Leadership
Books for ordained and lay leaders to encourage professional development and reflective ministerial practice, providing practical resources to grow and develop local church ministry.
{"id":15792294429052,"title":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission January - April 2026","handle":"guidelines-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission-january-april-2027","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital only \u003c\/span\u003e-\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2 Chronicles - Ashley Hibbard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe context and culture in Matthew’s gospel - Philip Grasham\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGenesis (Abraham–Jacob) - Isabelle Hamley\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 19—28 - Rosie Button 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSamuel 1—10: David the king: violence, victory and providence - Walter Moberly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLent and Easter - Rosalee Velloso Ewell\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHebrews: singing a new song - Peter Hatton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLove, sexuality and friendship in the gospel of John - Andy Angel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-12-17T13:57:30+00:00","created_at":"2025-12-17T13:57:28+00:00","vendor":"Editors: Rachel Tranter","type":"eBook","tags":["2026","Bible reading notes","bible reading notes eBooks","Biblical engagement","BRN ebook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Guidelines","Leadership","Mission","New Titles","Upcoming titles"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":56129167098236,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800394810","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":77883592343932,"product_id":15792294429052,"position":1,"created_at":"2025-11-11T10:17:35+00:00","updated_at":"2025-11-11T10:17:40+00:00","alt":null,"width":1417,"height":1972,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260","variant_ids":[56129167098236]},"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission January - April 2026 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800394810","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":66390476816764,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66390476816764,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Jan26_a701baaf-00b0-42d1-b045-22fee723c3e5.jpg?v=1762856260","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital only \u003c\/span\u003e-\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2 Chronicles - Ashley Hibbard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe context and culture in Matthew’s gospel - Philip Grasham\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGenesis (Abraham–Jacob) - Isabelle Hamley\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 19—28 - Rosie Button 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSamuel 1—10: David the king: violence, victory and providence - Walter Moberly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLent and Easter - Rosalee Velloso Ewell\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHebrews: singing a new song - Peter Hatton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLove, sexuality and friendship in the gospel of John - Andy Angel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission January - April 2026
£5.25
Digital only - Guidelines is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of...
{"id":15709471867260,"title":"Spiritual Care Series Online Training - May 2026","handle":"spiritual-care-series-online-training-may-2026","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMay 2026\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Spiritual Care Series is an eight-week comprehensive course for churches who want to provide good quality spiritual care to older people in their local community. The course equips participants to understand the ageing process, supporting people to reconnect with their past and cope with the losses that ageing brings. It also covers the importance of good listening skills, communication and boundaries in the provision of this care. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook now for course starting: May 2026.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dnZ_JlsZSEw?si=sOVL-JpXCNEFBFKb\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePlease note that if this item appears as 'out of stock' it means the course is currently full. However, we do occasionally have cancellations, so if you would like to go on the course waiting list or if you would like to know more please email us at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/events\/products\/spiritualcareseries@brf.org.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003espiritualcareseries@brf.org.uk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-12-12T10:46:12+00:00","created_at":"2025-11-12T15:06:10+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"Online Event","tags":["2026","Ageing and spiritual care","anna chaplaincy","Anna Chaplaincy Courses","Anna Chaplaincy events","Courses","event","Events","For churches","For individuals","Leadership","Online event","Pastoral care","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Spiritual care","spiritual care series courses","Spirituality"],"price":18000,"price_min":18000,"price_max":18000,"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":55969509114236,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"SCSMAY26","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Spiritual Care Series Online Training - May 2026","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":18000,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"SCSMAY26","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/SpiritualCareSeriesOnlinecourse_1.png?v=1693330396"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/SpiritualCareSeriesOnlinecourse_1.png?v=1693330396","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":27453229367487,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/SpiritualCareSeriesOnlinecourse_1.png?v=1693330396"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/SpiritualCareSeriesOnlinecourse_1.png?v=1693330396","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMay 2026\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Spiritual Care Series is an eight-week comprehensive course for churches who want to provide good quality spiritual care to older people in their local community. The course equips participants to understand the ageing process, supporting people to reconnect with their past and cope with the losses that ageing brings. It also covers the importance of good listening skills, communication and boundaries in the provision of this care. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook now for course starting: May 2026.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dnZ_JlsZSEw?si=sOVL-JpXCNEFBFKb\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePlease note that if this item appears as 'out of stock' it means the course is currently full. However, we do occasionally have cancellations, so if you would like to go on the course waiting list or if you would like to know more please email us at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/events\/products\/spiritualcareseries@brf.org.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003espiritualcareseries@brf.org.uk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Spiritual Care Series Online Training - May 2026
£180.00
May 2026 The Spiritual Care Series is an eight-week comprehensive course for churches who want to provide good quality spiritual care...
{"id":15706651361660,"title":"Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page PDF","handle":"guidelines-persecution-in-the-new-testament-with-nick-page-pdf","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on the New Testament experience of persecution and the parallels with the persecuted church today. He invites us to think about what this means for how we express our faith in our culture, and, ultimately, how we respond to the persecution and suffering of our worldwide family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're not sure which Bible reading notes work for you, a sampler is a great way to try them out. You can purchase the January - April edition of Guidelines\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you can purchase an annual subscription for all 3 issues \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find our other Bible reading notes\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNick Page is a writer, historian and podcaster. He is the author of over 80 books for adults and children, and is also creative lead at Open Doors UK and Ireland, an organisation which supports persecuted Christians around the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-11-11T13:28:14+00:00","created_at":"2025-11-11T11:45:38+00:00","vendor":"Nick Page","type":"Digital Download PDF","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Guidelines","Leadership","Mission","New Titles"],"price":0,"price_min":0,"price_max":0,"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":55963646919036,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"GSPERSPDF25","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page PDF","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":0,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"GSPERSPDF25","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Persecution_Sampler_PDF.png?v=1762867972"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Persecution_Sampler_PDF.png?v=1762867972","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66393105006972,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2000,"width":1409,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Persecution_Sampler_PDF.png?v=1762867972"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Persecution_Sampler_PDF.png?v=1762867972","width":1409}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on the New Testament experience of persecution and the parallels with the persecuted church today. He invites us to think about what this means for how we express our faith in our culture, and, ultimately, how we respond to the persecution and suffering of our worldwide family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're not sure which Bible reading notes work for you, a sampler is a great way to try them out. You can purchase the January - April edition of Guidelines\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you can purchase an annual subscription for all 3 issues \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find our other Bible reading notes\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNick Page is a writer, historian and podcaster. He is the author of over 80 books for adults and children, and is also creative lead at Open Doors UK and Ireland, an organisation which supports persecuted Christians around the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page PDF
£0.00
In this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on...
{"id":15706502201724,"title":"Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page","handle":"guidelines-persecution-in-the-new-testament-with-nick-page","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on the New Testament experience of persecution and the parallels with the persecuted church today. He invites us to think about what this means for how we express our faith in our culture, and, ultimately, how we respond to the persecution and suffering of our worldwide family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're not sure which Bible reading notes work for you, a sampler is a great way to try them out. You can purchase the January - April edition of Guidelines\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you can purchase an annual subscription for all 3 issues \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find our other Bible reading notes\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNick Page is a writer, historian and podcaster. He is the author of over 80 books for adults and children, and is also creative lead at Open Doors UK and Ireland, an organisation which supports persecuted Christians around the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-11-21T14:06:21+00:00","created_at":"2025-11-11T10:46:04+00:00","vendor":"Nick Page","type":"Paperback","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Guidelines","Leadership","Mission","New Titles"],"price":0,"price_min":0,"price_max":0,"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":55963431797116,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"GSPERS25","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":0,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"GSPERS25","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/COVOpenDoorssampler2.png?v=1762855846"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/COVOpenDoorssampler2.png?v=1762855846","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66390436053372,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":3945,"width":2835,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/COVOpenDoorssampler2.png?v=1762855846"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":3945,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/COVOpenDoorssampler2.png?v=1762855846","width":2835}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on the New Testament experience of persecution and the parallels with the persecuted church today. He invites us to think about what this means for how we express our faith in our culture, and, ultimately, how we respond to the persecution and suffering of our worldwide family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're not sure which Bible reading notes work for you, a sampler is a great way to try them out. You can purchase the January - April edition of Guidelines\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you can purchase an annual subscription for all 3 issues \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/guidelines\/products\/guidelines-subscription\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find our other Bible reading notes\u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" title=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/subscriptions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNick Page is a writer, historian and podcaster. He is the author of over 80 books for adults and children, and is also creative lead at Open Doors UK and Ireland, an organisation which supports persecuted Christians around the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Guidelines: Persecution in the New Testament with Nick Page
£0.00
In this Guidelines sampler Nick Page, who works for Open Doors, has provided two weeks of study on persecution, focusing on...
{"id":15665336156540,"title":"Dementia, God and the Church: Journeying with hope","handle":"dementia-god-and-the-church","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDementia is one of today’s most feared health conditions, and Christians with the condition may also worry about losing their faith and their connection to God. However, there is still hope: those living with dementia can still find meaning in their life and their faith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWritten by two practitioners in this field, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDementia, God and the Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e aims to show how person-centred approaches to dementia can provide hope. Wendy Gleadle first examines the difficulties of maintaining religious beliefs as cognition declines, and the implications of this if faith is equally emotional as cognitive. She explores other forms of spiritual awareness, such as relationships, the arts and creativity. Frances Attwood asks how churches can better support those living with dementia, through examining what they and their families and carers find helpful and want most. Throughout, space is given to first-hand stories of those with dementia, those working with them and those caring for them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWendy Gleadle\u003c\/strong\u003e is a retired Christian counsellor, Anna Chaplain and secretary to an online dementia support group. In 2021 she attained a BA (First Class Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Evangelism with the Light College, Chester University. Wendy is widowed, with three children and four grandchildren.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrances Attwood\u003c\/strong\u003e has worked as a music teacher and music therapist with all ages and a variety of needs. Her music groups highlighted the challenges and lack of provision for families living with dementia. In 2023 she gained a Master’s in Applied Theology at Moorlands Bible College. She runs a reminiscence group for people with dementia and is an Anna Chaplain in Southbourne, Dorset. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2026-01-09T22:57:36+00:00","created_at":"2025-10-24T15:19:41+01:00","vendor":"Wendy Gleadle","type":"Paperback","tags":["2026","Ageing and spiritual care","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","Leadership","New Titles","Pastoral care","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Spiritual care","Upcoming titles"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"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":55901184065916,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800394339","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"Dementia, God and the Church: Journeying with hope","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1299,"weight":230,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800394339","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Dementia_GodandtheChurch.jpg?v=1767999253"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Dementia_GodandtheChurch.jpg?v=1767999253","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66884317806972,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Dementia_GodandtheChurch.jpg?v=1767999253"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Dementia_GodandtheChurch.jpg?v=1767999253","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDementia is one of today’s most feared health conditions, and Christians with the condition may also worry about losing their faith and their connection to God. However, there is still hope: those living with dementia can still find meaning in their life and their faith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWritten by two practitioners in this field, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDementia, God and the Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e aims to show how person-centred approaches to dementia can provide hope. Wendy Gleadle first examines the difficulties of maintaining religious beliefs as cognition declines, and the implications of this if faith is equally emotional as cognitive. She explores other forms of spiritual awareness, such as relationships, the arts and creativity. Frances Attwood asks how churches can better support those living with dementia, through examining what they and their families and carers find helpful and want most. Throughout, space is given to first-hand stories of those with dementia, those working with them and those caring for them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWendy Gleadle\u003c\/strong\u003e is a retired Christian counsellor, Anna Chaplain and secretary to an online dementia support group. In 2021 she attained a BA (First Class Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Evangelism with the Light College, Chester University. Wendy is widowed, with three children and four grandchildren.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrances Attwood\u003c\/strong\u003e has worked as a music teacher and music therapist with all ages and a variety of needs. Her music groups highlighted the challenges and lack of provision for families living with dementia. In 2023 she gained a Master’s in Applied Theology at Moorlands Bible College. She runs a reminiscence group for people with dementia and is an Anna Chaplain in Southbourne, Dorset. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Dementia, God and the Church: Journeying with hope
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Dementia is one of today’s most feared health conditions, and Christians with the condition may also worry about losing their...
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{"id":15664930455932,"title":"Belonging without Barriers: Creating accessible Christian communities","handle":"belonging-without-barriers","description":"\u003cp\u003eBelonging without Barriers casts a vision of inclusion and full belonging within our churches and other Christian communities for those with additional needs. Brading, Bunyan and Wood begin by exploring the theological basis for this vision, aiming to inspire the reader with God’s love for the weak and marginalised in society. They then move into a practical section outlining a range of different experiences we are likely to encounter, including Autism, Learning Disabilities and physical disabilities. Each chapter contains up-to-date research, personal accounts, interviews and a range of specific, actionable ideas, including changes that any individual within the church could make. This book shares a vision not just for inclusion, but for full integration and belonging for those with additional needs. Throughout, the emphasis is that this is an ‘every believer ministry’ as we all grow in love together as Christ’s disciples wherever he has put us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTriona Brading\u003c\/strong\u003e works with primary-age children with social, emotional and mental health needs and leads the SEND provision at \u003cem\u003eRevive Bible festival\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eLois Bunyan\u003c\/strong\u003e facilitates workshops for adults and children with learning disabilities, people living with dementia and those who suffer with brain and stroke injuries. She established the SEND provision at \u003cem\u003eRevive\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eClaire Wood \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a secondary-school teacher and is now a tutor and examiner supporting the needs of children with specific learning difficulties.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-12-10T11:07:13+00:00","created_at":"2025-10-24T11:15:01+01:00","vendor":"Triona Brading, Lois Bunyan, Claire Wood","type":"Paperback","tags":["2026","Church life","For churches","For individuals","For schools","KCLC","Leadership","New Titles","Parenting","Pastoral care","Upcoming titles"],"price":1499,"price_min":1499,"price_max":1499,"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":55900623012220,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800394209","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"Belonging without Barriers: Creating accessible Christian communities","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1499,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800394209","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/BelongingWithoutBarriers.jpg?v=1763555871"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/BelongingWithoutBarriers.jpg?v=1763555871","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66458211451260,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"width":1748,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/BelongingWithoutBarriers.jpg?v=1763555871"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/BelongingWithoutBarriers.jpg?v=1763555871","width":1748}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eBelonging without Barriers casts a vision of inclusion and full belonging within our churches and other Christian communities for those with additional needs. Brading, Bunyan and Wood begin by exploring the theological basis for this vision, aiming to inspire the reader with God’s love for the weak and marginalised in society. They then move into a practical section outlining a range of different experiences we are likely to encounter, including Autism, Learning Disabilities and physical disabilities. Each chapter contains up-to-date research, personal accounts, interviews and a range of specific, actionable ideas, including changes that any individual within the church could make. This book shares a vision not just for inclusion, but for full integration and belonging for those with additional needs. Throughout, the emphasis is that this is an ‘every believer ministry’ as we all grow in love together as Christ’s disciples wherever he has put us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTriona Brading\u003c\/strong\u003e works with primary-age children with social, emotional and mental health needs and leads the SEND provision at \u003cem\u003eRevive Bible festival\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eLois Bunyan\u003c\/strong\u003e facilitates workshops for adults and children with learning disabilities, people living with dementia and those who suffer with brain and stroke injuries. She established the SEND provision at \u003cem\u003eRevive\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eClaire Wood \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a secondary-school teacher and is now a tutor and examiner supporting the needs of children with specific learning difficulties.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Belonging without Barriers: Creating accessible Christian communities
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Belonging without Barriers casts a vision of inclusion and full belonging within our churches and other Christian communities for those...
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{"id":15664820093308,"title":"Growing in Prayer: Exploring 15 different ways to pray for individuals and groups","handle":"growing-in-prayer-exploring-15-different-ways-to-pray-for-individuals-and-groups","description":"\u003cp\u003eAll of us pray in different ways at different stages in our lives. Sometimes our way of praying changes as we grow in our relationship with God. Pray as you can, not as you can’t! \u003cem\u003eGrowing in Prayer\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewill help individuals and groups develop their prayer life. It can be used by anyone to help you explore new ways of praying at home or in the church community, on your own or in groups. It offers a brief introduction to fifteen different ways of praying and gives space for you to practice, develop and reflect on what you have learned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSusanne Carlsson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Revd Canon Susanne Carlsson is the Spiritual Advisor for Rochester Diocese.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-10-24T10:21:21+01:00","created_at":"2025-10-24T09:56:20+01:00","vendor":"Susanne Carlsson","type":"Paperback","tags":["2026","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","Leadership","New Titles","Prayer","Spirituality","Upcoming titles"],"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":55900522512764,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800395060","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Growing in Prayer: Exploring 15 different ways to pray for individuals and groups","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":240,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800395060","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/GrowinginPrayer.jpg?v=1761295717"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/GrowinginPrayer.jpg?v=1761295717","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":66247286948220,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"width":1748,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/GrowinginPrayer.jpg?v=1761295717"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/GrowinginPrayer.jpg?v=1761295717","width":1748}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eAll of us pray in different ways at different stages in our lives. Sometimes our way of praying changes as we grow in our relationship with God. Pray as you can, not as you can’t! \u003cem\u003eGrowing in Prayer\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewill help individuals and groups develop their prayer life. It can be used by anyone to help you explore new ways of praying at home or in the church community, on your own or in groups. It offers a brief introduction to fifteen different ways of praying and gives space for you to practice, develop and reflect on what you have learned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSusanne Carlsson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Revd Canon Susanne Carlsson is the Spiritual Advisor for Rochester Diocese.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":15490620850556,"title":"Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission","handle":"guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Psalms as poetry and prayer – Amy Scott Robinson\u003cbr\u003eActs 10–18 – Isabelle Hamley\u003cbr\u003ePsalm 139 and artificial intelligence – Charmaine Mhlanga\u003cbr\u003eThe letters of John – Ian Paul\u003cbr\u003eJesus' parables in Matthew – Sharon Prentis\u003cbr\u003e1 Chronicles – Ashley Hibbard\u003cbr\u003ePersecution in the New Testament and today – Nick Page\u003cbr\u003eThe Divine Warrior of Israel – Andy Angel\u003cbr\u003eAdvent: the signs of his coming – M.J. Kramer\u003cbr\u003eZechariah 1–8 – Joel Barker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Tranter\u003c\/strong\u003e is an editorial manager at the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOlivia Warburton\u003c\/strong\u003e believes that everyone can make a difference to help our world flourish, however tiny our efforts may seem. Currently co-editor of BRF Ministries’ Guidelines Bible reading notes and most recently head of content creation and Living Faith ministry lead, she has worked in a number of editorial roles.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-08-05T17:08:22+01:00","created_at":"2025-08-05T17:00:26+01:00","vendor":"Editors: Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","bible reading notes eBooks","Biblical engagement","BRN ebook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Guidelines","KCLC","Leadership"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55610598162812,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393844","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":76124054552956,"product_id":15490620850556,"position":1,"created_at":"2025-08-05T17:00:45+01:00","updated_at":"2025-08-05T17:00:49+01:00","alt":null,"width":1303,"height":2000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649","variant_ids":[55610598162812]},"available":true,"name":"Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":120,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393844","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":65551098708348,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/448.png?v=1754409650"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":65551098708348,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/447.png?v=1754409649","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":65551098741116,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/448.png?v=1754409650"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/448.png?v=1754409650","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Psalms as poetry and prayer – Amy Scott Robinson\u003cbr\u003eActs 10–18 – Isabelle Hamley\u003cbr\u003ePsalm 139 and artificial intelligence – Charmaine Mhlanga\u003cbr\u003eThe letters of John – Ian Paul\u003cbr\u003eJesus' parables in Matthew – Sharon Prentis\u003cbr\u003e1 Chronicles – Ashley Hibbard\u003cbr\u003ePersecution in the New Testament and today – Nick Page\u003cbr\u003eThe Divine Warrior of Israel – Andy Angel\u003cbr\u003eAdvent: the signs of his coming – M.J. Kramer\u003cbr\u003eZechariah 1–8 – Joel Barker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Tranter\u003c\/strong\u003e is an editorial manager at the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOlivia Warburton\u003c\/strong\u003e believes that everyone can make a difference to help our world flourish, however tiny our efforts may seem. Currently co-editor of BRF Ministries’ Guidelines Bible reading notes and most recently head of content creation and Living Faith ministry lead, she has worked in a number of editorial roles.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission
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{"id":15350976643452,"title":"On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment Pack of 10","handle":"on-the-way-to-work-a-christian-approach-to-thinking-differently-about-success-and-fulfillment-pack-of-10","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10 copies for £50 bundle \u003c\/strong\u003e- Great for graduating students entering work and all who seek to think differently about how success, faith and fulfilment can be experienced as a Christian at work. \u003cstrong\u003e*Available only for UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDoes your work give you a sense of purpose? How do you feel when work serves up difficulties and problems? How do we work well? Is there a God, and might God have something to say about the way we work? Weaving together biblical perspectives with academic research and his own experiences of working in different settings, Chris Gillies lays the theological foundation for work, moves on to examining biblical role models from both Old and New Testaments, and concludes by exploring common issues we wrestle with in our work, from money matters or managing and leading others to knowing if we’re in the right job or simply doing the right thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zocoSqG4BN4?si=wpDl7TTQSwymPIW1\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e - \u003cspan\u003eWith thirty years’ experience of working at director level in financial services, Chris Gillies has also served on the boards of four different churches and ten UK charities including Westminster Theological Centre and The Children’s Society. He is Chair of Council for Stewardship and Treasurer for LICC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There’s new thinking here, hammered out on the anvil of a long, demanding, and successful career at the highest corporate levels through prayerful reflection, biblical engagement and careful analysis. Chris Gillies offers us a rich understanding of God’s purposes for humankind, framing his approach to work on the dynamic springboard of the life, character and work of Jesus, and on the ongoing empowering of the Holy Spirit for everyday work. This is a book that anyone at any level could profit from. Bravo. And thank you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMark Greene, mission champion, The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Christians just don’t think enough about work and the way work is changing. On the Way to Work is a treasure trove of deep insight from the scriptures and a mine of good advice from a seasoned practitioner. Chris Gillies’ insights are honed from many years’ experience and will be lifegiving for all kinds of people in different roles and occupations.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteven Croft, bishop of Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘On the Way to Work paints a reframing vision of how we can approach our working lives as worship. Such a brilliant handbook for how to approach the world of work with a kingdom-first mindset. Equipping, affirming and inspiring. I can’t wait for Monday!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCaragh Bennet, cofounder and CEO, ZENA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies combines values with brilliant business acumen. He is one of the few people I pause to think “what would Chris do” and, most importantly, how. I’ve been lucky enough for Chris to have been my professional mentor since working together at Zurich. This book offers the opportunity for everyone to experience his wisdom and guidance, helping you choose how to spend your energy and achieve your aspirations, with morals at the forefront of decisions and actions.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eKathryn Axcell-Steele, head of brand and integrated marketing, Wesleyan Assurance Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies offers a rich and rare combination of biblical wisdom, practical insight and personal experience that will inspire Christians to think differently about their work and its significance. My hope and prayer is that Christians and other readers will learn from Chris and the compelling vision he sets forth in this book.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatt Lynch, associate professor of Old Testament, Regent College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This important book is insightful and inspiring, and full of invaluable, real-life examples of leaders navigating the world of work. Anyone who is keen to discover how to best deploy their influence for the kingdom of God will find much here to guide them through their careers.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStephen Foster, rector, St Aldates, Oxford, and advisor, Alpha UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘A theology of work and a work of theology. Over many years of treasured friendship, Chris Gillies both demonstrated to me and challenged me to see that the call of God, the vocation of the Christian, is not limited to ordained ministers and foreign missionaries, but rests upon all who follow Jesus and all who are sent to serve the king and his kingdom in every sphere of life and work.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Ponsonby, pastor of theology, St Aldates, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘\u003c\/em\u003eThis book will expand your vision of what a deeply fruitful and successful life looks like. A central premise of the book is that our work matters to God and God really does matter to our work. With that as a robust foundation, Chris Gillies tackles many layers of the implications of what that means for our frontline work, time, money, decision making, relationships; in essence, our whole lives!’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNess Wilson, leader, Pioneer UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a remarkable book, and you should read it. In these pages,\u003cbr\u003eChris Gillies illuminates a path to work that is not only distinctive but\u003cbr\u003ealso the way of Jesus and of the kingdom of God. If you let this book\u003cbr\u003edo its work, it will change you – for good. Chris has crafted a work\u003cbr\u003ethat is truly transformative – a powerful journey towards personal\u003cbr\u003eand spiritual growth.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Woolley, chief executive, The London Institute for\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a timely book on the importance of work – what we do, how we\u003cbr\u003edo it and most importantly why work is part of God’s plan for what it\u003cbr\u003emeans to be human. Chris Gillies brings together years of experience,\u003cbr\u003ea biblical framework and lots of helpful illustrations in a very readable\u003cbr\u003eand accessible style.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter Lynas, UK director, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time. Chris Gillies repeatedly illustrates wise practical advice with telling anecdotes from his own experience, covering many different topics, acknowledging the value of different perspectives and sharing maturely what God has taught him along the way.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Higginson, former director and chair, Faith in Business\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this book has something invaluable to offer. It masterfully combines the wisdom of years of experience with practical advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking God’s calling on their life and true success in their work.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReuben Coulter, senior advisor, Faith Driven Investor and partner, Ignis Advisory\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a book that has been over 40 years in the writing and its depth and insights reflect the journey of a man who has set his sights on bringing kingdom influence to the highest level of businesses.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNic Harding, director, Kairos Connexion and Together for the Harvest\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies writes a wonderfully practical and thoughtful book that speaks powerfully about what it means to engage in the world of work in a distinctively Christian way. He constructs a brilliant, thorough and nuanced analysis that challenges the oft-prevailing and unhelpful narrative of the sacred–secular divide, and offers beautifully crafted autobiographical, theological and academic reflections to suggest an alternative mode of being for operating as a Christian in the workplace.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Delve, CEO, Resurgam Asset Management Limited; chair of trustees, Bridge the Gap Football\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTudor Humphreys: BRF Ministries supporter and Friend January 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I saw this book promoted in a BRF Ministries newsletter I ordered it from my local Christian bookshop. What I like about it is that Chris Gillies has obviously worked and thrived in high pressure work environments, but like many people he stumbled into his first job not really thinking through what his Christian faith had to say about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he learned better:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He has worked out for himself and shared with readers what the Bible has to say about work and how to live out our Christian beliefs in the workplace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He takes us through the Bible from God’s ‘work’ in creation in Genesis to our role in working to ‘continue the creation story’ via the parable of the tenants in Matthew, Mark and Luke, to our role as ‘fellow workers’ in the family business of ‘Sustaining and caring for His creation’ in 1 Corinthians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He offers real life examples of how to manage power, authority, roles\/responsibilities, wealth and time, instead of hiding anything to do with faith until we enter a church at the weekend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He addresses Christian approaches to the challenges of balancing the needs of organisations to do productive work as well as addressing the needs of people doing the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThinking about work and investing time in the process has been instilled in me since I studied with the YMCA College\/University of Kent in the 1980\/90s soon after making a commitment to follow the Master when my wife and I were called to establish a charity with a Christian ethos, focused on working with those outside the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author places our work as Christians, whether in the office the farm, factory, hairdressers or supermarket, on an equal footing to what might be called ‘Christian ministry\/mission roles'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI like that and it’s not just the author’s view. He says this:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘If you listen to modern mission organisations you’ll hear a shift in the way think and talk about mission. You’ll hear more talk about how every role is important including those who work in the marketplace…’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author takes us through a series of steps from what the Bible has to say about ‘work’, including Colossians 3:23-24 Work at everything you do with all your heart. Work as if you were working for the Lord, not for human masters. Work because you know that you will finally receive as a reward what the Lord wants you to have. You are slaves of the Lord Christ.’ (NIRV)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as drawing from his own experience in business, he cites examples of other ‘workers’ and gives real work\/life case studies of how to proclaim and demonstrate the gospel, and how to be ‘salt and light’ in a holistic, integrated way in a modern workplace in a changing society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo if you’ve never considered your day to day work as ‘important’ in terms of building ‘the Kingdom,’ or if you’ve been thinking about work and faith for a while, this book might just encourage you to keep on ‘blossoming where you’ve been planted’ or inspire you to take courage, and explore new ways of being a ‘labourer in the harvest field’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Tudor Humphreys BRF supporter and friend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTogether magazine November\/December 2024. Review by Fiona Lloyd\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor many of us work is an important part of our daily life. This includes not just paid employment but also voluntary work, studying and work within the home (such as raising children). Yet unless we have an overtly ‘Christian’ job such as ministry or missionary roles, it can be easy to regard our work as being somehow distinct from our spiritual life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChris Gillies has worked in the business and finance sector for over 40 years, and more recently has used his skills to serve in the charitable sector. As he progressed in his career, he gradually became more aware of the importance of how his faith affected the way he worked, and how working in any environment – secular as well as Christian – should be viewed as work for God. Out of this realisation came his latest book, \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work\u003c\/i\u003e. In this book, Gillies discusses how seeing our work and faith as being intertwined rather than completely separate from each other can change our perspective and bring fresh motivation, explaining how applying biblical ideology can transform the workplace and lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction. And while this is written from a Christian perspective, Gillies is keen to emphasise that the principles he promotes are equally relevant for those of other faiths or no faith at all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eis split into three sections. The first gives the reader a spiritual overview of the Bible timeline, from the Garden of Eden to Christ’s return. Within this, Gillies examines how work is part of God’s plan for humankind and considers what it means to be fruitful. When set against the backdrop of eternity, our current work has long-term meaning, regardless of the nature of that work. Gillies reminds us that ‘The way we work can provide evidence today of God’s renewed order.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe second section of the book focuses on biblical role models. Old Testament characters such as Joseph, Deborah and Daniel demonstrate what it means to honour God in our work, and how living and working according to his ways can affect those around us or for whom we have responsibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn the New Testament it is assumed that Jesus himself worked for many years before beginning his itinerant ministry. While the Gospels tell us nothing about his years as a carpenter, we can still learn from the last three years of his earthly life. The way Jesus interacted with those around him provides an example as to how we should behave in the workplace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eGillies devotes the third section of the book (by far the longest part) to common issues we may encounter in the workplace. He starts by contrasting secular and sacred worldviews, showing how understanding the death and resurrection of Jesus can reform and rejuvenate our approach to work, and noting that ‘The divide in our worldview should not be between sacred and secular, but between God’s way and a more self-centred human way.’ Our role should not be simply to criticise the practices of modern society but to propose a better alternative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eLater chapters offer advice on how to implement Christian principles into our work environment so that individuals as well as companies can flourish. Gillies underpins these with numerous personal anecdotes, along with relevant Scripture quotes. He also encourages the reader to think about how to balance the ‘big five’ demands on our lives, namely: time with God; time with family; time at work; building community; rest and recreation. This is a helpful template, reminding us to view our lives holistically instead of focusing on one area to the detriment of the others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eA lot of ground is covered in \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work\u003c\/i\u003e, so I appreciated the way the author ended each chapter with a summary of the key points and a few questions for self-reflection. Gillies has an engaging style and manages to break complex topics down into smaller, more easily digestible chunks. This is a valuable resource for those who want to think more about how their faith relates to their work – whatever form that takes – and for pastors who want to help their congregations be salt and light to a watching world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Fiona Lloyd\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFaith in Business Quarterly (vol 23.2). Review by David Steinegger\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e‘On the way to work, do you look forward to your day? Does it give you a sense of purpose?’ So begins the introduction to Chris Gillies’ book. \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eprovides a refreshing perspective on the theology of work, gives examples of some of the great biblical role models, offers practical insights into working through many of the common issues we face, and is enriched with examples from Chris’ own experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book is structured into three parts. The first part brings a theological perspective which starts in the Garden of Eden, continues through the redemption story and ends in the eternal city in Revelation. I appreciated how this section connects God’s great story for humankind with our stories and reminds us that our lives in our workplaces truly matter. The second part of the book highlights some of the great characters in the Old Testament and God’s anointing in their ‘workplaces’. It then moves on to the life of Christ and the characteristics of his redemptive approach. Part three, the largest section of the book, focuses on common issues we face in the workplace. This section starts with an insightful Christian worldview perspective, reminding us that there is no sacred-secular divide, and that God is profoundly interested in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn part three, Chris goes on to look at some real workplace issues, with biblical and practical insights to tackle them. For example, his chapter on ‘How do I know if I’m in the right job’ gives a scriptural base to address this question, together with practical pointers. Here he encourages readers to loosen their grip on a calling to do a specific job, and rather pursue their life’s mission. This will be helpful for many. I would add that at times God speaks very specifically into our career decisions through scripture, the holy spirit’s guidance and the voice of others. He tackles another real issue in the chapter ‘Balancing the big five’ – describing the challenge of the big five calls on our time – our relationship with God, family, work, community and rest and leisure. In reflecting on this, I was reminded that God has set eternity in our hearts (Eccl 3:11) and if we can live each day with this promise, and the challenge in mind, then we can come to a place of truly flourishing in our lives as Kingdom people – and this is much more precious than gold!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 290 pages can at first feel a little overwhelming. But I devoured the book on two long haul flights, being stimulated by the three-cord strand of biblical theology, practical insight and great examples from Chris’ many years of experience in the workplace. The summaries at the end of each chapter are helpful, as are each chapter’s questions for personal reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIt would have been helpful if the book had also explored the biblical basis and importance of having wise mentors or coaches: ‘Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.’ (Proverbs 11:14). I have found wise Christian mentors to be a great blessing on my journey in many workplaces across multiple countries and cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would also like to have seen a template in the book summarising some of the more practical learning points which are interspersed throughout the book. Perhaps a workbook could follow!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAppropriately, the book ends with a chapter on ‘the prize for running well.’ We are called to be faithful with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. We are reminded that our wok in the here and now foreshadows a new kind of redeemed work after Jesus returns. And here’s a great challenge that Chris presents: we have the opportunity to anticipate that future time by modelling it in the present and living it now for the glory of God and service to humanity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWe are called to be kingdom people in our workplaces – and in whatever we do, to work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord. Having a God-given sense of purpose in our days is essential if we are to live fulfilled lives. This book offers helpful pointers to living a purposeful life and is a great addition to the library of all who are seeking to be faithful, fruitful and fulfilled in their workplaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDavid Steinegger holds a number of non-executive positions, is a people builder, a church leader, and a trustee of several charities, including Wycliffe Bible Translators UK, which he chairs.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.07.24. Review by Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis new book on work from Chris Gillies benefits from his lifetime of working in the financial-services sector. He has spent more than 40 years in finance, working in many different markets, particularly for Zurich Insurance; and has more than 30 years’ experience as a board member of various charities, including the Children’s Society and the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. His book synthesises his own rich experience of work with his research and with perspectives from the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWhat sold the book to me was that it was described as 'quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time' by Richard Higginson. As the founder of Faith in Business, he is the oracle in this field, because he has read every book ever written on the subject. So, on this glowing recommendation, I dived straight in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book itself is very readable, with a handy summary section and points for reflection at each chapter end. Part I focuses on the basics, such as using the Bible, addressing selfishness, being fruitful, and the need to keep a focus on God’s work throughout. Part II covers “Biblical role models” from Joseph to Jesus, and profiles forgotten heroes, such as Boaz as the model employer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePart III tackles a range of knotty topics, from money to ethical decision-making, in which my favourite chapter was on “Balancing the Big Five”. It asks some sharp questions about work-life balance. His Big Five are: time with God, time with family, work time (paid or unpaid), time building community, and time for rest, leisure, and exercise. He encourages readers to analyse how they are spending their time across these activities, to identify where time spent may be out of kilter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI also really appreciated his wise words on vocation: 'the key to finding your special God-given calling is to loosen your grip on the idea that God is calling you to do a specific job.' Charles Eve once called this yearning for the certainty of a highlighted job advert our desire to 'grab the steering wheel' instead of letting God drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies likewise reminds us to look with soft eyes on the totality of our mission in life, to discern where our work and any particular job fits into the whole. Given that the world of work these days is very non-linear, this is sage advice. At the end of the book, Gillies recommends that we make use of a period of retreat to take stock of our work, to recommit ourselves to our vocation in its totality, and to listen for what God might be saying to us about what we should do next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead on newsletter review June 2024. Review by Mike Duff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSt Paul charges the Philippians, as citizens of heaven, to live utterly different lives to the Roman citizens around them. With 30 years' experience in top-level corporate leadership, Chris Gillies delivers the same powerful challenge to Christians immersed in the culture of their working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e'The idea God was as interested in my work as he was in the way I did church... that God might have work for me to do at my workplace didn't really occur to me. My understanding of why God mattered to my daily work was virtually non-existent.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAs at home in the Bible as the workplace, Chris addresses this autobiographical question through four basic themes: how it all started; the problem of selfishness; what it means to be fruitful; where we are heading. Elements of the salvation story are carefully worked out as they apply not in church, home or individual discipleship but in our working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNext, he explores with penetrating insight some obvious biblical role models - Joseph, Jethro, Daniel and others - and less obviously how Jesus approached his own redeeming work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe longest section applies biblical discipleship themes to the workplace: What is the prevailing workplace worldview and how might we confront and change it? Am I in the right job? How can we do we do the right thing and adopt a godly lifestyle amid pressures to conform? How do we balance the major claims on our time when work demands everything? How would Jesus have us handle money and lead others? What is our true reward for working well?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePreachers will recognise in this outstanding resource many familiar insights but applied with a clarity, insight and authority ew will have achieved. Those whose work is outside the church will find themselves challenged by God's intimate and relentless concern with their working life. Church leaders will be given a profound insight into the world of work and how to shape the life of the church so that it connects with this vital 'frontline'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Duff, CPAS Patronage Secretary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRichard Frost, writer and blogger: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. 1 June 2024\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBooks providing a Christian perspective on work can at times feel as rare as hearing a sermon on the topic. So, Chris Gillies' offering is a welcome contribution and one which I looked forward to reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI spent most of my professional career helping people with their work and also supporting businesses and organisations in caring for staff. I even wrote a book about it myself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eChris Gillies brings a wealth of experience from senior management positions in financial sector businesses and charitable organisations. This, combined with insight from his faith and biblical knowledge, and observations from others (most notably Mark Greene, well known for his own work in this field) provides a strong base on which to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies explores the nature of work from Genesis through Old Testament examples such as Joseph and Daniel and the core characteristics Jesus demonstrates for us to aspire to. The author also includes a number of examples of businesses adopting a godly approach towards people, practice and profit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIts pages are full of well-rehearsed biblical insights and familiar business-speak which will resonate particularly with those with similar faith perspectives and senior leadership experience. For this reviewer, I would have liked to have seen more content which relates to the vast majority of those who find themselves on the way to work: the ones who don't occupy well-paid, high-level, influential roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNevertheless, for those who wish to explore this important aspect of life (and one which, for many, occupies a considerable amount of it of it) it is a thought-provoking read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, a former employment specialist, and the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003efour other books\u003c\/a\u003e. Richard writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks for Today April 2024. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eOn the way to work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfilment \u003c\/em\u003eby Chris Gillies, who is the treasurer of the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, is intended for all those who are at work, to help them live out their faith Mondays to Fridays. Divided into three parts, the first section is entitled ‘From a garden to a city’; the second looks at some of the Old Testament heroes and goes on to reflect on Jesus and how Christians today have sought to implement the teaching of Jesus in the workplace; while the third section deals with some is very down-to-earth issues such as how hard we should we work along with money matters. At the end of each chapter there’s a summary of the key principles. This is a good book for ministers to commend to their people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more-8148\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-06-03T11:38:44+01:00","created_at":"2025-06-02T17:48:49+01:00","vendor":"Chris Gillies","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","Leadership","Mission","Pack"],"price":5000,"price_min":5000,"price_max":5000,"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":55394664579452,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"OTWTW10","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment Pack of 10","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":5000,"weight":3160,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"OTWTW10","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/On_the_way_to_work_bundle_offer.png?v=1748939085"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/On_the_way_to_work_bundle_offer.png?v=1748939085","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64945943314812,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.193,"height":788,"width":940,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/On_the_way_to_work_bundle_offer.png?v=1748939085"},"aspect_ratio":1.193,"height":788,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/On_the_way_to_work_bundle_offer.png?v=1748939085","width":940}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10 copies for £50 bundle \u003c\/strong\u003e- Great for graduating students entering work and all who seek to think differently about how success, faith and fulfilment can be experienced as a Christian at work. \u003cstrong\u003e*Available only for UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDoes your work give you a sense of purpose? How do you feel when work serves up difficulties and problems? How do we work well? Is there a God, and might God have something to say about the way we work? Weaving together biblical perspectives with academic research and his own experiences of working in different settings, Chris Gillies lays the theological foundation for work, moves on to examining biblical role models from both Old and New Testaments, and concludes by exploring common issues we wrestle with in our work, from money matters or managing and leading others to knowing if we’re in the right job or simply doing the right thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zocoSqG4BN4?si=wpDl7TTQSwymPIW1\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e - \u003cspan\u003eWith thirty years’ experience of working at director level in financial services, Chris Gillies has also served on the boards of four different churches and ten UK charities including Westminster Theological Centre and The Children’s Society. He is Chair of Council for Stewardship and Treasurer for LICC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There’s new thinking here, hammered out on the anvil of a long, demanding, and successful career at the highest corporate levels through prayerful reflection, biblical engagement and careful analysis. Chris Gillies offers us a rich understanding of God’s purposes for humankind, framing his approach to work on the dynamic springboard of the life, character and work of Jesus, and on the ongoing empowering of the Holy Spirit for everyday work. This is a book that anyone at any level could profit from. Bravo. And thank you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMark Greene, mission champion, The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Christians just don’t think enough about work and the way work is changing. On the Way to Work is a treasure trove of deep insight from the scriptures and a mine of good advice from a seasoned practitioner. Chris Gillies’ insights are honed from many years’ experience and will be lifegiving for all kinds of people in different roles and occupations.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteven Croft, bishop of Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘On the Way to Work paints a reframing vision of how we can approach our working lives as worship. Such a brilliant handbook for how to approach the world of work with a kingdom-first mindset. Equipping, affirming and inspiring. I can’t wait for Monday!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCaragh Bennet, cofounder and CEO, ZENA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies combines values with brilliant business acumen. He is one of the few people I pause to think “what would Chris do” and, most importantly, how. I’ve been lucky enough for Chris to have been my professional mentor since working together at Zurich. This book offers the opportunity for everyone to experience his wisdom and guidance, helping you choose how to spend your energy and achieve your aspirations, with morals at the forefront of decisions and actions.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eKathryn Axcell-Steele, head of brand and integrated marketing, Wesleyan Assurance Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies offers a rich and rare combination of biblical wisdom, practical insight and personal experience that will inspire Christians to think differently about their work and its significance. My hope and prayer is that Christians and other readers will learn from Chris and the compelling vision he sets forth in this book.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatt Lynch, associate professor of Old Testament, Regent College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This important book is insightful and inspiring, and full of invaluable, real-life examples of leaders navigating the world of work. Anyone who is keen to discover how to best deploy their influence for the kingdom of God will find much here to guide them through their careers.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStephen Foster, rector, St Aldates, Oxford, and advisor, Alpha UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘A theology of work and a work of theology. Over many years of treasured friendship, Chris Gillies both demonstrated to me and challenged me to see that the call of God, the vocation of the Christian, is not limited to ordained ministers and foreign missionaries, but rests upon all who follow Jesus and all who are sent to serve the king and his kingdom in every sphere of life and work.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Ponsonby, pastor of theology, St Aldates, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘\u003c\/em\u003eThis book will expand your vision of what a deeply fruitful and successful life looks like. A central premise of the book is that our work matters to God and God really does matter to our work. With that as a robust foundation, Chris Gillies tackles many layers of the implications of what that means for our frontline work, time, money, decision making, relationships; in essence, our whole lives!’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNess Wilson, leader, Pioneer UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a remarkable book, and you should read it. In these pages,\u003cbr\u003eChris Gillies illuminates a path to work that is not only distinctive but\u003cbr\u003ealso the way of Jesus and of the kingdom of God. If you let this book\u003cbr\u003edo its work, it will change you – for good. Chris has crafted a work\u003cbr\u003ethat is truly transformative – a powerful journey towards personal\u003cbr\u003eand spiritual growth.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Woolley, chief executive, The London Institute for\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a timely book on the importance of work – what we do, how we\u003cbr\u003edo it and most importantly why work is part of God’s plan for what it\u003cbr\u003emeans to be human. Chris Gillies brings together years of experience,\u003cbr\u003ea biblical framework and lots of helpful illustrations in a very readable\u003cbr\u003eand accessible style.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter Lynas, UK director, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time. Chris Gillies repeatedly illustrates wise practical advice with telling anecdotes from his own experience, covering many different topics, acknowledging the value of different perspectives and sharing maturely what God has taught him along the way.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Higginson, former director and chair, Faith in Business\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this book has something invaluable to offer. It masterfully combines the wisdom of years of experience with practical advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking God’s calling on their life and true success in their work.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReuben Coulter, senior advisor, Faith Driven Investor and partner, Ignis Advisory\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a book that has been over 40 years in the writing and its depth and insights reflect the journey of a man who has set his sights on bringing kingdom influence to the highest level of businesses.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNic Harding, director, Kairos Connexion and Together for the Harvest\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies writes a wonderfully practical and thoughtful book that speaks powerfully about what it means to engage in the world of work in a distinctively Christian way. He constructs a brilliant, thorough and nuanced analysis that challenges the oft-prevailing and unhelpful narrative of the sacred–secular divide, and offers beautifully crafted autobiographical, theological and academic reflections to suggest an alternative mode of being for operating as a Christian in the workplace.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Delve, CEO, Resurgam Asset Management Limited; chair of trustees, Bridge the Gap Football\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTudor Humphreys: BRF Ministries supporter and Friend January 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I saw this book promoted in a BRF Ministries newsletter I ordered it from my local Christian bookshop. What I like about it is that Chris Gillies has obviously worked and thrived in high pressure work environments, but like many people he stumbled into his first job not really thinking through what his Christian faith had to say about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he learned better:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He has worked out for himself and shared with readers what the Bible has to say about work and how to live out our Christian beliefs in the workplace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He takes us through the Bible from God’s ‘work’ in creation in Genesis to our role in working to ‘continue the creation story’ via the parable of the tenants in Matthew, Mark and Luke, to our role as ‘fellow workers’ in the family business of ‘Sustaining and caring for His creation’ in 1 Corinthians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He offers real life examples of how to manage power, authority, roles\/responsibilities, wealth and time, instead of hiding anything to do with faith until we enter a church at the weekend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- He addresses Christian approaches to the challenges of balancing the needs of organisations to do productive work as well as addressing the needs of people doing the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThinking about work and investing time in the process has been instilled in me since I studied with the YMCA College\/University of Kent in the 1980\/90s soon after making a commitment to follow the Master when my wife and I were called to establish a charity with a Christian ethos, focused on working with those outside the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author places our work as Christians, whether in the office the farm, factory, hairdressers or supermarket, on an equal footing to what might be called ‘Christian ministry\/mission roles'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI like that and it’s not just the author’s view. He says this:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘If you listen to modern mission organisations you’ll hear a shift in the way think and talk about mission. You’ll hear more talk about how every role is important including those who work in the marketplace…’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author takes us through a series of steps from what the Bible has to say about ‘work’, including Colossians 3:23-24 Work at everything you do with all your heart. Work as if you were working for the Lord, not for human masters. Work because you know that you will finally receive as a reward what the Lord wants you to have. You are slaves of the Lord Christ.’ (NIRV)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as drawing from his own experience in business, he cites examples of other ‘workers’ and gives real work\/life case studies of how to proclaim and demonstrate the gospel, and how to be ‘salt and light’ in a holistic, integrated way in a modern workplace in a changing society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo if you’ve never considered your day to day work as ‘important’ in terms of building ‘the Kingdom,’ or if you’ve been thinking about work and faith for a while, this book might just encourage you to keep on ‘blossoming where you’ve been planted’ or inspire you to take courage, and explore new ways of being a ‘labourer in the harvest field’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Tudor Humphreys BRF supporter and friend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTogether magazine November\/December 2024. Review by Fiona Lloyd\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor many of us work is an important part of our daily life. This includes not just paid employment but also voluntary work, studying and work within the home (such as raising children). Yet unless we have an overtly ‘Christian’ job such as ministry or missionary roles, it can be easy to regard our work as being somehow distinct from our spiritual life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChris Gillies has worked in the business and finance sector for over 40 years, and more recently has used his skills to serve in the charitable sector. As he progressed in his career, he gradually became more aware of the importance of how his faith affected the way he worked, and how working in any environment – secular as well as Christian – should be viewed as work for God. Out of this realisation came his latest book, \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work\u003c\/i\u003e. In this book, Gillies discusses how seeing our work and faith as being intertwined rather than completely separate from each other can change our perspective and bring fresh motivation, explaining how applying biblical ideology can transform the workplace and lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction. And while this is written from a Christian perspective, Gillies is keen to emphasise that the principles he promotes are equally relevant for those of other faiths or no faith at all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eis split into three sections. The first gives the reader a spiritual overview of the Bible timeline, from the Garden of Eden to Christ’s return. Within this, Gillies examines how work is part of God’s plan for humankind and considers what it means to be fruitful. When set against the backdrop of eternity, our current work has long-term meaning, regardless of the nature of that work. Gillies reminds us that ‘The way we work can provide evidence today of God’s renewed order.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe second section of the book focuses on biblical role models. Old Testament characters such as Joseph, Deborah and Daniel demonstrate what it means to honour God in our work, and how living and working according to his ways can affect those around us or for whom we have responsibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn the New Testament it is assumed that Jesus himself worked for many years before beginning his itinerant ministry. While the Gospels tell us nothing about his years as a carpenter, we can still learn from the last three years of his earthly life. The way Jesus interacted with those around him provides an example as to how we should behave in the workplace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eGillies devotes the third section of the book (by far the longest part) to common issues we may encounter in the workplace. He starts by contrasting secular and sacred worldviews, showing how understanding the death and resurrection of Jesus can reform and rejuvenate our approach to work, and noting that ‘The divide in our worldview should not be between sacred and secular, but between God’s way and a more self-centred human way.’ Our role should not be simply to criticise the practices of modern society but to propose a better alternative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eLater chapters offer advice on how to implement Christian principles into our work environment so that individuals as well as companies can flourish. Gillies underpins these with numerous personal anecdotes, along with relevant Scripture quotes. He also encourages the reader to think about how to balance the ‘big five’ demands on our lives, namely: time with God; time with family; time at work; building community; rest and recreation. This is a helpful template, reminding us to view our lives holistically instead of focusing on one area to the detriment of the others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eA lot of ground is covered in \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work\u003c\/i\u003e, so I appreciated the way the author ended each chapter with a summary of the key points and a few questions for self-reflection. Gillies has an engaging style and manages to break complex topics down into smaller, more easily digestible chunks. This is a valuable resource for those who want to think more about how their faith relates to their work – whatever form that takes – and for pastors who want to help their congregations be salt and light to a watching world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Fiona Lloyd\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFaith in Business Quarterly (vol 23.2). Review by David Steinegger\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e‘On the way to work, do you look forward to your day? Does it give you a sense of purpose?’ So begins the introduction to Chris Gillies’ book. \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eprovides a refreshing perspective on the theology of work, gives examples of some of the great biblical role models, offers practical insights into working through many of the common issues we face, and is enriched with examples from Chris’ own experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book is structured into three parts. The first part brings a theological perspective which starts in the Garden of Eden, continues through the redemption story and ends in the eternal city in Revelation. I appreciated how this section connects God’s great story for humankind with our stories and reminds us that our lives in our workplaces truly matter. The second part of the book highlights some of the great characters in the Old Testament and God’s anointing in their ‘workplaces’. It then moves on to the life of Christ and the characteristics of his redemptive approach. Part three, the largest section of the book, focuses on common issues we face in the workplace. This section starts with an insightful Christian worldview perspective, reminding us that there is no sacred-secular divide, and that God is profoundly interested in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn part three, Chris goes on to look at some real workplace issues, with biblical and practical insights to tackle them. For example, his chapter on ‘How do I know if I’m in the right job’ gives a scriptural base to address this question, together with practical pointers. Here he encourages readers to loosen their grip on a calling to do a specific job, and rather pursue their life’s mission. This will be helpful for many. I would add that at times God speaks very specifically into our career decisions through scripture, the holy spirit’s guidance and the voice of others. He tackles another real issue in the chapter ‘Balancing the big five’ – describing the challenge of the big five calls on our time – our relationship with God, family, work, community and rest and leisure. In reflecting on this, I was reminded that God has set eternity in our hearts (Eccl 3:11) and if we can live each day with this promise, and the challenge in mind, then we can come to a place of truly flourishing in our lives as Kingdom people – and this is much more precious than gold!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 290 pages can at first feel a little overwhelming. But I devoured the book on two long haul flights, being stimulated by the three-cord strand of biblical theology, practical insight and great examples from Chris’ many years of experience in the workplace. The summaries at the end of each chapter are helpful, as are each chapter’s questions for personal reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIt would have been helpful if the book had also explored the biblical basis and importance of having wise mentors or coaches: ‘Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.’ (Proverbs 11:14). I have found wise Christian mentors to be a great blessing on my journey in many workplaces across multiple countries and cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would also like to have seen a template in the book summarising some of the more practical learning points which are interspersed throughout the book. Perhaps a workbook could follow!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAppropriately, the book ends with a chapter on ‘the prize for running well.’ We are called to be faithful with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. We are reminded that our wok in the here and now foreshadows a new kind of redeemed work after Jesus returns. And here’s a great challenge that Chris presents: we have the opportunity to anticipate that future time by modelling it in the present and living it now for the glory of God and service to humanity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWe are called to be kingdom people in our workplaces – and in whatever we do, to work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord. Having a God-given sense of purpose in our days is essential if we are to live fulfilled lives. This book offers helpful pointers to living a purposeful life and is a great addition to the library of all who are seeking to be faithful, fruitful and fulfilled in their workplaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDavid Steinegger holds a number of non-executive positions, is a people builder, a church leader, and a trustee of several charities, including Wycliffe Bible Translators UK, which he chairs.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.07.24. Review by Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis new book on work from Chris Gillies benefits from his lifetime of working in the financial-services sector. He has spent more than 40 years in finance, working in many different markets, particularly for Zurich Insurance; and has more than 30 years’ experience as a board member of various charities, including the Children’s Society and the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. His book synthesises his own rich experience of work with his research and with perspectives from the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWhat sold the book to me was that it was described as 'quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time' by Richard Higginson. As the founder of Faith in Business, he is the oracle in this field, because he has read every book ever written on the subject. So, on this glowing recommendation, I dived straight in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book itself is very readable, with a handy summary section and points for reflection at each chapter end. Part I focuses on the basics, such as using the Bible, addressing selfishness, being fruitful, and the need to keep a focus on God’s work throughout. Part II covers “Biblical role models” from Joseph to Jesus, and profiles forgotten heroes, such as Boaz as the model employer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePart III tackles a range of knotty topics, from money to ethical decision-making, in which my favourite chapter was on “Balancing the Big Five”. It asks some sharp questions about work-life balance. His Big Five are: time with God, time with family, work time (paid or unpaid), time building community, and time for rest, leisure, and exercise. He encourages readers to analyse how they are spending their time across these activities, to identify where time spent may be out of kilter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI also really appreciated his wise words on vocation: 'the key to finding your special God-given calling is to loosen your grip on the idea that God is calling you to do a specific job.' Charles Eve once called this yearning for the certainty of a highlighted job advert our desire to 'grab the steering wheel' instead of letting God drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies likewise reminds us to look with soft eyes on the totality of our mission in life, to discern where our work and any particular job fits into the whole. Given that the world of work these days is very non-linear, this is sage advice. At the end of the book, Gillies recommends that we make use of a period of retreat to take stock of our work, to recommit ourselves to our vocation in its totality, and to listen for what God might be saying to us about what we should do next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead on newsletter review June 2024. Review by Mike Duff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSt Paul charges the Philippians, as citizens of heaven, to live utterly different lives to the Roman citizens around them. With 30 years' experience in top-level corporate leadership, Chris Gillies delivers the same powerful challenge to Christians immersed in the culture of their working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e'The idea God was as interested in my work as he was in the way I did church... that God might have work for me to do at my workplace didn't really occur to me. My understanding of why God mattered to my daily work was virtually non-existent.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAs at home in the Bible as the workplace, Chris addresses this autobiographical question through four basic themes: how it all started; the problem of selfishness; what it means to be fruitful; where we are heading. Elements of the salvation story are carefully worked out as they apply not in church, home or individual discipleship but in our working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNext, he explores with penetrating insight some obvious biblical role models - Joseph, Jethro, Daniel and others - and less obviously how Jesus approached his own redeeming work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe longest section applies biblical discipleship themes to the workplace: What is the prevailing workplace worldview and how might we confront and change it? Am I in the right job? How can we do we do the right thing and adopt a godly lifestyle amid pressures to conform? How do we balance the major claims on our time when work demands everything? How would Jesus have us handle money and lead others? What is our true reward for working well?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePreachers will recognise in this outstanding resource many familiar insights but applied with a clarity, insight and authority ew will have achieved. Those whose work is outside the church will find themselves challenged by God's intimate and relentless concern with their working life. Church leaders will be given a profound insight into the world of work and how to shape the life of the church so that it connects with this vital 'frontline'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Duff, CPAS Patronage Secretary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRichard Frost, writer and blogger: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. 1 June 2024\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBooks providing a Christian perspective on work can at times feel as rare as hearing a sermon on the topic. So, Chris Gillies' offering is a welcome contribution and one which I looked forward to reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI spent most of my professional career helping people with their work and also supporting businesses and organisations in caring for staff. I even wrote a book about it myself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eChris Gillies brings a wealth of experience from senior management positions in financial sector businesses and charitable organisations. This, combined with insight from his faith and biblical knowledge, and observations from others (most notably Mark Greene, well known for his own work in this field) provides a strong base on which to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies explores the nature of work from Genesis through Old Testament examples such as Joseph and Daniel and the core characteristics Jesus demonstrates for us to aspire to. The author also includes a number of examples of businesses adopting a godly approach towards people, practice and profit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIts pages are full of well-rehearsed biblical insights and familiar business-speak which will resonate particularly with those with similar faith perspectives and senior leadership experience. For this reviewer, I would have liked to have seen more content which relates to the vast majority of those who find themselves on the way to work: the ones who don't occupy well-paid, high-level, influential roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNevertheless, for those who wish to explore this important aspect of life (and one which, for many, occupies a considerable amount of it of it) it is a thought-provoking read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, a former employment specialist, and the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003efour other books\u003c\/a\u003e. Richard writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks for Today April 2024. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eOn the way to work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfilment \u003c\/em\u003eby Chris Gillies, who is the treasurer of the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, is intended for all those who are at work, to help them live out their faith Mondays to Fridays. Divided into three parts, the first section is entitled ‘From a garden to a city’; the second looks at some of the Old Testament heroes and goes on to reflect on Jesus and how Christians today have sought to implement the teaching of Jesus in the workplace; while the third section deals with some is very down-to-earth issues such as how hard we should we work along with money matters. At the end of each chapter there’s a summary of the key principles. This is a good book for ministers to commend to their people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more-8148\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment Pack of 10
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{"id":15273981575548,"title":"Messy Togetherness: Being intergenerational in Messy Church","handle":"messy-togetherness-being-intergenerational-in-messy-church-2","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook only\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Why do more and more people advocate the idea that the generations should explore faith together, and what does the Bible have to say about this? How does this fit with our inherited model of age-related groups for learning and discipleship? And is it really practical and possible to have an experience of church where the youngest to the oldest share the same meeting space, service theme and time to worship? Edited by Aike Kennett-Brown, in Messy Togetherness Martyn Payne discusses Messy Church as an intergenerational expression of church and the benefits of this to the church community. He explores current thinking about faith development and give a biblical rationale for the all-age approach, offering practical advice and sharing stories and ideas from across the Messy Church network. Chris Barnett provides a brand-new chapter on being intentionally intergenerational.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartyn Payne\u003c\/strong\u003e worked with BRF Ministries and Messy Church for 15 years before his retirement at the end of 2017. He has a background in Bible storytelling and leading all-age worship, and is passionate about the blessing that comes when generations explore faith together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Barnett\u003c\/strong\u003e brings to the intergenerational space a wealth of experience, a heart for connecting and a commitment to facilitating learning together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Ministry leaders worldwide desire to facilitate intergenerational faith formation in their ministries, but the question often arising from that desire is: “Where do we begin?” Martin Payne, Chris Barnett and Aike Kennett- Brown help faith communities define and uphold intergenerational values while unleashing a plethora of fresh creativity and resources for making “messy togetherness” a transformative reality.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDr Valerie M. Grissom, author of All Ages Becoming, chair of the InterGenerate Team and Presbyterian pastor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This book is a gem! Building on the previous edition and incorporating new learning around intergenerational church, Messy Togetherness offers wisdom and theology, born out of experience, which every church com- munity should take note of. Read the book and join the journey!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe Revd Mary Hawes, children’s spirituality consultant, former Church of England National Children and Youth Adviser\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘An enlightening exploration of why and how being “all age” is the necessary default for all Messy Churches. While intergenerational church is still countercultural in many settings, this book offers updated research and helpful teaching to enable Messy Churches – and all gathered congregations – to consider what it means to truly be an intergenerational church.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eRachel Gotobed, family ministries outreach mission partner, The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Whether you’ve only heard about this whole Messy Church thing or you’ve\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ebeen part of one for a decade, this book is for you. It’s chock full of stories, insights, and practical ideas. What are you waiting for? Read this book and join the Messy revolution!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDavid M. Csinos, associate professor of practical theology at Atlantic School of Theology, founder of Faith Forward, and author of A Gospel for All Ages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Messy Togetherness gives a wonderful overview of the value of inter-generationality. A must-have book for anyone wishing to grow faith and discipleship in their Messy Church.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eSandy Brodine, education and strategy coordinator for the Younger Generations Team, Victoria and Tasmania, Uniting Church in Australia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-05-14T16:27:43+01:00","created_at":"2025-05-14T16:27:43+01:00","vendor":"Martyn Payne and Chris Barnett","type":"eBook","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Leadership","Messy Church","Messy Church books"],"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":55247330541948,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390034","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Messy Togetherness: Being intergenerational in Messy Church","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390034","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_main.png?v=1747236309","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_ipad_image.png?v=1747236316"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_main.png?v=1747236309","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64725177303420,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_main.png?v=1747236309"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_main.png?v=1747236309","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64725177598332,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_ipad_image.png?v=1747236316"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/messy_togetherness_ebook_ipad_image.png?v=1747236316","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook only\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Why do more and more people advocate the idea that the generations should explore faith together, and what does the Bible have to say about this? How does this fit with our inherited model of age-related groups for learning and discipleship? And is it really practical and possible to have an experience of church where the youngest to the oldest share the same meeting space, service theme and time to worship? Edited by Aike Kennett-Brown, in Messy Togetherness Martyn Payne discusses Messy Church as an intergenerational expression of church and the benefits of this to the church community. He explores current thinking about faith development and give a biblical rationale for the all-age approach, offering practical advice and sharing stories and ideas from across the Messy Church network. Chris Barnett provides a brand-new chapter on being intentionally intergenerational.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartyn Payne\u003c\/strong\u003e worked with BRF Ministries and Messy Church for 15 years before his retirement at the end of 2017. He has a background in Bible storytelling and leading all-age worship, and is passionate about the blessing that comes when generations explore faith together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Barnett\u003c\/strong\u003e brings to the intergenerational space a wealth of experience, a heart for connecting and a commitment to facilitating learning together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Ministry leaders worldwide desire to facilitate intergenerational faith formation in their ministries, but the question often arising from that desire is: “Where do we begin?” Martin Payne, Chris Barnett and Aike Kennett- Brown help faith communities define and uphold intergenerational values while unleashing a plethora of fresh creativity and resources for making “messy togetherness” a transformative reality.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDr Valerie M. Grissom, author of All Ages Becoming, chair of the InterGenerate Team and Presbyterian pastor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This book is a gem! Building on the previous edition and incorporating new learning around intergenerational church, Messy Togetherness offers wisdom and theology, born out of experience, which every church com- munity should take note of. Read the book and join the journey!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe Revd Mary Hawes, children’s spirituality consultant, former Church of England National Children and Youth Adviser\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘An enlightening exploration of why and how being “all age” is the necessary default for all Messy Churches. While intergenerational church is still countercultural in many settings, this book offers updated research and helpful teaching to enable Messy Churches – and all gathered congregations – to consider what it means to truly be an intergenerational church.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eRachel Gotobed, family ministries outreach mission partner, The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Whether you’ve only heard about this whole Messy Church thing or you’ve\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ebeen part of one for a decade, this book is for you. It’s chock full of stories, insights, and practical ideas. What are you waiting for? Read this book and join the Messy revolution!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDavid M. Csinos, associate professor of practical theology at Atlantic School of Theology, founder of Faith Forward, and author of A Gospel for All Ages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Messy Togetherness gives a wonderful overview of the value of inter-generationality. A must-have book for anyone wishing to grow faith and discipleship in their Messy Church.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eSandy Brodine, education and strategy coordinator for the Younger Generations Team, Victoria and Tasmania, Uniting Church in Australia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Messy Togetherness: Being intergenerational in Messy Church
