Kindle books
{"id":2439785054308,"title":"Christmas through the Keyhole: Luke's glimpses of Advent","handle":"christmas-through-the-keyhole-lukes-glimpses-of-advent","description":"\u003cp\u003eSoaked in the older scriptures of the Jewish people, the songs Luke records in his inspired Gospel - the songs of Mary, Zechariah, Simeon and the angels at Bethlehem - reveal the wonderful truth that 'in the town of David a Saviour has been born to us'. Their words are often those of the Old Testament; their style one of passionate and reverent worship. Their tone is one of humility, yet their rhythm indicates confident praise.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAcclaimed writer and conference speaker Derek Tidball leads us through these songs, demonstrating the gracious purposes of God that they celebrate in the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas through the Keyhole is sure to turn Advent into a time of gratitude and worship as we think through these songs afresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the hope of the needy\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 December: Daughter of grace\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 December: Warrior God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 December: Holy God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 December: Merciful God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e7 December: Searching God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e8 December: Revolutionary God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e9 December: Faithful God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the redeemer of the world\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 December: Inspired song\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e11 December: Servant king\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e12 December: Promising prophets\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e13 December: Sacred covenant\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e14 December: Willing servants\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e15 December: Pioneering prophet\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e16 December: Radical salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e17 December: Spreading light\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the joy of the earth\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 December: Angels\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e19 December: Glory\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e20 December: Heaven\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e21 December: Earth\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e22 December: Peace\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e23 December: Favour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the light of the nations\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e24 December: Longing for salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e25 December: The arrival of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e26 December: Witness to salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e27 December: The transparency of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e28 December: The scope of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e29 December: The cost of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e30 December: Confirmation of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the splendour of the creation\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e31 December: In the beginning\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e1 January: The embodied Word\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e2 January: Firstborn of all creation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e3 January: The pre-eminent one\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 January: God has spoken\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 January: The radiance of God's glory\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 January: Worship Jesus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nDerek Tidball is a Baptist pastor. He was formerly the Principal of London Bible College (now London School of Theology), the President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain and the Chair of the Evangelical Alliance Council. He is a prolific writer and a speaker in demand around the world.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:46:20+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:51+00:00","vendor":"Derek Tidball","type":"Paperback","tags":["Advent","KCLC","Kindle"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769561178212,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465207","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436775030884,"product_id":2439785054308,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:51+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:47+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147","variant_ids":[21769561178212]},"available":false,"name":"Christmas through the Keyhole: Luke's glimpses of Advent - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":699,"weight":150,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465207","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878707851,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878707851,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465207-l.jpg?v=1549043147","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eSoaked in the older scriptures of the Jewish people, the songs Luke records in his inspired Gospel - the songs of Mary, Zechariah, Simeon and the angels at Bethlehem - reveal the wonderful truth that 'in the town of David a Saviour has been born to us'. Their words are often those of the Old Testament; their style one of passionate and reverent worship. Their tone is one of humility, yet their rhythm indicates confident praise.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAcclaimed writer and conference speaker Derek Tidball leads us through these songs, demonstrating the gracious purposes of God that they celebrate in the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas through the Keyhole is sure to turn Advent into a time of gratitude and worship as we think through these songs afresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the hope of the needy\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 December: Daughter of grace\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 December: Warrior God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 December: Holy God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 December: Merciful God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e7 December: Searching God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e8 December: Revolutionary God\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e9 December: Faithful God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the redeemer of the world\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 December: Inspired song\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e11 December: Servant king\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e12 December: Promising prophets\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e13 December: Sacred covenant\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e14 December: Willing servants\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e15 December: Pioneering prophet\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e16 December: Radical salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e17 December: Spreading light\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the joy of the earth\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 December: Angels\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e19 December: Glory\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e20 December: Heaven\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e21 December: Earth\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e22 December: Peace\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e23 December: Favour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the light of the nations\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e24 December: Longing for salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e25 December: The arrival of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e26 December: Witness to salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e27 December: The transparency of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e28 December: The scope of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e29 December: The cost of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e30 December: Confirmation of salvation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eJesus - the splendour of the creation\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e31 December: In the beginning\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e1 January: The embodied Word\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e2 January: Firstborn of all creation\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e3 January: The pre-eminent one\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 January: God has spoken\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 January: The radiance of God's glory\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 January: Worship Jesus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nDerek Tidball is a Baptist pastor. He was formerly the Principal of London Bible College (now London School of Theology), the President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain and the Chair of the Evangelical Alliance Council. He is a prolific writer and a speaker in demand around the world.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n"}
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Christmas through the Keyhole: Luke's glimpses of Advent
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Soaked in the older scriptures of the Jewish people, the songs Luke records in his inspired Gospel - the songs...
Out of Stock
{"id":2439784267876,"title":"Seasoned by Seasons: Flourishing in life's experiences","handle":"seasoned-by-seasons-flourishing-in-lifes-experiences","description":"\u003cp\u003eLike the seasons themselves, our lives are variable and can change in a moment. In Seasoned by Seasons, Michael Mitton acknowledges this and offers Bible reflections for the variety of life's seasons: spring, the season of emerging new life; summer, the season of fruitfulness; autumn, the season of letting go; winter, the season of discovering light in the dark. What can we learn, and how can we be encouraged in each season of our lives? This book will empower you to discover for yourself the truths and messages of scripture, and might well transform the way you view life's changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutumn: the season of making space\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFear - space for new confidence (Andrew)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInfirmity - space for wholeness (Mephibosheth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRejection - space for true value (Hagar)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVulnerability - space for true safety (Woman in the crowd)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChange -space for new vision (Joseph)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHumbling - space for growth (Naaman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisturbance - space for a new calling (Nehemiah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWinter: the season of discovery\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeath - the discovery of prevailing love (Naomi and Ruth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuilt - the discovery of wisdom (David)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDespair - the discovery of hope (Isaiah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFailure - the discovery of being (Samaritan Woman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfusion - the discovery of light (Nicodemus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDepression - the discovery of insight (Elijah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrisis - the discovery of presence (Daniel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpring: the season of birthing\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInfant - birthing new life (Hannah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreation - birthing wonder (Earth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdventure - birthing vision (Abraham)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLove - birthing romance (Jacob and Rachel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreativity - birthing imagination (Bezalel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHealing - birthing new wellbeing (Crippled woman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAwakening - birthing faith (Ethiopian Eunuch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSummer: the season of flourishing\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHoliday - the flourishing of rest (Mary and Martha)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBirthday - the flourishing of you (Ecclesiastes)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRousing - the flourishing of justice (John the Baptist)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelease - the flourishing of freedom (Slave girl)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbundance - the flourishing of wealth (Solomon)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalvation - the flourishing of gratitude (Zacchaeus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCelebration - the flourishing of community (Bride at Cana)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was captivated by Michael's wonderfully colourful and imaginative storytelling. The Bible characters are us as we journey with them through the hopes, heartaches, difficulties and dreams that, in God's hands, add that special je ne sais quoi to the seasons of our lives. Each reflection was so vivid I couldn't wait to read the next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Michele Guinness, writer and speaker \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book comes as a welcome reminder that there really is more than one season. The unpredictability of life may mean that we find ourselves in seasons in which the focus of activity is internal rather than external, or preparatory rather than productive. This very practical book serves as a wise and gracious toolkit for anyone in any season. Like the seasons themselves, it is a gift for our souls.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Mitton is a freelance writer, speaker and spiritual director. He has worked for the Diocese of Derby as the Fresh Expressions Adviser. Before that, he was Deputy Director of the Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, heading up Acorn's Christian Listeners, and prior to that was Director of Anglican Renewal Ministries. He has also written Travellers of the Heart and Seasoned by Seasons for BRF and is a regular contributor to New Daylight. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Laura Hillman\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book would make a good introduction for someone not accustomed to regular Bible reading as the author leads the reader gently through well-known stories and passages drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. His illustrations are from a variety of sources as diverse as the early Celts and Doctor Who. The book is divided into four sections, one for each season, beginning with autumn. Each section consists of seven chapters with an introduction reflecting the seasonal flavour: summer is the season of flourishing whereas winter is the season of discovery. The author uses the method of Ignatian spirituality to add his own imaginative detail to the text. Each chapter is completed by a question for reflection and a short prayer making it suitable for use with a home group. But it is also a book to dip into as the author deals with the ups and downs of human existence with sensitivity and compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArlesford Parish Magazine. Review by the Rector, the Revd Graham Bowkett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wise, compassionate reflection on the vicissitudes of life. Using the framework of the Celtic year and borrowing his title from Shakespeare's Portia, musing on 'How many things by season season'ed are\/To their right praise and true perfection!', Mitton takes the reader deep into the heart of a series of moving biblical stories and characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefined by daylight rather than weather, the Celtic season of Lammas (autumn) begins on 1 August, followed by Samhain (winter) on 1 November, Imbolc (spring) on 1 February and Beltaine (summer) on 1 May. For Mitton, autumn is the season for creating space for new confidence, vision and growth; winter is the season for discovering love, wisdom and hope; spring is when wonder, imagination and faith are born; and summer is the time of flourishing: the flourishing of justice, freedom and gratitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Graham Bowkett\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:46+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:47+00:00","vendor":"Michael Mitton","type":"Paperback","tags":["Devotional","KCLC","Kindle","Oct-17","Pastoral care"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769550692452,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465405","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Seasoned by Seasons: Flourishing in life's experiences - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":182,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465405","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465405-l.jpg?v=1549043148"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465405-l.jpg?v=1549043148","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878609547,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465405-l.jpg?v=1549043148"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465405-l.jpg?v=1549043148","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eLike the seasons themselves, our lives are variable and can change in a moment. In Seasoned by Seasons, Michael Mitton acknowledges this and offers Bible reflections for the variety of life's seasons: spring, the season of emerging new life; summer, the season of fruitfulness; autumn, the season of letting go; winter, the season of discovering light in the dark. What can we learn, and how can we be encouraged in each season of our lives? This book will empower you to discover for yourself the truths and messages of scripture, and might well transform the way you view life's changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutumn: the season of making space\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFear - space for new confidence (Andrew)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInfirmity - space for wholeness (Mephibosheth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRejection - space for true value (Hagar)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVulnerability - space for true safety (Woman in the crowd)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChange -space for new vision (Joseph)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHumbling - space for growth (Naaman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisturbance - space for a new calling (Nehemiah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWinter: the season of discovery\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeath - the discovery of prevailing love (Naomi and Ruth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuilt - the discovery of wisdom (David)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDespair - the discovery of hope (Isaiah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFailure - the discovery of being (Samaritan Woman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfusion - the discovery of light (Nicodemus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDepression - the discovery of insight (Elijah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrisis - the discovery of presence (Daniel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpring: the season of birthing\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInfant - birthing new life (Hannah)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreation - birthing wonder (Earth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdventure - birthing vision (Abraham)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLove - birthing romance (Jacob and Rachel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreativity - birthing imagination (Bezalel)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHealing - birthing new wellbeing (Crippled woman)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAwakening - birthing faith (Ethiopian Eunuch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSummer: the season of flourishing\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHoliday - the flourishing of rest (Mary and Martha)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBirthday - the flourishing of you (Ecclesiastes)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRousing - the flourishing of justice (John the Baptist)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelease - the flourishing of freedom (Slave girl)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbundance - the flourishing of wealth (Solomon)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalvation - the flourishing of gratitude (Zacchaeus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCelebration - the flourishing of community (Bride at Cana)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was captivated by Michael's wonderfully colourful and imaginative storytelling. The Bible characters are us as we journey with them through the hopes, heartaches, difficulties and dreams that, in God's hands, add that special je ne sais quoi to the seasons of our lives. Each reflection was so vivid I couldn't wait to read the next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Michele Guinness, writer and speaker \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book comes as a welcome reminder that there really is more than one season. The unpredictability of life may mean that we find ourselves in seasons in which the focus of activity is internal rather than external, or preparatory rather than productive. This very practical book serves as a wise and gracious toolkit for anyone in any season. Like the seasons themselves, it is a gift for our souls.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Mitton is a freelance writer, speaker and spiritual director. He has worked for the Diocese of Derby as the Fresh Expressions Adviser. Before that, he was Deputy Director of the Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, heading up Acorn's Christian Listeners, and prior to that was Director of Anglican Renewal Ministries. He has also written Travellers of the Heart and Seasoned by Seasons for BRF and is a regular contributor to New Daylight. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Laura Hillman\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book would make a good introduction for someone not accustomed to regular Bible reading as the author leads the reader gently through well-known stories and passages drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. His illustrations are from a variety of sources as diverse as the early Celts and Doctor Who. The book is divided into four sections, one for each season, beginning with autumn. Each section consists of seven chapters with an introduction reflecting the seasonal flavour: summer is the season of flourishing whereas winter is the season of discovery. The author uses the method of Ignatian spirituality to add his own imaginative detail to the text. Each chapter is completed by a question for reflection and a short prayer making it suitable for use with a home group. But it is also a book to dip into as the author deals with the ups and downs of human existence with sensitivity and compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArlesford Parish Magazine. Review by the Rector, the Revd Graham Bowkett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wise, compassionate reflection on the vicissitudes of life. Using the framework of the Celtic year and borrowing his title from Shakespeare's Portia, musing on 'How many things by season season'ed are\/To their right praise and true perfection!', Mitton takes the reader deep into the heart of a series of moving biblical stories and characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefined by daylight rather than weather, the Celtic season of Lammas (autumn) begins on 1 August, followed by Samhain (winter) on 1 November, Imbolc (spring) on 1 February and Beltaine (summer) on 1 May. For Mitton, autumn is the season for creating space for new confidence, vision and growth; winter is the season for discovering love, wisdom and hope; spring is when wonder, imagination and faith are born; and summer is the time of flourishing: the flourishing of justice, freedom and gratitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Graham Bowkett\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Seasoned by Seasons: Flourishing in life's experiences
£7.99
Like the seasons themselves, our lives are variable and can change in a moment. In Seasoned by Seasons, Michael Mitton...
{"id":2439782826084,"title":"Walking with Biblical Women of Courage: Imaginative studies for Bible meditation","handle":"walking-with-biblical-women-of-courage-imaginative-studies-for-bible-meditation","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe're all called to everyday courage: the ability to persevere in suffering, resilience in the face of disappointment and loss, strength to take on difficult roles. Walking with Biblical Women of Courage is an encouraging and empowering collection of meditative monologues told from the perspectives of women from both the Old and New Testaments. The monologues are followed by questions designed for either individual or group exploration and reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHagar (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eHagar (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eShiphrah, Puah and Jochebed\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eDeborah\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJael\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJephthah's daughter\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMichal (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMichal (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAbigail (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAbigail (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe queen of Sheba\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe widow with two sons\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe woman of Shunem (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe woman of Shunem (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe young Jewish maid\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTabitha or Dorcas\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMary of Jerusalem\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eLydia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEunice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nFiona Stratta is a qualified speech and language therapist and speech and drama teacher working with children and adults. Her books first emerged when she endured a prolonged period of ill-health which led her to engage with meditative approaches to Bible reading. She is the author of two warmly received books for BRF, Walking with Old Testament Women (2015) and Walking with Gospel Women (2012). One reviewer speaks of them as 'a stirring read', encouraging us to reflect on our own faith journey, pointing us to the God who doesn't change.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018).Review by Susanne Mitchell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled 'Imaginative Studies for bible Meditation', this book is really lectio divina for those who might be put off by the term. For each of seventeen characters (or in one case a group) there are biblical passages to read followed by a reflection in the first person as if written by the character herself. Some of these are more convincing than others, and the author admits to a certain amount of licence with facts. A series of questions then prompt further reflection or conversation if used with a group. Footnotes in each chapter helpfully tell you 'what happens in the end' or clarify points of cultural context. It is not a feminist critique, although it might provoke some wrestling with difficult contemporary issues and the courage required in our own age. Selecting a handful of characters could make up a study course. This is a useful tool to encourage us to engage with scripture in a less familiar way, and for personal study in a lighter vein.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Susanne Mitchell\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:43:07+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:40+00:00","vendor":"Fiona Stratta","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Women"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769513893988,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465337","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436762775652,"product_id":2439782826084,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:40+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:49+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149","variant_ids":[21769513893988]},"available":false,"name":"Walking with Biblical Women of Courage: Imaginative studies for Bible meditation - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":186,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465337","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878478475,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878478475,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465337-l.jpg?v=1549043149","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWe're all called to everyday courage: the ability to persevere in suffering, resilience in the face of disappointment and loss, strength to take on difficult roles. Walking with Biblical Women of Courage is an encouraging and empowering collection of meditative monologues told from the perspectives of women from both the Old and New Testaments. The monologues are followed by questions designed for either individual or group exploration and reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHagar (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eHagar (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eShiphrah, Puah and Jochebed\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eDeborah\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJael\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJephthah's daughter\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMichal (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMichal (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAbigail (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAbigail (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe queen of Sheba\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe widow with two sons\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe woman of Shunem (Part 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe woman of Shunem (Part 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe young Jewish maid\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTabitha or Dorcas\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMary of Jerusalem\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eLydia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEunice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nFiona Stratta is a qualified speech and language therapist and speech and drama teacher working with children and adults. Her books first emerged when she endured a prolonged period of ill-health which led her to engage with meditative approaches to Bible reading. She is the author of two warmly received books for BRF, Walking with Old Testament Women (2015) and Walking with Gospel Women (2012). One reviewer speaks of them as 'a stirring read', encouraging us to reflect on our own faith journey, pointing us to the God who doesn't change.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018).Review by Susanne Mitchell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled 'Imaginative Studies for bible Meditation', this book is really lectio divina for those who might be put off by the term. For each of seventeen characters (or in one case a group) there are biblical passages to read followed by a reflection in the first person as if written by the character herself. Some of these are more convincing than others, and the author admits to a certain amount of licence with facts. A series of questions then prompt further reflection or conversation if used with a group. Footnotes in each chapter helpfully tell you 'what happens in the end' or clarify points of cultural context. It is not a feminist critique, although it might provoke some wrestling with difficult contemporary issues and the courage required in our own age. Selecting a handful of characters could make up a study course. This is a useful tool to encourage us to engage with scripture in a less familiar way, and for personal study in a lighter vein.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Susanne Mitchell\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Walking with Biblical Women of Courage: Imaginative studies for Bible meditation
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We're all called to everyday courage: the ability to persevere in suffering, resilience in the face of disappointment and loss,...
