Search results for ""spck publishing""

Tom Wright explains the Bible's teaching on what happens to people after they die and in doing so throws down a challenge to traditional thinking and liturgical practices surrounding All Saints' and All Souls' Days. Heaven, Hell, Purgatory, what it means to pray for the dead, and what (and who) are the saints are all addressed in this invigorating and rigorously argued book.

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The ancient people of Israel and contemporary Western society share a preoccupation with the idea of leadership. In this perceptive and engaging book, David Runcorn reveals just how deeply one world can speak to the other. The story of 1 and 2 Samuel opens with a woman weeping. But grief is often the precursor of change, and the answering of Hannah's prayer is revealed in her song as a prophetic sign of God's ways in all the world. As the author then helps us reflect on various revealing episodes, time and again, he enables us to trace the true presence of God in the words, actions or faithful endurance of people on the edge of the 'main' script. And, he suggests, it is in the kind of honest, disciplined attentiveness they display, that the greatest hope for leadership will be found today.

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Takes a fresh look at some of the best-known narratives in the Bible, inviting us to see how the stories look from the point of view of women characters such as Eve, Sarah, Hagar, Hannah and Bathsheba.

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This collection of Celtic writings brings alive the language and images of the Celtic tradition. The basic theme is that of celebrating the seasons of life: the wonder of creation, New Year, Easter, Harvest, the daily toil, being alone with God, baptism, marriage, family, reconciliation and peace. Pat Robson also outlines the history of Celtic Christianity, and offers short biographies of those who influenced the growth of Celtic spirituality, from St Anthony to King Arthur.

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The follow-up to the author's highly successful The Things He Carried, this book takes the post-resurrection sayings of Jesus as starting-points and uses the same reflection format. The meaning and significance of the resurrection, how it was first communicated and how it is communicated to us today, are explored by piecing together these sayings of Jesus. However, the content may not quite be what we imagine. Following the resurrection, we would expect the triumphant 'I have risen from the dead'. Yet Jesus' statements are so different, so apparently innocuous, that they are often overlooked. The Christian faith stands or falls on the resurrection of Jesus; without it, says St Paul, we are to be most pitied. In this revelatory book of surprising reflections, Stephen Cottrell's retelling of the Easter story encourages us to slow down and hear it properly - perhaps for the very first time.

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This collection of stories, meditations, poems and prayers evokes the authentic spirit of Celtic Christianity. Capturing the atmosphere of parables passed down through generations, it shows the human warmth, respect for the natural world and robust, down-to-earth qualities for which Celtic spirituality is so greatly valued. With its rich treasury of material - most of it previously unavailable in modern editions - Celtic Parables offers a fresh, lively introduction to the Celtic world.

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Becoming a churchwarden can be a richly rewarding experience, but the role is not an easy one. This warmly written handbook will help all those considering, or already in, office to understand what is involved. Focusing throughout on real-life situations, including many case studies, it is a guide to: · the responsibilities of a churchwarden · how to become a churchwarden · working with the minister · the duties of a churchwarden through the year · what a churchwarden should know · what a churchwarden should ask · what to do when problems arise Appendices containing relevant legal documents and other useful resources complete the book, making it an up-to-date, comprehensive and essential aid to negotiating this important office. ‘Packed full of useful facts and presented in a very readable way.’ thegoodbookstall

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Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) is a key figure of modern (and postmodern) Western thought. This book argues that the underlying message of his thought is extremely relevant to Christians today.

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This accessible introduction to Christian worldview explores the question of how Christians can live faithfully at the crossroads of the story of Scripture and postmodern culture.Ideal for undergraduate students and laypeople, "Living at the Crossroads" opens with a brief summary of the biblical story and the most fundamental beliefs of Scripture. The authors then tell the story of Western culture from the classical period to postmodernity, before providing an analysis of how Christians live in the tension that exists at the intersection of the biblical and cultural stories. They proceed to tease out the implications for key areas of life, such as education, scholarship, economics, politics, and church. The result is a deeply thoughtful yet approachable text that draws on the rich tradition of reformational thinking but contextualizes it to a postmodern setting for a contemporary audience.