£9.99
Digital eBook only Why do more and more people advocate the idea that the generations should explore faith together, and...
{"id":15162016104828,"title":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently","handle":"ignite-how-to-share-faith-build-community-and-do-church-differently-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital eBook Only -\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGod loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide a wealth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003e co-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging! \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-04-04T07:50:01+01:00","created_at":"2025-04-04T07:48:20+01:00","vendor":"Debbie Ellisdon and Patrick Ellisdon","type":"eBook","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","Glassboxx","Leadership"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"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":55086708261244,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393028","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1299,"weight":260,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393028","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/453.png?v=1754662393","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/454.png?v=1754662394"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/453.png?v=1754662393","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":65577167880572,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/453.png?v=1754662393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/453.png?v=1754662393","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":65577167847804,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/454.png?v=1754662394"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/454.png?v=1754662394","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital eBook Only -\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eGod loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide a wealth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003e co-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging! \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently
£12.99
Digital eBook Only - God loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people,...
{"id":15144954233212,"title":"Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission","handle":"guidelines-september-december-2025-bible-study-for-todays-ministry-and-mission","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Psalms as poetry and prayer – Amy Scott Robinson\u003cbr\u003eActs 10–18 – Isabelle Hamley\u003cbr\u003ePsalm 139 and artificial intelligence – Charmaine Mhlanga\u003cbr\u003eThe letters of John – Ian Paul\u003cbr\u003eJesus' parables in Matthew – Sharon Prentis\u003cbr\u003e1 Chronicles – Ashley Hibbard\u003cbr\u003ePersecution in the New Testament and today – Nick Page\u003cbr\u003eThe Divine Warrior of Israel – Andy Angel\u003cbr\u003eAdvent: the signs of his coming – M.J. Kramer\u003cbr\u003eZechariah 1–8 – Joel Barker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Tranter\u003c\/strong\u003e is an editorial manager at the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOlivia Warburton\u003c\/strong\u003e believes that everyone can make a difference to help our world flourish, however tiny our efforts may seem. Currently co-editor of BRF Ministries’ Guidelines Bible reading notes and most recently head of content creation and Living Faith ministry lead, she has worked in a number of editorial roles.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-04-14T16:02:28+01:00","created_at":"2025-03-28T13:03:56+00:00","vendor":"Editors: Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"Paperback","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Guidelines","KCLC","Leadership"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55065472565628,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393615","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":525,"weight":120,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393615","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Sep25.jpg?v=1744642939"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Sep25.jpg?v=1744642939","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64418198716796,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Sep25.jpg?v=1744642939"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_Sep25.jpg?v=1744642939","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Psalms as poetry and prayer – Amy Scott Robinson\u003cbr\u003eActs 10–18 – Isabelle Hamley\u003cbr\u003ePsalm 139 and artificial intelligence – Charmaine Mhlanga\u003cbr\u003eThe letters of John – Ian Paul\u003cbr\u003eJesus' parables in Matthew – Sharon Prentis\u003cbr\u003e1 Chronicles – Ashley Hibbard\u003cbr\u003ePersecution in the New Testament and today – Nick Page\u003cbr\u003eThe Divine Warrior of Israel – Andy Angel\u003cbr\u003eAdvent: the signs of his coming – M.J. Kramer\u003cbr\u003eZechariah 1–8 – Joel Barker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Tranter\u003c\/strong\u003e is an editorial manager at the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOlivia Warburton\u003c\/strong\u003e believes that everyone can make a difference to help our world flourish, however tiny our efforts may seem. Currently co-editor of BRF Ministries’ Guidelines Bible reading notes and most recently head of content creation and Living Faith ministry lead, she has worked in a number of editorial roles.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines September-December 2025: Bible study for today's ministry and mission
£5.25
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{"id":15142753403260,"title":"Get Messy! Volume 3: Growing Christian values","handle":"get-messy-volume-3","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach issue contains twelve session outlines for Messy Churches, running through the year from September to August. Everything you need to run your Messy Church, including activity photos, mealtime cards, social action ideas and templates, all downloadable from the Messy Church website. With an introduction by Aike Kennett-Brown.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeptember: Hope – Trish Hahn\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOctober: Compassion – Anna Lloyd and Ximena Wilson\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNovember: Peace – Mary Judkins\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDecember: Joy – Johannah Myers and Jillian Mayer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJanuary: Perseverance – Greg Ross\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFebruary: Love – Helen Laird\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarch: Integrity – Anne Offler and Sharon Pritchard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApril: Courage – Becky May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMay: Community – Martyn Payne \u0026amp; MCIC25 planning team\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJune: Purpose – Helen Laird\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJuly: Justice – Dawn Savidge \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAugust: Patience – Anne Offler and Sharon Pritchard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gwbVY1BAaaU?si=2Rdpg45IkiD2KUIB\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-04-15T16:37:10+01:00","created_at":"2025-03-27T17:15:02+00:00","vendor":"Aike Kennett-Brown","type":"Paperback","tags":["Children and family ministry","Church life","Discipleship","For children","For churches","For individuals","Get Messy!","KCLC","Leadership","Messy Church","Messy Church books"],"price":1699,"price_min":1699,"price_max":1699,"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":55062296691068,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393332","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Get Messy! Volume 3: Growing Christian values","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1699,"weight":230,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393332","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393332.jpg?v=1745340339"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393332.jpg?v=1745340339","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64491370447228,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.707,"height":1415,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393332.jpg?v=1745340339"},"aspect_ratio":0.707,"height":1415,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393332.jpg?v=1745340339","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach issue contains twelve session outlines for Messy Churches, running through the year from September to August. Everything you need to run your Messy Church, including activity photos, mealtime cards, social action ideas and templates, all downloadable from the Messy Church website. With an introduction by Aike Kennett-Brown.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeptember: Hope – Trish Hahn\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOctober: Compassion – Anna Lloyd and Ximena Wilson\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNovember: Peace – Mary Judkins\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDecember: Joy – Johannah Myers and Jillian Mayer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJanuary: Perseverance – Greg Ross\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFebruary: Love – Helen Laird\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarch: Integrity – Anne Offler and Sharon Pritchard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApril: Courage – Becky May\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMay: Community – Martyn Payne \u0026amp; MCIC25 planning team\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJune: Purpose – Helen Laird\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJuly: Justice – Dawn Savidge \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAugust: Patience – Anne Offler and Sharon Pritchard\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gwbVY1BAaaU?si=2Rdpg45IkiD2KUIB\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Get Messy! Volume 3: Growing Christian values
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{"id":15108163567996,"title":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently Pack of 5","handle":"ignite-pack-of-5","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePACK of 5 - for Churches, leaders and volunteers \u003c\/strong\u003e- God loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide two years’ worth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003eco-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePatrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-14T09:38:50+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-14T09:27:23+00:00","vendor":"Debbie Ellisdon and Patrick Ellisdon","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","Leadership","Pack"],"price":4995,"price_min":4995,"price_max":4995,"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":55024286237052,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"IGNITE5","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently Pack of 5","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":4995,"weight":1300,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"IGNITE5","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_pack_graphic_1080_x_1080_px_1.png?v=1741944715"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_pack_graphic_1080_x_1080_px_1.png?v=1741944715","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64167551172988,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_pack_graphic_1080_x_1080_px_1.png?v=1741944715"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_pack_graphic_1080_x_1080_px_1.png?v=1741944715","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePACK of 5 - for Churches, leaders and volunteers \u003c\/strong\u003e- God loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide two years’ worth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003eco-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePatrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently Pack of 5
£49.95
PACK of 5 - for Churches, leaders and volunteers - God loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of...
{"id":15096087675260,"title":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025","handle":"guidelines-may-august-2025-ebook","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-10T11:46:39+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-10T11:45:28+00:00","vendor":"Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Leadership"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55009144897916,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393837","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":97,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393837","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201600434556,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64201601286524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025
£5.25
Digital eBook Only - Guidelines is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights...
{"id":15012203135356,"title":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025","handle":"guidelines-may-august-2025","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-02-04T14:56:37+00:00","created_at":"2025-02-04T14:56:37+00:00","vendor":"Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"Paperback","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Guidelines","KCLC","Leadership"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":54922974658940,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393608","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":525,"weight":97,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393608","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_May25.jpg?v=1738680952"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_May25.jpg?v=1738680952","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63838670586236,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_May25.jpg?v=1738680952"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Guidelines_May25.jpg?v=1738680952","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025
£5.25
Guidelines is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its...
{"id":14897061560700,"title":"Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life","handle":"rhythms-of-grace","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eRhythms of Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and charismatic background, Tony Horsfall felt an increasing desire to know God more deeply. At the same time, he felt an increasing dissatisfaction with his own spiritual life, as well as concern at the number of highly qualified and gifted people involved in Christian ministry who experience burn-out. In this book he shows how contemplative spirituality, with its emphasis on realising our identity as God's beloved children and on being rather than doing, has vital lessons for us about discovering intimacy with God. It also provides essential insights about building a ministry that is both enjoyable and sustainable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-12T13:56:20+00:00","created_at":"2024-12-12T13:49:01+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","KCLC","Leadership","Mentoring","Pastoral care","Tony Horsfall"],"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":54844530327932,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393271","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":196,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393271","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63731913523580,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eRhythms of Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and charismatic background, Tony Horsfall felt an increasing desire to know God more deeply. At the same time, he felt an increasing dissatisfaction with his own spiritual life, as well as concern at the number of highly qualified and gifted people involved in Christian ministry who experience burn-out. In this book he shows how contemplative spirituality, with its emphasis on realising our identity as God's beloved children and on being rather than doing, has vital lessons for us about discovering intimacy with God. It also provides essential insights about building a ministry that is both enjoyable and sustainable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life
£9.99
FULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION Rhythms of Grace emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and...
{"id":14869609316732,"title":"Discipleship: Start This Way: Beginning to live as an everyday Christian disciple","handle":"discipleship-start-this-way-beginning-to-live-as-an-everyday-christian-disciple","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLearning how to follow Jesus in normal everyday life. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDiscipleship: Start This Way\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e offers comprehensive formation in discipleship, with a distinctive emphasis on the difference discipleship makes in our lived experience day to day. Both a resource for the enquirer and a tool for anyone wanting to support someone in their faith journey, this book provides an accessible and grounded route into the beginnings of discipleship, with a clear explanation of what it looks and feels like to become a disciple and to start to live as one.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Umx9mDIXf3o?si=l_cT2pFTbR3qsGpc\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7pYGfNCi77M?si=xX-Iyq5EvVFDmnGv\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Guy Donegan-Cross\u003c\/strong\u003e is currently Enabler of Learning for Discipleship and Mission for Church of England Birmingham, where he has responsibility for resourcing a culture of discipleship across a hugely diverse area. He has engaged in parish ministry in four different contexts, most recently leading St Mark’s, Harrogate. He is chair of the Simeon’s patronage trust, with responsibility for the patronage of 180 livings across England. He is passionate about discipleship, the relationship between charismatic and contemplative spirituality, and political and environmental concerns. He loves amateur dramatics, improvisation, live music, novels, walking, jazz, and his Norfolk Terrier Bess.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 13.7pt 9.0pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘As\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus-followers\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecertainly\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecalled\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciples…\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGuy’s\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enew\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ebooks are a fantastic, wise and highly readable resource exploring why\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emight\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewant\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003econsider\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecall\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ediscipleship,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehow\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emight\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eintentionally jump into this life-giving adventure.’\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-width: 105%;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAli\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHerbert,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehead\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ediscipleship,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGas\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStreet\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eChurch, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.1pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eBirmingham\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.1pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003eStart this Way \u003c\/i\u003eis an outstanding summary of the challenges, experi-\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eences and practices of those who want to be apprentices of Jesus. It\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis honest and practical, culturally sensitive and rooted in scripture.’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ePhil Knox, evangelist, author and missiologist, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: .4pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.85pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-width: 105%;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘It\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efull\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ejoy\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epragmatic\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003erealities\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexcellent\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enovice\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexperienced\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciples.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ereminder,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eaffirmation,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eframework of their journey, full of scripture, personal stories and\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprofound\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etruths\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehanded\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edown\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethrough\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eages.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eRevd\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eCanon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDr\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eSharon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ePrentis,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003edeputy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003edirector,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eChurch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eof\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eEngland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eracial justice unit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: .3pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etreasure\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etrove\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewisdom,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eoffering\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epractical\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003einsights\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eliving as a Christian disciple. Donegan-Cross blends personal stories,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebiblical teachings and actionable advice, making it essential for both\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enew and seasoned believers… May it inspire you to embrace Jesus’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eabundant life and walk confidently as his disciples.’ \u003cem\u003eT\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ehe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eSaju\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMuthalaly,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebishop\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -0.1pt; color: rgb(35, 31, 32); font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eLoughborough\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.15pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Such\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eclear,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eengaging\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehelpful\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexploration\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eit\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emeans\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea disciple of Jesus today.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eJames\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eLawrence,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCPAS\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eleadership\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003echampion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.1pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.9pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘What\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e“missionary\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciple”?\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAnd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehow\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecan\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebecome\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eone?\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIn\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethese\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehighly accessible and practical books, Guy invites all of us on to the\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ejourney and gives us a map and a compass. ’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStephen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHance,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edean\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eToronto\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;\"\u003eBooks for Today: Paul Beasley-Murray – July 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;\"\u003eDiscipleship Start This way: Beginning to live as an everyday Christian disciple (BRF, Abingdon 2025. 143pp: £9.99) and Discipleship Walk This Way: Living the life of an everyday Christian discipleship (BRF, Abingdon 2025. 296pp: £14.99) by Guy Donegan-Cross, an Anglican minister who has worked in Birmingham encouraging and resourcing discipleship and leadership, has written these two books. The first is written for people who wish to explore Christian discipleship; while the second is for people who want to go deeper into how to live out their lives as Christian disciples. These two books are a super resource for ministers and church leaders to use with their people.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eChurch Times 11.07.25. Review by Mike Starkey\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Church of England aspires to seeing all believers ‘envisioned, resourced and released to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in the whole of life’ (Vision and Strategy). Most dioceses similarly highlight the fostering of discipleship among their key priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eBut, at congregational level, the forming of engaged whole-life disciples can feel daunting. How do we help new believers to begin the journey of following Jesus? or help long-time believers better live out their faith in the real world? Guy Donegan-Cross was until recently Director of Learning for Discipleship and Mission in the diocese of Birmingham. His two new books seek to provide a resource for congregations to do just that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eBoth are designed for individual or group use. The first and significantly shorter of the two, Start This Way, introduces the whole idea of discipleship: its roots, definitions, and characteristics. The style is accessible, and its emphases are well judged: our discipleship is a response to divine love, not a list of things to do; my story is part of God’s big story; to be a disciple is to be more fully myself; faith is not adding a bit of spirituality to life, but, rather, opening my eyes to a world alive with the presence of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eOne helpfully contemporary chapter addresses the quest for identity in our day, and explores the ways in which discipleship might reframe the issues. There is a recurrent focus on the believers own feelings — what it ‘feels like’ to live as a disciple of Jesus. This is clearly deliberate, and marks a shift from an earlier generation of devotional paperbacks, which tended to view feelings as irrelevant distractions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe second book, Walk This Way, is essentially an inventory of everyday discipleship. It begins with the biblical image of a disciple as an apprentice, and goes on to unpack the value of particular spiritual disciplines. There follows a series of chapters on growing in Christian character. The book ends with chapters on being a ‘missionary disciple’ who heeds Gods call to participate in mission and social justice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eEach of the two books can be read in isolation, or used sequentially in an extended study of discipleship — for example, after a Christian-basics or enquirers course. If I were leading a small group, I would be tempted to dive straight in with the second book, Walk This Way. It starts in the right place, with Jesus’ rabbinic model of discipleship, it is usefully earthed in everyday life, and its inventory of discipleship issues covers all the essentials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Revd Mike Starkey is a London-based writer, and former Head of Church Growth for the diocese of Manchester\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Beasley-Murray: Books for Today, July 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003eGuy Donegan-Cross, an Anglican minister who has worked in Birmingham encouraging and resourcing discipleship and leadership, has written these two books [Discipleship: Start this Way and Discipleship: Walk this Way]. The first is written for people who wish to explore Christian discipleship; while the second is for people who want to go deeper into how to live out their lives as Christian disciples. These two books are a super resource for ministers and church leaders to use with their people.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-11-28T13:45:41+00:00","created_at":"2024-11-28T13:45:41+00:00","vendor":"Guy Donegan-Cross","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","Leadership","Mentoring"],"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":54829414744444,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393752","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Discipleship: Start This Way: Beginning to live as an everyday Christian disciple","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393752","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DiscipleshipStartThisWay.jpg?v=1732801605"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DiscipleshipStartThisWay.jpg?v=1732801605","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63478086926716,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DiscipleshipStartThisWay.jpg?v=1732801605"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DiscipleshipStartThisWay.jpg?v=1732801605","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLearning how to follow Jesus in normal everyday life. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDiscipleship: Start This Way\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e offers comprehensive formation in discipleship, with a distinctive emphasis on the difference discipleship makes in our lived experience day to day. Both a resource for the enquirer and a tool for anyone wanting to support someone in their faith journey, this book provides an accessible and grounded route into the beginnings of discipleship, with a clear explanation of what it looks and feels like to become a disciple and to start to live as one.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Umx9mDIXf3o?si=l_cT2pFTbR3qsGpc\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7pYGfNCi77M?si=xX-Iyq5EvVFDmnGv\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Guy Donegan-Cross\u003c\/strong\u003e is currently Enabler of Learning for Discipleship and Mission for Church of England Birmingham, where he has responsibility for resourcing a culture of discipleship across a hugely diverse area. He has engaged in parish ministry in four different contexts, most recently leading St Mark’s, Harrogate. He is chair of the Simeon’s patronage trust, with responsibility for the patronage of 180 livings across England. He is passionate about discipleship, the relationship between charismatic and contemplative spirituality, and political and environmental concerns. He loves amateur dramatics, improvisation, live music, novels, walking, jazz, and his Norfolk Terrier Bess.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 13.7pt 9.0pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘As\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus-followers\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecertainly\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecalled\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciples…\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGuy’s\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enew\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ebooks are a fantastic, wise and highly readable resource exploring why\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emight\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewant\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003econsider\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecall\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ediscipleship,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehow\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emight\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eintentionally jump into this life-giving adventure.’\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-width: 105%;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAli\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHerbert,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehead\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ediscipleship,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGas\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStreet\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 1.05pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eChurch, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.1pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eBirmingham\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.1pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003eStart this Way \u003c\/i\u003eis an outstanding summary of the challenges, experi-\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eences and practices of those who want to be apprentices of Jesus. It\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis honest and practical, culturally sensitive and rooted in scripture.’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ePhil Knox, evangelist, author and missiologist, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: .4pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.85pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-width: 105%;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘It\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efull\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ejoy\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epragmatic\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003erealities\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexcellent\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enovice\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexperienced\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciples.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ereminder,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eaffirmation,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eframework of their journey, full of scripture, personal stories and\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprofound\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etruths\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehanded\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edown\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethrough\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eages.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eRevd\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eCanon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eDr\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eSharon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ePrentis,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003edeputy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003edirector,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eChurch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eof\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.35pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: -.2pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eEngland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eracial justice unit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: .3pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etreasure\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etrove\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewisdom,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eoffering\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epractical\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003einsights\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eliving as a Christian disciple. Donegan-Cross blends personal stories,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebiblical teachings and actionable advice, making it essential for both\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enew and seasoned believers… May it inspire you to embrace Jesus’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eabundant life and walk confidently as his disciples.’ \u003cem\u003eT\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003ehe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eSaju\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMuthalaly,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebishop\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -0.1pt; color: rgb(35, 31, 32); font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eLoughborough\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.15pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.95pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Such\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eclear,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eengaging\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehelpful\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eexploration\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eit\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emeans\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea disciple of Jesus today.’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eJames\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eLawrence,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCPAS\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eleadership\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003echampion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 1.1pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 8.9pt .0001pt 24.85pt;\" class=\"MsoBodyText\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘What\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e“missionary\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edisciple”?\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAnd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehow\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecan\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebecome\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eone?\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIn\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethese\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehighly accessible and practical books, Guy invites all of us on to the\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ejourney and gives us a map and a compass. ’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStephen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHance,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edean\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eToronto\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;\"\u003eBooks for Today: Paul Beasley-Murray – July 2025\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;\"\u003eDiscipleship Start This way: Beginning to live as an everyday Christian disciple (BRF, Abingdon 2025. 143pp: £9.99) and Discipleship Walk This Way: Living the life of an everyday Christian discipleship (BRF, Abingdon 2025. 296pp: £14.99) by Guy Donegan-Cross, an Anglican minister who has worked in Birmingham encouraging and resourcing discipleship and leadership, has written these two books. The first is written for people who wish to explore Christian discipleship; while the second is for people who want to go deeper into how to live out their lives as Christian disciples. These two books are a super resource for ministers and church leaders to use with their people.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eChurch Times 11.07.25. Review by Mike Starkey\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Church of England aspires to seeing all believers ‘envisioned, resourced and released to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in the whole of life’ (Vision and Strategy). Most dioceses similarly highlight the fostering of discipleship among their key priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eBut, at congregational level, the forming of engaged whole-life disciples can feel daunting. How do we help new believers to begin the journey of following Jesus? or help long-time believers better live out their faith in the real world? Guy Donegan-Cross was until recently Director of Learning for Discipleship and Mission in the diocese of Birmingham. His two new books seek to provide a resource for congregations to do just that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eBoth are designed for individual or group use. The first and significantly shorter of the two, Start This Way, introduces the whole idea of discipleship: its roots, definitions, and characteristics. The style is accessible, and its emphases are well judged: our discipleship is a response to divine love, not a list of things to do; my story is part of God’s big story; to be a disciple is to be more fully myself; faith is not adding a bit of spirituality to life, but, rather, opening my eyes to a world alive with the presence of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eOne helpfully contemporary chapter addresses the quest for identity in our day, and explores the ways in which discipleship might reframe the issues. There is a recurrent focus on the believers own feelings — what it ‘feels like’ to live as a disciple of Jesus. This is clearly deliberate, and marks a shift from an earlier generation of devotional paperbacks, which tended to view feelings as irrelevant distractions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe second book, Walk This Way, is essentially an inventory of everyday discipleship. It begins with the biblical image of a disciple as an apprentice, and goes on to unpack the value of particular spiritual disciplines. There follows a series of chapters on growing in Christian character. The book ends with chapters on being a ‘missionary disciple’ who heeds Gods call to participate in mission and social justice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eEach of the two books can be read in isolation, or used sequentially in an extended study of discipleship — for example, after a Christian-basics or enquirers course. If I were leading a small group, I would be tempted to dive straight in with the second book, Walk This Way. It starts in the right place, with Jesus’ rabbinic model of discipleship, it is usefully earthed in everyday life, and its inventory of discipleship issues covers all the essentials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Revd Mike Starkey is a London-based writer, and former Head of Church Growth for the diocese of Manchester\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Beasley-Murray: Books for Today, July 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003eGuy Donegan-Cross, an Anglican minister who has worked in Birmingham encouraging and resourcing discipleship and leadership, has written these two books [Discipleship: Start this Way and Discipleship: Walk this Way]. The first is written for people who wish to explore Christian discipleship; while the second is for people who want to go deeper into how to live out their lives as Christian disciples. These two books are a super resource for ministers and church leaders to use with their people.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Discipleship: Start This Way: Beginning to live as an everyday Christian disciple
£9.99
Learning how to follow Jesus in normal everyday life. Discipleship: Start This Way offers comprehensive formation in discipleship, with a distinctive...