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{"id":2439781122148,"title":"Pilgrim Journeys: Pilgrimage for walkers and armchair travellers","handle":"pilgrim-journeys-pilgrimage-for-walkers-and-armchair-travellers","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhy do pilgrims walk so much?\u003cbr\u003eWhat do they learn?\u003cbr\u003eWhat lasting good does it do?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePilgrim Journeys\u003c\/em\u003e, experienced pilgrim and writer Sally Welch explores the less-travelled pilgrim routes of the UK and beyond, through the eyes of the pilgrims who walk them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter explores a different aspect of pilgrimage, offering reflections and indicating some of the spiritual lessons to be learned that may be practised at home. This absorbing book shows how insights gained on the journey can be incorporated into the spiritual life of every day, bringing new ways of relationship with God and with our fellow Christians, offering support and encouragement as we face the joys and challenges of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA brief history of pilgrimage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Routes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 \u003cstrong\u003eBe true to your journey:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St Columba's Way - Iona to St Andrews\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 \u003cstrong\u003eCarry only what is necessary:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Via Ingles - Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 \u003cstrong\u003eBe open to Go:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Via Limovigensis - V lay to Limoges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 \u003cstrong\u003eRejoice in your companions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pilgrim's Way - Winchester to Canterbury\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 \u003cstrong\u003eInhabit the moment:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St David's Way - Holywell to Bardsey Island\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 \u003cstrong\u003eTread lightly upon the earth:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Sentiero Francescano della Pace - Assisi to Gubbio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 \u003cstrong\u003eRelease your burdens:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Jesus Trail - Tabgha to Capernaum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 \u003cstrong\u003eTrust yourself:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St James Way - Worcester to Bristol\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 \u003cstrong\u003eRespect the community:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Thames Pilgrim Way - Oxford to Binsey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 \u003cstrong\u003eRejoice in the journey:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St Olav's Way - Stiklestad to Trondheim\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA practical guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInformation for pilgrims\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nSally Welch is the Vicar of Charlbury and Area Dean of Chipping Norton. An active pilgrim for over 20 years, she has lectured and led workshops on the nature and spirituality of pilgrimage and labyrinth throughout the UK. She is the editor of New Daylight and author of several books on pilgrimage. She worked with Bishop John Pritchard on the establishment of the Thames Pilgrim Way and is currently working on a Cotswold Pilgrimage Network.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Jeremy Harvey\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWelch takes the reader on an unexpected journey with this slim but thought-provoking companion to ten pilgrim routes in Europe and the Holy Land. Avoiding such practical details as can be found on the internet, she instead offers a themed meditation on the spiritual steps that lead on a walk towards holiness. The opening description of St Columba's Way, from Iona to St Andrew's, becomes an extended discussion of what it means to be called, including a heartfelt appraisal of her own sense of mission. Driven by a self-confessed feeling of restlessness, her attachment to pilgrimage has an authentic ring to it: the word pilgrim was first used to describe a type of perpetual wanderer, a self-imposed exile whose journey was far removed from the later understanding of a return trip to a holy site and back. She concludes by describing a talk about an expedition planned with almost military precision along a Norwegian pilgrimage route to Trondheim, which left the audience impressed but unmoved by its spiritual content. Instead her book offers a more reflective and profitable meander along pilgrim ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018) Review by Anne Stamper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSally Welch, Vicar of Charlbury and Area Dean of Chipping Norton, defines pilgrimage as 'a spiritual journey to a sacred place. For hundreds of years men and women have made these journeys, hoping for healing, revelation or spiritual insight. They go to places where it is felt the gap between heaven and earth is smaller, where the action of saints may break into the lives of ordinary people, transforming them.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn active pilgrim for over 20 years, in this book she draws on those experiences of pilgrimages at home and abroad, for distances long and short, and travelling with others or by herself. This is not a travel book but at the end she gives readers practical hints and sources of information should they wish to undertake a pilgrimage themselves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn each section Sally takes one pilgrim route and describes an episode from her experience of it; this then leads into a reflection. In some reflections she gives the reader, as an armchair traveller, a practical task (possibly using pencil and paper) that encourages thought about their own path in life and God's call 'to be a pilgrim'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of her pilgrim routes are well known, such as the Via Ingles, to Santiago de Compostela, or the Pilgrims Way from Winchester to Canterbury. Others were new to me: St James Way, from Worcester to Bristol and The Thames Pilgrim Way, from Oxford to Binsey - one Sally helped to set out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn excellent synopsis of the book is given by the chapter headings: Be true to your journey; Carry only what is necessary; Be open to God; Rejoice in your companions; Inhabit the moment; Tread lightly upon the earth; Release your burdens; Trust yourself; Respect the community; Rejoice in the journey. They are also not a bad pattern for life!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Anne Stamper\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:22:29+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:34+00:00","vendor":"Sally Welch","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769499246692,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465139","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436749144164,"product_id":2439781122148,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:34+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:50+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150","variant_ids":[21769499246692]},"available":false,"name":"Pilgrim Journeys: Pilgrimage for walkers and armchair travellers - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465139","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878314635,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878314635,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465139-l.jpg?v=1549043150","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWhy do pilgrims walk so much?\u003cbr\u003eWhat do they learn?\u003cbr\u003eWhat lasting good does it do?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePilgrim Journeys\u003c\/em\u003e, experienced pilgrim and writer Sally Welch explores the less-travelled pilgrim routes of the UK and beyond, through the eyes of the pilgrims who walk them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter explores a different aspect of pilgrimage, offering reflections and indicating some of the spiritual lessons to be learned that may be practised at home. This absorbing book shows how insights gained on the journey can be incorporated into the spiritual life of every day, bringing new ways of relationship with God and with our fellow Christians, offering support and encouragement as we face the joys and challenges of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA brief history of pilgrimage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Routes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 \u003cstrong\u003eBe true to your journey:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St Columba's Way - Iona to St Andrews\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 \u003cstrong\u003eCarry only what is necessary:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Via Ingles - Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 \u003cstrong\u003eBe open to Go:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Via Limovigensis - V lay to Limoges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 \u003cstrong\u003eRejoice in your companions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pilgrim's Way - Winchester to Canterbury\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 \u003cstrong\u003eInhabit the moment:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St David's Way - Holywell to Bardsey Island\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 \u003cstrong\u003eTread lightly upon the earth:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Sentiero Francescano della Pace - Assisi to Gubbio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 \u003cstrong\u003eRelease your burdens:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Jesus Trail - Tabgha to Capernaum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 \u003cstrong\u003eTrust yourself:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St James Way - Worcester to Bristol\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 \u003cstrong\u003eRespect the community:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Thames Pilgrim Way - Oxford to Binsey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 \u003cstrong\u003eRejoice in the journey:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e St Olav's Way - Stiklestad to Trondheim\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA practical guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInformation for pilgrims\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nSally Welch is the Vicar of Charlbury and Area Dean of Chipping Norton. An active pilgrim for over 20 years, she has lectured and led workshops on the nature and spirituality of pilgrimage and labyrinth throughout the UK. She is the editor of New Daylight and author of several books on pilgrimage. She worked with Bishop John Pritchard on the establishment of the Thames Pilgrim Way and is currently working on a Cotswold Pilgrimage Network.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Jeremy Harvey\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWelch takes the reader on an unexpected journey with this slim but thought-provoking companion to ten pilgrim routes in Europe and the Holy Land. Avoiding such practical details as can be found on the internet, she instead offers a themed meditation on the spiritual steps that lead on a walk towards holiness. The opening description of St Columba's Way, from Iona to St Andrew's, becomes an extended discussion of what it means to be called, including a heartfelt appraisal of her own sense of mission. Driven by a self-confessed feeling of restlessness, her attachment to pilgrimage has an authentic ring to it: the word pilgrim was first used to describe a type of perpetual wanderer, a self-imposed exile whose journey was far removed from the later understanding of a return trip to a holy site and back. She concludes by describing a talk about an expedition planned with almost military precision along a Norwegian pilgrimage route to Trondheim, which left the audience impressed but unmoved by its spiritual content. Instead her book offers a more reflective and profitable meander along pilgrim ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018) Review by Anne Stamper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSally Welch, Vicar of Charlbury and Area Dean of Chipping Norton, defines pilgrimage as 'a spiritual journey to a sacred place. For hundreds of years men and women have made these journeys, hoping for healing, revelation or spiritual insight. They go to places where it is felt the gap between heaven and earth is smaller, where the action of saints may break into the lives of ordinary people, transforming them.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn active pilgrim for over 20 years, in this book she draws on those experiences of pilgrimages at home and abroad, for distances long and short, and travelling with others or by herself. This is not a travel book but at the end she gives readers practical hints and sources of information should they wish to undertake a pilgrimage themselves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn each section Sally takes one pilgrim route and describes an episode from her experience of it; this then leads into a reflection. In some reflections she gives the reader, as an armchair traveller, a practical task (possibly using pencil and paper) that encourages thought about their own path in life and God's call 'to be a pilgrim'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of her pilgrim routes are well known, such as the Via Ingles, to Santiago de Compostela, or the Pilgrims Way from Winchester to Canterbury. Others were new to me: St James Way, from Worcester to Bristol and The Thames Pilgrim Way, from Oxford to Binsey - one Sally helped to set out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn excellent synopsis of the book is given by the chapter headings: Be true to your journey; Carry only what is necessary; Be open to God; Rejoice in your companions; Inhabit the moment; Tread lightly upon the earth; Release your burdens; Trust yourself; Respect the community; Rejoice in the journey. They are also not a bad pattern for life!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Anne Stamper\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Pilgrim Journeys: Pilgrimage for walkers and armchair travellers
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Why do pilgrims walk so much?What do they learn?What lasting good does it do?In Pilgrim Journeys, experienced pilgrim and writer...
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{"id":2439780597860,"title":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission","handle":"stepping-into-grace-moving-beyond-ambition-to-contemplative-mission","description":"\u003cp\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:30:49+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:32+00:00","vendor":"Paul Bradbury","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Mission","Nov-16","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769492496484,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465238","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436746326116,"product_id":2439780597860,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:32+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:51+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","variant_ids":[21769492496484]},"available":false,"name":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":164,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465238","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878085259,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878085259,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2439780237412,"title":"The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home","handle":"the-recovery-of-joy-finding-the-path-from-rootlessness-to-returning-home","description":"\u003cp\u003e'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God at our right hand, step by step in the radiant light of his presence. It involves remembering that we have already arrived at our destination - the safety of our Father's house - even as we continue on the pilgrim road that takes us through life.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Recovery of Joy weaves imaginative story and profound biblical reflections on several of the Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to. The narrative begins in rootlessness and despair and takes a wanderer across the sea to a series of islands. These are the setting for a series of events and encounters through which emerges a progression from that initial rootlessness, through healing, to a rediscovery of the joy of feeling at the centre of God's loving purpose for our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1. Rootlessness\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the road\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eDead end\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe pathless way\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2. Respite\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen pastures\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe blessing of sleep\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eNo place like home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3. Ruins\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInto the depths\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eA desert place\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eA time to mend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4. Release\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStuck\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eFreed\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eCleansed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 5. Return\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the rock\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eCrossing the bay\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe recovery of joy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNaomi Starkey is a priest in the Church in Wales, living and working on the Llyn Peninsula. She was previously a commissioning editor for BRF, and edited and contributed to New Daylight and Quiet Spaces. Her other books include The Recovery of Hope (BRF2016), The Recovery of Love (BRF, 2012), Pilgrims to the Manger (BRF, 2010) and Good Enough Mother(BRF, 2009).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEvangelicals Now, May 2018, Review by Lindsay Benn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe blurb on the back cover claims that this book 'weaves imaginative story and profound reflections on a selection of Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to'. This is a good summary of the contents.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not a big fan of fictional Christian writing, but Naomi writes with endearing charm and describes the eventful journey of a troubled pilgrim trying to find meaning and purpose in life. Each chapter tracks the path of this pilgrim through traumas, dilemmas and moments of respite, with the reader becoming acutely aware that problems will ultimately have to be faced head on.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe oases of the Psalms\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are struggling with the baggage that life throws at you, with unresolved relationship issues, or just exhausted with the 'what ifs' of life - you may find this book helpful. It is an easy read, and for me the oases were the reflections on the Psalms. I was moved once again by their astonishing relevance and the soothing balm that they offer as we cope with the pressures of 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e-century living. Realising that we can have God's help and that he will be with us every step on the untidy journey of life, brings healing and hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLindsay Benn, church member, Northamptonshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 22-29 December 2017: Review by Jenny Francis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOccasionally we can lose our way in life. The comfortable set of values which we have cultivated seems less relevant, and our overall strategy is no longer fit for purpose.Too easily, we may fall into a slough of despond. What was initially an insidious threat to mind and body becomes a desolate sense of rootlessness and alienation.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is an experienced author and a priest. This small book has been written to help with just these times in our lives. It is the third in her series of 'recovery of' titles, the others being of hope and of love, and as such, it offers a valuable, reflective companion to help us out of the cul-de-sac that threatens to trap the lost and rootless.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere are five Parts: Rootlessness, Respite, Ruins, Release, and Return. Each has three identically structured chapters. It is written using the pronoun 'we', and the reader becomes one of a small group embarking on a journey with no clear destination. As they travel together, appreciating that they had each almost come to a halt, their 'story of exile and rootless wandering eventually becomes one of purpose, maybe even pilgrimage.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a long tradition of spiritual wanderers setting out in faith in Christianity, as well as in other faiths. Some viewed this as an abandonment of self to God's purposes. Others viewed it as a kind of exile, leaving behind all that was familiar while having no purpose for the future. In this book, the author tells a story about travellers crossing the sea in a small boat. Somehow, guided by divine mercy through wind and waves, they sail from one island to another, and on each they find welcome and a learning experience. As the sailors learn more of themselves and of God, they also grow through the challenges set to test and guide them. We journey with them and, by taking time to meditate on each psalm, specially selected to aid our private prayer, we, too, find ourselves led from darkness to light, to greater self-awareness and insight. This journey goes from exhaustion to acceptance, and hence to the gift of God's healing as we all rediscover the wonder of what God has done.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis slim volume is a useful tool for our own personal devotion. A chapter a day provides just over a fortnight of thoughtful reflection on how to find our way back to the God of our creation. As the author concludes, 'no matter the pain we may yet have to face, no matter what the next part of our journey may hold, we have hope for tomorrow.' I am writing on Advent Sunday: we know that it is that hope that heralds the advent of joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Jenny Francis is a retired psychotherapist and a priest in the Diocese of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:38:13+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:30+00:00","vendor":"Naomi Starkey","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Pastoral care","Sep-17","Spirituality"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769482600548,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465184","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436743639140,"product_id":2439780237412,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:30+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:51+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151","variant_ids":[21769482600548]},"available":false,"name":"The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":699,"weight":147,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465184","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878052491,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878052491,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465184-l.jpg?v=1549043151","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God at our right hand, step by step in the radiant light of his presence. It involves remembering that we have already arrived at our destination - the safety of our Father's house - even as we continue on the pilgrim road that takes us through life.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Recovery of Joy weaves imaginative story and profound biblical reflections on several of the Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to. The narrative begins in rootlessness and despair and takes a wanderer across the sea to a series of islands. These are the setting for a series of events and encounters through which emerges a progression from that initial rootlessness, through healing, to a rediscovery of the joy of feeling at the centre of God's loving purpose for our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1. Rootlessness\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the road\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eDead end\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe pathless way\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2. Respite\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen pastures\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe blessing of sleep\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eNo place like home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3. Ruins\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInto the depths\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eA desert place\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eA time to mend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4. Release\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStuck\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eFreed\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eCleansed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 5. Return\u003c\/strong\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the rock\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eCrossing the bay\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe recovery of joy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNaomi Starkey is a priest in the Church in Wales, living and working on the Llyn Peninsula. She was previously a commissioning editor for BRF, and edited and contributed to New Daylight and Quiet Spaces. Her other books include The Recovery of Hope (BRF2016), The Recovery of Love (BRF, 2012), Pilgrims to the Manger (BRF, 2010) and Good Enough Mother(BRF, 2009).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEvangelicals Now, May 2018, Review by Lindsay Benn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe blurb on the back cover claims that this book 'weaves imaginative story and profound reflections on a selection of Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to'. This is a good summary of the contents.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not a big fan of fictional Christian writing, but Naomi writes with endearing charm and describes the eventful journey of a troubled pilgrim trying to find meaning and purpose in life. Each chapter tracks the path of this pilgrim through traumas, dilemmas and moments of respite, with the reader becoming acutely aware that problems will ultimately have to be faced head on.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe oases of the Psalms\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are struggling with the baggage that life throws at you, with unresolved relationship issues, or just exhausted with the 'what ifs' of life - you may find this book helpful. It is an easy read, and for me the oases were the reflections on the Psalms. I was moved once again by their astonishing relevance and the soothing balm that they offer as we cope with the pressures of 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e-century living. Realising that we can have God's help and that he will be with us every step on the untidy journey of life, brings healing and hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLindsay Benn, church member, Northamptonshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 22-29 December 2017: Review by Jenny Francis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOccasionally we can lose our way in life. The comfortable set of values which we have cultivated seems less relevant, and our overall strategy is no longer fit for purpose.Too easily, we may fall into a slough of despond. What was initially an insidious threat to mind and body becomes a desolate sense of rootlessness and alienation.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is an experienced author and a priest. This small book has been written to help with just these times in our lives. It is the third in her series of 'recovery of' titles, the others being of hope and of love, and as such, it offers a valuable, reflective companion to help us out of the cul-de-sac that threatens to trap the lost and rootless.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere are five Parts: Rootlessness, Respite, Ruins, Release, and Return. Each has three identically structured chapters. It is written using the pronoun 'we', and the reader becomes one of a small group embarking on a journey with no clear destination. As they travel together, appreciating that they had each almost come to a halt, their 'story of exile and rootless wandering eventually becomes one of purpose, maybe even pilgrimage.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a long tradition of spiritual wanderers setting out in faith in Christianity, as well as in other faiths. Some viewed this as an abandonment of self to God's purposes. Others viewed it as a kind of exile, leaving behind all that was familiar while having no purpose for the future. In this book, the author tells a story about travellers crossing the sea in a small boat. Somehow, guided by divine mercy through wind and waves, they sail from one island to another, and on each they find welcome and a learning experience. As the sailors learn more of themselves and of God, they also grow through the challenges set to test and guide them. We journey with them and, by taking time to meditate on each psalm, specially selected to aid our private prayer, we, too, find ourselves led from darkness to light, to greater self-awareness and insight. This journey goes from exhaustion to acceptance, and hence to the gift of God's healing as we all rediscover the wonder of what God has done.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis slim volume is a useful tool for our own personal devotion. A chapter a day provides just over a fortnight of thoughtful reflection on how to find our way back to the God of our creation. As the author concludes, 'no matter the pain we may yet have to face, no matter what the next part of our journey may hold, we have hope for tomorrow.' I am writing on Advent Sunday: we know that it is that hope that heralds the advent of joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Jenny Francis is a retired psychotherapist and a priest in the Diocese of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home
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'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God at our right hand,...
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{"id":2439778926692,"title":"Experiencing Christ's Love: Establishing a life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection","handle":"experiencing-christs-love-establishing-a-life-of-worship-prayer-study-service-and-reflection","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn Experiencing Christ's Love, well-known writer John Twisleton reminds us of Jesus' gracious challenge to love God with heart, soul and mind, and to love our neighbour and ourselves. Against the backdrop of the message of God's unconditional love in Jesus Christ, the author delivers a wake-up call to the basic Christian patterns of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection. These, he claims, serve to take God's hand in ours, leading us into his divine possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 First love: worship\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your heart\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Second love: prayer\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your soul\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Third love: study\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your mind\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Fourth love: service\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love your neighbour\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Fifth love: reflection\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love... yourself\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Twisleton is based in Sussex and the former parish priest of Horsted Keynes in Chichester Diocese, where he also led the diocesan mission and renewal team for eight years. He has also worked as an Area Missioner in London Diocese and as Principal of an ordination training centre in Guyana. He has written on issues including baptism, confession, priesthood, prayer and healing, and he broadcasts regularly on Premier Radio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read John's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/john-twistleton-writes-about-experiencing-christs-love-in-a-pandemic\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLove is a word that our culture has grossly misunderstood, often described as mere romantic feeling. Yet in the scriptures love is always active. God's love always issues in action. In this very helpful book John fleshes out what an active expression of loving God and loving neighbour looks like. Using the picture of a hand, five fingers reaching out to God, he places worship, prayer, study, service and reflection in the framework of the great commandment. This helpful metaphorical treatment is both a challenge and an encouragement to deeper Christian living. John brings together his catholic and charismatic spirituality into a gem of a book that richly rewards prayerful study.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Rev Richard Jackson - Bishop of Lewes \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe five chapters of John Twisleton's book lay before us a comprehensive structure for reviewing our rule of life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection, to encourage the reader to experience more deeply the love of Christ. He draws at length from his own spiritual journal and pastoral work to demonstrate how he has experienced and grown his spiritual discipleship. There are also riches here from past and present spiritual writers, to encourage the reader to explore further. The Summary of the Law is presented in sections at the start of each of the five chapters of the book. Throughout, we are given a prayerful reading of the scriptures. Each chapter is worth reflecting on at some length. There is distilled wisdom here worth pondering on. This is a timely book for us in Chichester Diocese as we mark the Year of the Bible.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Canon Andrew Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe five chapters of John Twisleton's book lay before us a comprehensive structure for reviewing our rule of life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection to encourage the reader to experience more deeply the love of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe draws on his own spiritual journey and pastoral work to demonstrate how he has experienced and grown his spiritual discipleship. There are also riches here from past and present spiritual writers to encourage the reader to explore further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Summary of the Law is presented in sections at the start of each chapter. Throughout we are given a prayerful reading of the scriptures. Each chapter is worth reflecting on at some length. There is a distilled wisdom here worth pondering on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a timely book for the diocese in this Year of the Bible and has been commended by the Bishop of Lewes, The Right Revd Richard Jackson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe said: 'Love is a word that our culture has grossly misunderstood, often described as mere romantic feeling. Yet in the scriptures love is always active. God's love always issues in action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'In this very helpful book John fleshes out what an active expression of loving God and loving neighbour looks like. Using the picture of a hand, five fingers reaching out to God, he places worship, prayer, study, service and reflection in the framework of the great commandment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'This helpful metaphorical treatment is a both a challenge and an encouragement to deeper Christian living. John brings together his catholic and charismatic spirituality into a gem of a book that richly rewards prayerful study.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed in Faith in Sussex, Summer 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:56:29+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:25+00:00","vendor":"John Twisleton","type":"Paperback","tags":["Apr-17","For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Prayer","Spirituality"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769462710372,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465177","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436733579364,"product_id":2439778926692,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:25+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:52+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152","variant_ids":[21769462710372]},"available":false,"name":"Experiencing Christ's Love: Establishing a life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":699,"weight":114,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465177","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877954187,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877954187,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465177-l.jpg?v=1549043152","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIn Experiencing Christ's Love, well-known writer John Twisleton reminds us of Jesus' gracious challenge to love God with heart, soul and mind, and to love our neighbour and ourselves. Against the backdrop of the message of God's unconditional love in Jesus Christ, the author delivers a wake-up call to the basic Christian patterns of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection. These, he claims, serve to take God's hand in ours, leading us into his divine possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 First love: worship\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your heart\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Second love: prayer\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your soul\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Third love: study\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love the Lord your God with all your mind\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Fourth love: service\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love your neighbour\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Fifth love: reflection\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou shall love... yourself\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Twisleton is based in Sussex and the former parish priest of Horsted Keynes in Chichester Diocese, where he also led the diocesan mission and renewal team for eight years. He has also worked as an Area Missioner in London Diocese and as Principal of an ordination training centre in Guyana. He has written on issues including baptism, confession, priesthood, prayer and healing, and he broadcasts regularly on Premier Radio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read John's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/john-twistleton-writes-about-experiencing-christs-love-in-a-pandemic\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLove is a word that our culture has grossly misunderstood, often described as mere romantic feeling. Yet in the scriptures love is always active. God's love always issues in action. In this very helpful book John fleshes out what an active expression of loving God and loving neighbour looks like. Using the picture of a hand, five fingers reaching out to God, he places worship, prayer, study, service and reflection in the framework of the great commandment. This helpful metaphorical treatment is both a challenge and an encouragement to deeper Christian living. John brings together his catholic and charismatic spirituality into a gem of a book that richly rewards prayerful study.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Rev Richard Jackson - Bishop of Lewes \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe five chapters of John Twisleton's book lay before us a comprehensive structure for reviewing our rule of life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection, to encourage the reader to experience more deeply the love of Christ. He draws at length from his own spiritual journal and pastoral work to demonstrate how he has experienced and grown his spiritual discipleship. There are also riches here from past and present spiritual writers, to encourage the reader to explore further. The Summary of the Law is presented in sections at the start of each of the five chapters of the book. Throughout, we are given a prayerful reading of the scriptures. Each chapter is worth reflecting on at some length. There is distilled wisdom here worth pondering on. This is a timely book for us in Chichester Diocese as we mark the Year of the Bible.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Canon Andrew Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe five chapters of John Twisleton's book lay before us a comprehensive structure for reviewing our rule of life of worship, prayer, study, service and reflection to encourage the reader to experience more deeply the love of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe draws on his own spiritual journey and pastoral work to demonstrate how he has experienced and grown his spiritual discipleship. There are also riches here from past and present spiritual writers to encourage the reader to explore further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Summary of the Law is presented in sections at the start of each chapter. Throughout we are given a prayerful reading of the scriptures. Each chapter is worth reflecting on at some length. There is a distilled wisdom here worth pondering on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a timely book for the diocese in this Year of the Bible and has been commended by the Bishop of Lewes, The Right Revd Richard Jackson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe said: 'Love is a word that our culture has grossly misunderstood, often described as mere romantic feeling. Yet in the scriptures love is always active. God's love always issues in action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'In this very helpful book John fleshes out what an active expression of loving God and loving neighbour looks like. Using the picture of a hand, five fingers reaching out to God, he places worship, prayer, study, service and reflection in the framework of the great commandment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'This helpful metaphorical treatment is a both a challenge and an encouragement to deeper Christian living. John brings together his catholic and charismatic spirituality into a gem of a book that richly rewards prayerful study.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed in Faith in Sussex, Summer 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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In Experiencing Christ's Love, well-known writer John Twisleton reminds us of Jesus' gracious challenge to love God with heart, soul...