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A collection of meditative short stories, inspired by the Bible and the cycle of the Christian year. There are stories on themes such as Creation and the Fall, the search for God in the wilderness, Christmas, Easter, Pentecost and Ascension.

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Vividly evoking the sights, sounds, smells - even the tastes - of the Holy land, Tom Wright takes us on a contemporary pilgrimage to help us respond to Jesus' call today. An ideal introduction to the Christian faith, The Way of the Lord aims to lead us into a greater knowledge and love of the One who journeys with us - whether our pilgrimage is physical, or merely of heart and mind. Capturing the real excitement of 'Come and see the place' it heightens out awareness that Jesus journeys with us as he calls us out into the wider world of discipleship. For, in the glorious message of Easter: 'He is not here - he is risen!'

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This is a marriage register, allowing four entries to each page.

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The second hilarious poetry collection from the author of The Day I Fell Down the Toilet

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Consider Thomas Aquinas from a Protestant perspective with Leonardo De Chirico.

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Glimpses of God is an ecumenical course for discussion groups in five sessions, written by Canon David Winter ideal for Lent, yet usable at any time.

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Bible Promises for Baby's Dedication is an elegant and thoughtful keepsake gift book for a baby on the special occasion of their dedication. This charming Dedication gift book contains promises that are simple and affirming. The celebration of gathering together to welcome a new baby into your family and into the church will be remembered and treasured with this wonderful keepsake book for the occasion. This adorable little book is full of words from the Bible and encouraging prayers that a child can grow to treasure. Share these words of God's love with the child who is special to you and let them know that they are cherished by you and forever held in God's care through their faith journey.

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This book takes the reader through London and its spiritual history - what its inhabitants believed, what they worshipped, where, when and how; the landmarks, the names, the issues and the arguments. Written in a more or less chronological way, it is interwoven with Albert's own spiritual journey. From its earliest days when Londoners would have worshipped pagan gods, through Roman occupation, the coming of Christianity, and the later waves of other faiths - Jews, Muslims, Hari Krishnas - this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey.

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The 1920s most stylish sleuth returns in The Crystal Crypt for another thrilling murder mystery! “But accidents can still happen… Perhaps there was something out of her control, something she couldn’t have foreseen…”“Like someone plotting to kill her?” Reporter sleuth Poppy Denby is asked to investigate the mysterious death of an up-and-coming female scientist in an Oxford laboratory known as the Crystal Crypt. The official verdict is that Dr June Leighton died in a tragic accident, but Dr Leighton's lab assistant believes it was murder. However, when Poppy discovers that the colleague has spent time in a mental institution and has an unresolved murder in her own past, Poppy wonders if she is being misled. But then, another female academic is attacked, and Poppy herself becomes a target.

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My Very First Bible published to high acclaim in 2003 and its popular stories and bright illustrations have since gone onto provide the basis for a number of additional series including board books, big books, sticker and activity books. 12 key Bible stories have now been made available as part of the My Very First Bible series, and are great value, little paperbacks, offering a smart way of collecting multiple books for use in groups and classes, for award-giving, or for anyone wanting a pocket-money gift. This shrink-wrapped pack of 10 copies of The Easter Story enables easy multiple-purchase of a key seasonal story.

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With text retold in a lively style with plenty of dialogue, these stories introduce young children to 20 parables in a way that can be easily understood. Bright illustrations full of colour accompany the stories to engage the interest of young children. The parables include: The Sower / The Hidden Treasure / The Finest Pearl in the World / The Mustard Seed / The Great Feast / The Lost Sheep / The Workers in the Vineyard / The Two Sons / The Cunning Servant / The Rich Man and Lazarus / The Two Men at the Temple / The Widow and the Judge / The Friend at Midnight / Building a Tower / The Unforgiving Servant / The Two House Builders / The Three Servants / Building Barns for a Bumper Harvest / A Tale of Two Servants / The Ten Bridesmaids

