Card Clearance Bundle B
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| Title | Card Clearance Bundle B | ||||||||||||||||
| Author | BRF Resources | ||||||||||||||||
| ISBN | |||||||||||||||||
| Description | Card Clearance Sale£10.00 for 10 packs
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| Details |
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Card Clearance Sale
£10.00 for 10 packs
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EVERYDAYCARD17 |
Bee And Wreath Card |
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EVERYDAYCARD7 |
Birthday Girl And On Your Special Day Card |
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BRFCARD2024X8 |
Festive Flowers Card |
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EVERYDAYCARD14 |
Floral Birthday Card |
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EVERYDAYCARD12 |
Hearts And Music Card |
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EVERYDAYCARD16 |
Vehicles Card x 2 |
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EVERYDAYCARD20 |
Words Of Comfort Card x 2 |
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EVERYDAYCARD15 |
Love Card |
Related
{"id":6841102467263,"title":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made","handle":"unveiled","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2022-05-23T16:55:21+01:00","created_at":"2021-07-28T21:08:35+01:00","vendor":"Clare Hayns","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","KCLC","oct-21","Spirituality","Women"],"price":1499,"price_min":1499,"price_max":1499,"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":40313768018111,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390720","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":29500341420223,"product_id":6841102467263,"position":1,"created_at":"2021-07-28T21:08:35+01:00","updated_at":"2022-05-23T16:57:04+01:00","alt":null,"width":1916,"height":1800,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","variant_ids":[40313768018111]},"available":true,"name":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":1499,"weight":500,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390720","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":21875019382975,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"width":1916,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":21875019382975,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"width":1916,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"},"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","width":1916}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made
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{"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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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":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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{"id":4853424980107,"title":"The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control","handle":"the-bible-doesn-t-tell-me-so-why-you-don-t-have-to-submit-to-domestic-abuse-and-coercive-control","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral leaders, friends and support organisations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt debunks the myths – perpetuated by some abusers and, unwittingly, by many churches – which prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. It helps them realise that the Bible does not belong to their abuser but is a text of liberation. Written with careful attention to pastoral issues, it closely examines and clearly explains the relevant scriptural texts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlso available from the Centre for the Study of Bible \u0026amp; Violence, a six-week video course for use by church small groups \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/\" title=\"The Bible Doesn't Tell Me So\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iRWOUDQBFXc\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence. A Baptist minister and biblical specialist, she has published at popular and scholarly levels, including \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e (2019) for BRF. She speaks nationally and internationally about the interpretation of biblical violence and the abuse of the Bible to promote violence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is important. Helen Paynter’s expertise with scripture, her approachability and her engagement with the reality of abuse ensure The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So is extremely helpful, both for Christians who have been subjected to abuse and for those wanting a strong biblical approach to addressing domestic abuse issues. It is both theological and practical and offers an authoritative and ultimately healing approach to scripture for women who have been abused. I know it will make a positive difference to women’s lives!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatalie Collins, author of Out of Control: Couples, conflict and the capacity for change\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have all too often seen the Bible I love weaponised by men to control and subordinate their wives. The sad truth is that domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world outside. I am deeply grateful for this book and Helen’s detailed study and balanced explanation of the texts that have been used throughout the centuries to “bash” women. It is an academically excellent book, which sheds light on the complex scriptures it covers, yet remains immensely readable. It is thorough and profound and enables the reader to not just wrestle with these verses, but also to consider God's original plan for the relationship between men and women. This book shows the Bible is liberating for women and challenging for some men, and I pray The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So will become a core text for leaders as they learn to recognise and respond to domestic abuse within their churches.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBekah Legg, director of Restored\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach magazine, Autumn 2023. Review by Charmaine Yip\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eWe don’t talk about domestic abuse: we close our eyes and pretend it’s not happening. The shocking truth is that in the UK, a woman is killed by a current or previous partner every four days, and domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as in wider society. Worse, the Bible is deliberately ‘weaponised’ to facilitate this abuse. The main aim of this book is to show that nowhere does the Bible license abuse and violation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressed primarily to women experiencing domestic abuse but also to churches seeking to support them, this book is written from a pastoral perspective and with a cogency befitting its subject. Paynter explores the whole biblical narrative as well as specific texts to build a watertight case that abuse is never permitted by scripture. She shows, for example, that Paul’s exhortation to women to submit to their husbands applies only in a loving supportive marriage, and does not authorise men to force their wives into submission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis applies even if we consider the doctrine of male headship and female submission