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{"id":2439776075876,"title":"Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia","handle":"thinking-of-you-a-resource-for-the-spiritual-care-of-people-with-dementia","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted nature of this set of conditions, some possible theological responses are offered to such questions as: what is the nature of human identity? How can someone with severely impaired cognition have a full spiritual life? The book's final two sections are predominantly practical, addressing the spiritual care of the affected individual and how to help churches support affected individuals and their carers. This final section includes resources for ministry in residential care homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: Thinking about dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 1 A medical approach to dementia: 'Old-timer's disease'?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 2 A biological approach to dementia: the fading brain\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 3 A social approach to dementia: not gone but forgotten\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Thinking about the person with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 4 I think therefore I am?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 5 Beyond 'I think therefore I am'\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 6 God thinks therefore I am\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Thinking of you: the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 7 Being present to the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 8 Meaning-making in dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 9 Re-membering the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 4: Thinking about us: dementia-friendly churches\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 10 Full inclusion\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 11 Real belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 12 Celebration\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 13 Connection\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 14 Safe enough to play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt is Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon, Oxford Diocesan Advisor for the Spiritual Care of Older People, and also ministers in a parish. Her other books include Jesus and the Gospel Women, The Dawkins Delusion? (with Alister McGrath) and Meeting Jesus (with Jeremy Duff).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018). Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJoanna Collicutt is an experienced clinical neuropsychologist who for many years has worked with people living with conditions affecting the brain, including dementia. An Anglican priest and Advisor for Spiritual Care for Older People in Oxford (Anglican) Diocese.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe book first describes the medical, biological and social aspects of dementia. The biological aspects have excellent line drawings which help to explain various forms of dementia. I found it very accessible - e.g. likening changes in retrieval of memories to organising \/ finding things in an airing cupboard. Joanna conveys the reality of experiencing dementia and how it might feel: she tells of a person being afraid to enter some-one's front door because the doormat looked like a hole in the ground and they feared they might fall into it.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two is about the person - what might dementia feel like for them; what is the nature of human identity; how is it possible to have a full spiritual life with dementia. \u003cem\u003eI think therefore I am \u003c\/em\u003eleads to \u003cem\u003eGod thinks, therefore I am\u003c\/em\u003e. Part three is about spiritual care and being with the person with dementia. The final chapters give practical suggestions about dementia friendly churches, full inclusion, being connected, celebration and play. She also refers to support in residential homes. Might some of this information help Julian Meetings?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'The Door', June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDementia is a topic which is regularly highlighted by the media, not only as a subject associated with the increasing number of elderly people in our society but also with reference to well-known individuals found to be suffering from the condition. Joanna Collicutt's inspiring book is a timely, carefully referenced and annotated publication providing helpful advice and dispelling misconceptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDivided into four distinct parts, this resource begins with a medical approach to understanding dementia, first making two important points; that in medical terms dementia is a symptom rather than a disease and that occasional confusion and failing memory, not uncommon in older people, need not be a sign of something more sinister. Using helpful diagrams, the writer describes clearly and succinctly the various types of dementia and their physical causes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two moves on from analysing the condition to considering the sufferer. Using the analogy of the airing cupboard, the writer discusses memory, implicit and explicit. She examines the phrase 'trapped in the present', comparing it to 'life in God's now' and asking, 'How are we to make sense of the experience of dementia theologically?'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Three, dealing with the spiritual care of people with dementia, the word 're-membering' takes on a new significance, with references to 'person-centred' psychotherapy, the principle of authenticity, listening to body language and the importance of touch. Various aids to re-membering are suggested, including a this-is-my-life book and a memory box. Incidentally, it is recognised that 'being there' for a dementia sufferer has its cost, with a helpful section on dealing with one's own feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Four dementia-friendly churches are examined, the emphasis being on a community that is friendly to all. Practical suggestions, which will benefit both the physically and mentally impaired, are made to enable full inclusion. Also in this section is a suggested form of worship and a simple weekday service of celebration. Finally, in a chapter entitled 'Safe enough to play' the writer discusses types of abuse and the required response should there be evidence of this.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWritten from a Christian perspective, this book is both informative and challenging. It evidences great skill in dealing with complex concepts clearly and comprehensibly, and is a resource which should be on the bookshelves of all clergy and those involved with pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Thelma Shacklady\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder, June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 'Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia, Joanna Collicutt writes as a priest in the Church of England and as a clinical neuropsychologist. This book is an excellent introduction to the subject of dementia and a very practical spiritual resource for churches. An easy to understand, medical approach to dementia is outlined at the beginning.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found Joanna's analogy of an airing cupboard to describe the experience of dementia very useful. Newly-weds are given household linen and these items are neatly and carefully stored on the bottom shelf of the airing cupboard. As the years go by, easy-care sheets are placed on top of these -- then underpants and socks are thrown on top. As long as the door opens easily, all is well and items can be retrieved. But what if the door slowly closes? You now reach in through a narrowing gap to find what you need; it will be much easier to access the orderly folded linen at the bottom and it will be pure luck if you find a sock.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn the same way, a person living with dementia will find that memories which are deeply embedded and laid down in an orderly fashion are easiest to access. Joanna makes a distinction between explicit memories and implicit ones: an example of an implicit memory would be a hymn you do not recognise until the music starts and you find you know it. A person with dementia might not remember a visit from a relative or friend (explicit memory), but may be aware of kindness and touch (implicit memory). God holds us in mind, as the father of the prodigal son holds his absent son in mind. Although his son is in a distant land he is never forgotten.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found the most moving part of the book in the author's reminder about Easter in relation to dementia. On Good Friday Jesus is stripped of his capacities and on Holy Saturday he descends into the underworld to be with those forgotten by the world -- a profound solidarity. Joanna sees the calling of the churches to 'pick up the stitches which have been dropped'. There is practical advice on how to be with a person with dementia: we may allow a person their feelings of joy and despair, which can be incredibly intense.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, we need to cultivate 'an attitude of mindfulness to what we most fear'. Simple training is on offer to become a 'dementia friend'. Practical suggestions are offered, such as printing out Bible readings in large script, using traditional words to hymns and offering lifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book easy to read and digest. It would make excellent material for house groups and I think it would be good for every Methodist church to have a copy!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain, Sobell House Hospice, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:11+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:13+00:00","vendor":"Joanna Collicutt","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Mar-17","Pastoral care","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769413722212,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464910","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436713295972,"product_id":2439776075876,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:13+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:55+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","variant_ids":[21769413722212]},"available":true,"name":"Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":230,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464910","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877724811,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877724811,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted nature of this set of conditions, some possible theological responses are offered to such questions as: what is the nature of human identity? How can someone with severely impaired cognition have a full spiritual life? The book's final two sections are predominantly practical, addressing the spiritual care of the affected individual and how to help churches support affected individuals and their carers. This final section includes resources for ministry in residential care homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: Thinking about dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 1 A medical approach to dementia: 'Old-timer's disease'?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 2 A biological approach to dementia: the fading brain\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 3 A social approach to dementia: not gone but forgotten\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Thinking about the person with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 4 I think therefore I am?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 5 Beyond 'I think therefore I am'\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 6 God thinks therefore I am\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Thinking of you: the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 7 Being present to the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 8 Meaning-making in dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 9 Re-membering the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 4: Thinking about us: dementia-friendly churches\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 10 Full inclusion\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 11 Real belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 12 Celebration\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 13 Connection\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 14 Safe enough to play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt is Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon, Oxford Diocesan Advisor for the Spiritual Care of Older People, and also ministers in a parish. Her other books include Jesus and the Gospel Women, The Dawkins Delusion? (with Alister McGrath) and Meeting Jesus (with Jeremy Duff).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018). Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJoanna Collicutt is an experienced clinical neuropsychologist who for many years has worked with people living with conditions affecting the brain, including dementia. An Anglican priest and Advisor for Spiritual Care for Older People in Oxford (Anglican) Diocese.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe book first describes the medical, biological and social aspects of dementia. The biological aspects have excellent line drawings which help to explain various forms of dementia. I found it very accessible - e.g. likening changes in retrieval of memories to organising \/ finding things in an airing cupboard. Joanna conveys the reality of experiencing dementia and how it might feel: she tells of a person being afraid to enter some-one's front door because the doormat looked like a hole in the ground and they feared they might fall into it.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two is about the person - what might dementia feel like for them; what is the nature of human identity; how is it possible to have a full spiritual life with dementia. \u003cem\u003eI think therefore I am \u003c\/em\u003eleads to \u003cem\u003eGod thinks, therefore I am\u003c\/em\u003e. Part three is about spiritual care and being with the person with dementia. The final chapters give practical suggestions about dementia friendly churches, full inclusion, being connected, celebration and play. She also refers to support in residential homes. Might some of this information help Julian Meetings?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'The Door', June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDementia is a topic which is regularly highlighted by the media, not only as a subject associated with the increasing number of elderly people in our society but also with reference to well-known individuals found to be suffering from the condition. Joanna Collicutt's inspiring book is a timely, carefully referenced and annotated publication providing helpful advice and dispelling misconceptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDivided into four distinct parts, this resource begins with a medical approach to understanding dementia, first making two important points; that in medical terms dementia is a symptom rather than a disease and that occasional confusion and failing memory, not uncommon in older people, need not be a sign of something more sinister. Using helpful diagrams, the writer describes clearly and succinctly the various types of dementia and their physical causes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two moves on from analysing the condition to considering the sufferer. Using the analogy of the airing cupboard, the writer discusses memory, implicit and explicit. She examines the phrase 'trapped in the present', comparing it to 'life in God's now' and asking, 'How are we to make sense of the experience of dementia theologically?'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Three, dealing with the spiritual care of people with dementia, the word 're-membering' takes on a new significance, with references to 'person-centred' psychotherapy, the principle of authenticity, listening to body language and the importance of touch. Various aids to re-membering are suggested, including a this-is-my-life book and a memory box. Incidentally, it is recognised that 'being there' for a dementia sufferer has its cost, with a helpful section on dealing with one's own feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Four dementia-friendly churches are examined, the emphasis being on a community that is friendly to all. Practical suggestions, which will benefit both the physically and mentally impaired, are made to enable full inclusion. Also in this section is a suggested form of worship and a simple weekday service of celebration. Finally, in a chapter entitled 'Safe enough to play' the writer discusses types of abuse and the required response should there be evidence of this.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWritten from a Christian perspective, this book is both informative and challenging. It evidences great skill in dealing with complex concepts clearly and comprehensibly, and is a resource which should be on the bookshelves of all clergy and those involved with pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Thelma Shacklady\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder, June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 'Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia, Joanna Collicutt writes as a priest in the Church of England and as a clinical neuropsychologist. This book is an excellent introduction to the subject of dementia and a very practical spiritual resource for churches. An easy to understand, medical approach to dementia is outlined at the beginning.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found Joanna's analogy of an airing cupboard to describe the experience of dementia very useful. Newly-weds are given household linen and these items are neatly and carefully stored on the bottom shelf of the airing cupboard. As the years go by, easy-care sheets are placed on top of these -- then underpants and socks are thrown on top. As long as the door opens easily, all is well and items can be retrieved. But what if the door slowly closes? You now reach in through a narrowing gap to find what you need; it will be much easier to access the orderly folded linen at the bottom and it will be pure luck if you find a sock.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn the same way, a person living with dementia will find that memories which are deeply embedded and laid down in an orderly fashion are easiest to access. Joanna makes a distinction between explicit memories and implicit ones: an example of an implicit memory would be a hymn you do not recognise until the music starts and you find you know it. A person with dementia might not remember a visit from a relative or friend (explicit memory), but may be aware of kindness and touch (implicit memory). God holds us in mind, as the father of the prodigal son holds his absent son in mind. Although his son is in a distant land he is never forgotten.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found the most moving part of the book in the author's reminder about Easter in relation to dementia. On Good Friday Jesus is stripped of his capacities and on Holy Saturday he descends into the underworld to be with those forgotten by the world -- a profound solidarity. Joanna sees the calling of the churches to 'pick up the stitches which have been dropped'. There is practical advice on how to be with a person with dementia: we may allow a person their feelings of joy and despair, which can be incredibly intense.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, we need to cultivate 'an attitude of mindfulness to what we most fear'. Simple training is on offer to become a 'dementia friend'. Practical suggestions are offered, such as printing out Bible readings in large script, using traditional words to hymns and offering lifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book easy to read and digest. It would make excellent material for house groups and I think it would be good for every Methodist church to have a copy!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain, Sobell House Hospice, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia
£9.99
This book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted...
{"id":2439775682660,"title":"Being Messy, Being Church: Exploring the direction of travel for today's church","handle":"being-messy-being-church-exploring-the-direction-of-travel-for-todays-church","description":"\u003cp\u003eA series of essays by different contributors exploring what Messy Church brings to the wider church, how these different forms of church community can coexist, and what this might mean for the future of the church. Questions addressed include: What will church look like in 20 years' time? How can Messy Church help Christians unite a passion for mission with a heart for ministry? What can Messy Church and Sunday Church learn from each other?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: a church for all generations - \u003cem\u003eIan Paul\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eMESSY DEVELOPMENTS\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church in different contexts - \u003cem\u003eKaren Rooms\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy teamwork: developing the faith of team members - \u003cem\u003eIsabelle Hamley\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy challenges: dangers and pitfalls - \u003cem\u003eGreg Ross\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMaking sacred spaces in Messy Church - \u003cem\u003eJean Pienaar\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and the sacraments - \u003cem\u003ePhilip North\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eMESSY IMPLICATIONS\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church in a postmodern world - \u003cem\u003eSabrina Mller\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and Sunday church in conversation - \u003cem\u003eMark Rylands\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and play - \u003cem\u003eJudyth Roberts\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe pastoral implications of Messy Church - \u003cem\u003eIrene Smale\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and evangelism - \u003cem\u003eTim Sanderson\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and the challenge of making disciples - \u003cem\u003eStephen Kuhrt\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMissional structures for missional outcomes - \u003cem\u003eTim Dakin\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nA timely book offering theological insight and asking probing questions into the creativity, mess and gift of an extraordinary phenomenon. A challenging and inspiring read for those leading, helping or simply wanting to understand more.\r\n+Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Ian Paul is Managing Editor at Grove Books and Director of Partnership Development at St John's College, Nottingham, where he also teaches New Testament and hermeneutics.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Father Richard Peers on his blog \u003ca title=\"educationpriest.wordpress.com\" href=\"https:\/\/educationpriest.wordpress.com\" rel=\"external\"\u003eeducationpriest.wordpress.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e...I will be buying copies of Being Messy, Being Church for all my colleagues in the education team in Liverpool and recommending it to everyone who is committed to our schools contributing to Bigger Church, Bigger Difference. It is - in that over used phrase - essential reading if we are to grow as a church...\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTo read the whole review \u003ca title=\"Being Messy, Being Church (editor Ian Paul): a resource for schools and Catholic Anglicans\" href=\"https:\/\/educationpriest.wordpress.com\/2017\/04\/22\/being-messy-being-church-editor-ian-paul-a-resource-for-schools-and-catholic-anglicans\/\" rel=\"external\"\u003eclick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 7 July 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a collection of essays in which the authors explore what Messy Church brings to the wider Church, how it is changing and growing, and which questions remain as it takes its place as an established form of modern Christian worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe question that arises most commonly for the authors is expressed succinctly by Mark Rylands. He speaks of the expectation that Messy Church congregations have 'stepped into the rubber dinghy but won't properly be on the voyage until they have boards the Sunday church ship'. The essayists, in different ways, challenge this assumption. In doing so, they address the fundamental questions what church is and what it is for.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJean Pienaar's chapter 'Making sacred space in messy churches' is particularly interesting in the comparison it makes between the different types of sacred space in a monastery and in a messy church setting. She explores the way in which Messy Church, instead of being at the periphery of church, reflects in its format the core values and purpose of worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf Pienaar speaks of the way in which Messy Church is deeper than it first appears, Dr Irene Smale adds that its influence is wider than is often thought. She speaks of relationships and pastoral contacts that go far wider than the monthly meetings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe essayists are brave and unflinching in their enquiries of Messy Church, and dare to ask questions that we often fail to ask of traditional church. Does Messy Church make disciples? How do we support those for whom Messy Church doesn't 'work'? Is it too messy, too expensive, not engaging enough for boys?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOne criticism that could be levied at this books is that there are more questions that answers. On the whole, I think that is a good sign. The essayists, all Messy Church enthusiasts, are not overkeen to leap to its defence in the face of difficult issues. When necessary, they allow the questions to hang in the air in a way that is appropriately messy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eKaren Rooms thanks Lucy Moore for 'giving away Messy Church', so that it can be adapted and contextualised for each parish. I finished the book excited about where Messy Church would go next, and its potential to play a leading part in the Church in the years ahead.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Catherine Pickford, Team Rector, Benwell Team, Newcastle-upon-Tyne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:29:55+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:11+00:00","vendor":"Ian Paul","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Mar-17","Messy Church books"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769408774244,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464880","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436710903908,"product_id":2439775682660,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:11+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:55+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155","variant_ids":[21769408774244]},"available":false,"name":"Being Messy, Being Church: Exploring the direction of travel for today's church - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":231,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464880","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877692043,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877692043,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464880-l.jpg?v=1549043155","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eA series of essays by different contributors exploring what Messy Church brings to the wider church, how these different forms of church community can coexist, and what this might mean for the future of the church. Questions addressed include: What will church look like in 20 years' time? How can Messy Church help Christians unite a passion for mission with a heart for ministry? What can Messy Church and Sunday Church learn from each other?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: a church for all generations - \u003cem\u003eIan Paul\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eMESSY DEVELOPMENTS\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church in different contexts - \u003cem\u003eKaren Rooms\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy teamwork: developing the faith of team members - \u003cem\u003eIsabelle Hamley\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy challenges: dangers and pitfalls - \u003cem\u003eGreg Ross\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMaking sacred spaces in Messy Church - \u003cem\u003eJean Pienaar\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and the sacraments - \u003cem\u003ePhilip North\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eMESSY IMPLICATIONS\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church in a postmodern world - \u003cem\u003eSabrina Mller\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and Sunday church in conversation - \u003cem\u003eMark Rylands\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and play - \u003cem\u003eJudyth Roberts\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe pastoral implications of Messy Church - \u003cem\u003eIrene Smale\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and evangelism - \u003cem\u003eTim Sanderson\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMessy Church and the challenge of making disciples - \u003cem\u003eStephen Kuhrt\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMissional structures for missional outcomes - \u003cem\u003eTim Dakin\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nA timely book offering theological insight and asking probing questions into the creativity, mess and gift of an extraordinary phenomenon. A challenging and inspiring read for those leading, helping or simply wanting to understand more.\r\n+Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Ian Paul is Managing Editor at Grove Books and Director of Partnership Development at St John's College, Nottingham, where he also teaches New Testament and hermeneutics.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Father Richard Peers on his blog \u003ca title=\"educationpriest.wordpress.com\" href=\"https:\/\/educationpriest.wordpress.com\" rel=\"external\"\u003eeducationpriest.wordpress.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e...I will be buying copies of Being Messy, Being Church for all my colleagues in the education team in Liverpool and recommending it to everyone who is committed to our schools contributing to Bigger Church, Bigger Difference. It is - in that over used phrase - essential reading if we are to grow as a church...\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTo read the whole review \u003ca title=\"Being Messy, Being Church (editor Ian Paul): a resource for schools and Catholic Anglicans\" href=\"https:\/\/educationpriest.wordpress.com\/2017\/04\/22\/being-messy-being-church-editor-ian-paul-a-resource-for-schools-and-catholic-anglicans\/\" rel=\"external\"\u003eclick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 7 July 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a collection of essays in which the authors explore what Messy Church brings to the wider Church, how it is changing and growing, and which questions remain as it takes its place as an established form of modern Christian worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe question that arises most commonly for the authors is expressed succinctly by Mark Rylands. He speaks of the expectation that Messy Church congregations have 'stepped into the rubber dinghy but won't properly be on the voyage until they have boards the Sunday church ship'. The essayists, in different ways, challenge this assumption. In doing so, they address the fundamental questions what church is and what it is for.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJean Pienaar's chapter 'Making sacred space in messy churches' is particularly interesting in the comparison it makes between the different types of sacred space in a monastery and in a messy church setting. She explores the way in which Messy Church, instead of being at the periphery of church, reflects in its format the core values and purpose of worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf Pienaar speaks of the way in which Messy Church is deeper than it first appears, Dr Irene Smale adds that its influence is wider than is often thought. She speaks of relationships and pastoral contacts that go far wider than the monthly meetings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe essayists are brave and unflinching in their enquiries of Messy Church, and dare to ask questions that we often fail to ask of traditional church. Does Messy Church make disciples? How do we support those for whom Messy Church doesn't 'work'? Is it too messy, too expensive, not engaging enough for boys?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOne criticism that could be levied at this books is that there are more questions that answers. On the whole, I think that is a good sign. The essayists, all Messy Church enthusiasts, are not overkeen to leap to its defence in the face of difficult issues. When necessary, they allow the questions to hang in the air in a way that is appropriately messy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eKaren Rooms thanks Lucy Moore for 'giving away Messy Church', so that it can be adapted and contextualised for each parish. I finished the book excited about where Messy Church would go next, and its potential to play a leading part in the Church in the years ahead.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Catherine Pickford, Team Rector, Benwell Team, Newcastle-upon-Tyne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2439772897380,"title":"God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help","handle":"gods-belongers-how-people-engage-with-god-today-and-how-the-church-can-help","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with a four-fold model of belonging. Based in extensive practical research, David Walker shows how 'belonging' can encompass a far wider group of people than those who attend weekly services. He examines belonging through relationship, through place and through events, as well as the traditional belonging through activities. He goes on to explore the opportunities for mission that emerge as a result - while also acknowledging the challenges posed for issues such as church financing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: an aid for mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: How we belong\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Belonging: a theological concept\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Reliably regular: belonging through church activities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 People power: belonging through relationships\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Only the once: belonging through events\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Location, location: belonging through place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 The mystery of the missing vicar: an example of belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Belonging for mission\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 What's the difference? Understanding occasional churchgoers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Together in mission: the Five Marks of Mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Paying the piper: what has become of Anglican governance and finance?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Who else is missing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Types and temperaments: what is Psychological Type?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Models for motivation: exploring the world of Religious Orientation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Never on Sunday: the opportunities and challenges of Sunday worship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eForeword\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhenever the church gets to talking about numbers, sooner or later someone will protest that it is not all about bums on seats, is it? Well, yes and no. As this readable and insightful book from David Walker makes clear, belonging cannot simply be measured by your attendance record. There are multiple ways of belonging to any organisation or community, and especially the church. But if instead of 'bums on seats' the church talked about 'hearts being changed' or 'lives being transformed', and once we realise that there can be no impact in our local communities and wider society unless there are at least some people who not only belong, but whose belonging shapes and directs the whole of their lives, i.e. their hearts are being changed and their lives are being transformed, then we begin to see that understanding how people belong and ministering to people in their different ways of belonging is something worth thinking about. This book will help you.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" width=\"219\" height=\"269\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\nAfter a Maths degree at Cambridge, David Walker trained in theology in Birmingham. He served in churches in the dioceses of Sheffield before becoming Bishop of Dudley in 2000 and then in 2013 Bishop of Manchester. He is involved in writing a continuing series of papers for peer review journals and the International Society of Empirical Research in Theology, using quantitative methods to analyse aspects of rural Anglicanism. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Rural Theology Association, the Church of England Ministry Council and one of the Church Commissioners for England. He has contributed chapters to a number of books including Changing Rural Life: A Christian response to key rural issues (Canterbury Press, 2004), Rural Life and Rural Church: theological and empirical perspectives (Equinox, 2012), Exploring Ordinary Theology: everyday Christian believing and the Church (Ashgate, 2013). He has written papers for (amongst other journals) Rural Theology, the Journal of Beliefs \u0026amp; Values and the Journal of Anglican Studies. In 2014 he was awarded a PhD from the University of Warwick for the studies on which this book will be based.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this challenging book David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, argues that people belong to their community and to church in different ways. Some belong through activities and are often regular churchgoers and office holders in the church, the sort of person everyone knows and likes. This person helps others to relate to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 'God's Belongers' these ways of belonging are offered as a framework within which we might consider how to shape and focus the mission of the church beyond 'people like us.' So often mission is based around the things that those already in the church are comfortable with. Walker challenges us to look at how we can do things differently so that other ways of belonging can be welcomed and accommodated, and people can grow in faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this book encourages us to look seriously at those not like us so that we can welcome them. It also challenges us to learn from others because 'the evidence we've found of a rich and complex pattern of belonging challenges the often implicit assumption that occasional church goers are 'nominal' Christians'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile 'God's Belongers' inevitably reflects Bishop David's Anglican perspective, his insights are more widely applicable are easy to translate for other denominational contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018). Review by Janice Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important research based examination of how people belong to church. Based on two surveys taken in 2007 and 2009 in the Dioceses of Worcester and Lichfield, Walker outlines four ways - through people, places, one-off events and regular activities - that people belong to the Church. The samples were taken at rural harvest services and Christmas carol services and show information about the attitudes or regular churchgoers to those who attend occasionally. Walker argues that people, places or one-off events are co-workers with regular attendees and not objects of mission. He also asks whether it is possible to be a good Christian and not go to church very often. 'God's Belongers' is full of important questions and issues for PCCs, ministry teams and others to consider. It challenges stereotypes of the 'not-often-there' church attendees and deserves wide and careful consideration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Janice Price\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:59+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:01+00:00","vendor":"David Walker","type":"Paperback","tags":["Church life","KCLC","Kindle","Leadership","Mission","Torch Trust"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769369256036,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464675","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436693766244,"product_id":2439772897380,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:01+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:57+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157","variant_ids":[21769369256036]},"available":true,"name":"God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464675","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877495435,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/59_d53f0ad3-f934-490f-84ef-26363311753e.png?v=1734095680"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877495435,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464675-l.jpg?v=1549043157","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63560964866428,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/59_d53f0ad3-f934-490f-84ef-26363311753e.png?v=1734095680"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/59_d53f0ad3-f934-490f-84ef-26363311753e.png?v=1734095680","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with a four-fold model of belonging. Based in extensive practical research, David Walker shows how 'belonging' can encompass a far wider group of people than those who attend weekly services. He examines belonging through relationship, through place and through events, as well as the traditional belonging through activities. He goes on to explore the opportunities for mission that emerge as a result - while also acknowledging the challenges posed for issues such as church financing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: an aid for mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: How we belong\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Belonging: a theological concept\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Reliably regular: belonging through church activities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 People power: belonging through relationships\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Only the once: belonging through events\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Location, location: belonging through place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 The mystery of the missing vicar: an example of belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Belonging for mission\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 What's the difference? Understanding occasional churchgoers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Together in mission: the Five Marks of Mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Paying the piper: what has become of Anglican governance and finance?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Who else is missing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Types and temperaments: what is Psychological Type?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Models for motivation: exploring the world of Religious Orientation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Never on Sunday: the opportunities and challenges of Sunday worship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eForeword\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhenever the church gets to talking about numbers, sooner or later someone will protest that it is not all about bums on seats, is it? Well, yes and no. As this readable and insightful book from David Walker makes clear, belonging cannot simply be measured by your attendance record. There are multiple ways of belonging to any organisation or community, and especially the church. But if instead of 'bums on seats' the church talked about 'hearts being changed' or 'lives being transformed', and once we realise that there can be no impact in our local communities and wider society unless there are at least some people who not only belong, but whose belonging shapes and directs the whole of their lives, i.e. their hearts are being changed and their lives are being transformed, then we begin to see that understanding how people belong and ministering to people in their different ways of belonging is something worth thinking about. This book will help you.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" width=\"219\" height=\"269\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\nAfter a Maths degree at Cambridge, David Walker trained in theology in Birmingham. He served in churches in the dioceses of Sheffield before becoming Bishop of Dudley in 2000 and then in 2013 Bishop of Manchester. He is involved in writing a continuing series of papers for peer review journals and the International Society of Empirical Research in Theology, using quantitative methods to analyse aspects of rural Anglicanism. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Rural Theology Association, the Church of England Ministry Council and one of the Church Commissioners for England. He has contributed chapters to a number of books including Changing Rural Life: A Christian response to key rural issues (Canterbury Press, 2004), Rural Life and Rural Church: theological and empirical perspectives (Equinox, 2012), Exploring Ordinary Theology: everyday Christian believing and the Church (Ashgate, 2013). He has written papers for (amongst other journals) Rural Theology, the Journal of Beliefs \u0026amp; Values and the Journal of Anglican Studies. In 2014 he was awarded a PhD from the University of Warwick for the studies on which this book will be based.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this challenging book David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, argues that people belong to their community and to church in different ways. Some belong through activities and are often regular churchgoers and office holders in the church, the sort of person everyone knows and likes. This person helps others to relate to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 'God's Belongers' these ways of belonging are offered as a framework within which we might consider how to shape and focus the mission of the church beyond 'people like us.' So often mission is based around the things that those already in the church are comfortable with. Walker challenges us to look at how we can do things differently so that other ways of belonging can be welcomed and accommodated, and people can grow in faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this book encourages us to look seriously at those not like us so that we can welcome them. It also challenges us to learn from others because 'the evidence we've found of a rich and complex pattern of belonging challenges the often implicit assumption that occasional church goers are 'nominal' Christians'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile 'God's Belongers' inevitably reflects Bishop David's Anglican perspective, his insights are more widely applicable are easy to translate for other denominational contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018). Review by Janice Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important research based examination of how people belong to church. Based on two surveys taken in 2007 and 2009 in the Dioceses of Worcester and Lichfield, Walker outlines four ways - through people, places, one-off events and regular activities - that people belong to the Church. The samples were taken at rural harvest services and Christmas carol services and show information about the attitudes or regular churchgoers to those who attend occasionally. Walker argues that people, places or one-off events are co-workers with regular attendees and not objects of mission. He also asks whether it is possible to be a good Christian and not go to church very often. 'God's Belongers' is full of important questions and issues for PCCs, ministry teams and others to consider. It challenges stereotypes of the 'not-often-there' church attendees and deserves wide and careful consideration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Janice Price\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help
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This book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with a four-fold model of...
