyone struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, and depression, or just looking for inspiration and a positive change in your mindset. A Little Bit of Hope is a must-have book of positive affirmations for optimising your mental health and well-being.

Read more less

Eighty years after his death in a Japanese prison camp, this compelling new biography charts the career of a distinguished but hitherto neglected hero of the British army. Major-General Merton Beckwith-Smith DSO, MC commanded the British 18th Division during the catastrophic Fall of Singapore in February 1942. A highly respected and much decorated veteran of the First World War, he was captured along with tens of thousands of other soldiers - British, Indian, Australian, and Malay - who were then held prisoner on Singapore Island. Amidst hunger, disease and widespread despair in Changi, over the next six months he rallied the spirits of his soldiers, created a make-shift university and theatre, and helped to inspire a remarkable renewal of collective church life. At the same time, he improved conditions for hospital patients and encouraged sports and other recreations. While the fate of many of the men he led was to toil, and often die, on the infamous Burma Railway, Beckwith-Smith was exiled to Karenko Camp, Formosa (present-day Taiwan), where, mistreated and malnourished, he died of diphtheria and heart failure on 11 November 1942. Beckwith-Smith, was the most senior British officer to end his life as a prisoner of war in the Far East. Yet until now he has been a strangely forgotten warrior. Based on exclusive access to family archives, and drawing on an array of other eye-witness accounts, Michael Snape's richly detailed biography brings to an end that neglect. The result is a story that offers vivid insights into one man's experience of two world wars, while also revealing why he was so admired by his fellow officers and by the ordinary soldiers who served under him.

Read more less

With warmth and encouragement Pastor John Mark Comer, author of ECPA Bestseller The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, offers guidance and advice to help you recognise the lies and resist the forces that seek to steal your happiness, wholeness and holiness. As Christians, we’re all at war with three fierce adversaries of the soul that feed us deceptive ideas to harm our spiritual well-being: the world, the flesh and the devil. Live No Lies parses out the tactics, strengths and weaknesses of these enemies, giving you a clear battle plan and spiritual practices to outwit and overcome these evils. Skilfully weaving together uplifting wisdom and reassuring, practical guidance, this is a book for anyone looking for everyday disciplines to help them care for their soul. Live No Lies will equip you with all you need to make practices for resisting evil an active part of your spiritual formation, and leave you motivated to find happiness and peace in Jesus. That tug-of-war in your chest for wholeness? Those lies that sabotage your peace? It's time to identify them, and defeat them.

Read more less

'Remarkably beautiful and pastoral' JUSTIN WELBY, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY 'Brimming with wisdom and humanity' DAME SARAH MULLALLY, DBE, BISHOP OF LONDON Struggling with God gets right to the heart of a great predicament for many Christians. When it feels as if our struggles are overwhelming - and our capacity for faith and hope and love is diminished - how is it possible to maintain, never mind nourish, our relationship with God? The truth, as this deeply compassionate volume reminds us, is that Jesus came alongside people wrestling with mental health problems. Many familiar conditions, such as anxiety and depression, and more severe ones, including bipolar affective disorder and schizophrenia, are addressed by the authors here. Dispelling common myths and misconceptions, they explore the impact such mental health disorders can have on individual Christians, Church and society.. Each chapter includes biblical reflections relevant to its theme, prayers, questions to facilitate individual/group study, and pointers to further reading. In short, the book presents a Christian vision of spiritual and mental wellbeing through prayerful struggling with God.

Read more less

‘Read this for the chapter on Hillsborough alone’ JEREMY VINE ‘Makes a powerful plea for the "earthing" of God’s vision of justice’ BARONESS HALE ‘A plentiful source of comfort, strength and, most importantly, hope’ ANDY BURNHAM For twenty-five years, Bishop James Jones has been working on the frontlines to try and create a more just and merciful world. In Justice for Christ’s Sake, he reflects on the work he has been a part of and the ways in which justice and faith go hand in hand. With touching honesty, he tells of his time as a Bishop and his role on three key independent panels into matters of national conscience – including chairing the panel that investigated the Hillsborough Disaster of 1989, when ninety-six Liverpool football fans tragically lost their lives. All the dimensions of justice that James has experienced – environmental, social, racial, political and judicial – are vividly conveyed, as he offers up the lessons he has learned in his search for a better, fairer way to live and how the answers might be found in the teachings of Jesus. Justice for Christ’s Sake is a remarkable and fascinating Christian memoir, that offers a unique perspective on some of the most significant inquiries of the last three decades. It is a book that encourages us all in our longing for justice, with insight born from first-hand experience, and will leave you with a better of understanding of events that have shaped conversations on justice in Britain. Most of us long deep down for a fairer world, however selfishly we may act on occasions. James Jones reassures us that we are not alone and that we can all be part of the fight for justice for Christ’s sake.