to be timeless. While not convinced by the so-called ‘trajectory hermeneutic’, I found the chapter highlighting the less obvious misuses of scripture, such as passages around forgiveness, suffering and divorce, which can trap women in toxic marriages, incredibly insightful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter does not shy away from calling out abuse committed by pastors. One of the chief obstacles to bringing accusations is the fallacy that the ‘Lord’s anointed’ is above censure, but Paynter goes to great lengths to establish that it is our God-given duty to call out abusive pastors. A minister herself, Paynter argues for robust accountability structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a must-read for church leaders. The chapter outlining how churches might collude in the abuse by closing ranks and keeping silent is a real eye-opener. There is another chapter addressed directly to church leaders warning against potential pitfalls, such as misdiagnosing abuse. Leaders are instead encouraged to believe the woman, exercise church discipline and cultivate a culture in which all may flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo explore this issue as a whole church, there is a six-session video resource, ideal for small groups. The interview format video resource, ideal for small groups. The interview format of these videos is compelling and the final session, focusing on next steps, pastoral care and preaching insights, particularly healing. This is a high-quality resource, offering lots of thought-provoking material as well as sensitive pauses. It is available at www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/ for a small donation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Charmaine Yip, who writes for Preach magazine, occasionally preaches short \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003esermons for Premier Radio, and is the 2022 winner of Sermon of the Year.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire magazine, New Zealand Spring 2021. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed to women experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control within a church setting and people, including church leaders, supporting women who are being abused. Why is such a book needed? Abuse by clergy has been well publicised but domestic abuse and coercive control within church families is wider than is often recognised. I have painful memories of three daughters asking me not to refer to their father as a loving husband at his funeral. They claimed that their mother, who had suffered from his behaviour, had remained within the marriage only because she felt trapped financially. They said their father, who considered himself a man of Christian virtue, emphasised repeatedly it was a wife’s duty to obey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is estimated that around 80% of domestic abuse is never reported. As well as physical or sexual violence, abusive relationships may include various forms of personal or social control, threats, accusations and intimidation. Overwhelmingly abusers are male. Domestic abuse and coercive control will often be denied by men and accepted by their female partners as just the way things are. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter’s book is arranged in three parts. Part 1 deals with what she terms the weaponization of scripture. Passages in Ephesians 5, 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Peter 3 have been used as weapons against women. Using scholarly exegesis Paynter shows how even if one believes that a wife should submit to her husband as head of the household this is intended to be within a mutually loving, supportive and affirming relationship. It is argued that to use biblical texts to discourage a woman from divorcing an abusive husband is to contravene biblical teaching about respect for human dignity. And it is a misuse of scripture to argue that Christian faith requires a wife to keep on forgiving an abusive husband, or that pastoral care for a parishioner can be expressed through a sexual relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2 is titled ‘The truth will set you free.’ Abusive husbands strip their wives of power, but Paynter shows how throughout scripture God is for the powerless and oppressed. Scripture affirms that all people have a God-given dignity. In the gospels women’s dignity is affirmed by Jesus. There is nothing in scripture that justifies the subordination of wives or women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor too long women have not been believed or have been hushed up. But scripture affirms that God is neither indifferent nor concerned to help anyone exercise power over another. In the light of God’s word injustice will always be revealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 includes three personal addresses: to those trapped by an abuser, to church leaders and to the perpetrator. Abused women are urged to have a safety plan and a helpful list is provided. Church leaders are encouraged to listen, to name what is wrong and never to promote gender roles or a theology that creates a sense of male entitlement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDomestic abuse and coercion are a travesty of relationships and the subordination of women is a biblical distortion. As stated on the cover this book debunks myths that prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. By helping clarify how church leaders need to act to protect women from abuse and free them from guilt and fear the book is a valuable pastoral resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/592122\/The_Bible_Doesn.aspx\"\u003eBaptist Times 18.11.20\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Jenni Entrican\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important book, and even more so during this time of COVID pandemic when levels of domestic abuse have significantly increased. As the title suggests, it is clear that specific interpretations of the Bible are used to validate totally unacceptable violations against women by their partners. Helen names this as ‘scripture being weaponised against women’, and her aim is to show that the Bible does not support the abuse of anyone.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is an important book too because of the hidden nature of domestic abuse, particularly within Christian communities who believe that ‘it doesn’t happen here’, or that it is simply a relationship issue where counselling can help, or that it is the fault of the person being abused who needs to deal with low self esteem, or forgive the abuser. If this sounds simplistic, the reality is that these reactions are not uncommon, and thus perpetuate behaviour that is so contrary to God’s intention for humankind.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThus, Helen’s book, addressed primarily to those suffering abuse, but also to those who support them and church leaders, does an excellent job of unpacking, both the whole sweep of the Biblical narrative, as well as specific scripture passages which are used to validate abusive behaviour. She addresses the Genesis account of the creation of men and women and their relationship; Paul’s exhortation to submit to one another, alongside the revolutionary injunction for men to love their wives as Christ loves the church; truths about what forgiveness looks like; how Jesus viewed and treated women and what God’s heart is for those who are abused.