Denominational Concerns
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Close Encounters Of The Jesus Kind Leader Guide (Teacher’s Guide)
$17.49Add to cart*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Grief –Luke 7:11-17
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Resentment –Luke 7:36-8:3
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Fear –Luke 8:26-39
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By God’s Distance –Luke 9:51-62
*Jesus Is Close To Those Seeking The Estranged –Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
*Jesus Is Close To Those Learning From The Estranged –Luke 10:25-37Additional Info
This 6-session Bible study explores the Lectionary readings from the Gospel of Luke for Lectionary 10 – 15 (Year C). Groups already doing a Lectionary-based Bible study may find this study an interesting complement to their existing Bible study programming. Explore close encounters with Jesus. -
Close Encounters Of The Jesus Kind Learner Guide (Student/Study Guide)
$8.49Add to cart*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Grief –Luke 7:11-17
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Resentment –Luke 7:36-8:3
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By Fear –Luke 8:26-39
*Jesus Is Close To Those Estranged By God’s Distance –Luke 9:51-62
*Jesus Is Close To Those Seeking The Estranged –Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
*Jesus Is Close To Those Learning From The Estranged –Luke 10:25-37Additional Info
This 6-session Bible study explores the Lectionary readings from the Gospel of Luke for Lectionary 10 – 15 (Year C). Groups already doing a Lectionary-based Bible study may find this study an interesting complement to their existing Bible study programming. Explore close encounters with Jesus. -
Beyond Accessibility : Toward Full Inclusion Of All People In The Body Of C
$23.95Add to cartA church has built an accessibility ramp and perhaps refitted its restrooms to accommodate a wheelchair. Now what? This new resource by a noted author of several books on people with disabilities offers a theological and practical approach for congregations, with clear, targeted strategies for full inclusion of all members, recognizing and using the gifts that each member brings to the congregation’s life together.
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Historical Dictionary Of The Reformation And Counter Reformation
$225.00Add to cartThe Protestant Reformation of the 16th century has traditionally been viewed as marking the onset of modernity in Europe. It finally broke up the federal Christendom of the middle ages, under the leadership of the papacy and substituted for it a continent of autonomous and national states, independent of Rome.
The Historical Dictionary of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation provides a comprehensive account of two chains of events-the Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Counter-Reformation-that have left an enduring imprint on Europe, America, and the world at large. This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, a bibliography, and over 300 cross-referenced dictionary entries on persons, places, countries, institutions, doctrines, ideas, and events.
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Not Angels But Anglicans (Expanded)
$40.00Add to cartThis title traces the history and development of Christianity in Britain from Roman times through twenty often turbulent centuries. Learned, yet accessible, witty in style and attractively illustrated throughout, this is popular history at its best. When the earlier editions were in print, 9/11 had not happened, Iraq had not been invaded, Rowan Williams was not yet Archbishop of Canterbury. No-one could have foreseen the escalation of religious conflict, how the issue of homosexuality was to dominate the churches’ public agenda, that the number of female ordinands would so rapidly outnumber male candidates, or imagined British parish churches rejecting their bishops and looking to Africa for a moral lead. This new edition conveys the character and contribution of Christianity in the ever changing landscape of contemporary Britain.
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Heaven And Earth In Little Space
$29.99Add to cartThis significant book asks whether the widespread falling away of the appeal of religious worship is connected with the simplification of liturgical practice over recent decades. Has a well-meant policy of making the language and style of worship more accessible resulted in a loss of the sense of mystery – and has this accelerated the decline? The author, who was involved with the development of Common Worship, explores the wider Catholic and Orthodox traditions where nothing like the reforms that have happened within Anglicanism have taken place. Five centuries of change in the Anglican tradition are surveyed, the altered rhythm of the liturgical year, the decline in singing, the rise of the modern worship song – and much more in an attempt to define what renewal of the liturgy for today’s church might look like and how re-enchantment would work in practice.
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Hebrews Learner Guide (Student/Study Guide)
$8.49Add to cart*Who Is Jesus? (Part 1) Hebrews 1:1-14
*Who Is Jesus? (Part 2) Hebrews 2:5-18
*What Did Jesus Do? Hebrews 4:14-5:10; 9:24-10:1; 10:10-18
*What Is Faith? Hebrews 11:1-40
*How Shall We Live? Hebrews 12:1-17; 13:1-19
*What If Faith Fails? Hebrews 4:12-13; 5:11-6:12; 10:19-29Additional Info
The Letter to the Hebrews is one of the more sophisticated new testament writings, with the author connecting the Old Testament passages to the present concerns of the community of faith. This study takes 5 big questions based in the text and challenges participants to explore them thoughtfully together. -
Mission After Christendom
$37.00Add to cartIn 1910 Protestant missionaries from around the world gathered to explore the role of Christian missions in the twentieth century. In this collection, leading missiologists use the one hundred year anniversary of the Edinburgh conference as an occasion to reflect on the practice of Christian mission in today’s context: a context marked by globalization, migration, ecological crisis, and religiously motivated violence. The contributors explore the meaning of Christian mission, the contemporary context for mission work, and new forms in which the church has engaged–and should engage–in its missionary task. From these essays, a vision of twenty first-century mission begins to emerge–one that is aware of issues of race, gender, border spaces, migration, and ecology. This renewed vision gives strength to the future of shared Christian ministry across nations and traditions.