Read more less

In 1800 most Christians lived in Europe or North America, but by 2000 they came from Africa, Asia, Latin America and Oceania. ISG 47: Christianity Worldwide 1800-2000 brings together voices from around the world to explore how Christianity grew and developed in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Writers and theologians from each region of the globe lay out the history of Christianity between 1800 and 2000 in their part of the world, showing how repeatedly it was local believers who drove the changes in those centuries, both in sharing faith and adapting it to their particular culture – a Chinese Bible translator, Liberian prophet or Korean Bible woman is as significant as a British missionary or Italian pope. These histories include not only the wide range of European-founded denominations, but also regional innovations across the globe and particularly Pentecostalism, to give a comprehensive overview of Christianity’s development worldwide from the 1800s through to the end of the twentieth century. Tracing connections and themes across continents, ISG 47: Christianity Worldwide 1800-2000 is ideal for students of theology and history learning about the development of Christianity around the globe, especially in the global south. Part of the SPCK International Study Guide series, it will leave you with a thorough understanding of how Christianity has changed and grown across the world over the last two centuries.

Read more less

As his flock of sheep settle down to sleep, oh no! The shepherd notices he’s one sheep short! Will he find his lost lamb before night falls? One Sheep Short is a fun retelling in rhyme of a classic Bible parable for kids, showing how valuable each person is to God, from award-winning author Bob Hartman. The beloved Bible story of the lost sheep is brilliantly retold in this entertaining picture book for 3-5 year olds. With Bob Hartman’s characteristic entertaining wit, One Sheep Short is the perfect way to introduce this classic Bible story to kids in a way that’s accessible and easily understood. Bright, quirky illustrations from Mark Beech bring this Bible story book to life, and kids will love joining in with the fun and memorable rhymes as they read along. The clear, simple text is ideal for young children just starting to read and for adults to read aloud. One Sheep Short is a picture book that children and parents alike will adore and as part of the Rhyming Parables series is the perfect follow on from Bob Hartman’s Rhyming Bible. It is also a brilliant story time resource for KS1 teachers, Sunday School teachers and those involved in children’s ministry. Kids will learn about the parables in a memorable, engaging way, and gain a new understanding of how every person, including them, is loved and valued by God.

Read more less

Beloved by millions around the world, the English Standard Version of the Bible is ideal for anyone looking for a contemporary and readable translation that is also accurate and consistent in its rendering of key words and phrases. This edition of the ESV is completely Anglicized and features the full Apocrypha. Presented in a double-column format, with explanatory footnotes providing alternative renderings of particular words and phrases, the ESV Bible with Apocrypha offers a clear, easy-to-read text that is perfect for everyday use. The ESV Bible is an excellent version for detailed Bible study, but one that also possesses a beauty, clarity and dignity of style that makes it superbly suitable for private devotion or for reading aloud during public worship. This Deluxe edition is presented in a stunning midnight blue leatherette binding, inlaid with bronze foil, with two ribbon markers to bookmark your favourite verses and keep track of your Bible study. A premium quality Bible, it will be loved by collectors and first-time buyers alike, and is a Bible you will delight in for years. It also makes a truly special gift for loved ones that they will treasure. Other features include: 9.5 pt font size An award-winning typeface Inline chapter headings Inline chapter numbers 12 maps White paper from sustainable sources

Read more less

We’ve all heard the arguments that Christianity is irrelevant, irrational and even immoral. But what if the Christian faith makes sense of all that matters? In this thoughtful, engaging book, Simon Edwards challenges the assumptions that may lead us to reject a faith and doubt something that we’ve never really had the chance to understand in the first place. From our need for meaning and significance, to our desires for truth, goodness, love and hope, he explores the things that matter to us as human beings and shows us why the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ might just make sense of them all. The Sanity of Belief is a fresh take on apologetics, faith and doubt, that will leave you with a stronger understanding of Christian belief and how it relates to today’s world. It is ideal for anyone looking for a clear, down-to-earth introduction to Christianity, or for those wanting to reaffirm the foundations on which their faith is based.

Read more less

Looking for a special card to give to your loved ones this Christmas? Complete with Bible verse, these sustainably sourced Christmas cards are the perfect choice. Printed on 300gsm uncoated white stock and with an accompanying recycled Kraft envelope, these cards come in packs of ten, featuring two beautiful designs. Each card contains a 'Happy Christmas' greeting, along with the following Bible verse: 'The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.' - John 1.9 All profits from the purchase of these cards will support SPCK's charitable work.

Read more less