{"id":2439772504164,"title":"Reproducing Churches","handle":"reproducing-churches","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book investigates the theological basis for church planting and creating fresh expressions of church. Based on extensive research, senior church planting authority George Lings argues that the church has a divine calling and capacity to reproduce, albeit in ways that are intentionally non-identical. Using the doctrine of the Trinity, as well as key passages throughout scripture, he shows how such reproduction fulfills the mission of God. The book also includes many practical examples drawn from church history, to help apply the message to congregations today.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: why this book?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e1 Different lenses, different views of the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e2 Creation and covenant's mandate to reproduce\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e3 The reproductive strand in the kingdom and the Gospels\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 The Trinity and the Church seen as community-in-mission\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 Looking to Jesus the pioneer\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 Following Jesus in dying to live\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e7 The Holy Spirit and the surprises in reproduction\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e8 Christendom's eclipse of a reproducing Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e9 Reproduction and the classic 'four marks' of the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e10 The useful outworking of the reproductive strand\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e11 Rehabilitating the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nGeorge Lings heads up Church Army's Research Unit, which for 20 years has been at work discerning the evolving mission of the church and the resultant fresh expressions of church. He has written over 50 booklets on the evolving theory and practice of bringing to birth fresh expressions of church, through the Encounters On The Edge series, which had an international subscription base of 500. Moreover the content of his book proposal has been peer-tested for academic rigour for it rests upon the findings of a recent PhD.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:26:28+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:59+00:00","vendor":"George Lings","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Leadership","Mission"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769363980388,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464644","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436691406948,"product_id":2439772504164,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:59+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:58+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158","variant_ids":[21769363980388]},"available":false,"name":"Reproducing Churches - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":263,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464644","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877462667,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877462667,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464644-l.jpg?v=1549043158","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book investigates the theological basis for church planting and creating fresh expressions of church. Based on extensive research, senior church planting authority George Lings argues that the church has a divine calling and capacity to reproduce, albeit in ways that are intentionally non-identical. Using the doctrine of the Trinity, as well as key passages throughout scripture, he shows how such reproduction fulfills the mission of God. The book also includes many practical examples drawn from church history, to help apply the message to congregations today.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: why this book?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e1 Different lenses, different views of the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e2 Creation and covenant's mandate to reproduce\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e3 The reproductive strand in the kingdom and the Gospels\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e4 The Trinity and the Church seen as community-in-mission\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5 Looking to Jesus the pioneer\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e6 Following Jesus in dying to live\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e7 The Holy Spirit and the surprises in reproduction\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e8 Christendom's eclipse of a reproducing Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e9 Reproduction and the classic 'four marks' of the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e10 The useful outworking of the reproductive strand\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e11 Rehabilitating the Church\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nGeorge Lings heads up Church Army's Research Unit, which for 20 years has been at work discerning the evolving mission of the church and the resultant fresh expressions of church. He has written over 50 booklets on the evolving theory and practice of bringing to birth fresh expressions of church, through the Encounters On The Edge series, which had an international subscription base of 500. Moreover the content of his book proposal has been peer-tested for academic rigour for it rests upon the findings of a recent PhD.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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This book investigates the theological basis for church planting and creating fresh expressions of church. Based on extensive research, senior...
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{"id":2439767851108,"title":"The Recovery of Hope: Bible reflections for sensing God's presence and hearing God's call","handle":"the-recovery-of-hope-bible-reflections-for-sensing-gods-presence-and-hearing-gods-call","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe live in the hope of experiencing first-hand the all-sufficient grace, love and forgiveness which is God's alone, a hope that we may know with our heads long before we feel it in our hearts. This book is centred on a hope that means encountering God not only as consoling presence in the darkness but as one who challenges us to respond to his call. That call may prove to be costly, but as we respond, we will find ourselves transformed as we discover and rediscover not only that we are known exactly as we are, but loved beyond understanding as God's precious children.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n \r\n\u003cp\u003eIn a series of Bible reflections - and some poems - the theme of this hope is explored in different ways, from the yearning of the Psalmist to walking the gentle journey of the Good Shepherd's leading. \r\n\u003c\/p\u003e \n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNaomi Starkey is a full-time ordained minister in the Church in Wales, living on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales. From 1997 - 2015 she was a commissioning editor for BRF as well as editing New Daylight and Quiet Spaces over a number of years. She has also written The Recovery of Love, Pilgrims to the Manger and Good Enough Mother for BRF.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24 March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNAOMI STARKEY's \u003cem\u003eThe Recovery of Hope\u003c\/em\u003e cobbles together 103 wide ranging Bible reading notes, all with hope in common, originally published in sundry editions of BRF's New Daylight . A mature writer with a sure touch, her soign commentary on any biblical text never exceeds 300 words, and her balanced hermeneutic is well resourced and sparky.\u003cbr\u003eHer book includes four beautifully crafted poems, with all her writing having the high quality of a prose poem. She is never afraid to be hard-hitting, with comments such as 'Unlimited power carries with it unlimited responsibility rather than unlimited veniality,'and 'Leaders should care for their flock rather than simply grandstand on issues.' I will try to grandstand less and care more!\u003cbr\u003eThe three sub-themes, 'Coping with Darkness', 'Challenged to Journey', and 'In Resurrection Light', boldly take us into some unusual territory. There are 14 studies on 2 Kings 13-17, 14 on Stephen's speech in Acts, and 12 on the latter chapters of Mark (including the shorter and longer endings); a further seven studies are offered on Psalm 37, Jonah, and Ezekiel. Themes on 'The Absence of God', 'Gardens and God', and 'Holy Fire' draw material from across the scriptures. Starkey is the most pleasant of fellow travellers throughout, a sheer joy to be with. She draws examples from her ministerial context in glorious North Wales, seasoning the text with the occasional Welsh word - can it get any better than this?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne; Assistant Bishop of Llandaff.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eDiocese of Bangor News February 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the psalms and prophets of the Old Testament to the gospels and epistles of the New Testament, chapters are opened up to draw us to read more deeply. Naomi presents each section with an introduction and then taking a few verses at a time explores at greater depth the meaning behind the words. This is not offered as a commentary but in a way that draws the reader into the passage being read, and how that may be 'read' within our own lives. Hope is important for every person, and here, through the ups and downs of the biblical stories, we can find again the hope that is given to us in God. Naomi writes very simply, but is not simplistic. She encourages further reading and offers plenty of thought provoking questions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone who enjoys an Advent or Lent book and feels bereft through the rest of the year, will find much in this book to help fill that gap.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI enjoyed reading Naomi's book, and found plenty within its pages which made me stop, think and pray.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanet Fletcher \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Bangor Spirituality Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCambrian News; 11 February 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJULIE MCNICHOLLS VALE follows cleric-in-training Naomi Starkey's journey from the Channel Islands to the Llyn Peninsula and her beliefs through her book...\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor the last eight months, cleric-in-training Naomi Starkey has made Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula her home.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eA full-time ordained minister in the Church in Wales, Naomi works in the Bro Enlli Ministry area, which covers the south-west coast of the Llyn Peninsula and takes in six churches, including St Hywyn, Aberdaron;St Pedrog, Llanbedrog and St Cian, Llangian.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAberdaron is undoubtedly beautiful, but far from her previous home, near Llanidloes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnd becoming a full-time member of the ministry also seems far removed from her previous work in publishing, but the 50-year-old mother-of-three knew the time was right to make the move to Gwynedd, and to the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e'I had a strong sense that it was time to move from publishing - a field I had worked in for 21 years - to full-time church work and there was a job in Aberdaron that I felt was right for me.The area of publishing I worked in was related in a way, as I had been editor of the BRF (Bible Reading Fellowship) for many years, but that's not the same as leading services and getting out there meeting people.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi started working for the church as a part-time cleric in Machnylleth and the surrounding villages. Then a cleric-in-training post came up in Gwynedd and Naomi made the move in June 2015. Also that month, Naomi was ordained as a priest in Bangor. She was previously ordained as a deacon in June 2014.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi says it wasn't her childhood dream to become a priest - indeed, it wasn't possible for women to do so at the time - but there had always been a leaning towards the church, as she explained. 'According to me mother I used to line up my teddies and give church services to them like my father, who was a vicar.But I never thought of becoming a vicar myself. I didn't think I could as a woman because women couldn't be ordained at the time. But my mother reminded me that I used to do this when I was about five years old, so I guess there's always been something there.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi was raised on the Channel Islands, and believes growing up there has helped her to fall in love with Aberdaron. 'My father was a vicar on the Channel Islands, on Jersey, and there are so many similarities to the Llyn,' Naomi said. 'It's almost like being on an island here in Aberdaron and there is some bilingualism, as there is on Jersey. There is also a lot of farming, tourism and of course, beautiful beaches.' As a cleric in training, Naomi says she is happy to be learning more about the church, and about the Llyn, and would like to stay in the area if possible. 'It depends if work is available but I have been learning Welsh for six years and I lead services and preach in Welsh, so I would definitely like to be able to use the language in a future post. And Aberdaron is lovely, as is the Llyn. I love the beaches on the Llyn in particular, and the mountains. It feels such a privilege to live somewhere that people want to go to on their holidays.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as working for the Bro Enlli Ministry and exploring the Llyn, Naomi has also just released her fourth book. \u003cem\u003eThe Recovery of Hope\u003c\/em\u003e contains a series of Bible passages, along with reflections on them and some poems written by Naomi. The theme of hope is explored throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e'Even if people are not fully paid-up members of the church, there is a lot in the Bible that can give comfort, especially in dark times,' said Naomi. 'In the book there are readings and words to encourage, and to help, even if you don't believe what those words imply. Even if you are not a Christian, the Bible is still full of wisdom and that can be helpful.' She went on: 'In the 1960s there was a sense that science would prove everything and religion was for the elderly or the weak. Now I think people are more spiritual. There's mindfulness and gratitude, and faith. There's a lot in the Bible that's hard to understand and to wrestle with and that needs reflection and interpretation. Through the book, and my work, I share what I know. I won't tell you what to believe in, but I will start a conversation. I hope that, for those who already read the Bible and go to church, this book might give them access to lesser-known parts they may not have read before. For others, I think, and I hope, that this book is a gentle way in.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:37:29+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:42+00:00","vendor":"Naomi Starkey","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Pastoral care","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769287663716,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464170","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436664242276,"product_id":2439767851108,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:42+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:01+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161","variant_ids":[21769287663716]},"available":false,"name":"The Recovery of Hope: Bible reflections for sensing God's presence and hearing God's call - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":280,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464170","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877134987,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877134987,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464170-l.jpg?v=1549043161","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWe live in the hope of experiencing first-hand the all-sufficient grace, love and forgiveness which is God's alone, a hope that we may know with our heads long before we feel it in our hearts. This book is centred on a hope that means encountering God not only as consoling presence in the darkness but as one who challenges us to respond to his call. That call may prove to be costly, but as we respond, we will find ourselves transformed as we discover and rediscover not only that we are known exactly as we are, but loved beyond understanding as God's precious children.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n \r\n\u003cp\u003eIn a series of Bible reflections - and some poems - the theme of this hope is explored in different ways, from the yearning of the Psalmist to walking the gentle journey of the Good Shepherd's leading. \r\n\u003c\/p\u003e \n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNaomi Starkey is a full-time ordained minister in the Church in Wales, living on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales. From 1997 - 2015 she was a commissioning editor for BRF as well as editing New Daylight and Quiet Spaces over a number of years. She has also written The Recovery of Love, Pilgrims to the Manger and Good Enough Mother for BRF.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24 March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNAOMI STARKEY's \u003cem\u003eThe Recovery of Hope\u003c\/em\u003e cobbles together 103 wide ranging Bible reading notes, all with hope in common, originally published in sundry editions of BRF's New Daylight . A mature writer with a sure touch, her soign commentary on any biblical text never exceeds 300 words, and her balanced hermeneutic is well resourced and sparky.\u003cbr\u003eHer book includes four beautifully crafted poems, with all her writing having the high quality of a prose poem. She is never afraid to be hard-hitting, with comments such as 'Unlimited power carries with it unlimited responsibility rather than unlimited veniality,'and 'Leaders should care for their flock rather than simply grandstand on issues.' I will try to grandstand less and care more!\u003cbr\u003eThe three sub-themes, 'Coping with Darkness', 'Challenged to Journey', and 'In Resurrection Light', boldly take us into some unusual territory. There are 14 studies on 2 Kings 13-17, 14 on Stephen's speech in Acts, and 12 on the latter chapters of Mark (including the shorter and longer endings); a further seven studies are offered on Psalm 37, Jonah, and Ezekiel. Themes on 'The Absence of God', 'Gardens and God', and 'Holy Fire' draw material from across the scriptures. Starkey is the most pleasant of fellow travellers throughout, a sheer joy to be with. She draws examples from her ministerial context in glorious North Wales, seasoning the text with the occasional Welsh word - can it get any better than this?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne; Assistant Bishop of Llandaff.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eDiocese of Bangor News February 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the psalms and prophets of the Old Testament to the gospels and epistles of the New Testament, chapters are opened up to draw us to read more deeply. Naomi presents each section with an introduction and then taking a few verses at a time explores at greater depth the meaning behind the words. This is not offered as a commentary but in a way that draws the reader into the passage being read, and how that may be 'read' within our own lives. Hope is important for every person, and here, through the ups and downs of the biblical stories, we can find again the hope that is given to us in God. Naomi writes very simply, but is not simplistic. She encourages further reading and offers plenty of thought provoking questions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone who enjoys an Advent or Lent book and feels bereft through the rest of the year, will find much in this book to help fill that gap.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI enjoyed reading Naomi's book, and found plenty within its pages which made me stop, think and pray.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanet Fletcher \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Bangor Spirituality Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCambrian News; 11 February 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJULIE MCNICHOLLS VALE follows cleric-in-training Naomi Starkey's journey from the Channel Islands to the Llyn Peninsula and her beliefs through her book...\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor the last eight months, cleric-in-training Naomi Starkey has made Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula her home.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eA full-time ordained minister in the Church in Wales, Naomi works in the Bro Enlli Ministry area, which covers the south-west coast of the Llyn Peninsula and takes in six churches, including St Hywyn, Aberdaron;St Pedrog, Llanbedrog and St Cian, Llangian.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAberdaron is undoubtedly beautiful, but far from her previous home, near Llanidloes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnd becoming a full-time member of the ministry also seems far removed from her previous work in publishing, but the 50-year-old mother-of-three knew the time was right to make the move to Gwynedd, and to the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e'I had a strong sense that it was time to move from publishing - a field I had worked in for 21 years - to full-time church work and there was a job in Aberdaron that I felt was right for me.The area of publishing I worked in was related in a way, as I had been editor of the BRF (Bible Reading Fellowship) for many years, but that's not the same as leading services and getting out there meeting people.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi started working for the church as a part-time cleric in Machnylleth and the surrounding villages. Then a cleric-in-training post came up in Gwynedd and Naomi made the move in June 2015. Also that month, Naomi was ordained as a priest in Bangor. She was previously ordained as a deacon in June 2014.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi says it wasn't her childhood dream to become a priest - indeed, it wasn't possible for women to do so at the time - but there had always been a leaning towards the church, as she explained. 'According to me mother I used to line up my teddies and give church services to them like my father, who was a vicar.But I never thought of becoming a vicar myself. I didn't think I could as a woman because women couldn't be ordained at the time. But my mother reminded me that I used to do this when I was about five years old, so I guess there's always been something there.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi was raised on the Channel Islands, and believes growing up there has helped her to fall in love with Aberdaron. 'My father was a vicar on the Channel Islands, on Jersey, and there are so many similarities to the Llyn,' Naomi said. 'It's almost like being on an island here in Aberdaron and there is some bilingualism, as there is on Jersey. There is also a lot of farming, tourism and of course, beautiful beaches.' As a cleric in training, Naomi says she is happy to be learning more about the church, and about the Llyn, and would like to stay in the area if possible. 'It depends if work is available but I have been learning Welsh for six years and I lead services and preach in Welsh, so I would definitely like to be able to use the language in a future post. And Aberdaron is lovely, as is the Llyn. I love the beaches on the Llyn in particular, and the mountains. It feels such a privilege to live somewhere that people want to go to on their holidays.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as working for the Bro Enlli Ministry and exploring the Llyn, Naomi has also just released her fourth book. \u003cem\u003eThe Recovery of Hope\u003c\/em\u003e contains a series of Bible passages, along with reflections on them and some poems written by Naomi. The theme of hope is explored throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e'Even if people are not fully paid-up members of the church, there is a lot in the Bible that can give comfort, especially in dark times,' said Naomi. 'In the book there are readings and words to encourage, and to help, even if you don't believe what those words imply. Even if you are not a Christian, the Bible is still full of wisdom and that can be helpful.' She went on: 'In the 1960s there was a sense that science would prove everything and religion was for the elderly or the weak. Now I think people are more spiritual. There's mindfulness and gratitude, and faith. There's a lot in the Bible that's hard to understand and to wrestle with and that needs reflection and interpretation. Through the book, and my work, I share what I know. I won't tell you what to believe in, but I will start a conversation. I hope that, for those who already read the Bible and go to church, this book might give them access to lesser-known parts they may not have read before. For others, I think, and I hope, that this book is a gentle way in.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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{"id":2439758774372,"title":"Dust and Glory: Daily Bible readings from Ash Wednesday to Easter Day","handle":"dust-and-glory-daily-bible-readings-from-ash-wednesday-to-easter-day","description":"\u003cp\u003eLent is one of the three forty-day 'seasons' in the Church's year, besides Advent and the period from Easter to Pentecost. The name itself, Lent, derives from an ancient word meaning 'spring' or 'long', referring to the time of year when days are beginning to lengthen and the world is turning from winter cold and dark to the warmth and promise of spring. During this time, the Church calls us to a special period of prayer, self-examination and teaching - and this book has been written to accompany you through that period, a time of turning from winter to spring, from death to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDust and Glory ranges across the whole business of living and believing, where the questions are as important as the answers, and may call us to deep heart-searching. The goal is always to draw us to authentic faith; a way of living and believing that is real and vulnerable, strong in knowing its limits, rooted in joy and wonder, blessed with the healing and merciful presence of God. Such faith acknowledges both the dust of our mortality and the glory that keeps breaking in with unexpected life, hope and new beginnings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of you will be familiar with David Runcorn's writing, and I am delighted to commend his new book Dust and Glory to accompany us on our journey through Lent. The path from Ash Wednesday to Easter day is one in which our frail humanity is met by God's immense love and grace. Questions continually rise within us and this book invites us to discover more of Self and God as we seek to live authentic lives as followers of Christ.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Right Reverend Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are looking for a companion for your journey through Lent this year, you can do no better than this book. Packed with gentle, rich and sustaining wisdom it really will provide deep nourishment as you journey onwards.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder, author and Theologian in Residence, Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Runcorn is a popular writer, speaker, teacher, retreat leader and spiritual guide. His books include The Spirituality Workbook - a guide for pilgrims, explorers and seekers and Fear and Trust - God-centred leadership. He lives in Gloucester where he is involved with the selection, training and support of people called to Christian ministry of all kinds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have read \u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e - a BRF publication - for a number of years and have enjoyed the daily dialogue, so much so, that I wanted to develop my reading experiences further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDust \u0026amp; Glory\u003c\/em\u003e by David Runcorn seemed a very appropriate book to follow during the lead up to Easter. BRF published the first few extracts separately and the immediate reaction was - terrific. This was different, it spoke to me and I warmed to it. Result was ordering a copy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe daily format for a specific date, the printed extract from the Bible, David's commentary and following prayer\/reflection all came together in a flowing manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I would say this book is aimed more at a group rather than an individual. The questions at the end of each week were useful stimulations for me, but I wonder how much I was getting out of it, or indeed understanding ? Of course, I attempted to answer the questions but was left wondering what other people might have said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere were also places where 'the going got tough' - Week 5 ? - where the philosophical ideas seemed to have dominated. It is a pity that I have waited until finishing the book before starting to write this review, but I did not wish to be too presumptuous in the early days of reading this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the idea of such a reader has increased my knowledge, and hopefully my understanding of \/ thinking through Biblical issues, as well as that personal contact with God. Consequently, I am ordering another book from BRF that covers the period from Easter to Pentecost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have enjoyed reading and walking with God \u0026amp; David Runcorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Johannes Buchanan \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom goodbookreviews.org.uk\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDust \u0026amp; Glory takes a wide ranging journey through the Bible in these 40 Lenten contemplations, and on that journey we really look at a wide range of questions that life puts before us and yet sometimes we don't stop to ponder on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format of the book starts with a lovely short Bible passage (short enough to be used as a lectio divina even for a busy person), and then a contemplation I'd call it rather than a commentary on the passage that looks at its context in our lives as much as its meaning, and rounds out with either a one line prayer, a 'for reflection' , or both! My favourite 'for reflection' consisted of... 