{"id":14869439775100,"title":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently","handle":"ignite-how-to-share-faith-build-community-and-do-church-differently","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide a wealth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003e co-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"WordSection1\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 23.35pt 37.55pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egreat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egift\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eour\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003echurches\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecommunities\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etoday.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePatrick\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDebbie’s passion and experience shine through in this inspiring and practical\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estep-by-step guide to Ignite, and how to build relational and lasting com-\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emunity, through a new and innovative approach to church. This book is a\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehugely valuable resource.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.6pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe Revd Jonathon Arnold, executive director of The Social Justice\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eNetwork, Diocese of Canterbury\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.6pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: .05pt 37.55pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Born in one of the most derived parishes in England, Ignite is much more\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethan a way of doing outreach. People who would not normally come near a\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003echurch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e–\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ewho\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003emight\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003efeel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ethemselves\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eto\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ebe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eimposters,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eeven\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e–\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eoften\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eadamant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etheir\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003echurch.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePatrick\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDebbie\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eEllisdon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epractitioners\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003evisionaries\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewho\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebrought\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIgnite\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebirth.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eYou\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewill\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehear\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etheir\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edown-to-earth\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egentle voices through this book. Ignite is now planted and contextualised\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 4.0pt; mso-font-width: 150%;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein various places around the Diocese of Canterbury, but all of them carry\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 4.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe essential Ignite DNA – a way of being church when “church ways” have\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esometimes got in the way, so that people who often assume they have no\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eplace know that they belong.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-left: 43.15pt; line-height: 11.55pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eSteve\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConeys,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emission\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egrowth\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eadviser,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDiocese\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eCanterbury\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 37.7pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This book is a wonderful testimony of how God can shape a church to\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eminister to those around us; to reveal the love of Jesus to those we often\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efail to connect with. This book not only tells the story of Ignite but also its\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethinking, theology and process with lots of wonderful resources to use to\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eshare the gospel.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.35pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe Revd Mike Resch, vicar of St Marks in Harrogate and part of the New\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eWine Leadership Community\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.35pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 37.75pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eour\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etime.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eWhen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewas\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003earchdeacon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCanterbury\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDiocese,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI was on many an occasion moved to tears by the testimonies of those who\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehave come to faith through Ignite services, as outlined in this book.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-left: 43.15pt; line-height: 11.85pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStephen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eTaylor,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003evicar\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eSt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMarys\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eBattersea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e\u003cbr clear=\"all\" style=\"page-break-before: always; mso-break-type: section-break;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Ignite is not just a study guide as to how to make new Christians; it is the\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003elived experience of those whose lives have been touched by the good news\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eChrist\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e–\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etouched\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethrough\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehospitality\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewelcoming\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecommunity\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhose members have been willing to share their own experiences of meeting Jesus. The church owes a huge debt of gratitude to Patrick and Debbie\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eEllisdon,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhose\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epassion\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eshare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eevident\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eevery\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epage\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook.’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif;\"\u003eThe Rt Revd Trevor Wilmott, bishop for the Channel Islands and former\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBishop of Dover\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 06.06.25 Review by Mike Starkey.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBritain’s coastal poverty is acute. Once thriving seaside resorts are now home to some of the most extreme pockets of deprivation in the country. In 2004, the Revd Patrick Ellisdon and his wife, Debbie, moved to the Cliftonville area of Margate, one of the poorest parishes in Britain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGuest houses that once accommodated affluent Victorian holiday-makers were packed with people living in acute poverty and struggling with complex needs. The Ellisdons began with listening and relationship-building. They and other church members walked around the parish in twos, meeting local residents and finding out about their lives – in particular their physical needs. These conversations led to new contacts and friendships, and invitations to drinks and snacks in church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOne of the new contacts was a local drug dealer. Before long, church members were regularly sharing bags of chips with the dealer and his customers, and listening without judgement to their life stories. Something remarkable was stirring. A Wednesday Alpha course was started, and a hundred people turned up. When the course ended, around 80 wanted to continue meeting – but few had any experience of traditional church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe leap in format from an informal, chatty Wednesday evening to formal, structured Sunday morning in church felt daunting. The Ellisdons had a vision of losing the momentum that they had built up. On impulse, they invited people to come back the next Wednesday evening, for food and friendship. They had to think quickly about what might authentic church feel like for these people in this community with these complex needs. In other words they had to ask questions about contextual mission and ecclesiology. The result was a service in an informal café-church style, Ignite, which continued meeting on Wednesday evenings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Ignite model was later rolled out across other areas of deprivation in Canterbury diocese, and received funding from the Church Commissioners as a pioneering model of mission. This chatty and practical handbook explains and illustrates the rationale for Ignite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe first half of the book explores core principles: helping people to respect and value themselves, showing that they are loved and valued by others, and providing a safe space to explore faith. Belonging precedes believing. The second half outlines nearly 30 sample Ignite events, each with its own theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIgnite clearly comes from a broadly Evangelical stable, not least in the informality of its worship. But churches of all traditions, struggling to connect with their local community, could find inspiration in the Ignite model – particularly in its rigorously incarnational and relational starting-points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Mike Starkey, former head of church growth, diocese of Manchester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-11-28T12:05:08+00:00","created_at":"2024-11-28T12:05:08+00:00","vendor":"Debbie Ellisdon and Patrick Ellisdon","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","KCLC","Leadership"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"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":54829136970108,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393011","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1299,"weight":260,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393011","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_67dbc879-6d35-4612-848d-2f7f1d0cd757.jpg?v=1741612486"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_67dbc879-6d35-4612-848d-2f7f1d0cd757.jpg?v=1741612486","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64122788544892,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"width":1748,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_67dbc879-6d35-4612-848d-2f7f1d0cd757.jpg?v=1741612486"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Ignite_67dbc879-6d35-4612-848d-2f7f1d0cd757.jpg?v=1741612486","width":1748}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living in marginalised and socially deprived communities, struggle with mainstream church. The Ignite café-church model, pioneered in Canterbury Diocese, is designed to build relationships and share faith with people where they are, in their own communities. Through eating and exploring faith together, Ignite shares the gospel in both word and action, while also supporting people’s essential needs. This book sets out how to plan and run Ignite in your context. It covers building and supporting a team, how best to set up for Ignite and the style in which it should be delivered. Pre-planned ‘running orders’ provide a wealth of weekly material including video clips, table discussions, quizzes, short talks, craft activities, drama and prayer responses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor bio\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebbie Ellisdon \u003c\/strong\u003e co-leads the Canterbury Diocese Ignite project where she helps to oversee, mentor and encourage Ignite communities across the diocese. She is married to Patrick and has three grown-up children and a dog. She may be a vicar’s wife, but definitely doesn’t enjoy flower arranging!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Ellisdon\u003c\/strong\u003e is priest in charge of All Saints parish in Canterbury. Through a grant from the Church Commissioners in 2018, he co-led the Ignite project, replicating Ignite in six of the poorest communities across the diocese. He enjoys playing the guitar and reading trashy science fiction novels, and is pretty good at cooking Chinese food!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"WordSection1\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 23.35pt 37.55pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egreat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egift\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eour\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003echurches\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecommunities\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etoday.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePatrick\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDebbie’s passion and experience shine through in this inspiring and practical\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estep-by-step guide to Ignite, and how to build relational and lasting com-\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emunity, through a new and innovative approach to church. This book is a\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehugely valuable resource.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.6pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe Revd Jonathon Arnold, executive director of The Social Justice\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eNetwork, Diocese of Canterbury\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.6pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: .05pt 37.55pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Born in one of the most derived parishes in England, Ignite is much more\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethan a way of doing outreach. People who would not normally come near a\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003echurch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e–\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ewho\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003emight\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003efeel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ethemselves\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eto\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003ebe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eimposters,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eeven\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003e–\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eoften\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eadamant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethat\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etheir\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003echurch.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePatrick\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDebbie\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eEllisdon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epractitioners\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003evisionaries\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewho\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebrought\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eIgnite\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebirth.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eYou\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewill\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehear\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etheir\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.45pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edown-to-earth\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.5pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egentle voices through this book. Ignite is now planted and contextualised\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 4.0pt; mso-font-width: 150%;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein various places around the Diocese of Canterbury, but all of them carry\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 4.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe essential Ignite DNA – a way of being church when “church ways” have\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esometimes got in the way, so that people who often assume they have no\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eplace know that they belong.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-left: 43.15pt; line-height: 11.55pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eSteve\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConeys,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emission\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003egrowth\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eadviser,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDiocese\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .35pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .3pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eCanterbury\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 37.7pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This book is a wonderful testimony of how God can shape a church to\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eminister to those around us; to reveal the love of Jesus to those we often\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efail to connect with. This book not only tells the story of Ignite but also its\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethinking, theology and process with lots of wonderful resources to use to\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eshare the gospel.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.35pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 105%; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe Revd Mike Resch, vicar of St Marks in Harrogate and part of the New\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eWine Leadership Community\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 43.35pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 0cm 37.75pt .0001pt 43.15pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘This\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eour\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etime.\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eWhen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewas\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003earchdeacon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCanterbury\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .95pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDiocese,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eI was on many an occasion moved to tears by the testimonies of those who\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehave come to faith through Ignite services, as outlined in this book.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-left: 43.15pt; line-height: 11.85pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro';\"\u003eThe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRevd\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eStephen\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eTaylor,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003evicar\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eSt\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .15pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMarys\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: .2pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.1pt;\"\u003eBattersea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 9.5pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Source Sans Pro'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e\u003cbr clear=\"all\" style=\"page-break-before: always; mso-break-type: section-break;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e‘Ignite is not just a study guide as to how to make new Christians; it is the\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003elived experience of those whose lives have been touched by the good news\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eChrist\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e–\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etouched\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethrough\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehospitality\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewelcoming\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.25pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecommunity\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhose members have been willing to share their own experiences of meeting Jesus. The church owes a huge debt of gratitude to Patrick and Debbie\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eEllisdon,\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewhose\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epassion\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eshare\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eJesus\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eevident\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eon\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eevery\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epage\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethis\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: -.4pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebook.’\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-family: 'Source Sans Pro SemiBold',sans-serif;\"\u003eThe Rt Revd Trevor Wilmott, bishop for the Channel Islands and former\u003cspan style=\"letter-spacing: 2.0pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBishop of Dover\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 105%; margin: 3.7pt 49.0pt .0001pt 31.85pt;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 06.06.25 Review by Mike Starkey.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBritain’s coastal poverty is acute. Once thriving seaside resorts are now home to some of the most extreme pockets of deprivation in the country. In 2004, the Revd Patrick Ellisdon and his wife, Debbie, moved to the Cliftonville area of Margate, one of the poorest parishes in Britain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGuest houses that once accommodated affluent Victorian holiday-makers were packed with people living in acute poverty and struggling with complex needs. The Ellisdons began with listening and relationship-building. They and other church members walked around the parish in twos, meeting local residents and finding out about their lives – in particular their physical needs. These conversations led to new contacts and friendships, and invitations to drinks and snacks in church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOne of the new contacts was a local drug dealer. Before long, church members were regularly sharing bags of chips with the dealer and his customers, and listening without judgement to their life stories. Something remarkable was stirring. A Wednesday Alpha course was started, and a hundred people turned up. When the course ended, around 80 wanted to continue meeting – but few had any experience of traditional church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe leap in format from an informal, chatty Wednesday evening to formal, structured Sunday morning in church felt daunting. The Ellisdons had a vision of losing the momentum that they had built up. On impulse, they invited people to come back the next Wednesday evening, for food and friendship. They had to think quickly about what might authentic church feel like for these people in this community with these complex needs. In other words they had to ask questions about contextual mission and ecclesiology. The result was a service in an informal café-church style, Ignite, which continued meeting on Wednesday evenings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Ignite model was later rolled out across other areas of deprivation in Canterbury diocese, and received funding from the Church Commissioners as a pioneering model of mission. This chatty and practical handbook explains and illustrates the rationale for Ignite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe first half of the book explores core principles: helping people to respect and value themselves, showing that they are loved and valued by others, and providing a safe space to explore faith. Belonging precedes believing. The second half outlines nearly 30 sample Ignite events, each with its own theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIgnite clearly comes from a broadly Evangelical stable, not least in the informality of its worship. But churches of all traditions, struggling to connect with their local community, could find inspiration in the Ignite model – particularly in its rigorously incarnational and relational starting-points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Mike Starkey, former head of church growth, diocese of Manchester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Ignite: How to share faith, build community and do church, differently
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God loves to bring people into community, into a knowledge of being loved and valued. Many people, especially those living...
{"id":14779748843900,"title":"Refresh: Introducing adults to faith through toddler groups","handle":"refresh-introducing-adults-to-faith-through-toddler-groups","description":"\u003cp\u003eRefresh Café is a fun and effective way to build fruitful relationships with parents and carers in your community. It’s stay and play turned on its head: the children have fun, but we focus on refreshing the adults with time to talk, fresh coffee, pastries and most importantly our key ingredient: a five-minute ‘thought for the day’ where we share something of God in a gentle, relevant and accessible way. All this in a welcoming play space for the children. This book shows you how to run Refresh, and includes 33 ‘thoughts for the day’ to use in your setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TrfXxTTYsow\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCaroline Montgomery is the pioneer of Refresh. Formerly Families Pastor at St Stephen’s Church, Twickenham, she has been married to Richard for 35 years and they have three grown-up sons. She enjoys walking, going to the gym, knitting and having coffee with friends.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T11:08:13+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T11:07:26+00:00","vendor":"Caroline Montgomery","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Leadership"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604872454524,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392175","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Refresh: Introducing adults to faith through toddler groups - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":165,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392175","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/317.png?v=1730980388","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/318.png?v=1730980389"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/317.png?v=1730980388","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001502318972,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/317.png?v=1730980388"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/317.png?v=1730980388","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001502417276,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/318.png?v=1730980389"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/318.png?v=1730980389","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eRefresh Café is a fun and effective way to build fruitful relationships with parents and carers in your community. It’s stay and play turned on its head: the children have fun, but we focus on refreshing the adults with time to talk, fresh coffee, pastries and most importantly our key ingredient: a five-minute ‘thought for the day’ where we share something of God in a gentle, relevant and accessible way. All this in a welcoming play space for the children. This book shows you how to run Refresh, and includes 33 ‘thoughts for the day’ to use in your setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TrfXxTTYsow\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCaroline Montgomery is the pioneer of Refresh. Formerly Families Pastor at St Stephen’s Church, Twickenham, she has been married to Richard for 35 years and they have three grown-up sons. She enjoys walking, going to the gym, knitting and having coffee with friends.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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Refresh: Introducing adults to faith through toddler groups
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Refresh Café is a fun and effective way to build fruitful relationships with parents and carers in your community. It’s...
{"id":14779491549564,"title":"Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together","handle":"blended-a-call-to-reimagine-our-church-family-rethinking-how-we-can-be-church-together-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChurch as we know it is changing... with conversations and initiatives bubbling up around how our churches can be truly intergenerational, functioning in close and loving community as the body of Christ. Eleanor Bird speaks into the debate with a challenge to rethink our work with all ages from the ground up, offering practical observations drawn from her experience of developing children's and youth ministry in a local church context, together with a biblically based framework for how this thinking can be taken forward in your church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order for us to see nations changed, we need to see the full body of Christ rise up together across all ages, to walk and minister shoulder to shoulder. Blended invites us to see that it is not only necessary, but possible. No matter what size community or denomination we belong to, this book gives us ways of seeing and doing church together with a new heart that will reap great rewards for the kingdom. Rachel Turner, author and speaker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 13 May 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eHERE'S another of those paperbacks whose title alone makes you believe it might provide the answer to all the challenges facing the life of your local church. \u003cem\u003eBlended - A Call to Reimagine our Church Family\u003c\/em\u003e by Eleanor Bird (brf, 8.99), subtitled 'Rethinking how we can be church together', is about investigating a 'new way of being God's family'. And in the ensuing 14 chapters there is much to give church leaders a lot of food for thought. When you realise that the author is 'head of children and youth ministry' at a thriving Anglican church in Romiley, Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two- to 19-year-olds, you have a good idea of what it is all about. In fact, this book could be the answer to your prayers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Singleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Well magazine. The Methodist Church Summer 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eBlended\u003c\/em\u003e, Eleanor Bird invites us to reimagine a new way of being Church together: a Church that no longer divides by age lines but instead embraces being a community of different generations. For too long, she says, Christian communities have been separated; children, youth and adults each following their own programmes. Her vision is one where the lines drawn between these groups become blurred; rubbed away to become a more unified and connected body of believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus of Bird's book is the times when church communities gather for worship. Her philosophy is built on four key values: \u003cbr\u003enot calling Church 'work; '\u003cbr\u003egiving everyone in church equal influence; \u003cbr\u003etraining when apart, for the times we gather as Church; \u003cbr\u003emaking the most of the times we gather to experiment and explain what's happening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese building blocks underpin all that Church is and does. They serve to create a community that thrives in worship, both when together and apart. So the times when groups pursue their own programme are seen as vital opportunities to prepare and develop understanding for when all gather together. She advocates a model in which style and content are gradually merged, helping worship times become increasingly seamless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis emphasis on worship (in the narrow sense of sung worship and teaching) is central in developing a more cohesive church community. Bird makes the case for church to embrace its whole spectrum of family, yet the question remains what form this may take beyond Sunday services. What the features of a blended church might be outside of these times is the next natural field to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBird's personal testimony and experience are threads throughout the book, this adds an authentic dimension when she recounts how her own faith and understanding developed. As readers, we're urged to join her on this road of discovery that sees God's kingdom grow in our churches and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGail Adcock, Methodist Family Ministry Development Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:18:15+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:17:22+00:00","vendor":"Eleanor Bird","type":"eBook","tags":["Church life","Glassboxx","Leadership","Oct-15"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604747215228,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857461179","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857461179","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/269.png?v=1730980304","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/270.png?v=1730980336"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/269.png?v=1730980304","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001482494332,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/269.png?v=1730980304"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/269.png?v=1730980304","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001489670524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/270.png?v=1730980336"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/270.png?v=1730980336","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChurch as we know it is changing... with conversations and initiatives bubbling up around how our churches can be truly intergenerational, functioning in close and loving community as the body of Christ. Eleanor Bird speaks into the debate with a challenge to rethink our work with all ages from the ground up, offering practical observations drawn from her experience of developing children's and youth ministry in a local church context, together with a biblically based framework for how this thinking can be taken forward in your church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEleanor Bird is Head of Children and Youth Ministry at St Chad's Romiley in Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two to 19-year-olds. She has been involved in children's work leadership since she was twelve and in full-time ministry since the age of 21, leading children's venues for New Wine and workshops and seminars for leaders across the UK\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order for us to see nations changed, we need to see the full body of Christ rise up together across all ages, to walk and minister shoulder to shoulder. Blended invites us to see that it is not only necessary, but possible. No matter what size community or denomination we belong to, this book gives us ways of seeing and doing church together with a new heart that will reap great rewards for the kingdom. Rachel Turner, author and speaker\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 13 May 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eHERE'S another of those paperbacks whose title alone makes you believe it might provide the answer to all the challenges facing the life of your local church. \u003cem\u003eBlended - A Call to Reimagine our Church Family\u003c\/em\u003e by Eleanor Bird (brf, 8.99), subtitled 'Rethinking how we can be church together', is about investigating a 'new way of being God's family'. And in the ensuing 14 chapters there is much to give church leaders a lot of food for thought. When you realise that the author is 'head of children and youth ministry' at a thriving Anglican church in Romiley, Greater Manchester, overseeing all ministries with two- to 19-year-olds, you have a good idea of what it is all about. In fact, this book could be the answer to your prayers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Singleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Well magazine. The Methodist Church Summer 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eBlended\u003c\/em\u003e, Eleanor Bird invites us to reimagine a new way of being Church together: a Church that no longer divides by age lines but instead embraces being a community of different generations. For too long, she says, Christian communities have been separated; children, youth and adults each following their own programmes. Her vision is one where the lines drawn between these groups become blurred; rubbed away to become a more unified and connected body of believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus of Bird's book is the times when church communities gather for worship. Her philosophy is built on four key values: \u003cbr\u003enot calling Church 'work; '\u003cbr\u003egiving everyone in church equal influence; \u003cbr\u003etraining when apart, for the times we gather as Church; \u003cbr\u003emaking the most of the times we gather to experiment and explain what's happening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese building blocks underpin all that Church is and does. They serve to create a community that thrives in worship, both when together and apart. So the times when groups pursue their own programme are seen as vital opportunities to prepare and develop understanding for when all gather together. She advocates a model in which style and content are gradually merged, helping worship times become increasingly seamless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis emphasis on worship (in the narrow sense of sung worship and teaching) is central in developing a more cohesive church community. Bird makes the case for church to embrace its whole spectrum of family, yet the question remains what form this may take beyond Sunday services. What the features of a blended church might be outside of these times is the next natural field to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBird's personal testimony and experience are threads throughout the book, this adds an authentic dimension when she recounts how her own faith and understanding developed. As readers, we're urged to join her on this road of discovery that sees God's kingdom grow in our churches and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGail Adcock, Methodist Family Ministry Development Officer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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Blended A Call to Reimagine Our Church Family: Rethinking how we can be church together
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - Church as we know it is changing... with conversations and initiatives bubbling up around how our...