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Transforming Preaching
$25.95Add to cartAt once a “travel guide” and a vision for the future, this series is good news for the Episcopal Church at a time of fast and furious demographic and social change. It analyzes our present plight, sketch a positive way forward, and point to the seeds of change – those transformative practices already at work renewing the church. What church models can help point us toward transformation? What are the essential tools? What will give us strength, direction, and purpose to the journey?
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Hebrews Leader Guide (Teacher’s Guide)
$17.49Add to cart*Who Is Jesus? (Part 1) Hebrews 1:1-14
*Who Is Jesus? (Part 2) Hebrews 2:5-18
*What Did Jesus Do? Hebrews 4:14-5:10; 9:24-10:1; 10:10-18
*What Is Faith? Hebrews 11:1-40
*How Shall We Live? Hebrews 12:1-17; 13:1-19
*What If Faith Fails? Hebrews 4:12-13; 5:11-6:12; 10:19-29Additional Info
The Letter to the Hebrews is one of the more sophisticated new testament writings, with the author connecting the Old Testament passages to the present concerns of the community of faith. This study takes 5 big questions based in the text and challenges participants to explore them thoughtfully together. -
Organization Of The United Methodist Church
$18.99Add to cartAn indispensable guide for all United Methodists-especially pastors, lay leaders, church council members, confirmation and new member candidates and their instructors, and seminarians-this book is presented in a practical, down-to-earth manner for easy use by both individuals and classes, clergy and lay. It highlights the functions and connectional relationships within the organization, beginning with the local church and continuing through connectional organs in districts, annual conferences and their agencies, jurisdictional conferences and their agencies, the General Conference, the general agencies of the Church, and the Judicial Council.
Bishop Tuell discusses the Church’s unique polity and gives a frank assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. At the same time he paints the image of a worldwide connectional communion that is organized to spread the good news of Jesus Christ and to bear witness to its Wesleyan heritage. -
Nearness Of God
$26.95Add to cartWhat distinguishes Christian ministry from other “helping professions”? While many books tell clergy how to run a capital campaign, handle conflict, and lead a vestry, this book helps pastors, chaplains, and lay professionals appreciate the spiritual depth of their calling and reminds them that Christian ministry is Christ’s ministry working through them.
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Hand And The Road
$50.00Add to cartThis is the first biography of John A. Mackay (1889-1983), an important Presbyterian leader, missionary, and professor who served as president of Princeton Theological Seminary from 1936 to 1959. As president, he rebuilt the seminary faculty after the split in 1927. His ecumenical vision opened Princeton to a wider ecumenical stance and, under his leadership, the seminary prospered as a leading Protestant theological institution. Mackay was a leading ecumenist for much of the twentieth century and helped establish the World Council of Churches. He also founded Theology Today and is recognized as a major figure in both the Presbyterian Church and in theological education. This biography is made all the more compelling by the fact that it was authored by Mackay’s grandson, John Metzger, son of the late Princeton Seminary professor, Dr. Bruce M. Metzger.
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Enriching Our Worship 5
$21.95Add to cartThis unique new service book includes liturgies for blessing and healing as related to childbearing and childbirth. It includes prayers, Scripture readings and hymn suggestions organized around the blessing of a pregnant woman; loss of a pregnancy; repentance and reconciliation for an abortion; difficult decisions, unexpected or unwanted pregnancy, loss of a child, termination of pregnancy, infertility, sterilization, and adoption.
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War Peace And Nonresistance (Reprinted)
$24.99Add to cartGuy Hershberger made a significant contribution to the development of peace theology in the (Old) Mennonite Church. Perhaps the greatest service of this book is to explain clearly the centuries-old doctrine of nonresistance as understood by Mennonites in the mid-1900s.
Although nonresistance was held as a doctrine since the early days of Anabaptism in the sixteenth century, Hershberger helped expand the concept. Many of the new ideas that Hershberger posed were explorations of the social implications of nonresistance. Particularly as Mennonites assimilated into society, their neighbors pressed them with questions about social responsibility.
At the time when Hershberger penned this volume, nonresistance and nonconformity were intimately linked. Together they formed the two primary distinctives of the Mennonite Church at mid-century.