'Yes!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is enough thought in these daily readings to last a day, but they can take only a couple of minutes to read if your life is very pressing on the time front... A very handy Lent book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Melanie Carroll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 15 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Runcorn in \u003cem\u003eDust and Glory\u003c\/em\u003e provides us with 47 easy-to-read but substantial biblical reflections, loosely based on six intriguing themes: Becoming who I am; Excitement; In the midst of life; Hidden and revealed; Habits, reflexes and responses; and The shadow of the Cross. He tackles a wide-ranging selection of biblical material with a sure touch, with a galaxy of incisive quotations and conclusions. One of those quotes, from C. S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is as apposite for Runcorn as it is for Aslan: 'Course he's not safe. But he's good.' Runcorn is very good indeed: a worthy companion for Lent and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch of England Newspaper 5 February 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDust and Glory\u003c\/em\u003e by David Runcorn offers a reading for each day of the six weeks of Lent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuncorn says this is a book to accompany the work of 'turning'-'the journey from death to life', with an emphasis on self-examination, rather than a 'how to' of living and believing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is easy to read, and offers reading and reflection in a none-too laborious way, with passages that could easily be read in a daily pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:52:36+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:10+00:00","vendor":"David Runcorn","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Lent"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769170845796,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857463579","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36764972875967,"product_id":2439758774372,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-08-30T15:39:03+01:00","updated_at":"2024-08-30T15:39:04+01:00","alt":null,"width":1535,"height":2339,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744","variant_ids":[21769170845796]},"available":false,"name":"Dust and Glory: Daily Bible readings from Ash Wednesday to Easter Day - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":129,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857463579","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29472352075967,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":29472352075967,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DustandGlory.jpg?v=1725028744","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eLent is one of the three forty-day 'seasons' in the Church's year, besides Advent and the period from Easter to Pentecost. The name itself, Lent, derives from an ancient word meaning 'spring' or 'long', referring to the time of year when days are beginning to lengthen and the world is turning from winter cold and dark to the warmth and promise of spring. During this time, the Church calls us to a special period of prayer, self-examination and teaching - and this book has been written to accompany you through that period, a time of turning from winter to spring, from death to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDust and Glory ranges across the whole business of living and believing, where the questions are as important as the answers, and may call us to deep heart-searching. The goal is always to draw us to authentic faith; a way of living and believing that is real and vulnerable, strong in knowing its limits, rooted in joy and wonder, blessed with the healing and merciful presence of God. Such faith acknowledges both the dust of our mortality and the glory that keeps breaking in with unexpected life, hope and new beginnings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of you will be familiar with David Runcorn's writing, and I am delighted to commend his new book Dust and Glory to accompany us on our journey through Lent. The path from Ash Wednesday to Easter day is one in which our frail humanity is met by God's immense love and grace. Questions continually rise within us and this book invites us to discover more of Self and God as we seek to live authentic lives as followers of Christ.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Right Reverend Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are looking for a companion for your journey through Lent this year, you can do no better than this book. Packed with gentle, rich and sustaining wisdom it really will provide deep nourishment as you journey onwards.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder, author and Theologian in Residence, Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Runcorn is a popular writer, speaker, teacher, retreat leader and spiritual guide. His books include The Spirituality Workbook - a guide for pilgrims, explorers and seekers and Fear and Trust - God-centred leadership. He lives in Gloucester where he is involved with the selection, training and support of people called to Christian ministry of all kinds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have read \u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e - a BRF publication - for a number of years and have enjoyed the daily dialogue, so much so, that I wanted to develop my reading experiences further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDust \u0026amp; Glory\u003c\/em\u003e by David Runcorn seemed a very appropriate book to follow during the lead up to Easter. BRF published the first few extracts separately and the immediate reaction was - terrific. This was different, it spoke to me and I warmed to it. Result was ordering a copy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe daily format for a specific date, the printed extract from the Bible, David's commentary and following prayer\/reflection all came together in a flowing manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I would say this book is aimed more at a group rather than an individual. The questions at the end of each week were useful stimulations for me, but I wonder how much I was getting out of it, or indeed understanding ? Of course, I attempted to answer the questions but was left wondering what other people might have said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere were also places where 'the going got tough' - Week 5 ? - where the philosophical ideas seemed to have dominated. It is a pity that I have waited until finishing the book before starting to write this review, but I did not wish to be too presumptuous in the early days of reading this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the idea of such a reader has increased my knowledge, and hopefully my understanding of \/ thinking through Biblical issues, as well as that personal contact with God. Consequently, I am ordering another book from BRF that covers the period from Easter to Pentecost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have enjoyed reading and walking with God \u0026amp; David Runcorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Johannes Buchanan \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom goodbookreviews.org.uk\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDust \u0026amp; Glory takes a wide ranging journey through the Bible in these 40 Lenten contemplations, and on that journey we really look at a wide range of questions that life puts before us and yet sometimes we don't stop to ponder on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format of the book starts with a lovely short Bible passage (short enough to be used as a lectio divina even for a busy person), and then a contemplation I'd call it rather than a commentary on the passage that looks at its context in our lives as much as its meaning, and rounds out with either a one line prayer, a 'for reflection' , or both! My favourite 'for reflection' consisted of... 'Yes!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is enough thought in these daily readings to last a day, but they can take only a couple of minutes to read if your life is very pressing on the time front... A very handy Lent book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Melanie Carroll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 15 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Runcorn in \u003cem\u003eDust and Glory\u003c\/em\u003e provides us with 47 easy-to-read but substantial biblical reflections, loosely based on six intriguing themes: Becoming who I am; Excitement; In the midst of life; Hidden and revealed; Habits, reflexes and responses; and The shadow of the Cross. He tackles a wide-ranging selection of biblical material with a sure touch, with a galaxy of incisive quotations and conclusions. One of those quotes, from C. S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is as apposite for Runcorn as it is for Aslan: 'Course he's not safe. But he's good.' Runcorn is very good indeed: a worthy companion for Lent and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch of England Newspaper 5 February 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDust and Glory\u003c\/em\u003e by David Runcorn offers a reading for each day of the six weeks of Lent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuncorn says this is a book to accompany the work of 'turning'-'the journey from death to life', with an emphasis on self-examination, rather than a 'how to' of living and believing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is easy to read, and offers reading and reflection in a none-too laborious way, with passages that could easily be read in a daily pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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{"id":2439756513380,"title":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel","handle":"peters-preaching-the-message-of-marks-gospel","description":"\u003cp\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark, of course!' I hear you shout? But who was Mark?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark's name doesn't appear on the list of disciples, as Matthew's does. His Gospel doesn't start with a clear statement of investigation, as does Luke's, offering credibility. Yet, remarkably, large chunks of Mark's Gospel appear in both Matthew's and Luke's work. What's going on?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff provides insightful answers in his new book Peter's Preaching, revealing how an ancient source describes Mark as Peter's translator to a Greek-speaking world. Intriguingly, though, this source also tells us that while Mark recorded Peter's preaching 'accurately', he did not record it 'in order'. Mark devised his own order of the stories, for his own purpose, using a structure and format that were as radical in the first century as ebooks are today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut that is only the start of Jeremy's detective work in this stimulating book, which moves on to uncover Peter's thought on the key themes of the Christian message, found distributed throughout the Gospel. Jeremy pieces these themes together like a jigsaw to reveal how Peter understood them, and how that understanding helps us to appreciate the radical nature of first-century Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people have found Mark's gospel to be the most gripping of the four gospels - a real page-turner - and here Jeremy Duff helps us to understand why. This analysis will deepen your appreciation of Mark's gospel, whether you have read it just once or you are a seasoned student. I commend it to all who long to respond to Jesus with the same conviction and passion as Peter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy's fresh insights and creative commentary on Mark's trend-setting Gospel not only widen our understanding of Jesus, but also pin point the way the record of Jesus' encounters with people encourage us to follow Him, be changed by Him and share Him with others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Bailey, Leader, Trinity Cheltenham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff is an excellent teacher, who combines first-rate scholarship with rich experience of people and church life. This makes him an ideal guide to Mark's Gospel. This book is full of fascinating insights, presented in a thoughtful, accessible and enticing way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is just sort of book which BRF should be producing. It is clearly written by a scholar who has also pastoral concerns and experience, who is concerned about people and knows how ordinary people think and react. It is designed to help people get to know Mark and his message about Jesus and the significance of Jesus for us all. Every chapter is written with a gentle warmth and even gentler humour, often starting with a gripping story or scene from ordinary life. The book opens with a persuasive section, arguing that Mark is the basic gospel and that he could have won this position only because he was the 'interpreter' of Peter. It was this that gave Mark the authority which led Matthew and Luke to follow his pattern. The book also argues that Mark may be held responsible for those other two interesting Christian initiatives (quite distinct from other contemporary literature) of using book-style rather than scrolls to be rolled and unrolled, and the distinctive Christian form of abbreviating sacred names.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basic impression which one receives throughout is that Mark was a gospel written for real people, with our concerns, worries, efforts and timidity. It constantly gives the reader pause for reflection on the concepts of friendship, loyalty, discipleship. Jesus personally chose the Twelve primarily to be with him, creating a new society, a new Israel. This made their hardness of heart, their failure to understand, their desertion all the more bitter for him; the book helps a disciple to see the depths of betrayal - theirs and ours. Their half-sight so vividly mirrors our own experience and lack of commitment (p. 49). The book is full of striking insights: if you want to understand the parables, look for the twist, where the parable diverges from normal life (p. 208). The meaning of Jesus progress to his inevitable death is sensitively painted against its biblical background; the physical horror and especially the shame of the final hours of Jesus are portrayed delicately but with devastating awareness (p. 288).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is especially helpful that long excerpts of the gospel text are given before discussion of their importance. One learns from the text!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Henry Wansbrough, Ampleforth Abbey \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Professor Jeremy Duff is the Principal of St Padarn's Institute, responsible for discipleship and ministry training and ongoing development in the Church in Wales. Over the last 20 years, he has combined a teaching ministry including major universities in the UK, as well as within the church, with church leadership, most recently in a deprived urban community near Liverpool (where Peter's Preaching was written). For ten years, he was one of the commissioning editors for BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes, and his book The Elements of New Testament Greek (2005) is one of Cambridge University Press's bestselling religion titles. He is also the coauthor, with the Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt McGrath, of Meeting Jesus: Human responses to a yearning God (SPCK, 2006).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach - Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConfession time. I didn't enjoy lectures at theological college wrestling over which Gospel was written first and who used whose material to produce their Gospel. Up to that point, I had enjoyed reading each Gospel as it was presented, and to be honest I still do. However, reading Jeremy Duff's highly scholarly but refreshingly accessible work has been a real tonic.\u003cbr\u003eThe starting point for the book is a piece of detective work examining the evidence that Mark drew heavily on Peter's sermons to construct his Gospel. Duff presents Papias' views that support this in a compelling and convincing way.\u003cbr\u003eThe heart of the book is a treatment of eight themes that are central to Mark's Gospel, each of which are rewarding and enriching to explore. In addition, Duff helpfully provides his own translation of Mark's Greek, which was often rougher than the smoother versions we read today.\u003cbr\u003eParticularly helpful is the explanation of what it means to be 'following on the way'. The picture of the disciple as one who follows Jesus and is ready to take up his cross is a vital corrective to our comfortable Christianity. As the crucifixion approaches, the disciples desert Jesus and flee, but surprising new followers come to anoint Jesus and carry his cross. The book ends, as does Mark's Gospel, with a challenge to go and meet with the risen Jesus.\u003cbr\u003eFor preachers who are in a hurry with a sermon deadline approaching, this book won't be the best source of last-minute help. However, for all who want to understand Mark's Gospel more fully, whether preaching or not, this is a deeply rewarding read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Birchall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a latecomer to the Markan library, and is not a commentary but a guide to reading Mark's gospel. It is based on the idea that what we have in Mark's text is a kind of compendium of Peter's preaching, written down by Mark- who incidentally seems not to have been the young man who ran off naked after Jesus' arrest. The author presents us with a different way to read Mark's gospel, taking a thematic approach - miracles, the identity of Jesus, parables - and shows how carefully the original text was structured to make particular points. Duff writes accessibly and intermingles biblical exposition with some telling contemporary illustrations. There is a wealth of preaching material here and many helpful insights. The author also includes some interesting historical and contextual comments, such as that Mark was perhaps responsible for encouraging the use of the new codex format in preference to the more traditional scrolls. This highlights the one failing of Duff's book - the lack of references to any other literature. But this book is not offered as an academic text and his credentials are attested by his time as a New Testament tutor at Oxford - so we can take his word on trust. In the same way he encourages us to receive Mark's gospel as Peter's word to the early church - and to us - about the good news that is Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarion Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 8 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePeter's Preaching\u003c\/em\u003e: \u003cem\u003eThe Message of Mark's Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, GBP9.99), Jeremy Duff takes what is arguably the foundational document of Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is argued that Mark has written down and edited some of what Peter has remembered from all that he heard of Jesus' public and private teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10 chapters cover Peter's preaching thematically in a style which combines in-depth analysis and Bible reading notes. To this end, the book can be taken as a devotional, taking one section each day. The encouraging conclusion is that, despite our faults and failures, like Peter, we can pick ourselves up and meet Jesus again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Paul Wilson is development worker for Methodist Evangelicals Together.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:21:45+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:03+00:00","vendor":"Jeremy Duff","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","KCLC","Kindle"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769146859620,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857463500","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436587532388,"product_id":2439756513380,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:03+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:08+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","variant_ids":[21769146859620]},"available":false,"name":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":211,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857463500","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238875496587,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238875496587,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark, of course!' I hear you shout? But who was Mark?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark's name doesn't appear on the list of disciples, as Matthew's does. His Gospel doesn't start with a clear statement of investigation, as does Luke's, offering credibility. Yet, remarkably, large chunks of Mark's Gospel appear in both Matthew's and Luke's work. What's going on?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff provides insightful answers in his new book Peter's Preaching, revealing how an ancient source describes Mark as Peter's translator to a Greek-speaking world. Intriguingly, though, this source also tells us that while Mark recorded Peter's preaching 'accurately', he did not record it 'in order'. Mark devised his own order of the stories, for his own purpose, using a structure and format that were as radical in the first century as ebooks are today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut that is only the start of Jeremy's detective work in this stimulating book, which moves on to uncover Peter's thought on the key themes of the Christian message, found distributed throughout the Gospel. Jeremy pieces these themes together like a jigsaw to reveal how Peter understood them, and how that understanding helps us to appreciate the radical nature of first-century Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people have found Mark's gospel to be the most gripping of the four gospels - a real page-turner - and here Jeremy Duff helps us to understand why. This analysis will deepen your appreciation of Mark's gospel, whether you have read it just once or you are a seasoned student. I commend it to all who long to respond to Jesus with the same conviction and passion as Peter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy's fresh insights and creative commentary on Mark's trend-setting Gospel not only widen our understanding of Jesus, but also pin point the way the record of Jesus' encounters with people encourage us to follow Him, be changed by Him and share Him with others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Bailey, Leader, Trinity Cheltenham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff is an excellent teacher, who combines first-rate scholarship with rich experience of people and church life. This makes him an ideal guide to Mark's Gospel. This book is full of fascinating insights, presented in a thoughtful, accessible and enticing way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is just sort of book which BRF should be producing. It is clearly written by a scholar who has also pastoral concerns and experience, who is concerned about people and knows how ordinary people think and react. It is designed to help people get to know Mark and his message about Jesus and the significance of Jesus for us all. Every chapter is written with a gentle warmth and even gentler humour, often starting with a gripping story or scene from ordinary life. The book opens with a persuasive section, arguing that Mark is the basic gospel and that he could have won this position only because he was the 'interpreter' of Peter. It was this that gave Mark the authority which led Matthew and Luke to follow his pattern. The book also argues that Mark may be held responsible for those other two interesting Christian initiatives (quite distinct from other contemporary literature) of using book-style rather than scrolls to be rolled and unrolled, and the distinctive Christian form of abbreviating sacred names.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basic impression which one receives throughout is that Mark was a gospel written for real people, with our concerns, worries, efforts and timidity. It constantly gives the reader pause for reflection on the concepts of friendship, loyalty, discipleship. Jesus personally chose the Twelve primarily to be with him, creating a new society, a new Israel. This made their hardness of heart, their failure to understand, their desertion all the more bitter for him; the book helps a disciple to see the depths of betrayal - theirs and ours. Their half-sight so vividly mirrors our own experience and lack of commitment (p. 49). The book is full of striking insights: if you want to understand the parables, look for the twist, where the parable diverges from normal life (p. 208). The meaning of Jesus progress to his inevitable death is sensitively painted against its biblical background; the physical horror and especially the shame of the final hours of Jesus are portrayed delicately but with devastating awareness (p. 288).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is especially helpful that long excerpts of the gospel text are given before discussion of their importance. One learns from the text!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Henry Wansbrough, Ampleforth Abbey \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Professor Jeremy Duff is the Principal of St Padarn's Institute, responsible for discipleship and ministry training and ongoing development in the Church in Wales. Over the last 20 years, he has combined a teaching ministry including major universities in the UK, as well as within the church, with church leadership, most recently in a deprived urban community near Liverpool (where Peter's Preaching was written). For ten years, he was one of the commissioning editors for BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes, and his book The Elements of New Testament Greek (2005) is one of Cambridge University Press's bestselling religion titles. He is also the coauthor, with the Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt McGrath, of Meeting Jesus: Human responses to a yearning God (SPCK, 2006).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach - Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConfession time. I didn't enjoy lectures at theological college wrestling over which Gospel was written first and who used whose material to produce their Gospel. Up to that point, I had enjoyed reading each Gospel as it was presented, and to be honest I still do. However, reading Jeremy Duff's highly scholarly but refreshingly accessible work has been a real tonic.\u003cbr\u003eThe starting point for the book is a piece of detective work examining the evidence that Mark drew heavily on Peter's sermons to construct his Gospel. Duff presents Papias' views that support this in a compelling and convincing way.\u003cbr\u003eThe heart of the book is a treatment of eight themes that are central to Mark's Gospel, each of which are rewarding and enriching to explore. In addition, Duff helpfully provides his own translation of Mark's Greek, which was often rougher than the smoother versions we read today.\u003cbr\u003eParticularly helpful is the explanation of what it means to be 'following on the way'. The picture of the disciple as one who follows Jesus and is ready to take up his cross is a vital corrective to our comfortable Christianity. As the crucifixion approaches, the disciples desert Jesus and flee, but surprising new followers come to anoint Jesus and carry his cross. The book ends, as does Mark's Gospel, with a challenge to go and meet with the risen Jesus.\u003cbr\u003eFor preachers who are in a hurry with a sermon deadline approaching, this book won't be the best source of last-minute help. However, for all who want to understand Mark's Gospel more fully, whether preaching or not, this is a deeply rewarding read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Birchall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a latecomer to the Markan library, and is not a commentary but a guide to reading Mark's gospel. It is based on the idea that what we have in Mark's text is a kind of compendium of Peter's preaching, written down by Mark- who incidentally seems not to have been the young man who ran off naked after Jesus' arrest. The author presents us with a different way to read Mark's gospel, taking a thematic approach - miracles, the identity of Jesus, parables - and shows how carefully the original text was structured to make particular points. Duff writes accessibly and intermingles biblical exposition with some telling contemporary illustrations. There is a wealth of preaching material here and many helpful insights. The author also includes some interesting historical and contextual comments, such as that Mark was perhaps responsible for encouraging the use of the new codex format in preference to the more traditional scrolls. This highlights the one failing of Duff's book - the lack of references to any other literature. But this book is not offered as an academic text and his credentials are attested by his time as a New Testament tutor at Oxford - so we can take his word on trust. In the same way he encourages us to receive Mark's gospel as Peter's word to the early church - and to us - about the good news that is Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarion Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 8 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePeter's Preaching\u003c\/em\u003e: \u003cem\u003eThe Message of Mark's Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, GBP9.99), Jeremy Duff takes what is arguably the foundational document of Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is argued that Mark has written down and edited some of what Peter has remembered from all that he heard of Jesus' public and private teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10 chapters cover Peter's preaching thematically in a style which combines in-depth analysis and Bible reading notes. To this end, the book can be taken as a devotional, taking one section each day. The encouraging conclusion is that, despite our faults and failures, like Peter, we can pick ourselves up and meet Jesus again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Paul Wilson is development worker for Methodist Evangelicals Together.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel
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Do you know who wrote Mark's Gospel? At first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark, of course!' I...