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe finishes briefly by addressing those trapped by an abuser, church leaders on how they can support such, and lastly, she addresses someone who is an abuser.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book, standing alongside other important books, has an important place in recognising and helping us to deal with what is a hugely important Kingdom and justice issue. It is time for us to grapple with the reality of violence and coercion of women within society as a whole, and particularly within the Christian church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn one way it is not an easy read as Helen draws on the lived experiences of women who have been in contact with her and we should weep at their stories. However it is carefully crafted to be both deeply theological, yet simple to read. I highly recommend reading this book and offering it to others, as a resource, but also to bind up some very real wounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs I have travelled through the UK and Europe these past five years as Baptists Together and European Baptist Federation Presidents, I have met many fascinating and wonderful women, but I have also been aware of how often women are not given the opportunities to use their gifts freely. The more I hear and read of the way the female gender is treated worldwide, the more my heart cries out for more books like these, and for more people to engage with issues of gender justice. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eJenni Entrican was European Baptist Federation President 2017-19, and is a member of the Baptist World Alliance Commission on Racial, Gender and Economic Justice 2020 -2025\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Kate Lemon, Services Manager One 25: a Bristol based charity supporting women who have experience trauma, helping them to 'heal and thrive'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is crucial in opening up conversations about domestic abuse within the church. For a long time domestic abuse has not been recognised and this has left women who were being abused isolated and totally unsupported. Moreover this system protected perpetrators of abuse. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s book plays a vital role in demonstrating that abuse happens everywhere, including within Christianity, that it is not acceptable and crucially that the bible does not advocate abuse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI also support the audiences that the author has targeted: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Women who are experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control: this is so important. They need to know that their voices are heard and their experiences recognised as part of the church community. They need to see evidence that the bible does not advocate the abuse they are experiencing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Others in the Christian community who accept, allow or ignore instances of domestic abuse, and particularly church leaders. They are the people in power who need to listen to women and acknowledge what is happening in their church, community and the wider world. They are the people who must put in systems to challenge and stop domestic abuse at a local, national and international level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen’s detailed explanation of what the bible states and what this means is essential in challenging the discourse around women’s place and safety in society. Her position as a knowledgeable minister and biblical specialist gives clear authority to this element of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as victims of domestic abuse and church leaders, there are other target audiences for this book: the Christian community as a whole, including volunteers, pastoral assistants and lay leaders. I would also add academics who train ministers and Christian workers, to ensure that this topic is covered in training and staff development. And finally, academics and researchers who study gender politics, women’s rights, sexual violence and abuse, and coercive control. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy key takeaways from this book are these:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the overriding message that God is for all who are oppressed and that includes women experiencing domestic abuse: God is for them and supports them. God does not advocate their abuse nor condone it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd second, the safety plan: practical list of what women should do if they are planning to leave their abusers in order to keep themselves as safe as possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Kate Lemon, Services Manager, One25 \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-05-01T16:32:57+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-01T17:23:36+01:00","vendor":"Helen Paynter","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Oct-20","Pastoral care","Women"],"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":33575220379787,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469892","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":203,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469892","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7670273114251,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral leaders, friends and support organisations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt debunks the myths – perpetuated by some abusers and, unwittingly, by many churches – which prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. It helps them realise that the Bible does not belong to their abuser but is a text of liberation. Written with careful attention to pastoral issues, it closely examines and clearly explains the relevant scriptural texts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlso available from the Centre for the Study of Bible \u0026amp; Violence, a six-week video course for use by church small groups \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/\" title=\"The Bible Doesn't Tell Me So\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iRWOUDQBFXc\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence. A Baptist minister and biblical specialist, she has published at popular and scholarly levels, including \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e (2019) for BRF. She speaks nationally and internationally about the interpretation of biblical violence and the abuse of the Bible to promote violence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is important. Helen Paynter’s expertise with scripture, her approachability and her engagement with the reality of abuse ensure The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So is extremely helpful, both for Christians who have been subjected to abuse and for those wanting a strong biblical approach to addressing domestic abuse issues. It is both theological and practical and offers an authoritative and ultimately healing approach to scripture for women who have been abused. I know it will make a positive difference to women’s lives!