As nonresistance and nonconformity faded into the background, peace and justice took their place. Today, peace and justice as a rubric is spoken of as the primary distinctive in the Mennonite Church. Unlike the doctrines of nonresistance and nonconformity, which were founded on peculiarly biblical logic, peace and justice may be touted as ideals by even secular groups. In this vein, Hershberger’s clear delineation of the differences between biblical nonresistance and liberal pacifism will be of particular interest to contemporary readers.
Convictions about peace seem oddly out of place in a world where dictators rule with an iron fist and terrorists snuff out innocent lives in pursuit of a cause. We can thank God that Hershberger joined his voice with other faithful leaders who pointed to a better way. May we too be stewards of the charism of peace which Jesus gave to his disciples.
For more about the life and thought of Guy F. Hershberger, take a look at War, Peace, and Social Conscience: Guy F. Hershberger and Mennonite Ethics
Available as a print on demand book.
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Way Of The Cross In Human Relations (Reprinted)
$24.99Add to cartIn this classic book, Guy F. Hershberger examines one of the most challenging aspects of human relations-how people relate to each other, and the responsibility we have toward others.
In the book Hershberger critically examines the theology and practice of the medieval church and the Reformers, the Anabaptists, social gospel advocates, social action groups and fundamentalists, along with a look at business, labor, and race relations, the ethics of various professions, the responsibility of the state and the role of community, family, and individuals. All are brought under the searchlight of Christian discipleship.
Through it all Hershberger concludes that the way of the cross applies to the world we live in today-the ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ provide sufficient power for the redemption of all humankind.
For more about the life and thought of Guy F. Hershberger, take a look at War, Peace, and Social Conscience: Guy F. Hershberger and Mennonite Ethics
Available as a print on demand book.
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Children And The Theologians
$49.95Add to cartConnects theology with the practice of ministry in new ways.
Connects historical themes with modern research about the meaning and development of children.
A magisterial theological survey that sheds new light on the various ways children have been viewed.
Provides a historical and theological rationale for the Godly Play project.The long story of children in theology is told via analysis of some twenty-five theologians, grouped according to six historical periods. Each account examines what a particular theologian thought about children and the experience it was based upon. Four themes that have shaped our attitudes about children in the church emerge from this history, ambivalence, ambiguity, indifferences, and grace. The result of this study is to promote a healthier church, which will respect and utilize the distinctive gifts of children. In so doing, theologians will be better able to help clear the way for grace in the postmodern church.
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Mission Shaped Evangelism
$26.99Add to cartThis is a landmark book that will renew our understanding of what the gospel – literally ‘the good news about Jesus’ – is for today’s cultures. It begins with a key challenge – do we believe God speaks in the cultural context, or only in the Christian tradition? Part One – Listening to God in the cultural context explores the radically changing culture in which the church exists today, the rise of new spiritualities, the secularisation of society and religion’s increasingly dubious public image. Part Two – Listening to God in the Christian tradition looks at key periods in Christian history as responses to cultural changes, from the ancient pagan world to modernist faith. What can we learn from the lessons of the past? Part Three moves from theory to practice and tells great stories where innovative evangelism is taking place – from supermarkets to festivals to the internet.
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Conversations With Scripture The Gospel Of Luke (Student/Study Guide)
$21.95Add to cartWell-known, active, and respected Anglican author and scholar, presenting his second contribution to the Conversations with Scripture series
Designed for adult formation programs in Anglican group settings or for use by individuals
Study and reflection questions included
Beautifully designed interior with margin glosses, pull quotes, and boxes -
Another Brush With God
$34.95Add to cartIntroduces readers to a more advanced level in icon development, exploring more complex imagery and skills
Step-by-step instructions for painting icons, from original drawings through finished product
Includes eight full-color plates of the author’s original iconsThis is the sequel to the author’s previous work, A Brush with God, for advanced beginners, intermediate, and advanced iconographers. It presents greater detail and instructions for creating entirely new icons. One major feature of the new book is the full-page sketches that artists can photocopy and use as the basis of their own icons, providing a unique and much-requested resource.
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Living Our Beliefs (Revised)
$13.00Add to cartYou can believe anything and be a Methodist, just so long as you’re sincere.
Such a misperception has deep historical and cultural roots.
Explore a basic explanation of the beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. Uncover a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way.
“Beliefs are to be lived; doctrine is to be practiced,” writes Carder in this updated edition of his 1996 bestseller. “The authenticity of beliefs lie in their ability to shape people and communities into the image of Christ and to promote holiness and happiness. …The important test of the validity of doctrines and beliefs for United Methodists is the kind of character they produce in individuals and communities and the actions they inspire in the world.”
Living Our Beliefs is essential reading for new members, confirmation classes and small group studies.
As one reviewer says, “Bishop Carder invites us to both understand and live our beliefs. With deep understanding of Wesley’s teaching, he inspires us to practice what we preach. That is the United Methodist way.”