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{"id":2439755661412,"title":"Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together","handle":"blended-a-call-to-reimagine-our-church-family-rethinking-how-we-can-be-church-together","description":"\u003cp\u003eChurch as we know it is changing... with conversations and initiatives bubbling up around how our churches can be truly intergenerational, functioning in close and loving community as the body of Christ. Eleanor Bird speaks into the debate with a challenge to rethink our work with all ages from the ground up, offering practical observations drawn from her experience of developing children's and youth ministry in a local church context, together with a biblically based framework for how this thinking can be taken forward in your church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order for us to see nations changed, we need to see the full body of Christ rise up together across all ages, to walk and minister shoulder to shoulder. Blended invites us to see that it is not only necessary, but possible. No matter what size community or denomination we belong to, this book gives us ways of seeing and doing church together with a new heart that will reap great rewards for the kingdom. Rachel Turner, author and speaker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 13 May 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eHERE'S another of those paperbacks whose title alone makes you believe it might provide the answer to all the challenges facing the life of your local church. \u003cem\u003eBlended - A Call to Reimagine our Church Family\u003c\/em\u003e by Eleanor Bird (brf, 8.99), subtitled 'Rethinking how we can be church together', is about investigating a 'new way of being God's family'. And in the ensuing 14 chapters there is much to give church leaders a lot of food for thought. When you realise that the author is 'head of children and youth ministry' at a thriving Anglican church in Romiley, Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two- to 19-year-olds, you have a good idea of what it is all about. In fact, this book could be the answer to your prayers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Singleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Well magazine. The Methodist Church Summer 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eBlended\u003c\/em\u003e, Eleanor Bird invites us to reimagine a new way of being Church together: a Church that no longer divides by age lines but instead embraces being a community of different generations. For too long, she says, Christian communities have been separated; children, youth and adults each following their own programmes. Her vision is one where the lines drawn between these groups become blurred; rubbed away to become a more unified and connected body of believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus of Bird's book is the times when church communities gather for worship. Her philosophy is built on four key values: \u003cbr\u003e not calling Church 'work; '\u003cbr\u003e giving everyone in church equal influence; \u003cbr\u003e training when apart, for the times we gather as Church; \u003cbr\u003e making the most of the times we gather to experiment and explain what's happening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese building blocks underpin all that Church is and does. They serve to create a community that thrives in worship, both when together and apart. So the times when groups pursue their own programme are seen as vital opportunities to prepare and develop understanding for when all gather together. She advocates a model in which style and content are gradually merged, helping worship times become increasingly seamless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis emphasis on worship (in the narrow sense of sung worship and teaching) is central in developing a more cohesive church community. Bird makes the case for church to embrace its whole spectrum of family, yet the question remains what form this may take beyond Sunday services. What the features of a blended church might be outside of these times is the next natural field to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBird's personal testimony and experience are threads throughout the book, this adds an authentic dimension when she recounts how her own faith and understanding developed. As readers, we're urged to join her on this road of discovery that sees God's kingdom grow in our churches and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGail Adcock, Methodist Family Ministry Development Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:23:16+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:59+00:00","vendor":"Eleanor Bird","type":"Paperback","tags":["Church life","KCLC","Kindle","Leadership","Oct-15"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769138929764,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857461124","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436583305316,"product_id":2439755661412,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:59+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:08+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168","variant_ids":[21769138929764]},"available":false,"name":"Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857461124","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238875431051,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238875431051,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461124-l.jpg?v=1549043168","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eChurch as we know it is changing... with conversations and initiatives bubbling up around how our churches can be truly intergenerational, functioning in close and loving community as the body of Christ. Eleanor Bird speaks into the debate with a challenge to rethink our work with all ages from the ground up, offering practical observations drawn from her experience of developing children's and youth ministry in a local church context, together with a biblically based framework for how this thinking can be taken forward in your church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order for us to see nations changed, we need to see the full body of Christ rise up together across all ages, to walk and minister shoulder to shoulder. Blended invites us to see that it is not only necessary, but possible. No matter what size community or denomination we belong to, this book gives us ways of seeing and doing church together with a new heart that will reap great rewards for the kingdom. Rachel Turner, author and speaker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 13 May 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eHERE'S another of those paperbacks whose title alone makes you believe it might provide the answer to all the challenges facing the life of your local church. \u003cem\u003eBlended - A Call to Reimagine our Church Family\u003c\/em\u003e by Eleanor Bird (brf, 8.99), subtitled 'Rethinking how we can be church together', is about investigating a 'new way of being God's family'. And in the ensuing 14 chapters there is much to give church leaders a lot of food for thought. When you realise that the author is 'head of children and youth ministry' at a thriving Anglican church in Romiley, Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two- to 19-year-olds, you have a good idea of what it is all about. In fact, this book could be the answer to your prayers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Singleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Well magazine. The Methodist Church Summer 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eBlended\u003c\/em\u003e, Eleanor Bird invites us to reimagine a new way of being Church together: a Church that no longer divides by age lines but instead embraces being a community of different generations. For too long, she says, Christian communities have been separated; children, youth and adults each following their own programmes. Her vision is one where the lines drawn between these groups become blurred; rubbed away to become a more unified and connected body of believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus of Bird's book is the times when church communities gather for worship. Her philosophy is built on four key values: \u003cbr\u003e not calling Church 'work; '\u003cbr\u003e giving everyone in church equal influence; \u003cbr\u003e training when apart, for the times we gather as Church; \u003cbr\u003e making the most of the times we gather to experiment and explain what's happening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese building blocks underpin all that Church is and does. They serve to create a community that thrives in worship, both when together and apart. So the times when groups pursue their own programme are seen as vital opportunities to prepare and develop understanding for when all gather together. She advocates a model in which style and content are gradually merged, helping worship times become increasingly seamless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis emphasis on worship (in the narrow sense of sung worship and teaching) is central in developing a more cohesive church community. Bird makes the case for church to embrace its whole spectrum of family, yet the question remains what form this may take beyond Sunday services. What the features of a blended church might be outside of these times is the next natural field to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBird's personal testimony and experience are threads throughout the book, this adds an authentic dimension when she recounts how her own faith and understanding developed. As readers, we're urged to join her on this road of discovery that sees God's kingdom grow in our churches and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGail Adcock, Methodist Family Ministry Development Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together
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{"id":2439751204964,"title":"Hilda of Whitby: A spirituality for now","handle":"hilda-of-whitby-a-spirituality-for-now","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the dark and turbulent centuries after the Roman occupation of Britain and during the Anglo-Saxon colonisation, the light of heaven still shone through the work and witness of the monastic communities, ‘villages of God’, which dotted the land. One of the most remarkable figures of those times was Hilda of Whitby. Born and reared among warring pagan tribes, through the influence of Celtic saints and scholars she became a dominant figure in the development of the British Church, above all at the famous Synod where Celtic and Roman Churches came together. This book not only explores the drama of Hilda’s life and ministry but shows what spiritual lessons we can draw for Christian life and leadership today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished to coincide with the 1400th anniversary of the birth of Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by the Archbishop of York\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have much to be thankful for in God's own county, but of all the bright stars of Yorkshire's rich heritage of Christian witness, for me St Hilda of Whitby shines out as one of the brightest. I am thankful to Ray Simpson for retelling her story in a way that connects so directly with our contemporary world, inspiring prayer and reflection which I trust will bear fruit as it did so abundantly, graciously, and quietly in her own life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI enjoy my visits to Whitby, not just for the fantastic kippers I often come away with, but also because Hilda's memory lives on in the faith, hope, and love of today's Christian community in that town. I thank God also that the Sisters of the Order of the Holy Paraclete continue the monastic tradition in that town, with their Mother House, St Hilda's Priory, Sneaton Castle, looking across the bay to the ruins of the Abbey where Hilda's church once stood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda's example of self-sacrificial leadership, and of courageous acceptance of what the gathered church discerned as the will of God, is a particular challenge to us today. At the Synod of Whitby over which she presided, although she was a firm believer in the Celtic way, she accepted fundamental changes to the time-honoured ecclesiastical polity of the Celtic Church. She was willing to embrace the new ways of the Roman mission for the sake of the unity of the Church's witness in this land.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda was baptised on Easter Day, April 12th 627 on the site where York Minster stands today, along with King Edwin, by Paulinus, first Bishop of York. In recent years I have baptised new believers on the same spot outside the Minster, along with other local church leaders. I visited Hinderwell a few months after becoming Archbishop of York. I baptised a baby at Hilda's well and drank water from the well too!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy prayer is that those baptised today, and all of us who seek to follow Jesus in the North of England, will follow Hilda's example. With her I hope we shall live wholeheartedly for Jesus, carrying the light of God into the communities to which we belong, and seeing the love of God transform both church and nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will help us along the way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e+Sentamu Eboracencis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca id=\"introduction\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBorn into a pagan, Anglo Saxon family in the province of Deira (land to the north of the Humber) in 614, Hilda's early life was to witness much of the brutality and darkness for which that period has become most famous. Her own father was poisoned in the continuing battle for power between ruling claimants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer first encounter with Christianity happened after her uncle Edwin won power, encountering a vision of Christ which led to the family's baptism. But victory was short term and Hilda was forced into exile in the Christian kingdom of the East Angles, holding on to her newfound faith while others cast it aside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda returned north after power passed to the Christian ruler Oswald who set out to reconvert the people of the area, inviting Aidan of Ireland to lead the work. Hilda had only known Christianity with Roman roots. She now came into direct contact with Celtic Christianity for the first time and discovered a stark difference in terms of lifestyle, approaches to mission, models of church and the requirements of soul friends to assist personal faith development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda planned to become a nun and depart overseas, but Aidan convinced Hilda to stay and set her on the path of her life's work of pioneering monasteries and establishing learning for men and women. The Celtic church had no qualms over women leadership, unlike the Roman church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving set the scene, Ray Simpson goes on to unfold the story of Hilda's work at Hartlepool and Whitby, drawing out key lessons for our own age from her life, work and legacy and through questions for reflection, encourages personal application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust before her birth, Hilda's mother had a vision of light cast across Britain from a necklace - a vision that St Bede, writing in his Ecclesiastical History of the English People (completed 731AD), regarded as being fulfilled through Hilda, and a light Ray Simpson now projects into our own age. Published to coincide with the 1400th anniversary of the birth of Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThere have been times and places where the wise woman or wise man was central to the community. These people were not pandered celebrities, but those open to the depths of God, and a way of love. Hilda was such a woman. 'Hilda of Whitby' reveals Hilda's secret as well as her history and perhaps may challenge us to seek new styles of leadership for today. Penny Warren, Members' Guardian, Community of Aidan and Hilda\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nRay Simpson is a founder of the international new monastic movement known as The Community of Aidan and Hilda and is principal tutor of its Celtic Christian Studies programmes. He has written some thirty books on spirituality and lives on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, where many Christian leaders come to the Community's Retreat House and Library and for consultation. He tweets a daily prayer @whitehouseviews and writes a weekly blog on www.raysimpson.org\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis enthusiastic and well-informed book is the work of an author who knows his topic well from within, and is delighted by it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nHe first tells the story of Christianity in Britain - especially northern Britain - in the days when the Romans had just left and the early Anglo-Saxon Christians were beginning to form a new kind of society. So the word 'spirituality' heads the first three chapters and deals in turn with factors that did, over those early centuries, form just that. We read that it was uphill work, but work that paid off - and out of which we are still, today, reaping benefit.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nOf the people who played an important part in establishing Christianity in north Britain, some names live on. In this book, Simpson is most interested in St Hilda, who, as he makes clear, was responsible for much of the dedicated and enthusiastic work that rooted Christianity. For her, the gospel was the beginning, middle, and end of things.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n(There were, of course, many other saints. Aidan's is the other name that crops up frequently, and he, Simpson says, profoundly impressed Hilda. Those two names are today linked in the name of the Community of Aidan and Hilda, a community that Simpson founded, and which is centred on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.)\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n'Wholeness is the realisation of our humanity,' Simpson writes as he describes spiritual formation at Whitby 14 centuries ago. In his recounting of his own experience, one senses that the claim may well be authenticated.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nThe story told in this book is, indeed, a powerful one. Reading it may well bring to the attention of more people the value (to both Church and society) of religious communities. Currently, many of these are getting smaller and smaller. I sense, however, that here is an authentic reaching out of the past to find a way of living the Christian life, both in everyday society and in a dedicated community. Such a relationship is one that may well 'bear fruit, fruit that shall last'.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Armson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCanon Armson is a former Precentor of Rochester Cathedral\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2026-07-08T15:34:51+01:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:45+00:00","vendor":"Ray Simpson","type":"Paperback","tags":["Celtic Christianity","For individuals","Glassboxx","KCLC","Kindle","Mar-14","Spirituality","Women"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769092857956,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781841017280","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436560793700,"product_id":2439751204964,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:45+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:11+00:00","alt":null,"width":369,"height":561,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171","variant_ids":[21769092857956]},"available":true,"name":"Hilda of Whitby: A spirituality for now - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781841017280","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238875201675,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238875201675,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171"},"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017280-l.jpg?v=1549043171","width":369}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the dark and turbulent centuries after the Roman occupation of Britain and during the Anglo-Saxon colonisation, the light of heaven still shone through the work and witness of the monastic communities, ‘villages of God’, which dotted the land. One of the most remarkable figures of those times was Hilda of Whitby. Born and reared among warring pagan tribes, through the influence of Celtic saints and scholars she became a dominant figure in the development of the British Church, above all at the famous Synod where Celtic and Roman Churches came together. This book not only explores the drama of Hilda’s life and ministry but shows what spiritual lessons we can draw for Christian life and leadership today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished to coincide with the 1400th anniversary of the birth of Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by the Archbishop of York\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have much to be thankful for in God's own county, but of all the bright stars of Yorkshire's rich heritage of Christian witness, for me St Hilda of Whitby shines out as one of the brightest. I am thankful to Ray Simpson for retelling her story in a way that connects so directly with our contemporary world, inspiring prayer and reflection which I trust will bear fruit as it did so abundantly, graciously, and quietly in her own life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI enjoy my visits to Whitby, not just for the fantastic kippers I often come away with, but also because Hilda's memory lives on in the faith, hope, and love of today's Christian community in that town. I thank God also that the Sisters of the Order of the Holy Paraclete continue the monastic tradition in that town, with their Mother House, St Hilda's Priory, Sneaton Castle, looking across the bay to the ruins of the Abbey where Hilda's church once stood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda's example of self-sacrificial leadership, and of courageous acceptance of what the gathered church discerned as the will of God, is a particular challenge to us today. At the Synod of Whitby over which she presided, although she was a firm believer in the Celtic way, she accepted fundamental changes to the time-honoured ecclesiastical polity of the Celtic Church. She was willing to embrace the new ways of the Roman mission for the sake of the unity of the Church's witness in this land.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda was baptised on Easter Day, April 12th 627 on the site where York Minster stands today, along with King Edwin, by Paulinus, first Bishop of York. In recent years I have baptised new believers on the same spot outside the Minster, along with other local church leaders. I visited Hinderwell a few months after becoming Archbishop of York. I baptised a baby at Hilda's well and drank water from the well too!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy prayer is that those baptised today, and all of us who seek to follow Jesus in the North of England, will follow Hilda's example. With her I hope we shall live wholeheartedly for Jesus, carrying the light of God into the communities to which we belong, and seeing the love of God transform both church and nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will help us along the way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e+Sentamu Eboracencis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca id=\"introduction\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBorn into a pagan, Anglo Saxon family in the province of Deira (land to the north of the Humber) in 614, Hilda's early life was to witness much of the brutality and darkness for which that period has become most famous. Her own father was poisoned in the continuing battle for power between ruling claimants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer first encounter with Christianity happened after her uncle Edwin won power, encountering a vision of Christ which led to the family's baptism. But victory was short term and Hilda was forced into exile in the Christian kingdom of the East Angles, holding on to her newfound faith while others cast it aside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda returned north after power passed to the Christian ruler Oswald who set out to reconvert the people of the area, inviting Aidan of Ireland to lead the work. Hilda had only known Christianity with Roman roots. She now came into direct contact with Celtic Christianity for the first time and discovered a stark difference in terms of lifestyle, approaches to mission, models of church and the requirements of soul friends to assist personal faith development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHilda planned to become a nun and depart overseas, but Aidan convinced Hilda to stay and set her on the path of her life's work of pioneering monasteries and establishing learning for men and women. The Celtic church had no qualms over women leadership, unlike the Roman church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving set the scene, Ray Simpson goes on to unfold the story of Hilda's work at Hartlepool and Whitby, drawing out key lessons for our own age from her life, work and legacy and through questions for reflection, encourages personal application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust before her birth, Hilda's mother had a vision of light cast across Britain from a necklace - a vision that St Bede, writing in his Ecclesiastical History of the English People (completed 731AD), regarded as being fulfilled through Hilda, and a light Ray Simpson now projects into our own age. Published to coincide with the 1400th anniversary of the birth of Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThere have been times and places where the wise woman or wise man was central to the community. These people were not pandered celebrities, but those open to the depths of God, and a way of love. Hilda was such a woman. 'Hilda of Whitby' reveals Hilda's secret as well as her history and perhaps may challenge us to seek new styles of leadership for today. Penny Warren, Members' Guardian, Community of Aidan and Hilda\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nRay Simpson is a founder of the international new monastic movement known as The Community of Aidan and Hilda and is principal tutor of its Celtic Christian Studies programmes. He has written some thirty books on spirituality and lives on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, where many Christian leaders come to the Community's Retreat House and Library and for consultation. He tweets a daily prayer @whitehouseviews and writes a weekly blog on www.raysimpson.org\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis enthusiastic and well-informed book is the work of an author who knows his topic well from within, and is delighted by it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nHe first tells the story of Christianity in Britain - especially northern Britain - in the days when the Romans had just left and the early Anglo-Saxon Christians were beginning to form a new kind of society. So the word 'spirituality' heads the first three chapters and deals in turn with factors that did, over those early centuries, form just that. We read that it was uphill work, but work that paid off - and out of which we are still, today, reaping benefit.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nOf the people who played an important part in establishing Christianity in north Britain, some names live on. In this book, Simpson is most interested in St Hilda, who, as he makes clear, was responsible for much of the dedicated and enthusiastic work that rooted Christianity. For her, the gospel was the beginning, middle, and end of things.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n(There were, of course, many other saints. Aidan's is the other name that crops up frequently, and he, Simpson says, profoundly impressed Hilda. Those two names are today linked in the name of the Community of Aidan and Hilda, a community that Simpson founded, and which is centred on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.)\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n'Wholeness is the realisation of our humanity,' Simpson writes as he describes spiritual formation at Whitby 14 centuries ago. In his recounting of his own experience, one senses that the claim may well be authenticated.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\nThe story told in this book is, indeed, a powerful one. Reading it may well bring to the attention of more people the value (to both Church and society) of religious communities. Currently, many of these are getting smaller and smaller. I sense, however, that here is an authentic reaching out of the past to find a way of living the Christian life, both in everyday society and in a dedicated community. Such a relationship is one that may well 'bear fruit, fruit that shall last'.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Armson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCanon Armson is a former Precentor of Rochester Cathedral\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Hilda of Whitby: A spirituality for now
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{"id":2439747993700,"title":"Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission","handle":"resourcing-rural-ministry-practical-insights-for-mission","description":"\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church. Relevant for ordained and lay leaders alike, the book covers subjects ranging from encouraging evangelism in a multi-church group to making best use of church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContaining a wealth of real-life case studies and suggestions for follow-up, this ecumenical publication draws on the expertise and resources of the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC), which has served the spiritual and practical needs of the rural Christian community for over 40 years. This book contributes to ARC's Germinate programme of training, development and support for rural multi-church groups of all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the ARC. Additional chapters have been contributed by the Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text has been prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide is rooted in the reality of rural life with all its opportunities and challenges. Experienced rural practitioners share stories and resources which will inspire and equip those Christians, lay and ordained, who are working together in the very varied rural communities in Britain. Simon Martin and the other contributors have provided an invaluable resource for all who are engaged in rural mission and ministry, which I hope will be widely read and used.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Ruth Gee, BA, M Litt, President of the Methodist Conference 2013 - 2014, Chair of the Darlington Methodist District \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want an inspiring read, this book is for you. This is a can-do book for whatever your context may be. I found it faith-building and full of fantastic stories, innovative ideas and best practice throughout its pages. This book is a must for anyone passionate about seeing the gospel transform their community, whether an individual, lay preacher or church leader, and will inspire creativity, energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference in your setting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roy Crowne, Executive Director, HOPE \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFundamentals of Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and being disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. This is a 'must read' book for clergy, educators, lay leaders and anyone who has a heart for rural mission.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Peter Ball, Mission and Training Officer, Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really useful, affirming, grounded, inspirational and practical resource book. Great for anyone in rural ministry, but with wisdom for those in lay and ordained ministry anywhere.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lucy Moore, BRF Messy Church Team Leader \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key message of this very useful and usable collection is that we can learn so much from the stories of what God is doing among us and through us. Read these contributions and you'll be excited by a wealth of experience, insight and resource. How to develop a learning culture is a hugely important question, and it is a vital issue for the rural church in regard to worship, discipleship and evangelism. This book is a significant contribution to that development, not least because of its consistent theme of learning from each other and learning together. I warmly commend it to all who long for the flourishing of the rural church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon, Chair of the Rural Affairs Group of the Church of England General Synod \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the Arthur Rank Centre. Additional chapters have been contributed by Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi (Diocese of St David's) - June 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Arthur Rank Centre has been the churches' focus on rural ministry and mission for 40+ years. The accumulated knowledge on all matters affecting every denomination is unrivalled. The connections into every diocese and district has distilled much experience into this small book. The title and subtitle show how the commitment of ministry is to mission. The key questions are asked and answered. What support is available for rural congregations that have limited resources and few members? How do you resource small, dispersed rural congregations and their leaders, lay and ordained?