{"id":14779473854844,"title":"Starting Your Messy Church","handle":"starting-your-messy-church-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn all-in-one introduction to Messy Church. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen you need to introduce your children's workers, family coordinators and church leaders to the concept of all-involving, activity-based, new-to-church worship, this is the quick-to-read resource that explains it all. Starting Your Messy Church is structured into bite-sized sections which take you through the essentials of how to construct a strategy and put your plans to start your own Messy Church ministry into action. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe book includes (among many other things) checklists, milestones and questions to ask of a Messy Church that you might visit, together with an honest and down-to-earth look at the 'Things we wish we'd known' from experienced Messy Church practitioners.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLucy Moore \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLucy Moore is the founder of Messy Church and is now head of the Church of England's Growing Faith Foundation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LucyMooreRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646009\" width=\"139\" height=\"139\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LucyMooreRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646009\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAike Kennet-Brown \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAike Kennett-Brown is BRF's Messy Church Ministry Lead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"152\" width=\"152\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; float: left;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Aike_Kennett-Brown_480x480.jpg?v=1677509845\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 20px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Aike_Kennett-Brown_480x480.jpg?v=1677509845\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJane Leadbetter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost recently part of the BRF Messy Church team, Jane Leadbetter has worked as a primary school teacher and was Childrenʼs Work Adviser in the Diocese of Liverpool for twelve years. She runs L19: Messy Church once a month.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"158\" width=\"158\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JaneLeadbetterRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646209\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JaneLeadbetterRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646209\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Country Way - June to September 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe were having problems with the format of our all-age worship in a small rural church - we weren't reaching young families so we thought we would try something different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is just what it says in its introduction: 'short, punchy ....it gets the basics across quickly.' It's not a book about setting up yet another children's programme. God is at the heart of it, with a passion shining through for all generations to meet Jesus in a fun and accessible way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a useful resource with some practical checklists and lots of encouragement. It sets out the principles and values of Messy Church, and is full of practical tips - about praying, funding, venue, child protection etc.. It shares some useful experiences of those already involved with established Messy Churches. It doesn't pull its punches about the difficulties and challenges likely to be faced but it does stress the encouragements and excitement the team will experience as they too grow as disciples as they get involved in the vision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you have decided to give it a go, you are not on your own. The book lists lots of other resources - more books, the Messy Church website, training and regional networks - you never need to be short of ideas and inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have been running Messy Church now for six months. It's hard work but it's fun. It's encouraging our regular church families and it's involving people who, a year ago, 'wouldn't darken the doors of a church'. It's an opportunity to share the Gospel with them and to build relationships. Above all - it's messy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Gillian Roberts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Country Way Issue 60 - May 2012 -\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"www.countryway.org.uk\" rel=\"external\" href=\"http:\/\/www.countryway.org.uk\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/www.countryway.org.uk\"\u003ewww.countryway.org.uk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe introduction to this book says it is 'short, punchy and easily passed round a team... It gets the basics across quickly...' That is exactly what it does. It gives a straightforward clear and concise overview of what Messy Church is and isn't. It tells you how to set up and maintain a Messy Church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat is both its strength and the weakness. St Wilfrid's, Cowplain, (where it started) were innovative and thought creatively when they set up the first Messy Church. It is that innovation and the ability to think outside the box that other churches need to replicate. But just following a process that worked extremely well for St Wilfrid's may not work for other churches. Parts of the book recognise this: 'there are plenty of equally valid different ways of doing Messy Church and God is there in all of them.' Other parts of the book don't: 'stick with the Messy Church 'brand'. It is tried and tested; don't fall into the trap of ...tinkering about with it.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI shall be passing the book around in the hope that it will encourage us to learn from the Messy Church experience. I hope we will take the good ideas in it, think about what will work here, and no doubt will tinker about with it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Robert Barlow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - 30 April 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a slim volume of 55 pages (sales help fund the Messy Church ministry) introducing this popular Fresh Expression of church to those considering starting a Messy Church in their community. It sets out to be 'short, punchy and easily passed round a team' and it fulfils this aim well. Providing help to think through whether or not this is for your church, it counsels not rushing into starting a Messy Church. 'What matters is that your want to help families meet Jesus' this is not just for children, but a form of church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality. The big picture to hold in mind is that it is all about making disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupport from the whole church is needed, along with commitment from the leadership and prayer, and there is also good advice in seeking out the 'unlikely' people to be involved. It stresses that this is a team ministry and all will need to be prepared for hard work. Messy Church once a month is the normal pattern giving time for preparation and reflection between the sessions. The availability of help, encouragement and resources from the wider Messy Church network through people, books and online support is also covered.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Margaret Brasier, Beeston, Nottingham\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Church Times - 17 February 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMESSY CHURCH, say Lucy Moore and Jane Leadbetter, is not a children's church, nor a way of attracting more people to a church's existing services. It is, they explain in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eStarting Your Messy Church: A beginner's guide for churches\u003c\/em\u003e, a form of church for children and adults which involves creativity, celebration, and hospitality. It meets at a time and sometimes in a place that suit people who don't belong to a church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The way you go about making disciples may involve horrifying amounts of icing sugar and glitter glue,' they say - but making disciples is what it's all about. The aim is 'to introduce Jesus through hospitality, friendship, stories, and worship'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLucy Moore is the Bible Reading Fellowship's Messy Church Team Leader, and her co-author is a member of the team. Their small book is jolly, encouraging, and full of good and detailed advice for those interested in this kind of worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:10:31+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:09:29+00:00","vendor":"Messy Church","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Glassboxx","Leadership","Messy Church","Messy Church books","Messy Masterclass"],"price":499,"price_min":499,"price_max":499,"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":53604741120380,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392250","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Starting Your Messy Church - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":499,"weight":84,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392250","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/267.png?v=1730980300","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/268.png?v=1730980299"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/267.png?v=1730980300","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001482068348,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/267.png?v=1730980300"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/267.png?v=1730980300","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001482002812,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/268.png?v=1730980299"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/268.png?v=1730980299","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn all-in-one introduction to Messy Church. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen you need to introduce your children's workers, family coordinators and church leaders to the concept of all-involving, activity-based, new-to-church worship, this is the quick-to-read resource that explains it all. Starting Your Messy Church is structured into bite-sized sections which take you through the essentials of how to construct a strategy and put your plans to start your own Messy Church ministry into action. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe book includes (among many other things) checklists, milestones and questions to ask of a Messy Church that you might visit, together with an honest and down-to-earth look at the 'Things we wish we'd known' from experienced Messy Church practitioners.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLucy Moore \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLucy Moore is the founder of Messy Church and is now head of the Church of England's Growing Faith Foundation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LucyMooreRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646009\" width=\"139\" height=\"139\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LucyMooreRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646009\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAike Kennet-Brown \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAike Kennett-Brown is BRF's Messy Church Ministry Lead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"152\" width=\"152\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; float: left;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Aike_Kennett-Brown_480x480.jpg?v=1677509845\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 20px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Aike_Kennett-Brown_480x480.jpg?v=1677509845\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJane Leadbetter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost recently part of the BRF Messy Church team, Jane Leadbetter has worked as a primary school teacher and was Childrenʼs Work Adviser in the Diocese of Liverpool for twelve years. She runs L19: Messy Church once a month.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"158\" width=\"158\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JaneLeadbetterRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646209\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JaneLeadbetterRGB72dpi_480x480.jpg?v=1683646209\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Country Way - June to September 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe were having problems with the format of our all-age worship in a small rural church - we weren't reaching young families so we thought we would try something different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is just what it says in its introduction: 'short, punchy ....it gets the basics across quickly.' It's not a book about setting up yet another children's programme. God is at the heart of it, with a passion shining through for all generations to meet Jesus in a fun and accessible way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a useful resource with some practical checklists and lots of encouragement. It sets out the principles and values of Messy Church, and is full of practical tips - about praying, funding, venue, child protection etc.. It shares some useful experiences of those already involved with established Messy Churches. It doesn't pull its punches about the difficulties and challenges likely to be faced but it does stress the encouragements and excitement the team will experience as they too grow as disciples as they get involved in the vision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you have decided to give it a go, you are not on your own. The book lists lots of other resources - more books, the Messy Church website, training and regional networks - you never need to be short of ideas and inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have been running Messy Church now for six months. It's hard work but it's fun. It's encouraging our regular church families and it's involving people who, a year ago, 'wouldn't darken the doors of a church'. It's an opportunity to share the Gospel with them and to build relationships. Above all - it's messy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Gillian Roberts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Country Way Issue 60 - May 2012 -\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"www.countryway.org.uk\" rel=\"external\" href=\"http:\/\/www.countryway.org.uk\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/www.countryway.org.uk\"\u003ewww.countryway.org.uk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe introduction to this book says it is 'short, punchy and easily passed round a team... It gets the basics across quickly...' That is exactly what it does. It gives a straightforward clear and concise overview of what Messy Church is and isn't. It tells you how to set up and maintain a Messy Church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat is both its strength and the weakness. St Wilfrid's, Cowplain, (where it started) were innovative and thought creatively when they set up the first Messy Church. It is that innovation and the ability to think outside the box that other churches need to replicate. But just following a process that worked extremely well for St Wilfrid's may not work for other churches. Parts of the book recognise this: 'there are plenty of equally valid different ways of doing Messy Church and God is there in all of them.' Other parts of the book don't: 'stick with the Messy Church 'brand'. It is tried and tested; don't fall into the trap of ...tinkering about with it.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI shall be passing the book around in the hope that it will encourage us to learn from the Messy Church experience. I hope we will take the good ideas in it, think about what will work here, and no doubt will tinker about with it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Robert Barlow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - 30 April 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a slim volume of 55 pages (sales help fund the Messy Church ministry) introducing this popular Fresh Expression of church to those considering starting a Messy Church in their community. It sets out to be 'short, punchy and easily passed round a team' and it fulfils this aim well. Providing help to think through whether or not this is for your church, it counsels not rushing into starting a Messy Church. 'What matters is that your want to help families meet Jesus' this is not just for children, but a form of church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality. The big picture to hold in mind is that it is all about making disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupport from the whole church is needed, along with commitment from the leadership and prayer, and there is also good advice in seeking out the 'unlikely' people to be involved. It stresses that this is a team ministry and all will need to be prepared for hard work. Messy Church once a month is the normal pattern giving time for preparation and reflection between the sessions. The availability of help, encouragement and resources from the wider Messy Church network through people, books and online support is also covered.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Margaret Brasier, Beeston, Nottingham\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Church Times - 17 February 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMESSY CHURCH, say Lucy Moore and Jane Leadbetter, is not a children's church, nor a way of attracting more people to a church's existing services. It is, they explain in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eStarting Your Messy Church: A beginner's guide for churches\u003c\/em\u003e, a form of church for children and adults which involves creativity, celebration, and hospitality. It meets at a time and sometimes in a place that suit people who don't belong to a church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The way you go about making disciples may involve horrifying amounts of icing sugar and glitter glue,' they say - but making disciples is what it's all about. The aim is 'to introduce Jesus through hospitality, friendship, stories, and worship'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLucy Moore is the Bible Reading Fellowship's Messy Church Team Leader, and her co-author is a member of the team. Their small book is jolly, encouraging, and full of good and detailed advice for those interested in this kind of worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e"}
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Starting Your Messy Church
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Digital eBook Only - An all-in-one introduction to Messy Church. When you need to introduce your children's workers, family coordinators...
{"id":14779346157948,"title":"Musings of a Clergy Child: Growing into a faith of my own","handle":"musings-of-a-clergy-child-growing-into-a-faith-of-my-own-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVicarage life can be exciting, hilarious, scary, surreal and delightful... and that's just one day! Nell Goddard writes honestly and openly about the ins and outs of growing up in a Christian home, from her experience as the daughter of two vicars. With hilarious anecdotes, tough lessons and spiritual reflections from wrestling with faith, this book charts what it's like to live in the goldfish bowl of a vicarage, grow up in the shadow of your parents, lose your faith and find it again. With both rewritten blog posts and brand new material, this collection of tips, letters and musings will appeal not just to clergy children and their parents, but also to teenagers growing up in Christian homes, and to those who want to know what it's like to live a life of ministry you never really asked for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClergy child's lament\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTips for clergy children\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBring-and-share lunches are highly unpredictable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSometimes the smallest offerings have the biggest impact\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeople will come in and randomly start dismantling your house\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not give out your address over the phone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoundaries are excellent things\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't feel obliged to invite the entire congregation to your birthday party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou will never realise how important your hospitality is until you're on the receiving end of someone else's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlways lock the toilet door. A surprising number of people will just barge through closed ones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTeach your parent to turn off their phone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure you check out the parish profile before your parent applies for a job\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn to accept strange gifts with grace\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou are, to all intents and purposes, the vicarage social secretary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf someone's coming to stay, make sure you're informed well in advance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt's OK to grieve\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't bother waiting for your parents before leaving church. It's a waste of everyone's time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere are certain things you should never tell a caller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlways carry ID. You never know when you might need to prove yourself\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYour love life will be a continual source of parish speculation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSometimes it's just awful, but God is still good\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForgive; it changes lives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLetters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for the new clergy child\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for clergy parents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when the church has hurt you\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when you feel as if the church has stolen your parents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when a friend leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when you feel inadequate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMusings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComing home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDancing in the grey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfessions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWalking the forgiveness path\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInterrupted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrust and obey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHide-and-seek\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBe still\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarefoot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBattling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFingertip faith\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayer for a friend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHere is love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn being human\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNaked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOut of the ashes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAt the feet of Jesus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeaven has a climbing frame\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWithout words\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePassionate and poignant by turns, very funny one minute and deeply moving the next, Nell Goddard's account of being a 'vicarage child' is above all truthful. Truthful to what it's really like being at the sharp end of clergy life; truthful, especially, to the gospel itself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd Prof N T Wright, University of St Andrews \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, this is what is really enchanting about Musings of a Clergy Child. In 154 pages, Nell, you have given us a living example of how to be simultaneously completely grown up - realistic, candid, hard-hitting - and utterly child-like for God - unfussy, honest, and attentive to the small truths that normally pass us by. As the father of a clergy child, it is a beautiful example for my own little girl; but it's also a beautiful example for me - and for all of us here. Because there is not one of us who is not called to be at once grown up, mature in the faith, and also childlike, transparent before God as a child is in the presence of a parent he or she trusts completely. And Musings of a Clergy Child is brilliant at a practical level - for reminding clergy families up and down the country that they aren't alone in the fact that 'God has not called them to normality', as you so elegantly put it. It's also extremely valuable in that it offers what so little Christian literature bothers to - a vocabulary for lamenting in the face of God's goodness. This book, Anne Atkins says, is 'wonderful and precious'; and Simon Ponsonby tells us it 'will do good to your soul'. They are both right.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Gilday, Rector of Benson and Ewelme \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNell Goddard takes the lid off vicarage life and reveals the life of a clergy child to be anything but a sheltered one. With tenderness and insight she describes the rich and rare mix of holy, human experience which shaped her growing-up. Her faith journey so far has been remarkable, painful, joyful, very much her own and shot through with instances of how God and life, in her words, 'intersect in the most beautiful of ways.' ... Everyone should read 'Musings of a Clergy Child' : beautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rosemary Lain-Priestley, Archdeacon for the Two Cities \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNell Goddard studied Theology at Durham University and is now Culture Projects Leader at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. Both her parents began training for ordination when she was just six months old. Since then her family have lived all around the country and been part of a spectrum of different ministries, from Oxford college chaplain to academic theologian to vicar of a central London parish. She has an older brother and a chocolate labrador, Bramble. You can find Nell's blog at musingsofaclergychild.com.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Imogen Bell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of a good book I often feel that I know its author. This is particularly true for a book which explores the life of an individual with all its hilarity, brokenness and restoration. With each turn of the page the reader learns more of the writer, so that by the final turn they are well and truly known, even perhaps a friend\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat Nell Goddard achieves remarkably throughout the course of her first book,\u003cem\u003e Musings of a Clergy Child: growing into a faith of my own, \u003c\/em\u003eis the humble skill of knowing the reader. Getting to the end of Goddard's book left me feeling known. Though I am neither a clergy child nor a clergy parent, from the first page I was welcomed as a friend. Through stories, tips, letters and reflections she scripted much of what I too have experienced as a young Christian growing up in a 'Christian family'. I was left encouraged and amazed at Goddard's ability to express these experiences and to share repeated moments of vulnerability with her readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMusings of a Clergy Child \u003c\/em\u003eis split into (a classically Anglican) three sections. Firstly: Goddard's 'Tips for clergy children'. As an ordinand about to embark on Church of England training, reading the insights of a childhood in a 'gold fish bowl' was a timely warning of the challenges of Christian ministry (whatever that might look like). Especially the challenges placed upon one's own family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecondly: Goddard's 'Letters'. Six letters, one to a new clergy child, one to clergy parents and four letters to those with specific situations, hurts and fears. For me, the last was the most important, 'A letter for when you feel inadequate'. Not only for my life, but for many lives of loved ones around me, this letter acknowledges the feeling that 'I am not enough'. It challenges the inadequacy and declares that our Father loves us. This letter is worthy of printing and posting around schools, universities, churches, workplaces, even on street corners. It speaks the gospel into the darkest of doubts. A wonderful declaration of one made 'enough' through Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally: Her 'Musings', the 'most obviously theological part' but not out of kilter with the rest. Twenty musings covering multiple questions, barriers and truths in the twisted and winding journey of faith. This section is a resource to be used repeatedly, reflections to be reminded of and situations almost universally experienced. Goddard's willingness to embrace and witness to the big issues of a life with Christ opens spaces for her readers to grow, to be acknowledged and to reflect on their own faith, feelings and struggles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have (a similarly Anglican) three reflections on Goddard's work: Vulnerability, Redemption and Transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoddard's book is vulnerable. It speaks of human life, in all its fullness and messiness. It is truthful and open about the doubts, questions and anxieties that the author faced throughout her life. I was struck by Goddard's honesty in her writing, her willingness to be vulnerable with her readers so that she might be known but also so that her readers might feel known, acknowledged, valued and understood. From inadequacy to doubts and deep hurts, Goddard reflects the brokenness of human life in a broken world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut her vulnerability never leaves her readers in a place of despair. Redemption always follows. In each story of challenge, each letter of loss and each musing on a difficult day, joy comes in the morning, light emerges from the darkness, a crown of beauty replaces ashes. God consistently ministers to us in our vulnerabilities and Goddard reminds her readers that He will always meet us, love us and redeem us in our darkest times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd then there is transformation. Something changes, a challenge and a call to a distinctive life. A life that welcomes, a home that is open, a hand that accepts bizarre presents or an offering plate that appreciates hard boiled sweets. Again and again Goddard exemplifies the transformed life with Christ. She forgives, appreciates, mourns and reminds her readers that our broken lives matter, that we all have the opportunity to reach the unreachable, the occasionally dysfunctional, the overlooked and underrepresented. Not without struggle, but with grace and humility a life is transformed and that transformed life in turn leads to further transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an incredibly honest and profound book, exploring both the comedies and challenging realities of growing up in a vicarage. It is worth reading wherever you grew up as it provides insights into the twists and turns that emerge as one walks the path of faith.\u003cem\u003e Musings of a Clergy Child \u003c\/em\u003egives particular insight to all those considering, training for and living Christian ministry and should be on all kinds of vocational reading lists! Goddard admirably reflects the vulnerability, redemption and transformation that unite humanity and describe the gospel. You will be welcomed from the start and known by the end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThank you Nell, I wait in anticipation for book number two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImogen Bell, Theos\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T08:08:23+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T08:07:32+00:00","vendor":"Nell Goddard","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jun-17","Leadership","Parenting","Women"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604693180796,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465474","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Musings of a Clergy Child: Growing into a faith of my own - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":183,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465474","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/259.png?v=1730980375","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/260.png?v=1730980350"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/259.png?v=1730980375","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001498583420,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/259.png?v=1730980375"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/259.png?v=1730980375","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001492652412,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/260.png?v=1730980350"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/260.png?v=1730980350","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVicarage life can be exciting, hilarious, scary, surreal and delightful... and that's just one day! Nell Goddard writes honestly and openly about the ins and outs of growing up in a Christian home, from her experience as the daughter of two vicars. With hilarious anecdotes, tough lessons and spiritual reflections from wrestling with faith, this book charts what it's like to live in the goldfish bowl of a vicarage, grow up in the shadow of your parents, lose your faith and find it again. With both rewritten blog posts and brand new material, this collection of tips, letters and musings will appeal not just to clergy children and their parents, but also to teenagers growing up in Christian homes, and to those who want to know what it's like to live a life of ministry you never really asked for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClergy child's lament\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTips for clergy children\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBring-and-share lunches are highly unpredictable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSometimes the smallest offerings have the biggest impact\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeople will come in and randomly start dismantling your house\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not give out your address over the phone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoundaries are excellent things\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't feel obliged to invite the entire congregation to your birthday party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou will never realise how important your hospitality is until you're on the receiving end of someone else's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlways lock the toilet door. A surprising number of people will just barge through closed ones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTeach your parent to turn off their phone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure you check out the parish profile before your parent applies for a job\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn to accept strange gifts with grace\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou are, to all intents and purposes, the vicarage social secretary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf someone's coming to stay, make sure you're informed well in advance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt's OK to grieve\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon't bother waiting for your parents before leaving church. It's a waste of everyone's time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere are certain things you should never tell a caller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlways carry ID. You never know when you might need to prove yourself\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYour love life will be a continual source of parish speculation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSometimes it's just awful, but God is still good\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForgive; it changes lives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLetters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for the new clergy child\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for clergy parents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when the church has hurt you\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when you feel as if the church has stolen your parents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when a friend leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter for when you feel inadequate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMusings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComing home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDancing in the grey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfessions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWalking the forgiveness path\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInterrupted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrust and obey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHide-and-seek\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBe still\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarefoot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBattling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFingertip faith\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayer for a friend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHere is love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn being human\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNaked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOut of the ashes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAt the feet of Jesus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeaven has a climbing frame\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWithout words\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePassionate and poignant by turns, very funny one minute and deeply moving the next, Nell Goddard's account of being a 'vicarage child' is above all truthful. Truthful to what it's really like being at the sharp end of clergy life; truthful, especially, to the gospel itself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd Prof N T Wright, University of St Andrews \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, this is what is really enchanting about Musings of a Clergy Child. In 154 pages, Nell, you have given us a living example of how to be simultaneously completely grown up - realistic, candid, hard-hitting - and utterly child-like for God - unfussy, honest, and attentive to the small truths that normally pass us by. As the father of a clergy child, it is a beautiful example for my own little girl; but it's also a beautiful example for me - and for all of us here. Because there is not one of us who is not called to be at once grown up, mature in the faith, and also childlike, transparent before God as a child is in the presence of a parent he or she trusts completely. And Musings of a Clergy Child is brilliant at a practical level - for reminding clergy families up and down the country that they aren't alone in the fact that 'God has not called them to normality', as you so elegantly put it. It's also extremely valuable in that it offers what so little Christian literature bothers to - a vocabulary for lamenting in the face of God's goodness. This book, Anne Atkins says, is 'wonderful and precious'; and Simon Ponsonby tells us it 'will do good to your soul'. They are both right.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Patrick Gilday, Rector of Benson and Ewelme \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNell Goddard takes the lid off vicarage life and reveals the life of a clergy child to be anything but a sheltered one. With tenderness and insight she describes the rich and rare mix of holy, human experience which shaped her growing-up. Her faith journey so far has been remarkable, painful, joyful, very much her own and shot through with instances of how God and life, in her words, 'intersect in the most beautiful of ways.' ... Everyone should read 'Musings of a Clergy Child' : beautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rosemary Lain-Priestley, Archdeacon for the Two Cities \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNell Goddard studied Theology at Durham University and is now Culture Projects Leader at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. Both her parents began training for ordination when she was just six months old. Since then her family have lived all around the country and been part of a spectrum of different ministries, from Oxford college chaplain to academic theologian to vicar of a central London parish. She has an older brother and a chocolate labrador, Bramble. You can find Nell's blog at musingsofaclergychild.com.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Imogen Bell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of a good book I often feel that I know its author. This is particularly true for a book which explores the life of an individual with all its hilarity, brokenness and restoration. With each turn of the page the reader learns more of the writer, so that by the final turn they are well and truly known, even perhaps a friend\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat Nell Goddard achieves remarkably throughout the course of her first book,\u003cem\u003e Musings of a Clergy Child: growing into a faith of my own, \u003c\/em\u003eis the humble skill of knowing the reader. Getting to the end of Goddard's book left me feeling known. Though I am neither a clergy child nor a clergy parent, from the first page I was welcomed as a friend. Through stories, tips, letters and reflections she scripted much of what I too have experienced as a young Christian growing up in a 'Christian family'. I was left encouraged and amazed at Goddard's ability to express these experiences and to share repeated moments of vulnerability with her readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMusings of a Clergy Child \u003c\/em\u003eis split into (a classically Anglican) three sections. Firstly: Goddard's 'Tips for clergy children'. As an ordinand about to embark on Church of England training, reading the insights of a childhood in a 'gold fish bowl' was a timely warning of the challenges of Christian ministry (whatever that might look like). Especially the challenges placed upon one's own family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecondly: Goddard's 'Letters'. Six letters, one to a new clergy child, one to clergy parents and four letters to those with specific situations, hurts and fears. For me, the last was the most important, 'A letter for when you feel inadequate'. Not only for my life, but for many lives of loved ones around me, this letter acknowledges the feeling that 'I am not enough'. It challenges the inadequacy and declares that our Father loves us. This letter is worthy of printing and posting around schools, universities, churches, workplaces, even on street corners. It speaks the gospel into the darkest of doubts. A wonderful declaration of one made 'enough' through Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally: Her 'Musings', the 'most obviously theological part' but not out of kilter with the rest. Twenty musings covering multiple questions, barriers and truths in the twisted and winding journey of faith. This section is a resource to be used repeatedly, reflections to be reminded of and situations almost universally experienced. Goddard's willingness to embrace and witness to the big issues of a life with Christ opens spaces for her readers to grow, to be acknowledged and to reflect on their own faith, feelings and struggles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have (a similarly Anglican) three reflections on Goddard's work: Vulnerability, Redemption and Transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoddard's book is vulnerable. It speaks of human life, in all its fullness and messiness. It is truthful and open about the doubts, questions and anxieties that the author faced throughout her life. I was struck by Goddard's honesty in her writing, her willingness to be vulnerable with her readers so that she might be known but also so that her readers might feel known, acknowledged, valued and understood. From inadequacy to doubts and deep hurts, Goddard reflects the brokenness of human life in a broken world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut her vulnerability never leaves her readers in a place of despair. Redemption always follows. In each story of challenge, each letter of loss and each musing on a difficult day, joy comes in the morning, light emerges from the darkness, a crown of beauty replaces ashes. God consistently ministers to us in our vulnerabilities and Goddard reminds her readers that He will always meet us, love us and redeem us in our darkest times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd then there is transformation. Something changes, a challenge and a call to a distinctive life. A life that welcomes, a home that is open, a hand that accepts bizarre presents or an offering plate that appreciates hard boiled sweets. Again and again Goddard exemplifies the transformed life with Christ. She forgives, appreciates, mourns and reminds her readers that our broken lives matter, that we all have the opportunity to reach the unreachable, the occasionally dysfunctional, the overlooked and underrepresented. Not without struggle, but with grace and humility a life is transformed and that transformed life in turn leads to further transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an incredibly honest and profound book, exploring both the comedies and challenging realities of growing up in a vicarage. It is worth reading wherever you grew up as it provides insights into the twists and turns that emerge as one walks the path of faith.\u003cem\u003e Musings of a Clergy Child \u003c\/em\u003egives particular insight to all those considering, training for and living Christian ministry and should be on all kinds of vocational reading lists! Goddard admirably reflects the vulnerability, redemption and transformation that unite humanity and describe the gospel. You will be welcomed from the start and known by the end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThank you Nell, I wait in anticipation for book number two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImogen Bell, Theos\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Musings of a Clergy Child: Growing into a faith of my own
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{"id":14779316863356,"title":"Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world","handle":"paul-and-his-friends-in-leadership-how-they-changed-the-world-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in their own time, the more we will be able to apply biblical principles to today's church, its leaders and its mission-transforming and enriching the way we do church today. Paul and His Friends in Leadership examines the apostle Paul's critical relationships with key people, illustrating his humanity, faith, confidence in God and his leadership qualities. This novel approach, by an expert in the New Testament, will encourage us to reflect on leadership in the church today and help us to see how crucial authentic relationships are to our contemporary mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreface\u003cbr\u003ePaul's greatness\u003cbr\u003ePaul's life: a sketch\u003cbr\u003ePaul's calling, his mission and his churches\u003cbr\u003ePaul's mission to Cyprus and Galatia (AD47 - 48)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarnabas, missionary leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's mission to the Aegean provinces (AD49 - 57)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilvanus, missionary and translator\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTimothy, Paul's leading fellow worker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLuke, beloved physician and author\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla and Aquila, merchants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStephanas, servant of the saints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGaius, host of the church in Corinth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApollos, passionate preacher\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eErastus, high-ranking city official\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 1), Paul's ambassador\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphras, evangelist\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhilemon, house-church leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnesimus, runaway slave\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohn Mark, author\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Asiarchs of Ephesus, leading citizens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe, patroness in Cenchreae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAristarchus, travel companion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's mission in Rome (AD57)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndronicus and Junia, Paul's kin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRufus, 'chosen in the Lord'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's last years (AD60 - 65)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphroditus, carer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEuodia and Syntyche, fellow workers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 2), evangelist in Crete\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnesiphorus, earnest friend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe origin of love in the writings of Paul\u003cbr\u003eThe significance of Paul's mission friends\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul W. Barnett is a former Bishop of North Sydney, Australia, and lecturer in New Testament at Moore College, Sydney. He is the author of many well-received and influential books on the New Testament. His two interests are Christian ministry and the world of the early church. His passion is to encourage the practice of biblical principles for ministry in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by David Sellick\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarnett sets out to show that Paul was more of a 'people person' than he is often given credit for and that he offered caring leadership to those with whom he shared mission, so that together 'they changed the world', as the book's subtitle claims. In Acts and Paul's letters about 100 people are named and of these Barnett identifies about forty whom he regards as Paul's key 'mission colleagues'. All named people associated with Paul's missionary work from AD49 to 57 are introduced and discussed in as much detail as the author can amass. We know that Paul often mentions people by name in his letters, but Barnett cross references Acts and the letters to produce a mini-biography of each, thereby illustrating how Paul chose, trained and supported a string of fellow missionaries who so firmly established the emerging Christian church across the eastern Roman Empire to the imperial city itself. This is a fascinating complement to Pauline studies.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T07:53:54+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T07:53:00+00:00","vendor":"Paul W Barnett","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Leadership","Mission","Oct-17"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604687249788,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465450","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":182,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465450","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/247.png?v=1730980323","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/248.png?v=1730980332"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/247.png?v=1730980323","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001486262652,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/247.png?v=1730980323"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/247.png?v=1730980323","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001488982396,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/248.png?v=1730980332"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/248.png?v=1730980332","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in their own time, the more we will be able to apply biblical principles to today's church, its leaders and its mission-transforming and enriching the way we do church today. Paul and His Friends in Leadership examines the apostle Paul's critical relationships with key people, illustrating his humanity, faith, confidence in God and his leadership qualities. This novel approach, by an expert in the New Testament, will encourage us to reflect on leadership in the church today and help us to see how crucial authentic relationships are to our contemporary mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreface\u003cbr\u003ePaul's greatness\u003cbr\u003ePaul's life: a sketch\u003cbr\u003ePaul's calling, his mission and his churches\u003cbr\u003ePaul's mission to Cyprus and Galatia (AD47 - 48)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarnabas, missionary leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's mission to the Aegean provinces (AD49 - 57)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilvanus, missionary and translator\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTimothy, Paul's leading fellow worker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLuke, beloved physician and author\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla and Aquila, merchants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStephanas, servant of the saints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGaius, host of the church in Corinth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApollos, passionate preacher\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eErastus, high-ranking city official\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 1), Paul's ambassador\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphras, evangelist\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhilemon, house-church leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnesimus, runaway slave\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohn Mark, author\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Asiarchs of Ephesus, leading citizens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe, patroness in Cenchreae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAristarchus, travel companion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's mission in Rome (AD57)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndronicus and Junia, Paul's kin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRufus, 'chosen in the Lord'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul's last years (AD60 - 65)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphroditus, carer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEuodia and Syntyche, fellow workers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 2), evangelist in Crete\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnesiphorus, earnest friend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe origin of love in the writings of Paul\u003cbr\u003eThe significance of Paul's mission friends\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul W. Barnett is a former Bishop of North Sydney, Australia, and lecturer in New Testament at Moore College, Sydney. He is the author of many well-received and influential books on the New Testament. His two interests are Christian ministry and the world of the early church. His passion is to encourage the practice of biblical principles for ministry in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by David Sellick\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarnett sets out to show that Paul was more of a 'people person' than he is often given credit for and that he offered caring leadership to those with whom he shared mission, so that together 'they changed the world', as the book's subtitle claims. In Acts and Paul's letters about 100 people are named and of these Barnett identifies about forty whom he regards as Paul's key 'mission colleagues'. All named people associated with Paul's missionary work from AD49 to 57 are introduced and discussed in as much detail as the author can amass. We know that Paul often mentions people by name in his letters, but Barnett cross references Acts and the letters to produce a mini-biography of each, thereby illustrating how Paul chose, trained and supported a string of fellow missionaries who so firmly established the emerging Christian church across the eastern Roman Empire to the imperial city itself. This is a fascinating complement to Pauline studies.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world
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Digital eBook Only - The more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in...