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatalie Collins, author of Out of Control: Couples, conflict and the capacity for change\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have all too often seen the Bible I love weaponised by men to control and subordinate their wives. The sad truth is that domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world outside. I am deeply grateful for this book and Helen’s detailed study and balanced explanation of the texts that have been used throughout the centuries to “bash” women. It is an academically excellent book, which sheds light on the complex scriptures it covers, yet remains immensely readable. It is thorough and profound and enables the reader to not just wrestle with these verses, but also to consider God's original plan for the relationship between men and women. This book shows the Bible is liberating for women and challenging for some men, and I pray The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So will become a core text for leaders as they learn to recognise and respond to domestic abuse within their churches.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBekah Legg, director of Restored\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach magazine, Autumn 2023. Review by Charmaine Yip\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eWe don’t talk about domestic abuse: we close our eyes and pretend it’s not happening. The shocking truth is that in the UK, a woman is killed by a current or previous partner every four days, and domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as in wider society. Worse, the Bible is deliberately ‘weaponised’ to facilitate this abuse. The main aim of this book is to show that nowhere does the Bible license abuse and violation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressed primarily to women experiencing domestic abuse but also to churches seeking to support them, this book is written from a pastoral perspective and with a cogency befitting its subject. Paynter explores the whole biblical narrative as well as specific texts to build a watertight case that abuse is never permitted by scripture. She shows, for example, that Paul’s exhortation to women to submit to their husbands applies only in a loving supportive marriage, and does not authorise men to force their wives into submission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis applies even if we consider the doctrine of male headship and female submission to be timeless. While not convinced by the so-called ‘trajectory hermeneutic’, I found the chapter highlighting the less obvious misuses of scripture, such as passages around forgiveness, suffering and divorce, which can trap women in toxic marriages, incredibly insightful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter does not shy away from calling out abuse committed by pastors. One of the chief obstacles to bringing accusations is the fallacy that the ‘Lord’s anointed’ is above censure, but Paynter goes to great lengths to establish that it is our God-given duty to call out abusive pastors. A minister herself, Paynter argues for robust accountability structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a must-read for church leaders. The chapter outlining how churches might collude in the abuse by closing ranks and keeping silent is a real eye-opener. There is another chapter addressed directly to church leaders warning against potential pitfalls, such as misdiagnosing abuse. Leaders are instead encouraged to believe the woman, exercise church discipline and cultivate a culture in which all may flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo explore this issue as a whole church, there is a six-session video resource, ideal for small groups. The interview format video resource, ideal for small groups. The interview format of these videos is compelling and the final session, focusing on next steps, pastoral care and preaching insights, particularly healing. This is a high-quality resource, offering lots of thought-provoking material as well as sensitive pauses. It is available at www.csbvbristol.org.uk\/study-videos\/ for a small donation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Charmaine Yip, who writes for Preach magazine, occasionally preaches short \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003esermons for Premier Radio, and is the 2022 winner of Sermon of the Year.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire magazine, New Zealand Spring 2021. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed to women experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control within a church setting and people, including church leaders, supporting women who are being abused. Why is such a book needed? Abuse by clergy has been well publicised but domestic abuse and coercive control within church families is wider than is often recognised. I have painful memories of three daughters asking me not to refer to their father as a loving husband at his funeral. They claimed that their mother, who had suffered from his behaviour, had remained within the marriage only because she felt trapped financially. They said their father, who considered himself a man of Christian virtue, emphasised repeatedly it was a wife’s duty to obey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is estimated that around 80% of domestic abuse is never reported. As well as physical or sexual violence, abusive relationships may include various forms of personal or social control, threats, accusations and intimidation. Overwhelmingly abusers are male. Domestic abuse and coercive control will often be denied by men and accepted by their female partners as just the way things are. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter’s book is arranged in three parts. Part 1 deals with what she terms the weaponization of scripture. Passages in Ephesians 5, 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Peter 3 have been used as weapons against women. Using scholarly exegesis Paynter shows how even if one believes that a wife should submit to her husband as head of the household this is intended to be within a mutually loving, supportive and affirming relationship. It is argued that to use biblical texts to discourage a woman from divorcing an abusive husband is to contravene biblical teaching about respect for human dignity. And it is a misuse of scripture to argue that Christian faith requires a wife to keep on forgiving an abusive husband, or that pastoral care for a parishioner can be expressed through a sexual relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2 is titled ‘The truth will set you free.’ Abusive husbands strip their wives of power, but Paynter shows how throughout scripture God is for the powerless and oppressed. Scripture affirms that all people have a God-given dignity. In the gospels women’s dignity is affirmed by Jesus. There is nothing in scripture that justifies the subordination of wives or women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor too long women have not been believed or have been hushed up. But scripture affirms that God is neither indifferent nor concerned to help anyone exercise power over another. In the light of God’s word injustice will always be revealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 includes three personal addresses: to those trapped by an abuser, to church leaders and to the perpetrator. Abused women are urged to have a safety plan and a helpful list is provided. Church leaders are encouraged to listen, to name what is wrong and never to promote gender roles or a theology that creates a sense of male entitlement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDomestic abuse and coercion are a travesty of relationships and the subordination of women is a biblical distortion. As stated on the cover this book debunks myths that prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. By helping clarify how church leaders need to act to protect women from abuse and free them from guilt and fear the book is a valuable pastoral resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/592122\/The_Bible_Doesn.aspx\"\u003eBaptist Times 18.11.20\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Jenni Entrican\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important book, and even more so during this time of COVID pandemic when levels of domestic abuse have significantly increased. As the title suggests, it is clear that specific interpretations of the Bible are used to validate totally unacceptable violations against women by their partners. Helen names this as ‘scripture being weaponised against women’, and her aim is to show that the Bible does not support the abuse of anyone.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is an important book too because of the hidden nature of domestic abuse, particularly within Christian communities who believe that ‘it doesn’t happen here’, or that it is simply a relationship issue where counselling can help, or that it is the fault of the person being abused who needs to deal with low self esteem, or forgive the abuser. If this sounds simplistic, the reality is that these reactions are not uncommon, and thus perpetuate behaviour that is so contrary to God’s intention for humankind.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThus, Helen’s book, addressed primarily to those suffering abuse, but also to those who support them and church leaders, does an excellent job of unpacking, both the whole sweep of the Biblical narrative, as well as specific scripture passages which are used to validate abusive behaviour. She addresses the Genesis account of the creation of men and women and their relationship; Paul’s exhortation to submit to one another, alongside the revolutionary injunction for men to love their wives as Christ loves the church; truths about what forgiveness looks like; how Jesus viewed and treated women and what God’s heart is for those who are abused.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe finishes briefly by addressing those trapped by an abuser, church leaders on how they can support such, and lastly, she addresses someone who is an abuser.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book, standing alongside other important books, has an important place in recognising and helping us to deal with what is a hugely important Kingdom and justice issue. It is time for us to grapple with the reality of violence and coercion of women within society as a whole, and particularly within the Christian church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn one way it is not an easy read as Helen draws on the lived experiences of women who have been in contact with her and we should weep at their stories. However it is carefully crafted to be both deeply theological, yet simple to read. I highly recommend reading this book and offering it to others, as a resource, but also to bind up some very real wounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs I have travelled through the UK and Europe these past five years as Baptists Together and European Baptist Federation Presidents, I have met many fascinating and wonderful women, but I have also been aware of how often women are not given the opportunities to use their gifts freely. The more I hear and read of the way the female gender is treated worldwide, the more my heart cries out for more books like these, and for more people to engage with issues of gender justice. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eJenni Entrican was European Baptist Federation President 2017-19, and is a member of the Baptist World Alliance Commission on Racial, Gender and Economic Justice 2020 -2025\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Kate Lemon, Services Manager One 25: a Bristol based charity supporting women who have experience trauma, helping them to 'heal and thrive'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is crucial in opening up conversations about domestic abuse within the church. For a long time domestic abuse has not been recognised and this has left women who were being abused isolated and totally unsupported. Moreover this system protected perpetrators of abuse. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s book plays a vital role in demonstrating that abuse happens everywhere, including within Christianity, that it is not acceptable and crucially that the bible does not advocate abuse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI also support the audiences that the author has targeted: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Women who are experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control: this is so important. They need to know that their voices are heard and their experiences recognised as part of the church community. They need to see evidence that the bible does not advocate the abuse they are experiencing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Others in the Christian community who accept, allow or ignore instances of domestic abuse, and particularly church leaders. They are the people in power who need to listen to women and acknowledge what is happening in their church, community and the wider world. They are the people who must put in systems to challenge and stop domestic abuse at a local, national and international level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen’s detailed explanation of what the bible states and what this means is essential in challenging the discourse around women’s place and safety in society. Her position as a knowledgeable minister and biblical specialist gives clear authority to this element of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as victims of domestic abuse and church leaders, there are other target audiences for this book: the Christian community as a whole, including volunteers, pastoral assistants and lay leaders. I would also add academics who train ministers and Christian workers, to ensure that this topic is covered in training and staff development. And finally, academics and researchers who study gender politics, women’s rights, sexual violence and abuse, and coercive control. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy key takeaways from this book are these:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the overriding message that God is for all who are oppressed and that includes women experiencing domestic abuse: God is for them and supports them. God does not advocate their abuse nor condone it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd second, the safety plan: practical list of what women should do if they are planning to leave their abusers in order to keep themselves as safe as possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Kate Lemon, Services Manager, One25 \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control
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This book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral...