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‘Saints are people of unearthly beauty who show us a deep understanding of the fluid nature of divine grace.’ This warm-hearted book is for those of us who enter Advent longing for spiritual sustenance to balance the worldly charms of the Christmas season. Jesus’ arrival in poverty and vulnerability provoked feelings of unease as well as expectation and hope . . . How will we keep the faith as Christians called to live distinctively in an age of anxiety? Magdalen Smith believes we can be inspired by people from the past – those whose names are familiar or less so – whom the Church calls ‘saints’. In these wide-ranging devotions, full of contemporary stories and enjoyable cultural allusions, she introduces 24 characters who manifest a mysterious dynamic . . . and enable us to glimpse holiness in a new way. ‘With heartfelt honesty, clarity and humanity, Magdalen Smith challenges the Church to see the journey ahead with new eyes. This book is a timely prophetic call to be refreshed by our inheritance in ways that renew integrity and hope.’ Libby Lane, Bishop of Stockport ‘A treasure chest of gems.’ Jill Duff, Director of St Mellitus North West training course

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This is the first of a series of up to 20 volumes focusing on the modern history of the church in China. The books will, for the most part, cover one province each, and will be organised by decades. Each history starts with the arrival of the first evangelical missionaries in a province, and continues through to the present day. The books include many vivid brief biographies of the extraordinary people who have been part of this remarkable story. Each volume includes a number of photographs, painstakingly collected by the author over a period of years. Partly because of its explosive growth in recent decades there is no accurate, readable account of what has happened to the Chinese church. Few Chinese believers know anyone who has been a Christian for more than ten years. This series is designed not only to inform the wider world of the astonishing work of the Spirit in China, but to provide Chinese believers (and members of the immense Chinese diaspora) with some sense of their own roots.

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An illustrated gift book for a young child's baptism with a collection of prayers, including those based on bible verses, and pages for recording details, memories, and messages of the special occasion. The celebration of gathering together to welcome a new baby into your family and into the church will be remembered and treasured with this wonderful keepsake book for the occasion. This adorable little book is full of words from the Bible and encouraging prayers that a child can grow to treasure. Share these words of God's love with the child who is special to you and let them know that they are cherished by you and forever held in God's care through their faith journey. Parents can add their own memories of their child's baptism with spaces for photos and special blessings from the guests, as well as recording key milestones in their child's early years. This book will be treasured for a lifetime and is an ideal gift for a grandparent, godparent, family member, or guest to give to a young child.

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One of Lion Hudson's most successful international best-sellers, The Children's Bible in 365 Stories tells the Bible narrative in detail and depth. Popular children's author Mary Batchelor retells old favourites as well as significant lesser-known stories from the Old and New Testaments. It includes sections that most children's Bibles do not have space for: poetry, wisdom literature, prophets and the New Testament letters. The result is a very readable and very thorough children's Bible - with an episode for every day of the year. Evocative illustrations by John Haysom reflect the mood and content of each story. Words and pictures combine to make a classic which millions have already enjoyed. Ideal for a child to read alone or for an adult and child to read together through the year. "An imaginative arrangement, preserving the ongoing 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 "Written in a lively, easily understood style which still retains the dignity of the original... The luminous artwork is realistic, expressive and well researched in detail." School Library Journal

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The Bishop of Lindchester is happily married with four daughters. But does he have a secret? Archdeacon Matt is inclined to think not. That said, it's obvious to him that Bishop Paul's got a pretty big bee in his mitre about the brilliant but troubled Freddie May . . . Welcome to the fictional Diocese of Lindchester, where you will be taken (dear reader) on a yearlong romp in the company of bishops, priests and lay people. Prepare yourself for a bumpy and hilarious ride from the rarefied heights of the Cathedral Close down to the coalface of ordinary urban and rural parishes. Acts and Omissions reveals the Church of England in all its mess and glory. It is a world shot through with grace, but one where even the best intentioned err and stray. And occasionally do those things which they ought not to have done . . .