{"id":14777415696764,"title":"Good Call: Learning to make decisions with God","handle":"good-call-learning-to-make-decisions-with-god","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHave you ever experienced conflict between what your head and your heart were telling you to do? Have you struggled to reach agreement with others when making a group decision, or regretted a major decision and had to live with the consequences? Have you ever found it difficult to be sure of God’s will in a particular situation? If so, you’re in very good company. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEverybody makes decisions – all the time. Are there ‘5 simple steps’ to the right decision? No, there aren’t. Should you stop thinking about it and ‘just do something’? No, you shouldn’t. But could you expect God to share with you his will and purpose, giving you clues and directions in a way you can understand? Yes, you could. Iain Dunbar and Peter Wilkinson share their own decision-making history (even the dodgy stuff) and encourage you to look honestly at yours. Borrowing from the world of coaching, they help you evaluate your decision-making to date and develop new and better habits and practices with God at the centre.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TTAJSirLtAo\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ygPF7xNSdy8\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIain R. Dunbar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIain Dunbar's background is in business development and operational management for UK, US and Australian companies. He has extensive experience of recruitment, career development, team building, coaching of individuals and leadership groups, and church leadership and teaching in Independent Evangelical, Baptist and Anglican contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter R. Wilkinson \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Wilkinson is now retired after a professional life as a chartered engineer working for the largest defence company in the UK. He is actively involved in local Baptist churches in senior leadership roles including preaching, teaching and worship leading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘In a world where we are faced with daily, seemingly relentless, pressures\u003cbr\u003eto make potentially life-changing decisions, this timely volume places a\u003cbr\u003estrong emphasis on the importance of hearing from God and personal\u003cbr\u003eself-reflection – rather than offering a formulaic ‘system’ that can often lead\u003cbr\u003eto discouragement and feelings of failure through poor decision-making.\u003cbr\u003eI have been privileged to know Iain and Pete as friends, mentors and church\u003cbr\u003eco-leaders during the past 40-plus years and can testify to their authenticity,\u003cbr\u003eintegrity and godly wisdom that will be evident throughout this book.\u003cbr\u003eWhether you are facing important decisions now, or at any time in the future\u003cbr\u003e(which is a certainty!), I would strongly commend their work to you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndrew Marriott, executive director, Missionary Ventures [MotiVate] NZ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have known Iain and Pete for the best part of 45 years. As I read this book,\u003cbr\u003eI hear their voices; the intonation, the stress on certain words, the pain and\u003cbr\u003ejoys of being who and what they are. We are all different people yet, beneath\u003cbr\u003ethe differences, our hearts find their resting place in God and one can sense\u003cbr\u003etheir earnest ‘desires of the heart’ as they engage with the professional and\u003cbr\u003epersonal frustrations they have encountered. Here are two blokes, wrestling\u003cbr\u003ewith the transcendent God of Jacob. Their scientific\/ engineering\/ managerial\u003cbr\u003enature comes through in recounted personal and corporate experiences.\u003cbr\u003eTheir stories are honest and illustrative and heart meets head as we are\u003cbr\u003etaken through the chapters. Iain’s use of scriptural narrative – the ‘story’\u003cbr\u003ewritten for a reason and with passion by a passionate, storytelling Jewish\u003cbr\u003epeople – is lively. His plain reading of this story, sitting on top of the exegesis,\u003cbr\u003e‘lives’ and he applies it brilliantly. Pete brings a different felt experience. His\u003cbr\u003emethodical, engineering approach is like a strong but gentle hand coming\u003cbr\u003ein, guiding the apprentice’s hand at the lathe – ‘Here, let me help you... Just\u003cbr\u003ea bit more pressure there… That’s right, see what you can do? Now, try it\u003cbr\u003eon your own.’ This book is pastoral in nature, aiming for practical, clear and\u003cbr\u003egodly outcomes at all levels of decision-making, accompanied by the peace\u003cbr\u003eof God to rule in our hearts and minds.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd J. Andrew Dodd, Baptist minister (retired) and president of Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTogether in Cumbria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving worked in project management in industry, I’ve studied ‘decision-making’, and was unsure I wanted to read another book about it. But I was pleasantly surprised by this book, which is bright, interesting and full of great examples. Having made some good but many poor decisions in life, it was good to discover that the authors had too. They do not propose a canned methodology, but commend a process based on data, analytical skill, and discernment that comes from God. Chapters on developing our spiritual senses and discernment are particularly strong. The book considers decision-making in families and in church councils. Will I make only good decisions from here on? Sadly, no! But I will be more aware of the resources available to me as a person of faith! The book is written with imagination and should be read cover-to-cover, but you could dip into it and still benefit. I commend it to leaders, church members, parents, teachers and businesspeople.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 04.08.23. Review by Dr Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen wrestling with a knotty problem, many Christians have experienced trying God on the metaphorical white phone, only to find a rather puzzling buzz on the line. The businessmen Iain Dunbar and Peter Wilkinson share your frustration and have written a book to try to help.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGood Call: Learning to make decisions with God\u003c\/em\u003e is deliberately accessible in style, as the two of them take it in turns to workshop you through a better process. They start by asking you to learn from your own history, by recalling your past decisions and charting them on a timeline, good and bad. Reflecting on them will teach you your own tendencies under pressure. The authors remind you that good decisions, even hard ones with difficult consequences, will always give you a sense of peace, while the less good ones will tend to prey on your mind and feel somehow unresolved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing examples from the Bible and from their own careers, they set out a process for learning how to discern God’s voice in the noise. It requires patience to develop what they liken to ‘good taste’, and the hallmark of a bad decision will often be that it was rushed. But starting to make every decision with God, no matter how small, trains you in the way. This habit holds you in relationship and teaches you to listen. The accumulation of all your decisions hones in you the development of a settled conscience, which be- comes over time an ever more reliable guide as you learn to discern the path God wants you to take. And if you are ever really stuck? They remind you to cry to the Lord, and sleep on it. Joy will come in the morning, and you will always feel peaceful when you have got it right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:54:40+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:53:26+00:00","vendor":"Iain Dunbar \u0026 Peter Wilkinson","type":"eBook","tags":["Discipleship","Glassboxx","Leadership"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"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":53603966779772,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392199","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Good Call: Learning to make decisions with God - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1299,"weight":268,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392199","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/241.png?v=1730980323","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/242.png?v=1730980279"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/241.png?v=1730980323","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001486229884,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/241.png?v=1730980323"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/241.png?v=1730980323","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001476989308,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/242.png?v=1730980279"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/242.png?v=1730980279","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHave you ever experienced conflict between what your head and your heart were telling you to do? Have you struggled to reach agreement with others when making a group decision, or regretted a major decision and had to live with the consequences? Have you ever found it difficult to be sure of God’s will in a particular situation? If so, you’re in very good company. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEverybody makes decisions – all the time. Are there ‘5 simple steps’ to the right decision? No, there aren’t. Should you stop thinking about it and ‘just do something’? No, you shouldn’t. But could you expect God to share with you his will and purpose, giving you clues and directions in a way you can understand? Yes, you could. Iain Dunbar and Peter Wilkinson share their own decision-making history (even the dodgy stuff) and encourage you to look honestly at yours. Borrowing from the world of coaching, they help you evaluate your decision-making to date and develop new and better habits and practices with God at the centre.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TTAJSirLtAo\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ygPF7xNSdy8\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIain R. Dunbar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIain Dunbar's background is in business development and operational management for UK, US and Australian companies. He has extensive experience of recruitment, career development, team building, coaching of individuals and leadership groups, and church leadership and teaching in Independent Evangelical, Baptist and Anglican contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter R. Wilkinson \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Wilkinson is now retired after a professional life as a chartered engineer working for the largest defence company in the UK. He is actively involved in local Baptist churches in senior leadership roles including preaching, teaching and worship leading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘In a world where we are faced with daily, seemingly relentless, pressures\u003cbr\u003eto make potentially life-changing decisions, this timely volume places a\u003cbr\u003estrong emphasis on the importance of hearing from God and personal\u003cbr\u003eself-reflection – rather than offering a formulaic ‘system’ that can often lead\u003cbr\u003eto discouragement and feelings of failure through poor decision-making.\u003cbr\u003eI have been privileged to know Iain and Pete as friends, mentors and church\u003cbr\u003eco-leaders during the past 40-plus years and can testify to their authenticity,\u003cbr\u003eintegrity and godly wisdom that will be evident throughout this book.\u003cbr\u003eWhether you are facing important decisions now, or at any time in the future\u003cbr\u003e(which is a certainty!), I would strongly commend their work to you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndrew Marriott, executive director, Missionary Ventures [MotiVate] NZ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have known Iain and Pete for the best part of 45 years. As I read this book,\u003cbr\u003eI hear their voices; the intonation, the stress on certain words, the pain and\u003cbr\u003ejoys of being who and what they are. We are all different people yet, beneath\u003cbr\u003ethe differences, our hearts find their resting place in God and one can sense\u003cbr\u003etheir earnest ‘desires of the heart’ as they engage with the professional and\u003cbr\u003epersonal frustrations they have encountered. Here are two blokes, wrestling\u003cbr\u003ewith the transcendent God of Jacob. Their scientific\/ engineering\/ managerial\u003cbr\u003enature comes through in recounted personal and corporate experiences.\u003cbr\u003eTheir stories are honest and illustrative and heart meets head as we are\u003cbr\u003etaken through the chapters. Iain’s use of scriptural narrative – the ‘story’\u003cbr\u003ewritten for a reason and with passion by a passionate, storytelling Jewish\u003cbr\u003epeople – is lively. His plain reading of this story, sitting on top of the exegesis,\u003cbr\u003e‘lives’ and he applies it brilliantly. Pete brings a different felt experience. His\u003cbr\u003emethodical, engineering approach is like a strong but gentle hand coming\u003cbr\u003ein, guiding the apprentice’s hand at the lathe – ‘Here, let me help you... Just\u003cbr\u003ea bit more pressure there… That’s right, see what you can do? Now, try it\u003cbr\u003eon your own.’ This book is pastoral in nature, aiming for practical, clear and\u003cbr\u003egodly outcomes at all levels of decision-making, accompanied by the peace\u003cbr\u003eof God to rule in our hearts and minds.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd J. Andrew Dodd, Baptist minister (retired) and president of Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTogether in Cumbria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving worked in project management in industry, I’ve studied ‘decision-making’, and was unsure I wanted to read another book about it. But I was pleasantly surprised by this book, which is bright, interesting and full of great examples. Having made some good but many poor decisions in life, it was good to discover that the authors had too. They do not propose a canned methodology, but commend a process based on data, analytical skill, and discernment that comes from God. Chapters on developing our spiritual senses and discernment are particularly strong. The book considers decision-making in families and in church councils. Will I make only good decisions from here on? Sadly, no! But I will be more aware of the resources available to me as a person of faith! The book is written with imagination and should be read cover-to-cover, but you could dip into it and still benefit. I commend it to leaders, church members, parents, teachers and businesspeople.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 04.08.23. Review by Dr Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen wrestling with a knotty problem, many Christians have experienced trying God on the metaphorical white phone, only to find a rather puzzling buzz on the line. The businessmen Iain Dunbar and Peter Wilkinson share your frustration and have written a book to try to help.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGood Call: Learning to make decisions with God\u003c\/em\u003e is deliberately accessible in style, as the two of them take it in turns to workshop you through a better process. They start by asking you to learn from your own history, by recalling your past decisions and charting them on a timeline, good and bad. Reflecting on them will teach you your own tendencies under pressure. The authors remind you that good decisions, even hard ones with difficult consequences, will always give you a sense of peace, while the less good ones will tend to prey on your mind and feel somehow unresolved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing examples from the Bible and from their own careers, they set out a process for learning how to discern God’s voice in the noise. It requires patience to develop what they liken to ‘good taste’, and the hallmark of a bad decision will often be that it was rushed. But starting to make every decision with God, no matter how small, trains you in the way. This habit holds you in relationship and teaches you to listen. The accumulation of all your decisions hones in you the development of a settled conscience, which be- comes over time an ever more reliable guide as you learn to discern the path God wants you to take. And if you are ever really stuck? They remind you to cry to the Lord, and sleep on it. Joy will come in the morning, and you will always feel peaceful when you have got it right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Good Call: Learning to make decisions with God
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{"id":14777403933052,"title":"Growing Young Leaders: A practical guide to mentoring teens","handle":"growing-young-leaders-a-practical-guide-to-mentoring-teens-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis fully updated second edition of Growing Young Leaders offers practical guidance for all those mentoring 13- to 18-year-olds in a faith context, with a view to nurturing them towards leadership roles. Linked to CPAS Growing Leaders–Youth Edition course, it also works as a stand-alone resource. It defines mentoring, analyses the necessary skills and attributes of a mentor today, encourages good practice, considers safeguarding and, above all, considers how to help young people identify their gifts and grow as Christian disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I hope and pray that this book will help release the potential of our young people so that they become even greater disciples of Jesus Christ.'\u003cbr\u003eJohn Sentamu, former Archbishop of York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuth Hassall is a speaker, trainer, author and coach with over 20 years’ experience of working with individuals, churches, organisations and dioceses. As youth and children’s pastor (St Thomas’, Lancaster), national children’s work adviser (CMS), leadership development adviser (CPAS), pastor of training and discipleship (St John’s, Harborne), director of growing younger (Birmingham Diocese), director of discipleship (Blackburn Diocese)and now in a freelance capacity, she’s had the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of ministry in a number of contexts. Throughout all these roles leadership development and discipleship have been running themes–collectively and individually. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eInterview with Ruth Hassall\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuth was interviewed by Vicky Gibbens on UCB1, on Monday 24 January.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ucb.co.uk\/vickygibbens%20\"\u003eTeenagers: Identifying gifts and leading confidently\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e Endorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘What a helpful book. Positive, poignant, and practical, Ruth acts as a wise guide helping us see the significant impact mentoring teenagers can have.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Lawrence, CPAS, Leadership Principal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I would highly recommend this book for all youth and children’s ministry. Rooted in the Bible, Ruth unpacks important aspects of working one-to-one with young people. It gives the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of doing this and is an extremely practical book to help young people move forward in their spiritual journey. I really liked the fact that there is a section on the self-care of the mentor, which is essential.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSharon Prior, Director of the PACE Trust\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Highway Code for mentoring young leaders… essential reading for transformational relationships!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlan Charter, Global Children’s Forum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Discipleship will always work best in the context of close, intentional relationships… \u003cem\u003eGrowing Young Leaders\u003c\/em\u003e is a fantastic tool to aid exactly this kind of life-changing discipleship work. The kind of mentoring that it advocates and resources isn’t easy or fast, but it can produce profound results in young lives that will echo into eternity.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartin Saunders, Director, Youthscape’s Satellites Event\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I find most adults aren’t interested in being a youth leader but are keen to purposefully invest in one young person… Ruth’s book is the best book that I know of which explains clearly the nuts and bolts of mentoring. She makes it easy to set up and start a mentoring programme and for you, as a mentor, to grow in the process. It is so good, it’s the one book that I put into the hands of all the new mentors that we have investing in our young people, and I am delighted that it has been reprinted. This is essential for youth ministry in the 21st century.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Castle, CEO and founder, Thrive Youth Ministries\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a perfect little handbook for anyone considering or already mentoring young people. Ruth gives us a perfect blend of the theoretical and biblical basis for mentoring, together with a very practical and insightful guide to all aspects of mentoring young people, all the while being utterly inspirational! Coming from an experienced and authentic thinker and practitioner such as Ruth, it’s a must-read for youth work proficionados and newbies alike.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHelena Kittle, YWAM, England\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a brilliant book; Ruth’s lived experience of her writing gives her authenticity and authority. This is a must-read for all youth workers and anyone who wants to see the church grow.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Retallick-Cheel, Youth and Support Worker for The Feast Birmingham\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This isn’t so much a book to read and then move on, as it is a tool box to open and find on every page great advice, tips and suggestions… If you want to embark on the adventure of mentoring, then get this book!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAli Campbell, Youth and Children’s Ministry Consultant, The Resource\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:47:49+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:47:00+00:00","vendor":"Ruth Hassall","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Glassboxx","Jan-22","Leadership","Mentoring"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603961536892,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391291","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Growing Young Leaders: A practical guide to mentoring teens - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":147,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391291","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/236.png?v=1730980350","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/237.png?v=1730980375"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/236.png?v=1730980350","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001492685180,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/236.png?v=1730980350"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/236.png?v=1730980350","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001498517884,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/237.png?v=1730980375"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/237.png?v=1730980375","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis fully updated second edition of Growing Young Leaders offers practical guidance for all those mentoring 13- to 18-year-olds in a faith context, with a view to nurturing them towards leadership roles. Linked to CPAS Growing Leaders–Youth Edition course, it also works as a stand-alone resource. It defines mentoring, analyses the necessary skills and attributes of a mentor today, encourages good practice, considers safeguarding and, above all, considers how to help young people identify their gifts and grow as Christian disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I hope and pray that this book will help release the potential of our young people so that they become even greater disciples of Jesus Christ.'\u003cbr\u003eJohn Sentamu, former Archbishop of York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuth Hassall is a speaker, trainer, author and coach with over 20 years’ experience of working with individuals, churches, organisations and dioceses. As youth and children’s pastor (St Thomas’, Lancaster), national children’s work adviser (CMS), leadership development adviser (CPAS), pastor of training and discipleship (St John’s, Harborne), director of growing younger (Birmingham Diocese), director of discipleship (Blackburn Diocese)and now in a freelance capacity, she’s had the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of ministry in a number of contexts. Throughout all these roles leadership development and discipleship have been running themes–collectively and individually. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eInterview with Ruth Hassall\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRuth was interviewed by Vicky Gibbens on UCB1, on Monday 24 January.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ucb.co.uk\/vickygibbens%20\"\u003eTeenagers: Identifying gifts and leading confidently\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e Endorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘What a helpful book. Positive, poignant, and practical, Ruth acts as a wise guide helping us see the significant impact mentoring teenagers can have.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Lawrence, CPAS, Leadership Principal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I would highly recommend this book for all youth and children’s ministry. Rooted in the Bible, Ruth unpacks important aspects of working one-to-one with young people. It gives the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of doing this and is an extremely practical book to help young people move forward in their spiritual journey. I really liked the fact that there is a section on the self-care of the mentor, which is essential.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSharon Prior, Director of the PACE Trust\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Highway Code for mentoring young leaders… essential reading for transformational relationships!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlan Charter, Global Children’s Forum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Discipleship will always work best in the context of close, intentional relationships… \u003cem\u003eGrowing Young Leaders\u003c\/em\u003e is a fantastic tool to aid exactly this kind of life-changing discipleship work. The kind of mentoring that it advocates and resources isn’t easy or fast, but it can produce profound results in young lives that will echo into eternity.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartin Saunders, Director, Youthscape’s Satellites Event\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I find most adults aren’t interested in being a youth leader but are keen to purposefully invest in one young person… Ruth’s book is the best book that I know of which explains clearly the nuts and bolts of mentoring. She makes it easy to set up and start a mentoring programme and for you, as a mentor, to grow in the process. It is so good, it’s the one book that I put into the hands of all the new mentors that we have investing in our young people, and I am delighted that it has been reprinted. This is essential for youth ministry in the 21st century.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Castle, CEO and founder, Thrive Youth Ministries\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a perfect little handbook for anyone considering or already mentoring young people. Ruth gives us a perfect blend of the theoretical and biblical basis for mentoring, together with a very practical and insightful guide to all aspects of mentoring young people, all the while being utterly inspirational! Coming from an experienced and authentic thinker and practitioner such as Ruth, it’s a must-read for youth work proficionados and newbies alike.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHelena Kittle, YWAM, England\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a brilliant book; Ruth’s lived experience of her writing gives her authenticity and authority. This is a must-read for all youth workers and anyone who wants to see the church grow.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Retallick-Cheel, Youth and Support Worker for The Feast Birmingham\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This isn’t so much a book to read and then move on, as it is a tool box to open and find on every page great advice, tips and suggestions… If you want to embark on the adventure of mentoring, then get this book!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAli Campbell, Youth and Children’s Ministry Consultant, The Resource\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":14777380405628,"title":"The Contemplative Struggle: Radical discipleship in a broken world","handle":"the-contemplative-struggle-radical-discipleship-in-a-broken-world-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHow do we embrace and work out our call to be disciples in a broken world? In \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle\u003c\/em\u003e Ian Cowley sets the central themes of the gospel of John alongside each other – abiding in Christ, conflict, light and darkness, obedience, loving one another – and explores how these can be reconciled in daily life. Drawing on his experience of living in his native South Africa during the apartheid era and challenging understandings of contemplative prayer and spirituality as essentially inward-looking, he highlights the urgent need for Christians to be active in bringing transformation to a suffering world and paints a compelling picture of radical discipleship for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Just as we are all meant to be contemplatives and to hear the voice of God in our lives, we are all meant to answer God’s call to be his partners in transfiguring the world. This calling, this encounter with God, is always to send us into the midst of human suffering.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArchbishop Desmond Tutu\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is an Anglican priest who has served in parish ministry in South Africa, Sheffield, Cambridge and Peterborough. From 2008 to 2016 he was Coordinator of Spirituality and Vocations in the Diocese of Salisbury, where he set up and developed the Contemplative Minister programme. He is the author of five books on spirituality, discipleship and the local church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is a much-needed book: the story of the battle against racism, injustice, poverty, held in tension with the necessity of time for contemplation. We need to hear it – there is much here that applies to our world today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsther de Waal, writer and scholar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI do appreciate Ian Cowley’s interleaving of storytelling with spiritual reflection. It is good to have the story of UCM told to a wider audience than South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan’s tribute to Steve Biko is welcome and true, and so is his account of white students’ struggle on the matter of conscription.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis major concern with contemplation fits well into his account of this crucial time in the South African church struggle... \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn D Davies, former bishop of Shrewsbury and one-time national chaplain of the Anglican Students’ Federation of South Africa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat an incredible book this is! I was deeply moved reading it. It is very inspiring and ignited a hope that we can be agents of change in this world. As someone who has known the value of contemplative prayer and practice in my own life, it felt like a gentle call back to that which I know and love, without being remotely judgemental. In fact, the whole book brings a wonderful balance of challenge without condemnation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI pray that all who read this book will examine afresh their response to the issues raised and explore the riches of contemplative prayer for themselves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLouise Rose, community projects manager, Fresh Hope Ministry, Stamford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle\u003c\/em\u003e is a generous gift and a profound challenge. Ian Cowley draws on a deep well of (sometimes painful) personal experience to pour out this vision of contemplation in action. If you’re tired of rootless activism and otherworldly spirituality, and you’re looking for the common ground where prayer and protest can flourish, you need to read this book.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Webb, deputy warden of Launde Abbey and author of \u003cem\u003eGod Soaked Life\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Margaret Ives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many books about contemplative prayer as a way of finding one’s true self in an experience of the Divine Presence. This book is unusual in that, while it proclaims that the constant awareness of God in our lives is essential, this is not sufficient to solve our current problems unless it inspires us to ‘radical discipleship in a broken world’. Growing up in South Africa during apartheid, Cowley came to realise that ‘being rooted and grounded in love’ is not a hidden treasure, but must be demonstrated in action against racism and injustice. Looking back, he remembers how hope in God, arising from contemplative prayer, enabled him to work alongside the black consciousness movement in their struggle to change the system, even though the odds were against them. Similarly, he believes, Christians today must use a heightened awareness of God’s love for everything in creation to join with those combating climate change and environmental disaster. This is an inspirational book which does not get bogged down in polemics, but offers a guide to contemplative prayer and some practical steps we can all take towards saving the planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Margaret Ives\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Merton Journal Advent 2021 (Volume 28 no 2). Review by Ben Hopkinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow ephemeral, and how localised, is our consciousness of history. That is why there have to be historians and history departments, because, so easily, what we know of the horrors some people are living through either goes quickly to the back of the mind or, by the next generation, becomes an unknown. Our attitude of localisation means that what happens to others may seem to have nothing to do with us. So Jewish people, for instance, have to campaign to keep the memory of the holocaust alive, and, while there may be an especially tense rivalry in games of football between England and Germany, how many remember what fascism really meant as a threat to the world? And Tiananmen Square?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI say this because Ian Cowley's short but powerful book finds the\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eorigins of what was, to him, the revelation of prayer as contemplation, in the racial cauldron of South Africa in the depths of the apartheid regime of the last century.1 His epiphany came through the University Christian Movement when he was a student at the University of Natal in Pietermaritzberg in the 1970s. There he came to understand the terrible sinfulness of the racial divide that ruled South Africa, and his life's course was changed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, Cowley's vivid account of South African life was a revision lesson. I was serving in Botswana at that time and, although it was a country with a quite different ethos, we in the Church were not isolated and were very aware of what was going on with our neighbours, not only South Africa but Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) as well. I became peripherally involved in some anti-apartheid activity that crossed the border and drew me in, so I relate to Cowley's descriptions. I knew some of the people he talks about, and reading his book I was taken back to a time which, while key in my life, has been overlaid by layers of subsequent life and work. Even experience has an ephemeral quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHence the thoughts about the ephemeral quality of contemporary\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ehistory. Who remembers even the word apartheid now, other than in an intellectual sense, apart from those who suffered it? The question applies even more strongly to those who are not South Africans. While there were, in Britain, some noble anti-apartheid activists who helped to cause profound change, their activity was outside the main stream of life and often looked upon with suspicion. Most people got on with life without worrying about South Africa. Now, bar Covid, that country is a favourite of tourists, who return to Europe unbrushed by a history that was all consuming at the time and still has many offshoots. Most were unborn when apartheid reigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have to ask, then, whether for Cowley to use his South African life as a base for his argument is too esoteric. I hope not and I am sure it need not be, for not only does it gain great strength from being so personal, but it also makes us think into situations beyond our own circles. To think ourselves into apartheid South Africa is a good exercise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'There were giants on the earth in those days' is a quotation which comes to mind.2 South Africa was then, and still is, an extraordinary country, captivating, in the sense of drawing you in until you are engrossed. It is a land of wonderful beauty but what astounded me even more were the people one met. The mass of the people are a very interesting historical and anthropological mix, with their histories, cultures and divisions, but I will concentrate on two smaller sets: those implementing the apartheid policy and those who opposed them, struggling for what was later called, by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a \u003cstrong\u003e'rainbow nation'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first thing to say is that these people were honed by apartheid. The giant of apartheid was Hendrick Vervoerd, the SA president who was assassinated in 1966. He gave the philosophical basis to the National Party's policy of racial separation and white dominance, which was implemented ruthlessly. It was a giant endeavour, and the skills developed by the Bureau of State Security (BOSS) were second to none. Their use of technology was as sophisticated as possible for that time, and their information gathering work was everywhere. Furthermore, they knew what was going on elsewhere in the world, and could use it very cleverly in persuading people to conform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe resistors were also people of exceptional knowledge, understanding and courage. There are great names: Nelson Mandela, Albert Luthuli, Helen Suzman, the Black Sash leaders, Beyers Naude, Trevor Huddlestone, Desmond Tutu, Steve Biko, to name but a few. But there were many, many more who worked and witnessed at continual \u003cspan\u003erisk to themselves, both from BOSS and also from being denigrated by the mass of whites happy with apartheid. Organisations like the University Christian Movement (UCM) were banned and many people had their passports removed or were put under house arrest. I felt both very \u003c\/span\u003efortunate and also hugely humbled to meet some of these women and men. I did not meet Ian Cowley, but I am confident that he would be of these giants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most noticeable aspects of the struggle against apartheid and for justice was how it had such a strong Christian motivation. I have to be careful here, because Christianity was active on both sides. The Afrikaner Dutch Reformed Church played a significant part in giving theological justification to apartheid, yet there were some notable DRC giants, the Bonhoeffers of their day, who rebelled against this, and were thrown out of the church. They played a great part. Nevertheless, it was very much among people from other churches that the understanding grew that the Christian law of love meant equality applied universally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley grew up on a Natal farm, with church, Anglican and formal, on Sundays, remembered as very boring. It was at university that faith caught him through the remarkable, if short lived, UCM. He describes how vibrant student worship attracted him and how he worked through the trauma - for it was a trauma - of mixing with people of other races and finding them human. After some vicissitudes, he hears his vocation to the priesthood in the Anglican Church of the Province of South Africa and eventually he comes to England, where he is first a parish priest and then Coordinator of Vocations and Spirituality in the Diocese of Salisbury, where he set up the Contemplative Minister Programme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe great question that runs through the book is: what does it mean to be held firm in Christ in the centre of our being and to live with integrity in the 21st century? Through his student days he comes to see the sinfulness of the way power is held and exercised in South Africa, and to long for the justice that he discovers through his Christian faith. How does he hold the two in balance, so that the one undergirds the other? In other words, there is a double question: on the one hand, how can you be an activist, mixing in the hurly, sometimes unsavoury, burly of life and be true to Christ? On the other, how can you be true to Christ without, in some way, being mixed up in the difficult life of practising the love of neighbour in all its roughness? Through friends and mentors and the trial and error of trying to live a life for justice, with mistakes and setbacks and leaps forward, he discovers prayer as God's invitation to see the world with His eyes and to feel it as He feels it. He reads Merton and his development from longing to be solitary to understanding that the world needs the witness of the contemplative if it is ever going to overcome evil with good, and that means that the contemplative has to know and be known.