{"id":2439795015780,"title":"God among the Ruins: Trust and transformation in difficult times","handle":"god-among-the-ruins-trust-and-transformation-in-difficult-times","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere do we turn when our world is falling apart?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIt takes courage to hope; to stand in our confusion and grief and still to believe that 'God is not helpless among the ruins'. Guided by Habakkuk and his prophetic landmarks, we are drawn on a reflective journey through the tangled landscape of bewildered faith, through places of wrestling and waiting, and on into the growth space of deepened trust and transformation. As you read, discover for yourself the value and practice of honest prayer, of surrender, of silence and listening, and of irrepressible hoping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt's a long and winding road\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWounded ragings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt wasn't meant to be like this\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't just do something, sit there!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOf plastic bottles, empty tin cans and trust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrom the back door to the barn door - and beyond\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat's in a name?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWalking with the wounded\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wonder of this book is its searing honesty. Through the lens of her own life-changing loss and learning from Habbakuk's journey through profound pain, Mags helps us see how we might come to trust the goodness of God amidst heart-rending devastation and chaos. This is gentle, biblically-rooted, and carefully crafted wisdom that faces difficult questions and emotions of suffering head on yet persists in seeking God amongst it all. This is wisdom that has been lived. I trust that many might discover this book.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Tracy Cotterell, London Institute for Contemporary Christianity \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn 9\/11 when I saw the Twin Towers in New York, one after the other, pancake to the ground in a deafening explosion of devastation and heart-wrenching tragedy, it was hard to imagine God among those ruins. When I walked beside a couple whose only child had died at 10 months on Thanksgiving Day, they found it hard to imagine a God among their ruins. When my own hopes and dreams collapsed after trying everything imaginable to keep them alive, I too struggled with finding God in the ruins. In this beautifully written book and with a careful study of Habakkuk, Duggan unfolds the story of her own journey through haunting loss to the transforming comfort of God. So if you have struggled with believing in a loving God when your own world collapses, this book will serve you well. It certainly guided and helped me. Dr.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e MaryKate Morse, professor, author and spiritual director \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf only I had had this book when I looked for help with my own experience of deep and all-pervading disappointment with God in 1983 and could find nothing written on the subject! An interaction with the words of the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk based on Mags's own devastation, it is totally authentic in declaring the pain each of them went through and the ways in which they related to God in and through it. It is totally practical as well in offering guidance through activities that help one to recognise one's own difficulties and bring them before God. And, through it all, no matter how horrible the circumstances and the experience, Emmanuel, the God who is with us. It is wonderful to have such a resource available to those who are going through pain and anger with God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Dr Colin Bulley, Pioneers UK, Member Care Consultant, Spiritual Director \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was eagerly anticipating the release of 'God Among The Ruins', having sat under Mags Duggan's teaching on a number of occasions, and I was not disappointed. Although the book was birthed in the author's own journey of suffering, that does not become the main focus. Each chapter gently and compassionately brings the reader to God Himself through the faith journey of Habakkuk. Mags has not avoided the problems that suffering brings, nor has she offered trite answers where there are none. Rather she helps us learn to walk with the questions as we move towards God. The practical reflections suggested at the end of each chapter are so helpful for readers wanting to apply the truths they are encountering. So helpful. So good.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Valerie Murphy, Coordinator of Women's Bible Teaching Ministry, Crescent Church Belfast, Retreat Leader, Bible Teacher \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncisively yet simply written, there are lessons for us all, not just those who have suffered grief or earthquake.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Canon Dr Steve Davie, Principal of the Bradford Hub of the Leeds School of Ministry \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"384\" width=\"288\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MagsinFergusFalls_480x480.jpg?v=1676493905\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan has worked with the Navigators for 35 years, many of these as a cross-cultural missionary in East Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. More recently, she was on the faculty of Redcliffe College, Gloucester, where she lectured in two areas she is passionate about: Spiritual Formation and Soul Care. Currently, she is engaged in providing spiritual nurture and pastoral care to a diverse group of cross-cultural missionaries and ministry leaders, both here in the UK and around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2018. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an honest and moving book, with a message for everyone who has struggled or suffered. It is based on the book of Habakkuk, whose short prophecy tells of the prophet's despair, questioning and wrestling with God, and emergence as a wiser, more peaceful person. Duggan tells her own story of despair, questioning, wrestling and her emergence as a wiser, more peaceful person. God Among the Ruins is honest and gently emotive. It is not intended to be a happy story, but it is a tremendously encouraging one. Duggan's chapter on 'Walking with the wounded' is particularly moving. The writing is warm and compelling. It could suit a home group as well as an individual. Each chapter contains simple but practical suggestions to help the reader put the message into practice. It is a book of hope, which nearly everyone would benefit from. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e_____________________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, August 2018. Reviewed by David Stuckey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I was a lot younger my mum gave me her copy of God in The Slums written by Hugh Redwood in the 1930s. It was not an easy read for a young lad but I have revisited it several times in the intervening years and have come to appreciate its sincerity and its poignancy. It told of finding God's presence in unlikely places, in the midst of trial and tribulation, and at times it could be an achingly poignant read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have come across few accounts of loss and despair over the years to come close to Redwood's image of abiding faith - until now. Mags Duggan has similarly identified God's goodness and guidance in times of trial and torment. 