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Two best-selling titles from the Candle Bible for Toddlers range presented in an attractive slipcase to make an ideal gift for all occasions. With its endearing illustrations, the Candle Bible for Toddlers is an ideal introduction to the timeless stories from Bible for young children. Nicely complemented by the delightful Candle Prayers for Toddlers, a treasury of new and traditional prayers, bringing talking to God to life in the heart of every child.

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International speaker Terry Virgo explains how he discovered the life-transforming truth of God's lavish grace for himself. This wonderful survey of the impact and outworking of God's grace in the life of the believer will revitalise the most threadbare faith. In his early years as a Christian, Terry Virgo experienced "zealous but rather condemnation-driven Christianity". Then, one day, he explains, "I began to grasp the wonder of God's glorious grace. I gave myself to fresh study, and then began to preach God's grace with new freedom, joy and certainty, having personally experienced the complete transformation of my own Christian life."

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If you find it hard to sleep, are anxious about tomorrow, are paralysed by fear of failure, then you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the main mental health problem in the Western world. We are suffering a 'blues' epidemic. Neil Anderson and Rich Miller contend that the only satisfactory long-term solution is a knowledge of God, and a right relationship with him. The fear of God overcomes all other fears. The authors identify how mental strongholds of fear and anxiety develop, then reveal powerful biblical strategies for defeating them in Christ and finding home for tomorrow. This careful, well-researched book is rooted in pastoral experience over many years.

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Peter, John and Jude may sound a bit like a teenage boy band, but they were men that God used to rescue the Church in its darkest hour. False teachers on the inside and persecution on the outside threatened to strangle the Christian community at birth. In a world where the Church appears to be in terminal decline, we need their letters to show us how to survive and thrive and advance. God inspired the Bible for a reason. He wants you read it and let it change your life. If you are willing to take this challenge seriously, then you will love Phil Moore’s devotional commentaries. Their bite-sized chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship. Welcome to a new way of reading the Bible. Welcome to the Straight to the Heart series.

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The last command Jesus gave the church before he ascended to heaven was the Great Commission, the call for Christians to "make disciples of all nations". But we have responded by making Christians, not disciples. This has been the church's Great Omission.

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“To be ignorant of what happened before you were born is to remain a child always,” claimed the Roman orator Cicero. Perhaps that’s why Genesis is one of the most loved and hated books ever written. Genesis – the name is simply the Greek word for “Origins” – is the God-inspired history of the world from its inception, and right from the outset it was always controversial. God inspired the Bible for a reason. He wants you read it and let it change your life. If you are willing to take this challenge seriously, then you will love Phil Moore’s devotional commentaries. Their bite-sized chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship. Welcome to a new way of reading the Bible. Welcome to the Straight to the Heart series.

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Is the rigorous pursuit of scientific knowledge really compatible with a sincere faith in God? Building on the arguments put forward in God’s Undertaker: Has Science Buried God?, Prof John Lennox examines afresh the plausibility of a Christian theistic worldview in the light of some of the latest developments in scientific understanding. Prof Lennox focuses on the areas of evolutionary theory, the origins of life and the universe, and the concepts of mind and consciousness to provide a detailed and compelling introduction to the science and religion debate. He also offers his own reasoning as to why he continues to be convinced by a Christian approach to explaining these phenomena. Robust in its reasoning, but respectful in tone, this book is vital reading for anyone exploring the relationship between science and God.

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The Lion First Bible has had previous sales of over 1.25 million copies. This Bible includes more than sixty Bible stories, specially chosen for young children: a foundation on which to build a growing knowledge of the Bible. With colourful, child-friendly illustrations and clearly laid out text, this retelling is ideal for beginner readers, and fantastic for reading aloud.