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reliance on lay people is the norm in rural communities and churches. Clergy have to find their role, which can be very different from how it is in an urban church. The nature of church, its theology, worship, practical outreach and expectations are likely to be very different if there are less than a dozen regularly at worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose few laypeople are likely to be involved in many other community activities and their witness does not go unseen. The community in which the church is set has its own rhythms and customs. It is wise to understand these so that the life of the church respects those that are honourable and desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is no surprise that this book refers readers to larger resources on the website (www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk). The chapter on worship recognises how it is part of the breath of the community, even for those who do not join in. There are many who may use the church building for their own good purposes, such as meditation and prayer, at other times of the week. The chapter on evangelism refers to the Journey to Faith section. There is a useful critique of Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The chapter on children and young people brings together several good examples of rural churches that have tried new ways of building relationships with this generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRelationship is the key to rural ministry and mission. Many people have existing relationships and friendships and the church has to recognise these links so that its invitation to a new relationship with Christ is offered appropriately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChurch buildings have their own contribution to make in re-connecting church to community. Good examples abound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Jeremy Martineau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 29 April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMULTI-AUTHOR books have their difficulties, but this is a book that will be widely appreciated and much read in rural parishes. The book was conceived and largely written by Simon Martin of the Arthur Rank Centre (the Church's presence at the centre of the farming and countryside world). Unfortunately, Simon became seriously ill before the completion of this book, and it was prepared for publication by Jill Hopkinson and other authors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the wake of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the City\u003c\/em\u003e (1985), the attention of the churches turned to rural matters, not least because of the animal-health problems of the 1980s. \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Countryside\u003c\/em\u003e (1990) seemed for a time to be the high watermark of the Church's concern with the countryside and its rural parishes. But in recent years there has been a steady flow of books on rural matters, among which this book now takes its place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBooks on the rural Church tend to fall into two categories: first, those that are essentially local histories, but which generalise about the state of affairs in the countryside; second, those about how to minister in rural areas which are full of accounts of how to confront the steady decline in rural church life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book contains little historical analysis of the development of rural parishes, but is full of accounts of pioneering work and how this has been achieved. Those in need of help as they seek to deal with the complexities of church life in rural communities should turn to this book, which is full of examples of 'what to do' and 'how to do it', many of them drawn from the Arthur Rank Centre's publication \u003cem\u003e Country Parish\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are chapters on discipleship and nurture; mission in the rural context; rural fresh expressions; worship in small churches; and the use and adaptation of historic church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor generations, the central issue in rural parishes has been who 'owns' the church, 'not in the sense of legal tenure but in the sense of who makes the rules, determines the programme and the general direction and feel of that church'. There have been historic struggles between patrons, clergy, and churchwardens. But today many parishes have witnessed ownership struggles between the old resident community and recent arrivals who bring a different understanding of the nature of the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch differences have to be reconciled, because, according to Martin, a successful rural church must be run by its congregation. While it used to be considered that the role of the laity was to help the clergy do what was essentially their job, Martin and his co-authors make it clear that the rural church will only thrive if it is run by the laity, and the role of the very few rural clergy is to encourage and equip the laity to do this job\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e.In one church, a member of the congregation wrote on the wall 'This is my church.' This book makes clear that unless the laity, in every sense, own and take responsibility for the local church, it will die. Many will recognise the truth of this statement in the contemporary countryside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Anthony Russell is a former Bishop of Ely and President of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurches Together in England - April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is long overdue as it brings many of the resources for mission from the Arthur Rank Centre - which has resourced rural ministry and mission for 40 years - into one place. This is very welcome for clergy and lay people alike and from across the churches in England, especially as it is said that 1 in 6 of the population live in rural areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by national advisors and local practitioners alike, \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e does exactly what it says, by providing a wide variety of ideas, resources, case studies and comment for anyone concerned with the rural context of mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from all the helpful information, what I like best about this book is the layout. Under straight forward titles and in short sections it is easy to find what you might be looking for. Whether it be Messy Church, Multi-Church Ministry, or rural aspects of Ministerial Training, it also includes examples of more unusual ministry e.g. Forest Church and various aspects of theological reflection e.g. Robert Warren's diagram of Doing, Being and Living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e draws on various traditions including monastic and Fresh Expressions, as well as quoting examples from different denominations. It is a compendium or 'one stop shop' for those who want to address the challenges of the rural church - especially practically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a practical guide, some may say \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e is light in terms of political and social critique, and that it could have drawn more on major works on ministry and mission before it. I would say its strength lies in covering the contemporary ground brilliantly and with just the right amount of information and reflection to encourage every reader in the task of developing understanding, discipleship and rural ministry to get on with the task better informed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll insights are positive, and difficult topics are not ignored. This is well illustrated in a quote from page 42: 'Multi-church ministry brings with it a great many joys and opportunities, in working with different communities and congregations. It also has its own tensions and complications and can be stressful for lay and ordained alike. We know that it is possible for some churches in rural multi-church groups to grow and to do so consistently over several years. We also know that many rural congregations have reduced in size and others maintain regular numbers attending'. What follows this quote is a chapter exploring the issues, with a pragmatic approach, based on research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this is a book for everyone in rural ministry. Full of ideas and encouragement, notes and anecdotes, resources and analysis that has been 'rural-proofed' to be relevant and helpful. Drawing on resources from the Arthur Rank Centre e.g. Country Way (p39) and Journey to Faith (p110), it draws on 40 years' experience and provides the reader with a wonderful overview, guide and mission resource all in one place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJim Currin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCTE Evangelisation, Mission and Media\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStaff member on the Churches Rural Group\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door (The Diocese of Oxford) March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is currently a group, established by the Diocesan Board of Mission, whose function is to consider a range of strategic initiatives to enhance the rural church, and this book is a welcome introductory resource for all those who have an interest in rural ministry and its expression in the 21st century. \u003cbr\u003eThe authors recognise the specific characteristics of rural ministry relating to context, culture and community and the need to be aware of the specific ways these impact on church life. In keeping with \u003cem\u003eLiving Faith\u003c\/em\u003e there are resources related to mission and ministry including chapters on worship, evangelism, discipleship, children and young people, and developing Messy Church. The book offers a range of ideas, initiatives and approaches in these and other areas, drawing on a range of denominations.\u003cbr\u003eOne of the most helpful sections is by Simon Martin who maintains that rural churches are particularly effective in showing Christ's compassion to those in need and also in what might be termed low level nurture and teaching. He is realistic about the appropriateness of using some resources in the rural context and offers helpful ideas and resources such as the sharing of stories and the use of the Arthur Rank Centre's Equipping for Rural Mission via \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\"\u003ewww.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cbr\u003eAs he rightly states small rural churches are not failed larger ones. Rather they have a range of expressions, networks and routes into their communities that enables them to function as a little yeast, that, in the words of Saint Paul to the Galatians, 'leavens the whole batch of dough'.\u003cbr\u003eRegarding discipleship and nurture, as in other chapters, a number of resources are offered alongside comments and observations from those who have used them. Again there is a helpful degree of realism here to enable one to assess whether what one might offer is appropriate not only for the local context and communities, but also for the resources one has available. This book could well be used by members of rural multi-parish benefices, and within rural deaneries, as a vehicle for gaining fresh insights for rural ministry. By focusing on each chapter in turn, resources for discussing mission and ministry could be creatively and imaginatively explored. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Charles Chadwick is the Parish Development Adviser in the Dorchester Archdeaconry and Leader of the Rural Strategies Steering Group.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 29 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a small, but useful, contribution to counteract the old dictum, 'If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.' Encouraging all churches to believe in possibilities and experimentation, it is a book of 'realtime' stories from across the country, of folk just like you and I, not giving up. Men and women questioning and engaging their localities with bespoke attempts to reach out and reveal the something of the divine and the importance of spiritual reflection in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that, for the past 20 years or more, the polls and pundits are shouting that, in all our mainstream Churches, the active attendance in local churches of our neighbours is rapidly declining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCounteract\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stories relayed within \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry - Practical Insights for Mission \u003c\/em\u003eby Simon Martin with Caroline Hewett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne simply try and counteract the data so often solemnly presented at synods and conferences, but it cannot contradict the overall important trends being revealed. The 'number crunchers-crunching' suggest that our neighbours simply see no need of 'belonging' or 'embracing' the stories of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimon Martin and editor Jill Hopkinson from the Arthur Rank Centre, with friends and colleagues, offer throughout this book (203 pages) cameos of hope and experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe, in the Church, have become familiar with terms like 'fresh expressions' and 'messy churches', but perhaps not with 'Eastertingle' or 'Who let the Dads out' groups, ie the men who care for their little ones gathering together. Even a 'Forest Church' that explores worship in a landscape\/outside of a church building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the book five pages point to other resources tried and tested - probably\u003cbr\u003esome useful and successful, others not so, but all venturesome and calling us to\u003cbr\u003etake courage!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvisioned\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout this book it points to envisioned lay folk and clergy. One short paragraph struck me on p160 (Bar Nash-Williams united benefice of Stamfordham and Matfen): 'All the good plans and keen participation come to nothing if you don't start with the heart, it's your heart that says, 'It's worth it just for one child'. Its the heart that says, 'We do what we can and trust to God for the rest.' When you start with that attitude a tiny church can do good things with tiny resources.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmen to that. For we Methodists those words speak to our DNA of 'warmed hearts' and 'faithful service' to our God-given communities wherever you are. I commend this book to those who are seeking some ideas with a warm heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Canon Alan Robson is Lincolnshire agricultural chaplain.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eMETconnexion\u003c\/em\u003e. December 2015\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eIf you are looking for a practical understanding of the main issues, challenges and responses in rural ministry in Britain, this is the text for you. It's very accessible, straightforward and written by Simon Martin and others who are all associated with the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC) which seeks to equip the rural church for effective ministry and mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I particularly like about this book is that it covers the main areas, at least as I understand them. Too many books on rural Christianity spend a lot of their time offering an analysis of the changing nature of rural communities, dealing with indices of rural deprivation, mobility and so on. This is important and helps us to understand the rural context in which we live out our faith and minister. But, too often they don't offer enough direct suggestion as to what we might actually do.\u003c\/p\u003e\nThe chapters consider mission, worship, evangelism, messy church, fresh expressions, worship, discipleship, young people and multi-church ministry. I particularly appreciate the separate chapters on mission and evangelism. Too often these areas are conflated and the result is that being involved with people outside of the believing community is considered to be evangelism. In reality that is mission which creates the opportunity for a more direct sharing of faith and a challenge to discipleship. This book very helpfully, in my view, gets this right.My one small criticism of this book is that it's a bit Anglican. That is fully understandable. The ARC (http:\/\/www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk\/) is a largely Anglican organisation with a Methodist\/United Reformed Rural Officer. The book refers to a lot of ARC resources and programmes which can be used for anyone, although at times there is more of an Anglican flavour. The chapter on 'multi-church ministry' is a good example where the Methodist norm is discussed but rather than strengths and weaknesses of a rural circuit being considered there is more of an introduction to how Methodists do things for others. I think more could be learnt by Methodists and others by a sharper critique of the current Methodist circuit.This is a very good book that enables us to better understand the challenges and possibilities in rural mission and ministry. It does point to the need to produce more material that helps Methodists and other non-Anglicans understand their nuanced context. This is a fine resource that will benefit many.\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eRev'd Dr Stephen Skuce\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCountry Way magazine - January 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe all know that society is changing rapidly and that there is a real need for Christians to find new and innovative ways of ensuring that the story of Jesus and the love of God, for this world, and us as individuals can still be heard and responded to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is not always so easy is finding the right models and ways for doing so. Resourcing Rural Ministry is therefore a 'must have' on the bookshelf of all those who wish to think about what God is saying to the rural church in this generation. In many ways rural church life comes with some unique opportunities as well as often being at the heart of the many challenges facing rural communities in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst no book can offer all of the answers, and each context is unique, Resourcing Rural Ministry will help people to think about their rural context, the story the rural church has to tell and then to look at the mission opportunities this provides through practical ideas. The fundamentals of the Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and growing as disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. God provides us with many opportunities to be more missional in our approach and outlook toward church and community life, and this book is a useful tool to help us grasp those opportunities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Ball\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:31+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:33+00:00","vendor":"Simon Martin","type":"Paperback","tags":["Church life","KCLC","Kindle","Mission","Nov-15"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769050685540,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857462626","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":232,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857462626","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462626-l.jpg?v=1549043173"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462626-l.jpg?v=1549043173","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238875005067,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462626-l.jpg?v=1549043173"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462626-l.jpg?v=1549043173","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church. Relevant for ordained and lay leaders alike, the book covers subjects ranging from encouraging evangelism in a multi-church group to making best use of church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContaining a wealth of real-life case studies and suggestions for follow-up, this ecumenical publication draws on the expertise and resources of the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC), which has served the spiritual and practical needs of the rural Christian community for over 40 years. This book contributes to ARC's Germinate programme of training, development and support for rural multi-church groups of all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the ARC. Additional chapters have been contributed by the Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text has been prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide is rooted in the reality of rural life with all its opportunities and challenges. Experienced rural practitioners share stories and resources which will inspire and equip those Christians, lay and ordained, who are working together in the very varied rural communities in Britain. Simon Martin and the other contributors have provided an invaluable resource for all who are engaged in rural mission and ministry, which I hope will be widely read and used.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Ruth Gee, BA, M Litt, President of the Methodist Conference 2013 - 2014, Chair of the Darlington Methodist District \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want an inspiring read, this book is for you. This is a can-do book for whatever your context may be. I found it faith-building and full of fantastic stories, innovative ideas and best practice throughout its pages. This book is a must for anyone passionate about seeing the gospel transform their community, whether an individual, lay preacher or church leader, and will inspire creativity, energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference in your setting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roy Crowne, Executive Director, HOPE \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFundamentals of Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and being disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. This is a 'must read' book for clergy, educators, lay leaders and anyone who has a heart for rural mission.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Peter Ball, Mission and Training Officer, Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really useful, affirming, grounded, inspirational and practical resource book. Great for anyone in rural ministry, but with wisdom for those in lay and ordained ministry anywhere.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lucy Moore, BRF Messy Church Team Leader \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key message of this very useful and usable collection is that we can learn so much from the stories of what God is doing among us and through us. Read these contributions and you'll be excited by a wealth of experience, insight and resource. How to develop a learning culture is a hugely important question, and it is a vital issue for the rural church in regard to worship, discipleship and evangelism. This book is a significant contribution to that development, not least because of its consistent theme of learning from each other and learning together. I warmly commend it to all who long for the flourishing of the rural church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon, Chair of the Rural Affairs Group of the Church of England General Synod \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the Arthur Rank Centre. Additional chapters have been contributed by Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi (Diocese of St David's) - June 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Arthur Rank Centre has been the churches' focus on rural ministry and mission for 40+ years. The accumulated knowledge on all matters affecting every denomination is unrivalled. The connections into every diocese and district has distilled much experience into this small book. The title and subtitle show how the commitment of ministry is to mission. The key questions are asked and answered. What support is available for rural congregations that have limited resources and few members? How do you resource small, dispersed rural congregations and their leaders, lay and ordained?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reliance on lay people is the norm in rural communities and churches. Clergy have to find their role, which can be very different from how it is in an urban church. The nature of church, its theology, worship, practical outreach and expectations are likely to be very different if there are less than a dozen regularly at worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose few laypeople are likely to be involved in many other community activities and their witness does not go unseen. The community in which the church is set has its own rhythms and customs. It is wise to understand these so that the life of the church respects those that are honourable and desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is no surprise that this book refers readers to larger resources on the website (www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk). The chapter on worship recognises how it is part of the breath of the community, even for those who do not join in. There are many who may use the church building for their own good purposes, such as meditation and prayer, at other times of the week. The chapter on evangelism refers to the Journey to Faith section. There is a useful critique of Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The chapter on children and young people brings together several good examples of rural churches that have tried new ways of building relationships with this generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRelationship is the key to rural ministry and mission. Many people have existing relationships and friendships and the church has to recognise these links so that its invitation to a new relationship with Christ is offered appropriately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChurch buildings have their own contribution to make in re-connecting church to community. Good examples abound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Jeremy Martineau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 29 April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMULTI-AUTHOR books have their difficulties, but this is a book that will be widely appreciated and much read in rural parishes. The book was conceived and largely written by Simon Martin of the Arthur Rank Centre (the Church's presence at the centre of the farming and countryside world). Unfortunately, Simon became seriously ill before the completion of this book, and it was prepared for publication by Jill Hopkinson and other authors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the wake of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the City\u003c\/em\u003e (1985), the attention of the churches turned to rural matters, not least because of the animal-health problems of the 1980s. \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Countryside\u003c\/em\u003e (1990) seemed for a time to be the high watermark of the Church's concern with the countryside and its rural parishes. But in recent years there has been a steady flow of books on rural matters, among which this book now takes its place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBooks on the rural Church tend to fall into two categories: first, those that are essentially local histories, but which generalise about the state of affairs in the countryside; second, those about how to minister in rural areas which are full of accounts of how to confront the steady decline in rural church life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book contains little historical analysis of the development of rural parishes, but is full of accounts of pioneering work and how this has been achieved. Those in need of help as they seek to deal with the complexities of church life in rural communities should turn to this book, which is full of examples of 'what to do' and 'how to do it', many of them drawn from the Arthur Rank Centre's publication \u003cem\u003e Country Parish\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are chapters on discipleship and nurture; mission in the rural context; rural fresh expressions; worship in small churches; and the use and adaptation of historic church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor generations, the central issue in rural parishes has been who 'owns' the church, 'not in the sense of legal tenure but in the sense of who makes the rules, determines the programme and the general direction and feel of that church'. There have been historic struggles between patrons, clergy, and churchwardens. But today many parishes have witnessed ownership struggles between the old resident community and recent arrivals who bring a different understanding of the nature of the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch differences have to be reconciled, because, according to Martin, a successful rural church must be run by its congregation. While it used to be considered that the role of the laity was to help the clergy do what was essentially their job, Martin and his co-authors make it clear that the rural church will only thrive if it is run by the laity, and the role of the very few rural clergy is to encourage and equip the laity to do this job\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e.In one church, a member of the congregation wrote on the wall 'This is my church.' This book makes clear that unless the laity, in every sense, own and take responsibility for the local church, it will die. Many will recognise the truth of this statement in the contemporary countryside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Anthony Russell is a former Bishop of Ely and President of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurches Together in England - April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is long overdue as it brings many of the resources for mission from the Arthur Rank Centre - which has resourced rural ministry and mission for 40 years - into one place. This is very welcome for clergy and lay people alike and from across the churches in England, especially as it is said that 1 in 6 of the population live in rural areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by national advisors and local practitioners alike, \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e does exactly what it says, by providing a wide variety of ideas, resources, case studies and comment for anyone concerned with the rural context of mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from all the helpful information, what I like best about this book is the layout. Under straight forward titles and in short sections it is easy to find what you might be looking for. Whether it be Messy Church, Multi-Church Ministry, or rural aspects of Ministerial Training, it also includes examples of more unusual ministry e.g. Forest Church and various aspects of theological reflection e.g. Robert Warren's diagram of Doing, Being and Living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e draws on various traditions including monastic and Fresh Expressions, as well as quoting examples from different denominations. It is a compendium or 'one stop shop' for those who want to address the challenges of the rural church - especially practically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a practical guide, some may say \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e is light in terms of political and social critique, and that it could have drawn more on major works on ministry and mission before it. I would say its strength lies in covering the contemporary ground brilliantly and with just the right amount of information and reflection to encourage every reader in the task of developing understanding, discipleship and rural ministry to get on with the task better informed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll insights are positive, and difficult topics are not ignored. This is well illustrated in a quote from page 42: 'Multi-church ministry brings with it a great many joys and opportunities, in working with different communities and congregations. It also has its own tensions and complications and can be stressful for lay and ordained alike. We know that it is possible for some churches in rural multi-church groups to grow and to do so consistently over several years. We also know that many rural congregations have reduced in size and others maintain regular numbers attending'. What follows this quote is a chapter exploring the issues, with a pragmatic approach, based on research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this is a book for everyone in rural ministry. Full of ideas and encouragement, notes and anecdotes, resources and analysis that has been 'rural-proofed' to be relevant and helpful. Drawing on resources from the Arthur Rank Centre e.g. Country Way (p39) and Journey to Faith (p110), it draws on 40 years' experience and provides the reader with a wonderful overview, guide and mission resource all in one place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJim Currin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCTE Evangelisation, Mission and Media\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStaff member on the Churches Rural Group\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door (The Diocese of Oxford) March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is currently a group, established by the Diocesan Board of Mission, whose function is to consider a range of strategic initiatives to enhance the rural church, and this book is a welcome introductory resource for all those who have an interest in rural ministry and its expression in the 21st century. \u003cbr\u003eThe authors recognise the specific characteristics of rural ministry relating to context, culture and community and the need to be aware of the specific ways these impact on church life. In keeping with \u003cem\u003eLiving Faith\u003c\/em\u003e there are resources related to mission and ministry including chapters on worship, evangelism, discipleship, children and young people, and developing Messy Church. The book offers a range of ideas, initiatives and approaches in these and other areas, drawing on a range of denominations.\u003cbr\u003eOne of the most helpful sections is by Simon Martin who maintains that rural churches are particularly effective in showing Christ's compassion to those in need and also in what might be termed low level nurture and teaching. He is realistic about the appropriateness of using some resources in the rural context and offers helpful ideas and resources such as the sharing of stories and the use of the Arthur Rank Centre's Equipping for Rural Mission via \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\"\u003ewww.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cbr\u003eAs he rightly states small rural churches are not failed larger ones. Rather they have a range of expressions, networks and routes into their communities that enables them to function as a little yeast, that, in the words of Saint Paul to the Galatians, 'leavens the whole batch of dough'.\u003cbr\u003eRegarding discipleship and nurture, as in other chapters, a number of resources are offered alongside comments and observations from those who have used them. Again there is a helpful degree of realism here to enable one to assess whether what one might offer is appropriate not only for the local context and communities, but also for the resources one has available. This book could well be used by members of rural multi-parish benefices, and within rural deaneries, as a vehicle for gaining fresh insights for rural ministry. By focusing on each chapter in turn, resources for discussing mission and ministry could be creatively and imaginatively explored. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Charles Chadwick is the Parish Development Adviser in the Dorchester Archdeaconry and Leader of the Rural Strategies Steering Group.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 29 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a small, but useful, contribution to counteract the old dictum, 'If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.' Encouraging all churches to believe in possibilities and experimentation, it is a book of 'realtime' stories from across the country, of folk just like you and I, not giving up. Men and women questioning and engaging their localities with bespoke attempts to reach out and reveal the something of the divine and the importance of spiritual reflection in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that, for the past 20 years or more, the polls and pundits are shouting that, in all our mainstream Churches, the active attendance in local churches of our neighbours is rapidly declining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCounteract\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stories relayed within \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry - Practical Insights for Mission \u003c\/em\u003eby Simon Martin with Caroline Hewett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne simply try and counteract the data so often solemnly presented at synods and conferences, but it cannot contradict the overall important trends being revealed. The 'number crunchers-crunching' suggest that our neighbours simply see no need of 'belonging' or 'embracing' the stories of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimon Martin and editor Jill Hopkinson from the Arthur Rank Centre, with friends and colleagues, offer throughout this book (203 pages) cameos of hope and experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe, in the Church, have become familiar with terms like 'fresh expressions' and 'messy churches', but perhaps not with 'Eastertingle' or 'Who let the Dads out' groups, ie the men who care for their little ones gathering together. Even a 'Forest Church' that explores worship in a landscape\/outside of a church building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the book five pages point to other resources tried and tested - probably\u003cbr\u003esome useful and successful, others not so, but all venturesome and calling us to\u003cbr\u003etake courage!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvisioned\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout this book it points to envisioned lay folk and clergy. One short paragraph struck me on p160 (Bar Nash-Williams united benefice of Stamfordham and Matfen): 'All the good plans and keen participation come to nothing if you don't start with the heart, it's your heart that says, 'It's worth it just for one child'. Its the heart that says, 'We do what we can and trust to God for the rest.' When you start with that attitude a tiny church can do good things with tiny resources.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmen to that. For we Methodists those words speak to our DNA of 'warmed hearts' and 'faithful service' to our God-given communities wherever you are. I commend this book to those who are seeking some ideas with a warm heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Canon Alan Robson is Lincolnshire agricultural chaplain.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eMETconnexion\u003c\/em\u003e. December 2015\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eIf you are looking for a practical understanding of the main issues, challenges and responses in rural ministry in Britain, this is the text for you. It's very accessible, straightforward and written by Simon Martin and others who are all associated with the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC) which seeks to equip the rural church for effective ministry and mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I particularly like about this book is that it covers the main areas, at least as I understand them. Too many books on rural Christianity spend a lot of their time offering an analysis of the changing nature of rural communities, dealing with indices of rural deprivation, mobility and so on. This is important and helps us to understand the rural context in which we live out our faith and minister. But, too often they don't offer enough direct suggestion as to what we might actually do.\u003c\/p\u003e\nThe chapters consider mission, worship, evangelism, messy church, fresh expressions, worship, discipleship, young people and multi-church ministry. I particularly appreciate the separate chapters on mission and evangelism. Too often these areas are conflated and the result is that being involved with people outside of the believing community is considered to be evangelism. In reality that is mission which creates the opportunity for a more direct sharing of faith and a challenge to discipleship. This book very helpfully, in my view, gets this right.My one small criticism of this book is that it's a bit Anglican. That is fully understandable. The ARC (http:\/\/www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk\/) is a largely Anglican organisation with a Methodist\/United Reformed Rural Officer. The book refers to a lot of ARC resources and programmes which can be used for anyone, although at times there is more of an Anglican flavour. The chapter on 'multi-church ministry' is a good example where the Methodist norm is discussed but rather than strengths and weaknesses of a rural circuit being considered there is more of an introduction to how Methodists do things for others. I think more could be learnt by Methodists and others by a sharper critique of the current Methodist circuit.This is a very good book that enables us to better understand the challenges and possibilities in rural mission and ministry. It does point to the need to produce more material that helps Methodists and other non-Anglicans understand their nuanced context. This is a fine resource that will benefit many.\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eRev'd Dr Stephen Skuce\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCountry Way magazine - January 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe all know that society is changing rapidly and that there is a real need for Christians to find new and innovative ways of ensuring that the story of Jesus and the love of God, for this world, and us as individuals can still be heard and responded to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is not always so easy is finding the right models and ways for doing so. Resourcing Rural Ministry is therefore a 'must have' on the bookshelf of all those who wish to think about what God is saying to the rural church in this generation. In many ways rural church life comes with some unique opportunities as well as often being at the heart of the many challenges facing rural communities in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst no book can offer all of the answers, and each context is unique, Resourcing Rural Ministry will help people to think about their rural context, the story the rural church has to tell and then to look at the mission opportunities this provides through practical ideas. The fundamentals of the Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and growing as disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. God provides us with many opportunities to be more missional in our approach and outlook toward church and community life, and this book is a useful tool to help us grasp those opportunities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Ball\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission
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Resourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church....