'Trust and transformation in difficult times,' she suggests, as her opening reflection in God Among the Ruins repeats familiar words from Habakkuk: 'Even though ... even here ... Emmanuel'. At times when God seemed distant, when crops failed, when death and devastation abounded, Habakkuk was able to declare 'Yet I will rejoice'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags gives her readers an achingly personal reflection of coming to terms with the death of her young niece from cancer, and those words she found which resonated with her in these circumstances came from another who clung to his faith in God in harrowing circumstances. The words of Eric Liddell, the Olympic runner and missionary who died in a Japanese prisoner of war camp came to her, 'sparking the hope of healing and new life,' she writes. Liddell had declared 'Circumstances may appear to wreck our lives and God's plans, but God is not helpless among the ruins.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to savour, to dip into for comfort and support, to reflect on personal circumstances and to appreciate the rewards of faith and Christian support. And having unwrapped and dissected Habakkuk in many helpful and meaningful ways, the author then reveals that she too was diagnosed with breast cancer on the day she submitted the manuscript for publication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to make you weep and wonder, as it gives the reader fresh insight not only into living with cancer but also submitting one's life into the caring arms of the Almighty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDavid Stuckey is a journalist and member of Maghull Baptist Church, Merseyside\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Mike Treneer, International President Emeritus, The Navigators (8 March 2018)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many reasons to commend Mags Duggan's beautifully written book 'God Among the Ruins'! I will mention just three:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis meditation on the Old Testament book of Habakkuk in the light of Mags' own experience of grief for her niece, powerfully brings Bible and life together in ways that help us to understand both.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags combines profound insights into some of life's most challenging questions with simple practical suggestions for growing in our relationship with God through them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Mags opens up her own process of grief, she helpfully illustrates and guides us in how we too can 'comfort others with the comfort we too have received from God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Treneer, International President Emeritus, The Navigators.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_____________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:29+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:31+00:00","vendor":"Mags Duggan","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","KCLC","Kindle","Pastoral care","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Torch Trust","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":21769678848100,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465757","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436832178276,"product_id":2439795015780,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:31+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:39+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139","variant_ids":[21769678848100]},"available":true,"name":"God among the Ruins: Trust and transformation in difficult times - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":162,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465757","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238879527051,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/50_6c8264b5-c1ab-40fc-87c3-ef992720c7bd.png?v=1734095701"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879527051,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465757-l.jpg?v=1549043139","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63560967586172,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/50_6c8264b5-c1ab-40fc-87c3-ef992720c7bd.png?v=1734095701"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/50_6c8264b5-c1ab-40fc-87c3-ef992720c7bd.png?v=1734095701","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere do we turn when our world is falling apart?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIt takes courage to hope; to stand in our confusion and grief and still to believe that 'God is not helpless among the ruins'. Guided by Habakkuk and his prophetic landmarks, we are drawn on a reflective journey through the tangled landscape of bewildered faith, through places of wrestling and waiting, and on into the growth space of deepened trust and transformation. As you read, discover for yourself the value and practice of honest prayer, of surrender, of silence and listening, and of irrepressible hoping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt's a long and winding road\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWounded ragings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt wasn't meant to be like this\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't just do something, sit there!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOf plastic bottles, empty tin cans and trust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrom the back door to the barn door - and beyond\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat's in a name?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWalking with the wounded\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wonder of this book is its searing honesty. Through the lens of her own life-changing loss and learning from Habbakuk's journey through profound pain, Mags helps us see how we might come to trust the goodness of God amidst heart-rending devastation and chaos. This is gentle, biblically-rooted, and carefully crafted wisdom that faces difficult questions and emotions of suffering head on yet persists in seeking God amongst it all. This is wisdom that has been lived. I trust that many might discover this book.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Tracy Cotterell, London Institute for Contemporary Christianity \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn 9\/11 when I saw the Twin Towers in New York, one after the other, pancake to the ground in a deafening explosion of devastation and heart-wrenching tragedy, it was hard to imagine God among those ruins. When I walked beside a couple whose only child had died at 10 months on Thanksgiving Day, they found it hard to imagine a God among their ruins. When my own hopes and dreams collapsed after trying everything imaginable to keep them alive, I too struggled with finding God in the ruins. In this beautifully written book and with a careful study of Habakkuk, Duggan unfolds the story of her own journey through haunting loss to the transforming comfort of God. So if you have struggled with believing in a loving God when your own world collapses, this book will serve you well. It certainly guided and helped me. Dr.