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow in South Africa the struggle against apartheid is over and an enormous wickedness has been demolished. In fact, though, when one injustice is stricken, the hydra of evil raises another. A strength of Cowley's book is that it is not only a memoir but makes use of his experience to show how Christian love is showing up many other aspects of life on the planet which threaten true human living, that is living as the \u003cspan\u003epeople of God. As we are drawn in to the presence of God, how do we live with the divide of rich and poor and with other forms of inequality; with climate change; with war, national ambition and xenophobia; with the continuing oppression of peoples in many parts of the world; with homelessness in our own country? The list goes on and on. Simply, how do we help to make the world more Godly, restoring the creation which \u003c\/span\u003eHe saw was good?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContemplative prayer is not shown as an opt-out but as the source of strength and ability. It is a struggle because of our fallen human nature, which is continually being pressed to sway one way or another. A hard struggle, but contemplation shows us how to 'put on the whole armour of God, for our struggle is not against the enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly places.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle \u003c\/em\u003eis written to encourage us workaday Christians as we try to follow Jesus in our daily lives. In this it certainly succeeds, and the author adds an excellent introduction to contemplative practice as an appendix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo years ago I reviewed Ian Cowley's previous book, \u003cem\u003eThe \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContemplative Response: Leadership and Ministry in a Distracted Culture. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eI suggested that it needed another volume, looking at how we can bring understanding of the love of God to the world outside the Christian community. In many ways this book does this, but may I ask Ian to set fingers to word processor once more and tackle the question of the contemplative response to the problems posed by today's atheists. When we talk of God in a universe of which astrophysics has revolutionised our understanding, how is He showing us how to talk of Him and act as His people? I find this an urgent question to stir the hearts of many. To ask an author for another book is, surely, a compliment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Apartheid was the policy of segregation and political, social, and economic\u003cbr\u003ediscrimination against the non-white majority in the Republic of South\u003cbr\u003eAfrica. The extreme racial segregation of apartheid lasted from 1948 to 1994 and included such restrictions as where people of certain races could live or own land, what jobs they could hold, and who could and couldn't participate \u003cstrong\u003ein government.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Genesis 6:4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. Ephesians 6 :11-12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBen Hopkinson \u003c\/strong\u003eis a priest, living in retirement in Northumberland. He was in the kindergarten of contemplation in 2019 and has still to enter the reception class.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 25.06.21. Review by John D. Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is a white South African man, born nearly 70 years ago, brought up in the benign rural environment of Natal. If he had fulfilled expectations, he would have become a conventional Anglican gentleman, a superior English-speaking member of the white race.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e But Cowley’s life took a somewhat different course. His book is primarily about spirituality; but, to convey his message, he has to tell something of his life-story. This starts with his entry into the University of Natal in Pietermaritzburg, to study law and business administration. By the time that he started at university, the 1959 Extension of University Education Act had taken effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis created a scattered establishment of black tribal colleges, segregated on racial and ethnic criteria. The previously ‘open’ universities, in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Natal, were restricted to white students only; they became white tribal colleges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut there were vigorous national student bodies; these functioned on these segregated campuses, but they flourished as racially integrated organisations at regional and national level. For both black and white students, their conferences provided a converting experience, an alternative vision of society, where black and white people could meet as genuine friends and not only on a master\/servant basis; and this was at a time when the apartheid machine was grinding ever more successfully, and when hope for change was wearing very thin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integrated organisations enabled the generation of courageous, independent-minded students, who were prepared to defy the expectations of parents, teachers, and government. They included the Anglican Students’ Federation and the ecumenical University Christian Movement. For Cowley, they opened up a whole new world. They brought him into contact with impressive characters of all race-groups, people such as the dynamic black students’ leader Steve Biko (who would, in my view, have become the natural successor to President Mandela, if he had not been cruelly done to death by the Security Police).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese ecumenical organisations were viewed with suspicion by some other Christians, notably by Evangelicals who had been caught up in the newly arrived Charismatic Movement. For them, the ecumenical groups were unbiblical humanists, dangerous quasi-Marxists. For the ecumenical types, the Evangelicals were pietistic, concerned only with their individual salvation, indifferent to the injustices experienced by most of the population. But, for those who were impressed by the Black Consciousness influence, this hassle was merely white people’s games, irrelevant luxury. The Anglican Bishop Alphaeus Zulu summarised their position: ‘We Africans have no need of a Charismatic Movement — we have always been charismatic, without any pressure from outside.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople like Cowley were attracted by the Evangelical emphasis on conversion, but it had to include conversion from the heresies and illusions of apartheid, which were otherwise winning all the battles. A new ingredient was being discovered in the Christian mix. This was where Cowley found himself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley was deeply drawn to the insights of medieval spiritual teachers such as Richard Rolle and Thomas à Kempis, and Thomas Merton of our own day. This is the kind of commitment which underlies his book. Readers who are interested in spirituality will be attracted by his excellent summary of the discipline of contemplation. But, to get there, they will need to work through Cowley’s exploration of the demonic powers of racism, financial injustice, and indifference to the degradation of the environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis spirituality has been formed in a situation of loss, of oppression, of cruelty, when all the signs were that the powers of evil were winning. His kind of contemplation draws us to awareness of God’s critique of the disobedience in our human systems, and into commitment to the struggle for the realisation of God’s Kingdom. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd this is not only for South Africa; Cowley was ordained priest in his native land and served in parish ministry there. But he came to England some years ago, and has been a parish priest and adviser in spirituality in English dioceses. For South Africa and for Britain, his book provides a well-formed and personally validated guidance concerning the claims of our Creator upon our obedience and our energies. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Rt Revd John D. Davies was National Chaplain to the Anglican Students’ Federation of Southern Africa, and Convener of the Council of Churches’ Commission which created the University Christian Movement\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Nicholas King SJ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChristians are often charged with being of 'no earthly use' (because their gaze is fixed on the heavens); evangelicals find themselves accused of giving insufficient time to contemplative prayer; white Christian South Africans often have it alleged against them that their discipleship is pure self-indulgence, because they benefited so largely from the sin of apartheid; and that the Roman Catholic tradition has nothing to offer Christians today. In this splendid book, those four myths are soundly 'busted': Ian Cowley is an evangelical Christian who has given himself to transform this unjust world into something that looks like the Kingdom of God; he has for many years as a busy Anglican priest given himself over to the practice of solitary contemplative prayer (and offers some useful tips about how to approach it). More than that, he is a white South African whose Christianity drove him, at some considerable cost, to engage in student activism against the apartheid regime, and who reveals his immense admiration for Steve Biko, who died that appalling death in the hands of the SA Police. He has, moreover, drunk gratefully of the waters of the Roman Catholic contemplative tradition, including Thomas a Kempis, Richard Rolle, and that remarkable Cistercian monk, Thomas Merton. He has, besides, the Protestant gift of a solid grasp of Scripture and the awareness that it can change your life. He was also alert to the dangers of environmental pollution at a time when such interests were dismissed as mindlessly sentimental “tree-hugging”. Nowadays we wish that more students had followed his example, half a century ago. This book is to be warmly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:35:35+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:34:31+00:00","vendor":"Ian Cowley","type":"eBook","tags":["Discipleship","Glassboxx","Leadership","Mar-21","Mission"],"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":53603952853372,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469830","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Contemplative Struggle: Radical discipleship in a broken world - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":163,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469830","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/228.png?v=1730980387","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/229.png?v=1730980378"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/228.png?v=1730980387","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001501991292,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/228.png?v=1730980387"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/228.png?v=1730980387","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001499631996,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/229.png?v=1730980378"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/229.png?v=1730980378","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHow do we embrace and work out our call to be disciples in a broken world? In \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle\u003c\/em\u003e Ian Cowley sets the central themes of the gospel of John alongside each other – abiding in Christ, conflict, light and darkness, obedience, loving one another – and explores how these can be reconciled in daily life. Drawing on his experience of living in his native South Africa during the apartheid era and challenging understandings of contemplative prayer and spirituality as essentially inward-looking, he highlights the urgent need for Christians to be active in bringing transformation to a suffering world and paints a compelling picture of radical discipleship for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Just as we are all meant to be contemplatives and to hear the voice of God in our lives, we are all meant to answer God’s call to be his partners in transfiguring the world. This calling, this encounter with God, is always to send us into the midst of human suffering.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArchbishop Desmond Tutu\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is an Anglican priest who has served in parish ministry in South Africa, Sheffield, Cambridge and Peterborough. From 2008 to 2016 he was Coordinator of Spirituality and Vocations in the Diocese of Salisbury, where he set up and developed the Contemplative Minister programme. He is the author of five books on spirituality, discipleship and the local church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is a much-needed book: the story of the battle against racism, injustice, poverty, held in tension with the necessity of time for contemplation. We need to hear it – there is much here that applies to our world today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsther de Waal, writer and scholar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI do appreciate Ian Cowley’s interleaving of storytelling with spiritual reflection. It is good to have the story of UCM told to a wider audience than South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan’s tribute to Steve Biko is welcome and true, and so is his account of white students’ struggle on the matter of conscription.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis major concern with contemplation fits well into his account of this crucial time in the South African church struggle... \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn D Davies, former bishop of Shrewsbury and one-time national chaplain of the Anglican Students’ Federation of South Africa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat an incredible book this is! I was deeply moved reading it. It is very inspiring and ignited a hope that we can be agents of change in this world. As someone who has known the value of contemplative prayer and practice in my own life, it felt like a gentle call back to that which I know and love, without being remotely judgemental. In fact, the whole book brings a wonderful balance of challenge without condemnation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI pray that all who read this book will examine afresh their response to the issues raised and explore the riches of contemplative prayer for themselves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLouise Rose, community projects manager, Fresh Hope Ministry, Stamford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle\u003c\/em\u003e is a generous gift and a profound challenge. Ian Cowley draws on a deep well of (sometimes painful) personal experience to pour out this vision of contemplation in action. If you’re tired of rootless activism and otherworldly spirituality, and you’re looking for the common ground where prayer and protest can flourish, you need to read this book.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Webb, deputy warden of Launde Abbey and author of \u003cem\u003eGod Soaked Life\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Margaret Ives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many books about contemplative prayer as a way of finding one’s true self in an experience of the Divine Presence. This book is unusual in that, while it proclaims that the constant awareness of God in our lives is essential, this is not sufficient to solve our current problems unless it inspires us to ‘radical discipleship in a broken world’. Growing up in South Africa during apartheid, Cowley came to realise that ‘being rooted and grounded in love’ is not a hidden treasure, but must be demonstrated in action against racism and injustice. Looking back, he remembers how hope in God, arising from contemplative prayer, enabled him to work alongside the black consciousness movement in their struggle to change the system, even though the odds were against them. Similarly, he believes, Christians today must use a heightened awareness of God’s love for everything in creation to join with those combating climate change and environmental disaster. This is an inspirational book which does not get bogged down in polemics, but offers a guide to contemplative prayer and some practical steps we can all take towards saving the planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Margaret Ives\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Merton Journal Advent 2021 (Volume 28 no 2). Review by Ben Hopkinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow ephemeral, and how localised, is our consciousness of history. That is why there have to be historians and history departments, because, so easily, what we know of the horrors some people are living through either goes quickly to the back of the mind or, by the next generation, becomes an unknown. Our attitude of localisation means that what happens to others may seem to have nothing to do with us. So Jewish people, for instance, have to campaign to keep the memory of the holocaust alive, and, while there may be an especially tense rivalry in games of football between England and Germany, how many remember what fascism really meant as a threat to the world? And Tiananmen Square?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI say this because Ian Cowley's short but powerful book finds the\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eorigins of what was, to him, the revelation of prayer as contemplation, in the racial cauldron of South Africa in the depths of the apartheid regime of the last century.1 His epiphany came through the University Christian Movement when he was a student at the University of Natal in Pietermaritzberg in the 1970s. There he came to understand the terrible sinfulness of the racial divide that ruled South Africa, and his life's course was changed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, Cowley's vivid account of South African life was a revision lesson. I was serving in Botswana at that time and, although it was a country with a quite different ethos, we in the Church were not isolated and were very aware of what was going on with our neighbours, not only South Africa but Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) as well. I became peripherally involved in some anti-apartheid activity that crossed the border and drew me in, so I relate to Cowley's descriptions. I knew some of the people he talks about, and reading his book I was taken back to a time which, while key in my life, has been overlaid by layers of subsequent life and work. Even experience has an ephemeral quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHence the thoughts about the ephemeral quality of contemporary\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ehistory. Who remembers even the word apartheid now, other than in an intellectual sense, apart from those who suffered it? The question applies even more strongly to those who are not South Africans. While there were, in Britain, some noble anti-apartheid activists who helped to cause profound change, their activity was outside the main stream of life and often looked upon with suspicion. Most people got on with life without worrying about South Africa. Now, bar Covid, that country is a favourite of tourists, who return to Europe unbrushed by a history that was all consuming at the time and still has many offshoots. Most were unborn when apartheid reigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have to ask, then, whether for Cowley to use his South African life as a base for his argument is too esoteric. I hope not and I am sure it need not be, for not only does it gain great strength from being so personal, but it also makes us think into situations beyond our own circles. To think ourselves into apartheid South Africa is a good exercise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'There were giants on the earth in those days' is a quotation which comes to mind.2 South Africa was then, and still is, an extraordinary country, captivating, in the sense of drawing you in until you are engrossed. It is a land of wonderful beauty but what astounded me even more were the people one met. The mass of the people are a very interesting historical and anthropological mix, with their histories, cultures and divisions, but I will concentrate on two smaller sets: those implementing the apartheid policy and those who opposed them, struggling for what was later called, by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a \u003cstrong\u003e'rainbow nation'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first thing to say is that these people were honed by apartheid. The giant of apartheid was Hendrick Vervoerd, the SA president who was assassinated in 1966. He gave the philosophical basis to the National Party's policy of racial separation and white dominance, which was implemented ruthlessly. It was a giant endeavour, and the skills developed by the Bureau of State Security (BOSS) were second to none. Their use of technology was as sophisticated as possible for that time, and their information gathering work was everywhere. Furthermore, they knew what was going on elsewhere in the world, and could use it very cleverly in persuading people to conform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe resistors were also people of exceptional knowledge, understanding and courage. There are great names: Nelson Mandela, Albert Luthuli, Helen Suzman, the Black Sash leaders, Beyers Naude, Trevor Huddlestone, Desmond Tutu, Steve Biko, to name but a few. But there were many, many more who worked and witnessed at continual \u003cspan\u003erisk to themselves, both from BOSS and also from being denigrated by the mass of whites happy with apartheid. Organisations like the University Christian Movement (UCM) were banned and many people had their passports removed or were put under house arrest. I felt both very \u003c\/span\u003efortunate and also hugely humbled to meet some of these women and men. I did not meet Ian Cowley, but I am confident that he would be of these giants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most noticeable aspects of the struggle against apartheid and for justice was how it had such a strong Christian motivation. I have to be careful here, because Christianity was active on both sides. The Afrikaner Dutch Reformed Church played a significant part in giving theological justification to apartheid, yet there were some notable DRC giants, the Bonhoeffers of their day, who rebelled against this, and were thrown out of the church. They played a great part. Nevertheless, it was very much among people from other churches that the understanding grew that the Christian law of love meant equality applied universally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley grew up on a Natal farm, with church, Anglican and formal, on Sundays, remembered as very boring. It was at university that faith caught him through the remarkable, if short lived, UCM. He describes how vibrant student worship attracted him and how he worked through the trauma - for it was a trauma - of mixing with people of other races and finding them human. After some vicissitudes, he hears his vocation to the priesthood in the Anglican Church of the Province of South Africa and eventually he comes to England, where he is first a parish priest and then Coordinator of Vocations and Spirituality in the Diocese of Salisbury, where he set up the Contemplative Minister Programme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe great question that runs through the book is: what does it mean to be held firm in Christ in the centre of our being and to live with integrity in the 21st century? Through his student days he comes to see the sinfulness of the way power is held and exercised in South Africa, and to long for the justice that he discovers through his Christian faith. How does he hold the two in balance, so that the one undergirds the other? In other words, there is a double question: on the one hand, how can you be an activist, mixing in the hurly, sometimes unsavoury, burly of life and be true to Christ? On the other, how can you be true to Christ without, in some way, being mixed up in the difficult life of practising the love of neighbour in all its roughness? Through friends and mentors and the trial and error of trying to live a life for justice, with mistakes and setbacks and leaps forward, he discovers prayer as God's invitation to see the world with His eyes and to feel it as He feels it. He reads Merton and his development from longing to be solitary to understanding that the world needs the witness of the contemplative if it is ever going to overcome evil with good, and that means that the contemplative has to know and be known.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow in South Africa the struggle against apartheid is over and an enormous wickedness has been demolished. In fact, though, when one injustice is stricken, the hydra of evil raises another. A strength of Cowley's book is that it is not only a memoir but makes use of his experience to show how Christian love is showing up many other aspects of life on the planet which threaten true human living, that is living as the \u003cspan\u003epeople of God. As we are drawn in to the presence of God, how do we live with the divide of rich and poor and with other forms of inequality; with climate change; with war, national ambition and xenophobia; with the continuing oppression of peoples in many parts of the world; with homelessness in our own country? The list goes on and on. Simply, how do we help to make the world more Godly, restoring the creation which \u003c\/span\u003eHe saw was good?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContemplative prayer is not shown as an opt-out but as the source of strength and ability. It is a struggle because of our fallen human nature, which is continually being pressed to sway one way or another. A hard struggle, but contemplation shows us how to 'put on the whole armour of God, for our struggle is not against the enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly places.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Struggle \u003c\/em\u003eis written to encourage us workaday Christians as we try to follow Jesus in our daily lives. In this it certainly succeeds, and the author adds an excellent introduction to contemplative practice as an appendix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo years ago I reviewed Ian Cowley's previous book, \u003cem\u003eThe \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContemplative Response: Leadership and Ministry in a Distracted Culture. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eI suggested that it needed another volume, looking at how we can bring understanding of the love of God to the world outside the Christian community. In many ways this book does this, but may I ask Ian to set fingers to word processor once more and tackle the question of the contemplative response to the problems posed by today's atheists. When we talk of God in a universe of which astrophysics has revolutionised our understanding, how is He showing us how to talk of Him and act as His people? I find this an urgent question to stir the hearts of many. To ask an author for another book is, surely, a compliment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Apartheid was the policy of segregation and political, social, and economic\u003cbr\u003ediscrimination against the non-white majority in the Republic of South\u003cbr\u003eAfrica. The extreme racial segregation of apartheid lasted from 1948 to 1994 and included such restrictions as where people of certain races could live or own land, what jobs they could hold, and who could and couldn't participate \u003cstrong\u003ein government.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Genesis 6:4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. Ephesians 6 :11-12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBen Hopkinson \u003c\/strong\u003eis a priest, living in retirement in Northumberland. He was in the kindergarten of contemplation in 2019 and has still to enter the reception class.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 25.06.21. Review by John D. Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is a white South African man, born nearly 70 years ago, brought up in the benign rural environment of Natal. If he had fulfilled expectations, he would have become a conventional Anglican gentleman, a superior English-speaking member of the white race.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e But Cowley’s life took a somewhat different course. His book is primarily about spirituality; but, to convey his message, he has to tell something of his life-story. This starts with his entry into the University of Natal in Pietermaritzburg, to study law and business administration. By the time that he started at university, the 1959 Extension of University Education Act had taken effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis created a scattered establishment of black tribal colleges, segregated on racial and ethnic criteria. The previously ‘open’ universities, in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Natal, were restricted to white students only; they became white tribal colleges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut there were vigorous national student bodies; these functioned on these segregated campuses, but they flourished as racially integrated organisations at regional and national level. For both black and white students, their conferences provided a converting experience, an alternative vision of society, where black and white people could meet as genuine friends and not only on a master\/servant basis; and this was at a time when the apartheid machine was grinding ever more successfully, and when hope for change was wearing very thin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integrated organisations enabled the generation of courageous, independent-minded students, who were prepared to defy the expectations of parents, teachers, and government. They included the Anglican Students’ Federation and the ecumenical University Christian Movement. For Cowley, they opened up a whole new world. They brought him into contact with impressive characters of all race-groups, people such as the dynamic black students’ leader Steve Biko (who would, in my view, have become the natural successor to President Mandela, if he had not been cruelly done to death by the Security Police).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese ecumenical organisations were viewed with suspicion by some other Christians, notably by Evangelicals who had been caught up in the newly arrived Charismatic Movement. For them, the ecumenical groups were unbiblical humanists, dangerous quasi-Marxists. For the ecumenical types, the Evangelicals were pietistic, concerned only with their individual salvation, indifferent to the injustices experienced by most of the population. But, for those who were impressed by the Black Consciousness influence, this hassle was merely white people’s games, irrelevant luxury. The Anglican Bishop Alphaeus Zulu summarised their position: ‘We Africans have no need of a Charismatic Movement — we have always been charismatic, without any pressure from outside.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople like Cowley were attracted by the Evangelical emphasis on conversion, but it had to include conversion from the heresies and illusions of apartheid, which were otherwise winning all the battles. A new ingredient was being discovered in the Christian mix. This was where Cowley found himself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley was deeply drawn to the insights of medieval spiritual teachers such as Richard Rolle and Thomas à Kempis, and Thomas Merton of our own day. This is the kind of commitment which underlies his book. Readers who are interested in spirituality will be attracted by his excellent summary of the discipline of contemplation. But, to get there, they will need to work through Cowley’s exploration of the demonic powers of racism, financial injustice, and indifference to the degradation of the environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis spirituality has been formed in a situation of loss, of oppression, of cruelty, when all the signs were that the powers of evil were winning. His kind of contemplation draws us to awareness of God’s critique of the disobedience in our human systems, and into commitment to the struggle for the realisation of God’s Kingdom. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd this is not only for South Africa; Cowley was ordained priest in his native land and served in parish ministry there. But he came to England some years ago, and has been a parish priest and adviser in spirituality in English dioceses. For South Africa and for Britain, his book provides a well-formed and personally validated guidance concerning the claims of our Creator upon our obedience and our energies. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Rt Revd John D. Davies was National Chaplain to the Anglican Students’ Federation of Southern Africa, and Convener of the Council of Churches’ Commission which created the University Christian Movement\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Nicholas King SJ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChristians are often charged with being of 'no earthly use' (because their gaze is fixed on the heavens); evangelicals find themselves accused of giving insufficient time to contemplative prayer; white Christian South Africans often have it alleged against them that their discipleship is pure self-indulgence, because they benefited so largely from the sin of apartheid; and that the Roman Catholic tradition has nothing to offer Christians today. In this splendid book, those four myths are soundly 'busted': Ian Cowley is an evangelical Christian who has given himself to transform this unjust world into something that looks like the Kingdom of God; he has for many years as a busy Anglican priest given himself over to the practice of solitary contemplative prayer (and offers some useful tips about how to approach it). More than that, he is a white South African whose Christianity drove him, at some considerable cost, to engage in student activism against the apartheid regime, and who reveals his immense admiration for Steve Biko, who died that appalling death in the hands of the SA Police. He has, moreover, drunk gratefully of the waters of the Roman Catholic contemplative tradition, including Thomas a Kempis, Richard Rolle, and that remarkable Cistercian monk, Thomas Merton. He has, besides, the Protestant gift of a solid grasp of Scripture and the awareness that it can change your life. He was also alert to the dangers of environmental pollution at a time when such interests were dismissed as mindlessly sentimental “tree-hugging”. Nowadays we wish that more students had followed his example, half a century ago. This book is to be warmly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Contemplative Struggle: Radical discipleship in a broken world
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{"id":14777374015868,"title":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers","handle":"servant-ministry-a-portrait-of-christ-and-a-pattern-for-his-followers-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:33:22+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:31:23+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jun-19","Leadership","Pastoral care"],"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":53603950625148,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468871","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":188,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468871","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/226.png?v=1730980328","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/227.png?v=1730980292"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/226.png?v=1730980328","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001487573372,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/226.png?v=1730980328"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/226.png?v=1730980328","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001480921468,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/227.png?v=1730980292"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/227.png?v=1730980292","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":14777138282876,"title":"The Contemplative Response: Leadership and ministry in a distracted culture","handle":"the-contemplative-response-leadership-and-ministry-in-a-distracted-culture-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe true self finds peace in resting in the love of God, in the peace which Jesus promises. Jesus says to each of us in ministry, 'As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide, rest, dwell, in my love' (John 15:9). This book will seek to show what this might mean for those in Christian ministry in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing on from the success of \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister\u003c\/em\u003e, Ian Cowley offers new insight and greater depth for church leaders in a distracted world. Cowley emphasises that the true self finds peace in resting in the love of God, and he encourages ministers to minister to themselves as well as to others, and to ensure that, in the peace that Jesus promises, their spiritual lives don't run dry amid the pressures of the job.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA must-read for leaders wanting to stay the course.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is Vocations and Spirituality Coordinator for the Diocese of Salisbury and set up and developed the Contemplative Minister programme, which has been greatly appreciated by many clergy. He has also written A People of Hope (Highland, 1993), Going Empty Handed (Monarch, 1996) and The Transformation Principle (Kingsway, 2002). He has been a parish priest in Natal, South Africa, and also in Cambridge and Peterborough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e To read Ian's lockdown blog 'Wild times and love of God' click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/wild-times-and-the-love-of-god\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2020. Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book explores being a Christian minister or leader in a 'world of ceaseless busyness, endless demands \u0026amp; seductive consumerism'. How to respond to all that drags us away from intimacy with God. How to cope with our compulsive self-centredness. How to reground ourselves: learn contentment, detachment and self-control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan considers issues of the false self: the desire to acquire, to achieve, to indulge, together with some ways to deal with them. However, the book opens with him studying theology in his native South Africa and the questions thrown up by apartheid. It closes with chapters on the contemplative heart, ending with interior silence drawing on the Rule of Taizé.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rewarding and often challenging read, it is very accessible and sympathetic and is for ALL who seek to follow Christ, not just leaders and ministers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Merton Journal, Advent 2019. Reviewed by Ben Hopkinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat we live in a distracted culture seems almost too obvious to say. Walk down a street, or sit in a railway carriage, and see how many people have their eyes glued to their phones or tablets. Sit in a restaurant and there are almost certainly fellow diners who, though sitting together, seem not to be interested in each other but only in their devices, as these things have come to be called.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mobile phone is a symbol of our present age, where old patterns of living and working, where old moralities have, in so many ways, been torn to shreds. This pattern of change is not only to be found in the affluent ‘west’ but increasingly across the whole world. Places that were once far removed from advanced technology are now no longer so. Even though there are many people who have not yet caught up or who are neglected, oppressed and set aside, those with power have now found a new means to enforce it. But it is worth noting, too, that the downtrodden are also finding ways of making themselves felt, using new technology to coordinate their protests. The symbol is set in the midst of an affluent culture that seems to set its values as being about how much one has, how successful one is in terms of work position or social status, and how much luxury and comfort a person can grasp, because therein the objectives of life seem to be set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere, in this maze, do we set our compass bearings? How do we distinguish what is false about ourselves and our milieu, and find a direction that connects with the truth of who we are as human beings? How do we meet God in the middle of all this noise? These are the vital questions which this book poses and to which it gives possible answers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is an Anglican priest who was born and grew up in South Africa during the years when apartheid was at its most appalling. He has served as a parish priest in Natal and in England. Before retiring from full time ministry he spent eight years as the Vocations and Spirituality Coordinator of the Diocese of Salisbury. He has travelled widely, and soaked himself in the wisdom of Thomas Merton. He finds that by opening ourselves to the presence of God in a way that is discovered through contemplative prayer we can reset our lives to eternal, true and fundamental reality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subject matter of this book is of importance for anyone who is trying to follow the Christian way. It is timely, tackling essential problems of discipleship. Primarily, it is written with clergy in mind, and though written from Anglican experience, the quandaries and potential for despair that it addresses are common to clergy of all denominations. Cowley looks the problems in the face, examining them from his own personal context, as he has been 'led to reflect on my own inner life, and the ways in which I tend to respond to the demands and pressures of public ministry. In recent years I have been increasingly aware of my own desires for power and control, for safety and security and for esteem and significance, and of the ways in which these desires are able to rule my heart.