{"id":2439745798244,"title":"Travellers of the Heart: Exploring new pathways on our spiritual journey","handle":"travellers-of-the-heart-exploring-new-pathways-on-our-spiritual-journey","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this book one of the UK's leading authors on Christian spirituality and personal renewal shares his own faith journey, in the context of exploring some of the different spiritual traditions that have influenced Christian witness over the past 40 or so years.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilding on themes in his previous book, Dreaming of Home, Michael Mitton explores how encompassing something of the breadth of Christian spirituality, from Charismatic to Catholic, via Celtic, can not only enrich our faith but strengthen the mission of the Church: 'I have chosen to start with my own experience, not because I am any kind of expert but because the best tutors to me over the years have been those prepared to share with me their stories, their ups and downs of life, their struggles and discoveries. Often their experiences have been very different to my own, but as I listen to them, they help me reflect on what is taking place in me.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead more\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIt is perhaps true for all of us who have drawn from several traditions and spiritualities, that no one direction will seem fully like home to us, and this can make us feel disturbed and possibly lonely, but such disturbance can be very healthy... it seems to me that if we try to conform ourselves to fit exactly with one particular tradition we may be missing some very important pathways in our souls, pathways that are known to God.\u003c\/em\u003e (p. 27)\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Mitton's new book is for anyone who is looking for confirmation that seeking out and exploring different Christian spiritualities to discover more of God is not only right but essential for spiritual growth and development. Travellers of the Heart is Michael's own journey of exploration, told not to offer a blueprint for how others may proceed but to share how God revealed himself to Michael through different Christian spiritualities and the benefits and dangers he discovered.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhen I first came to put all this down in the form of a book, I saw my exploration as a journey through different physical terrains that somehow matched my experience of particular spiritualities. My experience of Anglican spirituality felt like firm plains that provided security; I saw evangelical spirituality as the Home Counties, because when I encountered evangelical spirituality I lived in that part of the country, but also I think we all have a spirituality that is the home county where our faith was initially nurtured. I saw my charismatic experience as a delightful rushing stream, but also with that unpredictable flow that could make it a bit dangerous! Catholic spirituality felt a bit risky and took me to places that seemed more like borderlands, but full of interest and adventure. Celtic spirituality felt like high mountains, ancient and rugged - in climbing them you get fascinating views. Liberal spirituality was the one I was told to avoid as an evangelical, so it felt like marshlands - full of threat - but, as I discovered, also full of life and beauty. Finally, missional spirituality was the one that took me to the coastlands and became the one with most adventure and promise.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eMichael discusses the loneliness that such a journey can create because new discoveries may not be easily accepted by your traditional church home. He also acknowledges that in every Christian tradition there is a kind of shadow side. The spirituality we discover is initially full of light and we feel very positive about it, but then, as we explore it more fully, we can discover aspects of it that are disturbing, requiring us to ask: is it the heart and soul of the tradition that creates the shadow or the way people have misused that heart and soul?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMichael finishes by reflecting on the missional coastlands. Before the church lies an ocean of 21st-century people with whom it has little or no contact. Christian spirituality needs adjustment in language and forms to reach out to them. This journey is just beginning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe blend of Michael's own journey and story woven with the different streams of spirituality makes for a lovely gentle way of opening up the gifts of the tradition. His posture of openness and generosity is one I aspire to and I particularly like the way the book concludes in the coastlands of mission which seems to me to be the most natural way to unite. Jonny Baker, pioneer mission leadership team, CMS\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n Michael Mitton is a freelance writer, consultant, Greenbelt speaker, trainer and spiritual director based in Derby.He is also the Bishop of Derby's Adviser for Fresh Expressions and is Priest in Charge of St Paul's, Derby. He has previously worked for the Acorn Christian Healing Foundation and Anglican Renewal Ministries. He has also written The Rainbow of Renewal (2005, Lent), A Handful of Light (2008, Advent) and A Heart to Listen (2004, new ed 2010) for BRF and contributes to New Daylight. \n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sheila Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor anyone on a spiritual journey, this is a fascinating and encouraging read, as the author shares his own personal story and describes the people who have led him on from one spirituality to another. I often identified with Michael Mitton's account of his feelings and discoveries, and found his honesty and his psychological insight very uplifting. At the end of each chapter the author gives questions for reflection which are quite challenging, and help the reader to question his or her own choices and feelings from the past. At the end, among other questions, we are invited to consider what our feelings are about the first spirituality that was life-giving for us. For me, very early in my life, I think it may well have been pantheism. Michael Mitton also considers the dangers of tribalism in our attitude to what we and other people believe, which has a toxic effect upon our ability to come alongside those who are different. We need to seek to be true to our convictions without behaving tribally. An excellent book which I recommend to anyone who identifies as being on a spiritual journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Ann Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA thought provoking book. Clarifying the various traditions and enabling a reflection of my own spiritual journey which has embraced some of the territories in the book and a desire to explore further the next stage of my personal journey\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a friend who is considering stepping out on the journey of formal ministry buy them this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBased on Michael's journey of life he reminds us that the church also has its own road map with different Highlands and Coastlands, Borders and Marshlands, Plains and Home Counties.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the various spiritualities found in Churches in England (but also drawing on experience elsewhere in the world) he encourages readers to refuse to simply travel the physical journey of faith but also to reach out to other parts of Christian experience beyond the comfort zone of their church practice and piety.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eHe demonstrates how Conservative Evangelical need 'woolly' Liberals, Catholics need Charismatics, and Celtic and Fresh Expressions of the faith help the whole church grow together.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor the individual on a journey into following and serving Christ this is a very helpful road map which will encourage reflection on their own tradition, help them perceive the light which the experience of others bring to the journey, and is an antidote to the tribalism which so easily pervades the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBe careful to take good note of the 'Questions for Reflection' at the end of each chapter as they provide fruitful food for the journey for anyone who truly desires to be a pilgrim of the faith whichever road they find themselves upon.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn reading the book I felt myself itching to read more of Michael's writings and longing for a second edition of this one. Which revision would include for each chapter a simple reading list explaining more about the different kinds of Christian Spirituality it explores.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow which person newly embarking on the 'Heart Journey' of formal ministry are you going to give this book to?\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:41:33+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:24+00:00","vendor":"Michael Mitton","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","KCLC","Kindle","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769026568292,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857462213","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436526420068,"product_id":2439745798244,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:24+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:15+00:00","alt":null,"width":369,"height":561,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175","variant_ids":[21769026568292]},"available":false,"name":"Travellers of the Heart: Exploring new pathways on our spiritual journey - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":187,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857462213","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238874873995,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238874873995,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175"},"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857462213-l.jpg?v=1549043175","width":369}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this book one of the UK's leading authors on Christian spirituality and personal renewal shares his own faith journey, in the context of exploring some of the different spiritual traditions that have influenced Christian witness over the past 40 or so years.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilding on themes in his previous book, Dreaming of Home, Michael Mitton explores how encompassing something of the breadth of Christian spirituality, from Charismatic to Catholic, via Celtic, can not only enrich our faith but strengthen the mission of the Church: 'I have chosen to start with my own experience, not because I am any kind of expert but because the best tutors to me over the years have been those prepared to share with me their stories, their ups and downs of life, their struggles and discoveries. Often their experiences have been very different to my own, but as I listen to them, they help me reflect on what is taking place in me.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead more\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIt is perhaps true for all of us who have drawn from several traditions and spiritualities, that no one direction will seem fully like home to us, and this can make us feel disturbed and possibly lonely, but such disturbance can be very healthy... it seems to me that if we try to conform ourselves to fit exactly with one particular tradition we may be missing some very important pathways in our souls, pathways that are known to God.\u003c\/em\u003e (p. 27)\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Mitton's new book is for anyone who is looking for confirmation that seeking out and exploring different Christian spiritualities to discover more of God is not only right but essential for spiritual growth and development. Travellers of the Heart is Michael's own journey of exploration, told not to offer a blueprint for how others may proceed but to share how God revealed himself to Michael through different Christian spiritualities and the benefits and dangers he discovered.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhen I first came to put all this down in the form of a book, I saw my exploration as a journey through different physical terrains that somehow matched my experience of particular spiritualities. My experience of Anglican spirituality felt like firm plains that provided security; I saw evangelical spirituality as the Home Counties, because when I encountered evangelical spirituality I lived in that part of the country, but also I think we all have a spirituality that is the home county where our faith was initially nurtured. I saw my charismatic experience as a delightful rushing stream, but also with that unpredictable flow that could make it a bit dangerous! Catholic spirituality felt a bit risky and took me to places that seemed more like borderlands, but full of interest and adventure. Celtic spirituality felt like high mountains, ancient and rugged - in climbing them you get fascinating views. Liberal spirituality was the one I was told to avoid as an evangelical, so it felt like marshlands - full of threat - but, as I discovered, also full of life and beauty. Finally, missional spirituality was the one that took me to the coastlands and became the one with most adventure and promise.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eMichael discusses the loneliness that such a journey can create because new discoveries may not be easily accepted by your traditional church home. He also acknowledges that in every Christian tradition there is a kind of shadow side. The spirituality we discover is initially full of light and we feel very positive about it, but then, as we explore it more fully, we can discover aspects of it that are disturbing, requiring us to ask: is it the heart and soul of the tradition that creates the shadow or the way people have misused that heart and soul?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMichael finishes by reflecting on the missional coastlands. Before the church lies an ocean of 21st-century people with whom it has little or no contact. Christian spirituality needs adjustment in language and forms to reach out to them. This journey is just beginning!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe blend of Michael's own journey and story woven with the different streams of spirituality makes for a lovely gentle way of opening up the gifts of the tradition. His posture of openness and generosity is one I aspire to and I particularly like the way the book concludes in the coastlands of mission which seems to me to be the most natural way to unite. Jonny Baker, pioneer mission leadership team, CMS\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n Michael Mitton is a freelance writer, consultant, Greenbelt speaker, trainer and spiritual director based in Derby.He is also the Bishop of Derby's Adviser for Fresh Expressions and is Priest in Charge of St Paul's, Derby. He has previously worked for the Acorn Christian Healing Foundation and Anglican Renewal Ministries. He has also written The Rainbow of Renewal (2005, Lent), A Handful of Light (2008, Advent) and A Heart to Listen (2004, new ed 2010) for BRF and contributes to New Daylight. \n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sheila Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor anyone on a spiritual journey, this is a fascinating and encouraging read, as the author shares his own personal story and describes the people who have led him on from one spirituality to another. I often identified with Michael Mitton's account of his feelings and discoveries, and found his honesty and his psychological insight very uplifting. At the end of each chapter the author gives questions for reflection which are quite challenging, and help the reader to question his or her own choices and feelings from the past. At the end, among other questions, we are invited to consider what our feelings are about the first spirituality that was life-giving for us. For me, very early in my life, I think it may well have been pantheism. Michael Mitton also considers the dangers of tribalism in our attitude to what we and other people believe, which has a toxic effect upon our ability to come alongside those who are different. We need to seek to be true to our convictions without behaving tribally. An excellent book which I recommend to anyone who identifies as being on a spiritual journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Ann Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA thought provoking book. Clarifying the various traditions and enabling a reflection of my own spiritual journey which has embraced some of the territories in the book and a desire to explore further the next stage of my personal journey\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a friend who is considering stepping out on the journey of formal ministry buy them this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBased on Michael's journey of life he reminds us that the church also has its own road map with different Highlands and Coastlands, Borders and Marshlands, Plains and Home Counties.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the various spiritualities found in Churches in England (but also drawing on experience elsewhere in the world) he encourages readers to refuse to simply travel the physical journey of faith but also to reach out to other parts of Christian experience beyond the comfort zone of their church practice and piety.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eHe demonstrates how Conservative Evangelical need 'woolly' Liberals, Catholics need Charismatics, and Celtic and Fresh Expressions of the faith help the whole church grow together.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor the individual on a journey into following and serving Christ this is a very helpful road map which will encourage reflection on their own tradition, help them perceive the light which the experience of others bring to the journey, and is an antidote to the tribalism which so easily pervades the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBe careful to take good note of the 'Questions for Reflection' at the end of each chapter as they provide fruitful food for the journey for anyone who truly desires to be a pilgrim of the faith whichever road they find themselves upon.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn reading the book I felt myself itching to read more of Michael's writings and longing for a second edition of this one. Which revision would include for each chapter a simple reading list explaining more about the different kinds of Christian Spirituality it explores.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow which person newly embarking on the 'Heart Journey' of formal ministry are you going to give this book to?\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Travellers of the Heart: Exploring new pathways on our spiritual journey
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In this book one of the UK's leading authors on Christian spirituality and personal renewal shares his own faith journey,...
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{"id":2439736492132,"title":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture","handle":"whole-life-whole-bible-50-readings-on-living-in-the-light-of-scripture","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:48+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:49+00:00","vendor":"Antony Billington","type":"Paperback","tags":["Devotional","Jan-12","KCLC","Kindle"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21768913059940,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857460172","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":16948117373080,"product_id":2439736492132,"position":1,"created_at":"2020-05-21T11:23:21+01:00","updated_at":"2020-05-21T11:23:27+01:00","alt":null,"width":1000,"height":1524,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","variant_ids":[21768913059940]},"available":true,"name":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":176,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857460172","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":9121967898776,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":9121967898776,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture
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Where we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and...
{"id":2439736295524,"title":"Walking with Gospel Women: Interactive Bible meditations","handle":"walking-with-gospel-women-interactive-bible-meditations","description":"\u003cp\u003eImaginative meditation can be a powerful way of attuning ourselves to God's presence, involving as it does the emotions as well as the mind. This book offers a refreshing and inspiring way into Bible study, using meditative monologues based around many of the women of the gospels. Through a time of guided reflection, we identify with the woman concerned and see what lessons emerge for today as we ponder her story.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter consists of a monologue, linked Bible passage and discussion material designed to draw out deep communication and group fellowship, as well as transformational learning. While designed primarily for small groups meeting to grow their relationships with God and with each other, the monologues can also be used as a way into silent reflection either for individuals or with larger groups (for example, the monologues could be adapted to use in Sunday worship - for intercession, a time of reflection or as part of a sermon).\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead Fiona's introduction to the book:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are involved in a women's Bible study group, particularly in leading it, the big question at the start of each term is likely to be what to study. There are a lot of resources available, so where do you begin? In my book I wanted to offer something different... a new way of making familiar Bible stories personal, walking alongside the women involved, exploring their emotions and feeling their heartbeat.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWalking with Gospel Women: Interactive Bible meditations \u003c\/strong\u003eis a series of 26 meditative monologues based on biblical passages in which each character tells the story of her encounter with Jesus. As we enter her story through the imagination, we discover what issues were touched in her life and how she responded. Our minds and emotions are engaged as we listen and are then guided through group discussion and individual reflection to consider these issues further. The questions encourage deep communication and are designed to stimulate conversation that leads to personal and spiritual growth as well as developing friendships and community. Transformational learning takes place. What can we learn from Mary, the mother of Jesus, at the wedding of Cana about letting go, about joy and celebration? How does Jesus' encounter with Martha teach us to deal with resentment, inner restlessness and how to balance the demands in our lives? Our spiritual journey is fostered as we are, and we are then led to consider what each episode teaches us about God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWomen with much experience of Bible study in groups will find this innovative approach refreshing. Creative women will be drawn to exploring biblical passages through the imagination. Newcomers to the Bible will find this resource approachable and will gain cultural insights from the monologues. \u003cstrong\u003eWalking with Gospel Women\u003c\/strong\u003e could also be used by reading groups and for individual reflection. The monologues could be used without the studies in many contexts: as part of a church's Christmas or Easter programme; for storytelling; as a stimulus for a sermon or guided meditation.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nImagination is a pathway for the spirit. In her book of meditations, Fiona leads us along this path to fresh encounters with God. Ann Persson \r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nA qualified speech and language therapist, Fiona Stratta has worked with adults and children and is also a member of the Association of Teachers of Speech and Drama. The idea for this book first emerged when she endured a prolonged period of ill-health which led her to engage with meditative approaches to Bible reading.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:46+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:47+00:00","vendor":"Fiona Stratta","type":"Paperback","tags":["Devotional","Jul-12","KCLC","Kindle","Women"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21768906276964,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857460103","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436457115748,"product_id":2439736295524,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:47+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:22+00:00","alt":null,"width":369,"height":561,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182","variant_ids":[21768906276964]},"available":false,"name":"Walking with Gospel Women: Interactive Bible meditations - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":205,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857460103","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238874185867,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238874185867,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"width":369,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182"},"aspect_ratio":0.658,"height":561,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460103-l.jpg?v=1549043182","width":369}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eImaginative meditation can be a powerful way of attuning ourselves to God's presence, involving as it does the emotions as well as the mind. This book offers a refreshing and inspiring way into Bible study, using meditative monologues based around many of the women of the gospels. Through a time of guided reflection, we identify with the woman concerned and see what lessons emerge for today as we ponder her story.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter consists of a monologue, linked Bible passage and discussion material designed to draw out deep communication and group fellowship, as well as transformational learning. While designed primarily for small groups meeting to grow their relationships with God and with each other, the monologues can also be used as a way into silent reflection either for individuals or with larger groups (for example, the monologues could be adapted to use in Sunday worship - for intercession, a time of reflection or as part of a sermon).\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead Fiona's introduction to the book:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are involved in a women's Bible study group, particularly in leading it, the big question at the start of each term is likely to be what to study. There are a lot of resources available, so where do you begin? In my book I wanted to offer something different... a new way of making familiar Bible stories personal, walking alongside the women involved, exploring their emotions and feeling their heartbeat.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWalking with Gospel Women: Interactive Bible meditations \u003c\/strong\u003eis a series of 26 meditative monologues based on biblical passages in which each character tells the story of her encounter with Jesus. As we enter her story through the imagination, we discover what issues were touched in her life and how she responded. Our minds and emotions are engaged as we listen and are then guided through group discussion and individual reflection to consider these issues further. The questions encourage deep communication and are designed to stimulate conversation that leads to personal and spiritual growth as well as developing friendships and community. Transformational learning takes place. What can we learn from Mary, the mother of Jesus, at the wedding of Cana about letting go, about joy and celebration? How does Jesus' encounter with Martha teach us to deal with resentment, inner restlessness and how to balance the demands in our lives? Our spiritual journey is fostered as we are, and we are then led to consider what each episode teaches us about God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWomen with much experience of Bible study in groups will find this innovative approach refreshing. Creative women will be drawn to exploring biblical passages through the imagination. Newcomers to the Bible will find this resource approachable and will gain cultural insights from the monologues. \u003cstrong\u003eWalking with Gospel Women\u003c\/strong\u003e could also be used by reading groups and for individual reflection. The monologues could be used without the studies in many contexts: as part of a church's Christmas or Easter programme; for storytelling; as a stimulus for a sermon or guided meditation.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nImagination is a pathway for the spirit. In her book of meditations, Fiona leads us along this path to fresh encounters with God. Ann Persson \r\n\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nA qualified speech and language therapist, Fiona Stratta has worked with adults and children and is also a member of the Association of Teachers of Speech and Drama. The idea for this book first emerged when she endured a prolonged period of ill-health which led her to engage with meditative approaches to Bible reading.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n"}
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Walking with Gospel Women: Interactive Bible meditations
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Imaginative meditation can be a powerful way of attuning ourselves to God's presence, involving as it does the emotions as...
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