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'For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life. A role-model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing.' The Queen's Christmas Broadcast, December 2014 An inspiring and collectible volume to mark the first anniversary of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Majesty is a beautifully presented anthology of Christian artworks and wisdom, interlaced with quotes from the Queen's Christmas broadcasts. Images and text are brought together by the expert commentary of former Bishop of Oxford and House of Lords life peer Richard Harries. Written with a deep sense of respect and gratitude to Her Majesty, this book celebrates the Queen's spiritual legacy, spanning over eight decades. In a life given over to service, her steadfast faithfulness was rooted in her Christian faith, the beating heart of her spiritual life and reign as monarch. From Caravaggio to Van Gogh, Raphael to Rembrandt, Majesty features high-quality images of 50 iconic paintings, from both the Royal Collection and museums around the globe, including The Met and MOMA in New York, the National Gallery and Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Vatican Museums in Rome, the Hermitage in St Petersburg, and many more. The artworks illustrate key scenes from the life of Christ, accompanied by the words and teachings of Jesus that are found in the Gospels. With these, Richard Harries juxtaposes words from Her Majesty's Christmas broadcasts, relating her faith to the life of Christ and his wisdom, while simultaneously reflecting on how the artists have depicted the scenes. The perfect gift for admirers of the Queen throughout the world, and especially those who share her faith and admiration for the life of Jesus, Majesty brings together the inspiring words of Queen Elizabeth II with the beauty of Christian art and teachings from the Gospels.

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Yes, And . . . brings together some of Richard Rohr’s best and most thought-provoking writings in a book of 366 daily meditations, one for every day of the year. Arranged around seven themes, Yes, And . . . is packed full of open, engaging reflections that will expand your understanding of spirituality and leave you inspired and challenged in your walk of faith with Christ. A daily devotional designed for you to dip in and out of, this is perfect to use in early morning to help you feel spiritually invigorated for the day ahead, and for bedtime reading to round off your day with a quiet reflection. A wonderful exploration of the Christian faith, it will help revitalise your relationship with God and your own spirituality. Yes, And . . . is a perfect daily devotional for fans of Richard Rohr’s work and those new to his writings, and for anyone who are looking for an alternate way to live out their faith—a way centred around the open-minded search for spiritual relevance of a transforming nature.

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Bestselling author, Tom Wright invites you to read and hear afresh 140 of the greatest stories of the Bible and discover how they join together to tell the greatest story of all time!

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From the pen of one of our greatest living theologians, here is a fresh and compelling introduction to the foundation story of the Christian faith. Full of illuminating theological insight and spiritual encouragement. Designed for use by individuals or groups, with questions for reflection or discussion at the end of each chapter. An ideal gift for anyone near the start of their spiritual journey or wanting to deepen their appreciation of the heart of the gospel. Part One: The meaning of the Cross 1. The sign 2. The sacrifice 3. The victory Part Two: The meaning of the Resurrection 4. Christ's resurrection then 5. Christ's resurrection now

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This compact liturgy provides alternative services and prayers for many occasions. It includes: Prayers before Worship; Early Morning Prayer; Morning Prayer; Evening Prayer; Night Prayer; A Service of Marriage; In Praise of Creation; A Funeral Service; A Service of Healing; Prayers of Intercession; A Celtic Calendar of the Lives of the Saints; Selected Psalms, and an Historical Overview.

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Writing in an approachable and anecdotal style, Tom Wright helps us see the great sweep of this letter. Romans has long been viewed as the book above all in which Paul puts forth the basic doctrines of the faith, and the picture of God's life for us. It is the classic setting-out of the Gospel. Tom Wright has undertaken a tremendous task: to provide guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to include in them his own translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable discussion with background information, useful explanations and suggestions, and thoughts as to how the text can be relevant to our lives today. A glossary is included at the back of the book. The series is suitable for group study, personal study, or daily devotions.

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Many, if not most, people and institutions remain in 'the first half of life' forever, preoccupied with establishing their identity, climbing, achieving, and performing. If you knew there was a further journey, wouldn't you choose to do the 'first half' quite differently? The further journey involves challenges, mistakes, loss of control, even 'necessary suffering', because that is how we grow. This message of falling down and in fact moving up is the most counter-intuitive message in most of the world religions, including and most especially Christianity. We grow spiritually much more by doing it wrong than by doing it right. The Companion Journal helps those who have (and those who have not) read Falling Upward to engage more deeply with the questions the book raises. Using a blend of quotes, questions for individual and group reflection, stories, and suggestions for spiritual practices, it provides a wise guide for deepening the spiritual journey - at any time of life.