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e MaryKate Morse, professor, author and spiritual director \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf only I had had this book when I looked for help with my own experience of deep and all-pervading disappointment with God in 1983 and could find nothing written on the subject! An interaction with the words of the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk based on Mags's own devastation, it is totally authentic in declaring the pain each of them went through and the ways in which they related to God in and through it. It is totally practical as well in offering guidance through activities that help one to recognise one's own difficulties and bring them before God. And, through it all, no matter how horrible the circumstances and the experience, Emmanuel, the God who is with us. It is wonderful to have such a resource available to those who are going through pain and anger with God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Dr Colin Bulley, Pioneers UK, Member Care Consultant, Spiritual Director \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was eagerly anticipating the release of 'God Among The Ruins', having sat under Mags Duggan's teaching on a number of occasions, and I was not disappointed. Although the book was birthed in the author's own journey of suffering, that does not become the main focus. Each chapter gently and compassionately brings the reader to God Himself through the faith journey of Habakkuk. Mags has not avoided the problems that suffering brings, nor has she offered trite answers where there are none. Rather she helps us learn to walk with the questions as we move towards God. The practical reflections suggested at the end of each chapter are so helpful for readers wanting to apply the truths they are encountering. So helpful. So good.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Valerie Murphy, Coordinator of Women's Bible Teaching Ministry, Crescent Church Belfast, Retreat Leader, Bible Teacher \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncisively yet simply written, there are lessons for us all, not just those who have suffered grief or earthquake.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Canon Dr Steve Davie, Principal of the Bradford Hub of the Leeds School of Ministry \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"384\" width=\"288\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MagsinFergusFalls_480x480.jpg?v=1676493905\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan has worked with the Navigators for 35 years, many of these as a cross-cultural missionary in East Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. More recently, she was on the faculty of Redcliffe College, Gloucester, where she lectured in two areas she is passionate about: Spiritual Formation and Soul Care. Currently, she is engaged in providing spiritual nurture and pastoral care to a diverse group of cross-cultural missionaries and ministry leaders, both here in the UK and around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2018. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an honest and moving book, with a message for everyone who has struggled or suffered. It is based on the book of Habakkuk, whose short prophecy tells of the prophet's despair, questioning and wrestling with God, and emergence as a wiser, more peaceful person. Duggan tells her own story of despair, questioning, wrestling and her emergence as a wiser, more peaceful person. God Among the Ruins is honest and gently emotive. It is not intended to be a happy story, but it is a tremendously encouraging one. Duggan's chapter on 'Walking with the wounded' is particularly moving. The writing is warm and compelling. It could suit a home group as well as an individual. Each chapter contains simple but practical suggestions to help the reader put the message into practice. It is a book of hope, which nearly everyone would benefit from. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e_____________________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, August 2018. Reviewed by David Stuckey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I was a lot younger my mum gave me her copy of God in The Slums written by Hugh Redwood in the 1930s. It was not an easy read for a young lad but I have revisited it several times in the intervening years and have come to appreciate its sincerity and its poignancy. It told of finding God's presence in unlikely places, in the midst of trial and tribulation, and at times it could be an achingly poignant read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have come across few accounts of loss and despair over the years to come close to Redwood's image of abiding faith - until now. Mags Duggan has similarly identified God's goodness and guidance in times of trial and torment. 'Trust and transformation in difficult times,' she suggests, as her opening reflection in God Among the Ruins repeats familiar words from Habakkuk: 'Even though ... even here ... Emmanuel'. At times when God seemed distant, when crops failed, when death and devastation abounded, Habakkuk was able to declare 'Yet I will rejoice'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags gives her readers an achingly personal reflection of coming to terms with the death of her young niece from cancer, and those words she found which resonated with her in these circumstances came from another who clung to his faith in God in harrowing circumstances. The words of Eric Liddell, the Olympic runner and missionary who died in a Japanese prisoner of war camp came to her, 'sparking the hope of healing and new life,' she writes. Liddell had declared 'Circumstances may appear to wreck our lives and God's plans, but God is not helpless among the ruins.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to savour, to dip into for comfort and support, to reflect on personal circumstances and to appreciate the rewards of faith and Christian support. And having unwrapped and dissected Habakkuk in many helpful and meaningful ways, the author then reveals that she too was diagnosed with breast cancer on the day she submitted the manuscript for publication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to make you weep and wonder, as it gives the reader fresh insight not only into living with cancer but also submitting one's life into the caring arms of the Almighty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDavid Stuckey is a journalist and member of Maghull Baptist Church, Merseyside\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Mike Treneer, International President Emeritus, The Navigators (8 March 2018)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many reasons to commend Mags Duggan's beautifully written book 'God Among the Ruins'! I will mention just three:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis meditation on the Old Testament book of Habakkuk in the light of Mags' own experience of grief for her niece, powerfully brings Bible and life together in ways that help us to understand both.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags combines profound insights into some of life's most challenging questions with simple practical suggestions for growing in our relationship with God through them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Mags opens up her own process of grief, she helpfully illustrates and guides us in how we too can 'comfort others with the comfort we too have received from God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Treneer, International President Emeritus, The Navigators.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_____________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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God among the Ruins: Trust and transformation in difficult times
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Where do we turn when our world is falling apart?It takes courage to hope; to stand in our confusion and...