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGo in peace, I found myself muttering, and pray for me, a sinner, too. His approach gives the book strength, turning it from a self-help manual into a long walk of discussion and suggestion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley looks at how we — I speak, also, from my life as an Anglican priest — who are in positions of leadership, prominence and pastoral care in the Church, can so easily, and maybe willingly, become submerged into the crowd and be swept along in the currents of the day. It seems to me, moreover, that the book applies beyond the ordained ministry and will be equally helpful to lay people, the committed laity who are desperately concerned to live a life of faith in this age of distraction. He compares our situation to that of the swimmer who is caught in the surf of the Indian Ocean beaches of the South African shore, where the waves pick you up and hurl you willy-nilly. We find ourselves in an ocean of change, where new technology and inventions come along every day, making life into a perpetual catch-up, where the idea of Sabbath rest has gone out of the window. Sabbath rest, he says, is, in fact, a lifesaving self discipline which is part of the answer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe then talks of how, from out of this falseness which so easily infects us, we can discover God as real. He writes movingly of how, as a young white from a farming background in South Africa, who had never met black people other than as servants and farm labourers, he was confronted in his first year at university by huge questions of the relationship between God and justice. He joined the University Christian Movement — a body which was later proscribed — and mixed face to face, for the first time, with students of different racial backgrounds, who were asking very searching questions and proposing very radical answers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom here grows a repeating theme of the book, the division between the false self and the real self. The false self is the one that conforms to the culture of the world and succumbs to all its lures and ambitions. The real self is the woman or man who is naked before God, brought to an understanding of their true identity, then clothed with the love of God in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Once we begin to know ourselves we can grow into who we are created to be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley discusses the blind alleys the false self can lead us into, such as the need to acquire, to achieve success and position, and to be self indulgent. He suggests remedies, like contentment, detachment and self-control. Fine — we can make resolutions but how do we keep to them? It is here, in the last section of the book, that Cowley truly shines, as he deals with how to build up our strength in God. The last four chapters are an excellent introduction to meeting God in contemplation, based on Merton’s teachings. I, for whom the understanding of contemplative prayer has been difficult and who am barely at the kindergarten stage, found them enormously helpful, especially in his relating contemplation to action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am not being adversely critical in any way when I say the book is incomplete. It strikes me, rather, as the second part of a trilogy, following on from Cowley’s earlier book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/the-contemplative-minister-learning-to-lead-from-the-still-centre?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=c25d7cb32\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister: Learning to lead from the still centre\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eHe helps those already grounded in their faith to recover their real selves. I wonder if the next step is to ask how we may begin to bring the riches and insights shown, even in our diminutive knowing of God, to those, the majority in the west, who have lost almost all knowledge of God and many of whom are aggressively anti-Christian. Where and how do we meet? I recently read a passage written by a leading particle physicist:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'To have a scientific mind is to respect the consensus of fact … while maintaining an open mind to the still unknown. It helps to have a humble sense of the essential mystery of the world, for the aspects that are known become even more mysterious when we examine them further. … There is not a thing in nature so ordinary that its contemplation cannot be a route to a wordless sense of wonder and gratitude just to be a part of it all.'\u003csup\u003e2\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs this a meeting point that needs to be developed, a contemplative approach to all knowledge, leading to an undreamed of unity? Fr. Cowley, please write further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Lee Smolin: \u003cem\u003eEinstein’s Unfinished Revolution: the Search for what Lies Beyond the Quantum\u003c\/em\u003e (London: Penguin, 2019), Preface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBen Hopkinson \u003c\/strong\u003eis an Anglican priest, living in retirement in Northumberland. He has served in various parishes in the northern half of England and, also, for seven years, in Botswana, where he came face to face with some of the struggles of Southern Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by David Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe purpose of this book might be summed up in the phrase ‘how to put God at the centre of everything.’ The author tackles head on the compulsions of our consumerist culture and draws on his experience of the close links between contemplation, action and transformation to produce a very practical book for anyone (although its sub-title is ‘Leadership and Ministry in a Distracted Culture’) who is seeking to allow God to be God in him or herself. The middle section of the book, entitled ‘The false self: the compulsions and the remedies’, invites the reader to investigate who they are and to discover their true selves; and the last section of the book is an examination of the importance of contemplative practice in opening one’s heart to the love of God. There are helpful references to all the sources quoted in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Gillies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Ed Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subtitle for the latest book by Ian Cowley sets up beautifully one of the many challenges which we find ourselves facing in the world today: leadership and ministry in a distracted culture. It is easy to be distracted by a whole host of things, few are immune. What is more, distractions come in a variety of ways, catching each of us off guard at different times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBroken into three parts, the book guides the reader to initially ground oneself once again ‘Choose this day whom you will serve’, to be aware of the pulls and strains from the world around us ‘The false self: the compulsion and the remedies’, before finally inviting the reader to connect afresh with God as the means of traversing onward: ‘The contemplative heart’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’ve read anything by Ian before, his style is easily readable and engaging. He writes from personal experience, open and honest to the fact that he doesn’t have it all sorted and totally together, yet never losing his focus or the heart of what he’s seeking to convey and communicate - this isn’t a book where the author takes centre stage, it being all about them. Knowledge of his previous book \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister\u003c\/em\u003e is not a necessity by any means, although he’s obviously building on what he’s written about before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpeaking into themes of sabbath and rest, I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who finds themselves ‘too busy’, ‘up against it’ or ’on the treadmill’ of life unsure of what to do about this fact. Well worth taking time out to consider all Ian has to share and the impact it could have on your life and ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEd Jones is pastor and team leader at Battle Baptist Church in Sussex\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e__________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:32:38+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:31:48+00:00","vendor":"Ian Cowley","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jan-19","Leadership"],"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":53603638804860,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466570","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Contemplative Response: Leadership and ministry in a distracted culture - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":168,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466570","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/212.png?v=1730980397","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/213.png?v=1730980389"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/212.png?v=1730980397","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001504416124,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/212.png?v=1730980397"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/212.png?v=1730980397","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001502384508,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/213.png?v=1730980389"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/213.png?v=1730980389","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe true self finds peace in resting in the love of God, in the peace which Jesus promises. Jesus says to each of us in ministry, 'As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide, rest, dwell, in my love' (John 15:9). This book will seek to show what this might mean for those in Christian ministry in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing on from the success of \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister\u003c\/em\u003e, Ian Cowley offers new insight and greater depth for church leaders in a distracted world. Cowley emphasises that the true self finds peace in resting in the love of God, and he encourages ministers to minister to themselves as well as to others, and to ensure that, in the peace that Jesus promises, their spiritual lives don't run dry amid the pressures of the job.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA must-read for leaders wanting to stay the course.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is Vocations and Spirituality Coordinator for the Diocese of Salisbury and set up and developed the Contemplative Minister programme, which has been greatly appreciated by many clergy. He has also written A People of Hope (Highland, 1993), Going Empty Handed (Monarch, 1996) and The Transformation Principle (Kingsway, 2002). He has been a parish priest in Natal, South Africa, and also in Cambridge and Peterborough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e To read Ian's lockdown blog 'Wild times and love of God' click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/wild-times-and-the-love-of-god\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2020. Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book explores being a Christian minister or leader in a 'world of ceaseless busyness, endless demands \u0026amp; seductive consumerism'. How to respond to all that drags us away from intimacy with God. How to cope with our compulsive self-centredness. How to reground ourselves: learn contentment, detachment and self-control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan considers issues of the false self: the desire to acquire, to achieve, to indulge, together with some ways to deal with them. However, the book opens with him studying theology in his native South Africa and the questions thrown up by apartheid. It closes with chapters on the contemplative heart, ending with interior silence drawing on the Rule of Taizé.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rewarding and often challenging read, it is very accessible and sympathetic and is for ALL who seek to follow Christ, not just leaders and ministers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Merton Journal, Advent 2019. Reviewed by Ben Hopkinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat we live in a distracted culture seems almost too obvious to say. Walk down a street, or sit in a railway carriage, and see how many people have their eyes glued to their phones or tablets. Sit in a restaurant and there are almost certainly fellow diners who, though sitting together, seem not to be interested in each other but only in their devices, as these things have come to be called.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mobile phone is a symbol of our present age, where old patterns of living and working, where old moralities have, in so many ways, been torn to shreds. This pattern of change is not only to be found in the affluent ‘west’ but increasingly across the whole world. Places that were once far removed from advanced technology are now no longer so. Even though there are many people who have not yet caught up or who are neglected, oppressed and set aside, those with power have now found a new means to enforce it. But it is worth noting, too, that the downtrodden are also finding ways of making themselves felt, using new technology to coordinate their protests. The symbol is set in the midst of an affluent culture that seems to set its values as being about how much one has, how successful one is in terms of work position or social status, and how much luxury and comfort a person can grasp, because therein the objectives of life seem to be set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere, in this maze, do we set our compass bearings? How do we distinguish what is false about ourselves and our milieu, and find a direction that connects with the truth of who we are as human beings? How do we meet God in the middle of all this noise? These are the vital questions which this book poses and to which it gives possible answers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Cowley is an Anglican priest who was born and grew up in South Africa during the years when apartheid was at its most appalling. He has served as a parish priest in Natal and in England. Before retiring from full time ministry he spent eight years as the Vocations and Spirituality Coordinator of the Diocese of Salisbury. He has travelled widely, and soaked himself in the wisdom of Thomas Merton. He finds that by opening ourselves to the presence of God in a way that is discovered through contemplative prayer we can reset our lives to eternal, true and fundamental reality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subject matter of this book is of importance for anyone who is trying to follow the Christian way. It is timely, tackling essential problems of discipleship. Primarily, it is written with clergy in mind, and though written from Anglican experience, the quandaries and potential for despair that it addresses are common to clergy of all denominations. Cowley looks the problems in the face, examining them from his own personal context, as he has been 'led to reflect on my own inner life, and the ways in which I tend to respond to the demands and pressures of public ministry. In recent years I have been increasingly aware of my own desires for power and control, for safety and security and for esteem and significance, and of the ways in which these desires are able to rule my heart.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGo in peace, I found myself muttering, and pray for me, a sinner, too. His approach gives the book strength, turning it from a self-help manual into a long walk of discussion and suggestion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley looks at how we — I speak, also, from my life as an Anglican priest — who are in positions of leadership, prominence and pastoral care in the Church, can so easily, and maybe willingly, become submerged into the crowd and be swept along in the currents of the day. It seems to me, moreover, that the book applies beyond the ordained ministry and will be equally helpful to lay people, the committed laity who are desperately concerned to live a life of faith in this age of distraction. He compares our situation to that of the swimmer who is caught in the surf of the Indian Ocean beaches of the South African shore, where the waves pick you up and hurl you willy-nilly. We find ourselves in an ocean of change, where new technology and inventions come along every day, making life into a perpetual catch-up, where the idea of Sabbath rest has gone out of the window. Sabbath rest, he says, is, in fact, a lifesaving self discipline which is part of the answer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe then talks of how, from out of this falseness which so easily infects us, we can discover God as real. He writes movingly of how, as a young white from a farming background in South Africa, who had never met black people other than as servants and farm labourers, he was confronted in his first year at university by huge questions of the relationship between God and justice. He joined the University Christian Movement — a body which was later proscribed — and mixed face to face, for the first time, with students of different racial backgrounds, who were asking very searching questions and proposing very radical answers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom here grows a repeating theme of the book, the division between the false self and the real self. The false self is the one that conforms to the culture of the world and succumbs to all its lures and ambitions. The real self is the woman or man who is naked before God, brought to an understanding of their true identity, then clothed with the love of God in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Once we begin to know ourselves we can grow into who we are created to be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCowley discusses the blind alleys the false self can lead us into, such as the need to acquire, to achieve success and position, and to be self indulgent. He suggests remedies, like contentment, detachment and self-control. Fine — we can make resolutions but how do we keep to them? It is here, in the last section of the book, that Cowley truly shines, as he deals with how to build up our strength in God. The last four chapters are an excellent introduction to meeting God in contemplation, based on Merton’s teachings. I, for whom the understanding of contemplative prayer has been difficult and who am barely at the kindergarten stage, found them enormously helpful, especially in his relating contemplation to action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am not being adversely critical in any way when I say the book is incomplete. It strikes me, rather, as the second part of a trilogy, following on from Cowley’s earlier book \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/the-contemplative-minister-learning-to-lead-from-the-still-centre?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=c25d7cb32\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister: Learning to lead from the still centre\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eHe helps those already grounded in their faith to recover their real selves. I wonder if the next step is to ask how we may begin to bring the riches and insights shown, even in our diminutive knowing of God, to those, the majority in the west, who have lost almost all knowledge of God and many of whom are aggressively anti-Christian. Where and how do we meet? I recently read a passage written by a leading particle physicist:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'To have a scientific mind is to respect the consensus of fact … while maintaining an open mind to the still unknown. It helps to have a humble sense of the essential mystery of the world, for the aspects that are known become even more mysterious when we examine them further. … There is not a thing in nature so ordinary that its contemplation cannot be a route to a wordless sense of wonder and gratitude just to be a part of it all.'\u003csup\u003e2\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs this a meeting point that needs to be developed, a contemplative approach to all knowledge, leading to an undreamed of unity? Fr. Cowley, please write further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Lee Smolin: \u003cem\u003eEinstein’s Unfinished Revolution: the Search for what Lies Beyond the Quantum\u003c\/em\u003e (London: Penguin, 2019), Preface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBen Hopkinson \u003c\/strong\u003eis an Anglican priest, living in retirement in Northumberland. He has served in various parishes in the northern half of England and, also, for seven years, in Botswana, where he came face to face with some of the struggles of Southern Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by David Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe purpose of this book might be summed up in the phrase ‘how to put God at the centre of everything.’ The author tackles head on the compulsions of our consumerist culture and draws on his experience of the close links between contemplation, action and transformation to produce a very practical book for anyone (although its sub-title is ‘Leadership and Ministry in a Distracted Culture’) who is seeking to allow God to be God in him or herself. The middle section of the book, entitled ‘The false self: the compulsions and the remedies’, invites the reader to investigate who they are and to discover their true selves; and the last section of the book is an examination of the importance of contemplative practice in opening one’s heart to the love of God. There are helpful references to all the sources quoted in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Gillies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Ed Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subtitle for the latest book by Ian Cowley sets up beautifully one of the many challenges which we find ourselves facing in the world today: leadership and ministry in a distracted culture. It is easy to be distracted by a whole host of things, few are immune. What is more, distractions come in a variety of ways, catching each of us off guard at different times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBroken into three parts, the book guides the reader to initially ground oneself once again ‘Choose this day whom you will serve’, to be aware of the pulls and strains from the world around us ‘The false self: the compulsion and the remedies’, before finally inviting the reader to connect afresh with God as the means of traversing onward: ‘The contemplative heart’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’ve read anything by Ian before, his style is easily readable and engaging. He writes from personal experience, open and honest to the fact that he doesn’t have it all sorted and totally together, yet never losing his focus or the heart of what he’s seeking to convey and communicate - this isn’t a book where the author takes centre stage, it being all about them. Knowledge of his previous book \u003cem\u003eThe Contemplative Minister\u003c\/em\u003e is not a necessity by any means, although he’s obviously building on what he’s written about before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpeaking into themes of sabbath and rest, I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who finds themselves ‘too busy’, ‘up against it’ or ’on the treadmill’ of life unsure of what to do about this fact. Well worth taking time out to consider all Ian has to share and the impact it could have on your life and ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEd Jones is pastor and team leader at Battle Baptist Church in Sussex\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e__________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Contemplative Response: Leadership and ministry in a distracted culture
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{"id":14777121636732,"title":"God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help","handle":"gods-belongers-how-people-engage-with-god-today-and-how-the-church-can-help-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with a four-fold model of belonging. Based in extensive practical research, David Walker shows how 'belonging' can encompass a far wider group of people than those who attend weekly services. He examines belonging through relationship, through place and through events, as well as the traditional belonging through activities. He goes on to explore the opportunities for mission that emerge as a result - while also acknowledging the challenges posed for issues such as church financing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: an aid for mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: How we belong\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Belonging: a theological concept\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Reliably regular: belonging through church activities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 People power: belonging through relationships\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Only the once: belonging through events\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Location, location: belonging through place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 The mystery of the missing vicar: an example of belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Belonging for mission\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 What's the difference? Understanding occasional churchgoers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Together in mission: the Five Marks of Mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Paying the piper: what has become of Anglican governance and finance?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Who else is missing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Types and temperaments: what is Psychological Type?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Models for motivation: exploring the world of Religious Orientation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Never on Sunday: the opportunities and challenges of Sunday worship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eForeword\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhenever the church gets to talking about numbers, sooner or later someone will protest that it is not all about bums on seats, is it? Well, yes and no. As this readable and insightful book from David Walker makes clear, belonging cannot simply be measured by your attendance record. There are multiple ways of belonging to any organisation or community, and especially the church. But if instead of 'bums on seats' the church talked about 'hearts being changed' or 'lives being transformed', and once we realise that there can be no impact in our local communities and wider society unless there are at least some people who not only belong, but whose belonging shapes and directs the whole of their lives, i.e. their hearts are being changed and their lives are being transformed, then we begin to see that understanding how people belong and ministering to people in their different ways of belonging is something worth thinking about. This book will help you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" width=\"219\" height=\"269\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a Maths degree at Cambridge, David Walker trained in theology in Birmingham. He served in churches in the dioceses of Sheffield before becoming Bishop of Dudley in 2000 and then in 2013 Bishop of Manchester. He is involved in writing a continuing series of papers for peer review journals and the International Society of Empirical Research in Theology, using quantitative methods to analyse aspects of rural Anglicanism. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Rural Theology Association, the Church of England Ministry Council and one of the Church Commissioners for England. He has contributed chapters to a number of books including Changing Rural Life: A Christian response to key rural issues (Canterbury Press, 2004), Rural Life and Rural Church: theological and empirical perspectives (Equinox, 2012), Exploring Ordinary Theology: everyday Christian believing and the Church (Ashgate, 2013). He has written papers for (amongst other journals) Rural Theology, the Journal of Beliefs \u0026amp; Values and the Journal of Anglican Studies. In 2014 he was awarded a PhD from the University of Warwick for the studies on which this book will be based.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this challenging book David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, argues that people belong to their community and to church in different ways. Some belong through activities and are often regular churchgoers and office holders in the church, the sort of person everyone knows and likes. This person helps others to relate to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 'God's Belongers' these ways of belonging are offered as a framework within which we might consider how to shape and focus the mission of the church beyond 'people like us.' So often mission is based around the things that those already in the church are comfortable with. Walker challenges us to look at how we can do things differently so that other ways of belonging can be welcomed and accommodated, and people can grow in faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this book encourages us to look seriously at those not like us so that we can welcome them. It also challenges us to learn from others because 'the evidence we've found of a rich and complex pattern of belonging challenges the often implicit assumption that occasional church goers are 'nominal' Christians'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile 'God's Belongers' inevitably reflects Bishop David's Anglican perspective, his insights are more widely applicable are easy to translate for other denominational contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018). Review by Janice Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important research based examination of how people belong to church. Based on two surveys taken in 2007 and 2009 in the Dioceses of Worcester and Lichfield, Walker outlines four ways - through people, places, one-off events and regular activities - that people belong to the Church. The samples were taken at rural harvest services and Christmas carol services and show information about the attitudes or regular churchgoers to those who attend occasionally. Walker argues that people, places or one-off events are co-workers with regular attendees and not objects of mission. He also asks whether it is possible to be a good Christian and not go to church very often. 'God's Belongers' is full of important questions and issues for PCCs, ministry teams and others to consider. It challenges stereotypes of the 'not-often-there' church attendees and deserves wide and careful consideration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Janice Price\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:26:13+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:25:05+00:00","vendor":"David Walker","type":"eBook","tags":["Church life","Feb-17","Glassboxx","Leadership","Mission"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603551445372,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464682","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464682","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/208.png?v=1730980343","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/209.png?v=1730980260"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/208.png?v=1730980343","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001491079548,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/208.png?v=1730980343"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/208.png?v=1730980343","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001472074108,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/209.png?v=1730980260"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/209.png?v=1730980260","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with a four-fold model of belonging. Based in extensive practical research, David Walker shows how 'belonging' can encompass a far wider group of people than those who attend weekly services. He examines belonging through relationship, through place and through events, as well as the traditional belonging through activities. He goes on to explore the opportunities for mission that emerge as a result - while also acknowledging the challenges posed for issues such as church financing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: an aid for mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: How we belong\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Belonging: a theological concept\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Reliably regular: belonging through church activities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 People power: belonging through relationships\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Only the once: belonging through events\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Location, location: belonging through place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 The mystery of the missing vicar: an example of belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Belonging for mission\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 What's the difference? Understanding occasional churchgoers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Together in mission: the Five Marks of Mission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Paying the piper: what has become of Anglican governance and finance?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Who else is missing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Types and temperaments: what is Psychological Type?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Models for motivation: exploring the world of Religious Orientation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Never on Sunday: the opportunities and challenges of Sunday worship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eForeword\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhenever the church gets to talking about numbers, sooner or later someone will protest that it is not all about bums on seats, is it? Well, yes and no. As this readable and insightful book from David Walker makes clear, belonging cannot simply be measured by your attendance record. There are multiple ways of belonging to any organisation or community, and especially the church. But if instead of 'bums on seats' the church talked about 'hearts being changed' or 'lives being transformed', and once we realise that there can be no impact in our local communities and wider society unless there are at least some people who not only belong, but whose belonging shapes and directs the whole of their lives, i.e. their hearts are being changed and their lives are being transformed, then we begin to see that understanding how people belong and ministering to people in their different ways of belonging is something worth thinking about. This book will help you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" width=\"219\" height=\"269\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BishopDavidWalker_480x480.jpg?v=1676497548\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a Maths degree at Cambridge, David Walker trained in theology in Birmingham. He served in churches in the dioceses of Sheffield before becoming Bishop of Dudley in 2000 and then in 2013 Bishop of Manchester. He is involved in writing a continuing series of papers for peer review journals and the International Society of Empirical Research in Theology, using quantitative methods to analyse aspects of rural Anglicanism. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Rural Theology Association, the Church of England Ministry Council and one of the Church Commissioners for England. He has contributed chapters to a number of books including Changing Rural Life: A Christian response to key rural issues (Canterbury Press, 2004), Rural Life and Rural Church: theological and empirical perspectives (Equinox, 2012), Exploring Ordinary Theology: everyday Christian believing and the Church (Ashgate, 2013). He has written papers for (amongst other journals) Rural Theology, the Journal of Beliefs \u0026amp; Values and the Journal of Anglican Studies. In 2014 he was awarded a PhD from the University of Warwick for the studies on which this book will be based.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.7.17\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReview by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford of \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the Church can help\u003c\/em\u003e by David Walker and \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches \u003c\/em\u003eby George Lings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce in a while, a book comes along that changes the way you look at things. Here are two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Walker's delightfully titled \u003cem\u003eGod's Belongers\u003c\/em\u003e analyses the different ways in which people express their belonging to church and their engagement with God, and suggests new strategies that will help the local church understand and provide for this belonging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on extensive research of church attendance at rural harvest festivals and Christmas carol services, the central thesis of this book is that regular churchgoing is not the only way in which Christian belonging is expressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn one level, this is completely obvious. Most churches, however, persist with a gold standard of 'every-Sunday-morning' belonging, and all evangelistic endeavour is geared towards achieving this. But, as Walker's well-researched and well-argued book unfolds, we find that belonging can be measured in other ways, and this is more to do with personality and circumstance than commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the one who comes less often is not necessarily less committed. Someone whose primary belonging comes through relationships, and who wishes to express this in service, may never come every week. But his or her 'lived-out' discipleship, day by day, demonstrates a commitment equal to any weekly communicant. If weekly attendance is the only goal, this person's faith development may be stymied, and the church's ability and flexibility to grow in different ways diminished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut this alongside the vastly changed pattern of work, leisure, and family life in Britain today, and the impact on church life is plain to see. Strategies for evangelism and discipleship need to work with the grain of these different types of belonging, not against them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of Fresh Expressions in the Church of England is one such example of helping people to belong differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh Expressions of Church is not a stepping-stone towards the so-called 'real church' of Sunday morning. Worshipping in a variety of cultural styles, meeting in different places and different formats and at different times, Fresh Expressions have enabled the Church to broaden its reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis has been a remarkable story of missional and ecclesiological enterprise, and, although many people have played a significant part in this story, none has done more than George Lings. His ministry as theologian, researcher and church-planter has provided the impetus and inspiration for the Church to try new things. He has also led the way in enabling the Church to reflect on and learn from these experiments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this is brought together in \u003cem\u003eReproducing Churches\u003c\/em\u003e. Lings explains and develops the basic thesis that reproduction is inherent in what it means to be the Church, not merely an optional function that some may choose. In other words, for the Church to be the Church it must reproduce. Based, again, on extensive research and vast experience, this book is probably the best available handbook for understanding church-planting and Fresh Expressions, and seeing how the Church can become what it is meant to be be. Put these two books together, and every church will be rethinking its evangelistic strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this challenging book David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, argues that people belong to their community and to church in different ways. Some belong through activities and are often regular churchgoers and office holders in the church, the sort of person everyone knows and likes. This person helps others to relate to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 'God's Belongers' these ways of belonging are offered as a framework within which we might consider how to shape and focus the mission of the church beyond 'people like us.' So often mission is based around the things that those already in the church are comfortable with. Walker challenges us to look at how we can do things differently so that other ways of belonging can be welcomed and accommodated, and people can grow in faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this book encourages us to look seriously at those not like us so that we can welcome them. It also challenges us to learn from others because 'the evidence we've found of a rich and complex pattern of belonging challenges the often implicit assumption that occasional church goers are 'nominal' Christians'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile 'God's Belongers' inevitably reflects Bishop David's Anglican perspective, his insights are more widely applicable are easy to translate for other denominational contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader (Spring 2018). Review by Janice Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important research based examination of how people belong to church. Based on two surveys taken in 2007 and 2009 in the Dioceses of Worcester and Lichfield, Walker outlines four ways - through people, places, one-off events and regular activities - that people belong to the Church. The samples were taken at rural harvest services and Christmas carol services and show information about the attitudes or regular churchgoers to those who attend occasionally. Walker argues that people, places or one-off events are co-workers with regular attendees and not objects of mission. He also asks whether it is possible to be a good Christian and not go to church very often. 'God's Belongers' is full of important questions and issues for PCCs, ministry teams and others to consider. It challenges stereotypes of the 'not-often-there' church attendees and deserves wide and careful consideration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Janice Price\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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God's Belongers: How people engage with God today and how the church can help
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Digital eBook Only - This book transforms thinking about church membership by replacing the division between 'members' and 'non-members' with...