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In reflective practice we are asked to consider our own experiences and ask 'what went well?', 'what went badly' and 'how might I do better next time?' Tools for Reflective Ministry contains practical exercises and ideas on how to do this theologically and spiritually, putting Christianity at the core of the discipline. Topics covered include: using metaphor in reflection; spiritual practices for reflection; reframing the past, imagining the future, understanding the present; using culture in reflection; reflecting without words; reflecting with nature; reflecting together.

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Featuring more than sixty brand new maps, photographs, diagrams and charts, the Atlas of World Religions is an essential companion to any study on the key religions of the world. 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.

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July 1540. The courts of Europe are stunned to hear that Henry VIII has executed his all-powerful minister, Thomas Cromwell. Poet and classicist Nicholas Bourbon is sent from the cultured court of Queen Marguerite of Navarre to investigate. Thrust into a turbulent world of religious, political and personal rivalries, his travels take him far and wide. He endures perils at sea, incarceration in a monastic prison and poisonous intrigue in the Tudor court. Yet this retiring scholar cannot abandon a quest which steadily becomes an obsession, drawing him ever deeper into the beliefs and motivations of his mysterious quarry. Only after facing many hazards does he discover the astonishing secret that unlocks the Cromwell enigma. This thrilling historical novel blends fact and fiction together seamlessly to deliver a novel about Thomas Cromwell rich in description and history. A real page turner for those who are fans of Hilary Mantel and Alison Weir, The Cromwell Enigma will captivate anyone with an interest in the Tudor period. This is historical fiction at its finest as Derek Wilson delivers an engaging narrative on the life and mystery of Thomas Cromwell.

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Who will be the next bishop of Lindchester? That's what everyone's been asking since bishop Paul Henderson resigned in haste and a whiff of scandal. Unseen Things Above rejoins our friends in the diocese as they address themselves to the labyrinthine process of appointing his replacement. When they aren't arguing about love and marriage, that is. Should Jane renounce her feminist orthodoxy and wed the manly archdeacon? Could Father Ed defy the House of Bishops and marry Neil? And how many hearts will start atrembling when the gorgeous but volatile Freddie May returns to the Cathedral Close? Come, dear reader, and clamber once again onto the liturgical rollercoaster. Travel from Easter to Advent with bishops, archbishops, and all the company of Lindchester. Hang on to your hat as you're whirled through ups and downs and twists of plot. There are unseen things above, all right. But if you manage to open your eyes, the view from the top is glorious.

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A delightful companion title to the Candle Bible for Toddlers. With delightful illustrations in a gentle modern style and prayers for all occasions. With a combination of traditional and new prayers Candle Prayers for Toddlers is the perfect introduction, bringing prayer and talking to God to life in the heart of every child

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Children love Christmas and love learning to count! Make both even more exciting with this fun rhyme and bright scenes from the Christmas story. Make both even more exciting with this fun countdown rhyme board book, with peek-through windows to gaze through at the next bright Christmas scene. Recommended 4 and under Strong full page images are easy for the very youngest to understand and large enough for grown ups to point out the details of the pictures. The single line of text on each page allows grown ups to help the very earliest readers to tell the story for themselves.

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In the town of Wemmickville there lives a Wemmick named Punchinello. Each day the residents award stickers - gold stars for the talented, smart, and attractive Wemmicks, and gray dots for those who make mistakes or are just plain ordinary. Punchinello, covered in gray dots, begins to feel worthless. Then one day he visits Eli the woodcarver, his creator, and he learns that his worth comes from a different source. Max Lucado’s beautiful story reminds us that we are special to God just the way we are. Parents and children alike will enjoy this touching portrayal of an eternal truth.

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