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Many Parts One Body
$28.95Add to cartProperty issues will be major topic of debate at 2009 Episcopal General Convention
Clear, concise information on the legal structure and governance of the Episcopal Church
Debunks misinformation about Episcopal governance promulgated on conservative blogs and publications
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Just Us Or Justice
$22.99Add to cartWesleyan theology and African American theology have both become fixtures on the theological landscape in recent years. While developing along parallel tracks both perspectives make claims concerning justice issues such as racism and sexism. Both, however, perceive justice from a particular vantage that focuses on just-us (just our community). Hence African American theology has not seriously studied John Wesley’s stance against slavery or his work with the disenfranchised. And Wesleyan theologians have largely ignored the insights of African American theology especially in regard to certain injustices. To get beyond the “just-us” mentality, the author lays the foundation for a Pan-Methodist theology, which will draw from the strengths of African American and Wesley theologies.
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Prayers For An Inclusive Church
$22.95Add to cartThe author has prepared a special American edition of his book, first published in the UK, to conform to the calendar of the Episcopal Church.
Prayers are appropriate to conclude the Prayers of the People in the Eucharist
Includes a scriptural index keyed to the lectionary readings
Includes 3 Eucharistic prayers, Eucharistic preface, general confession, and post-communion prayer for each season in the church year.
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Introducing The Lessons Of The Church Year (Revised)
$35.95Add to cart3rd edition of a known and trusted guide to Scripture for pastors, deacons, and lay people.
Thoroughly revised and updated to the Revised Common Lectionary by an Episcopal and Lutheran scholar and church leader, author of many books.
A one-volume resource with multiple uses: sermon preparation, public reading of scripture, sermon discussion groups, lectionary Bible study, Christian education planning, bulletins, and web sites.
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Week That Changed The World
$17.95Add to cartThis devotional for Lenten and Easter meditations is a synthesis of the four gospel accounts of the eight days of Jesus’ passion and resurrection.
Uses the popular and contemporary TNIV translation
Includes maps, notes, and user guide
Preface by Robert Webber, noted evangelical scholarBeginning with Palm Sunday, the gospels record every day of Jesus’ life up to the time of his death and resurrection. These eight days are unparalleled in the canon of Scripture for their narrative power, their detail, and their focus. A unique synthesis of the four gospel accounts of the passion and resurrection of Christ is provided in this seamless and elegant narrative account of the Easter events, including every detail mentioned in all four Gospels, but without any unnecessary repetition or distracting references.
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Proclaiming The Gospel
$24.00Add to cartThis volume captures central emphases of the Lutheran tradition for use in preaching, especially its distinctive use of the Bible, its Archimedean theological insights, and its notion of preaching’s place within the larger liturgical and societal setting. Working from across the whole array of seminary disciplines, the faculty of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary forges this practical resource around a single vision: the Church of Christ lives from the power of the Word of God, both the law and the gospel. Preaching this Word is a means of grace by which God creates and shapes a redeemed community. This book reflects biblically, theologically, historically, and practically on what it means for the church to preach the gospel of God in the contemporary world.
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Discovering Christian Holiness
$39.99Add to cartIs Wesleyan-Holiness theology still relevant for the twenty-first century? Does Wesleyan-Holiness theology-as a vital, experiential, living and breathing theology-still exist?
This study of the doctrine of Holiness examines its biblical, historical, and theological foundations, as well as the importance of the holiness life in the twenty-first century.Written with solid biblical evidence and historical insight, Discovering Christian Holiness will supply you with an understanding and awareness of holiness and its breadth, depth, and practicality.
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Anglican Psalter : The Psalms Of David
$48.00Add to cart“Previously titled “”The New St Paul’s Cathedral Psalter”” this new edition with its new name reflects its wider purpose of resourcing parish churches in their regular worship. Use of the “”Psalms”” in worship is growing since the introduction of the Common Worship lectionary and Psalter has placed renewed emphasis on them. Here, using Coverdale’s translation of the “”Psalms”” from the “”Book of Common Prayer””, the very best of Anglican chant is married to texts that have been used to sing the transcendent glory of God in temple, synagogue and church for three thousand years. At the same time, the “”Psalms”” are ruthlessly honest in their portrayal of conflicting human emotions. Many psalters have excised the verses that speak of vengeance, hatred and anger, yet as CS Lewis wrote, these are the same feelings we find in our own hearts so here they are retained, to be included or omitted as local preference or the occasion dictates. It includes work by renowned composers past and present including Elgar, Parry, Stanford, St
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Doctrine In Experience
$57.99Add to cartA fresh way to look at the ministry of The United Methodist Church.
United Methodism is often accused of having an incoherent theological center. By examining the history and salient features of the church, this book says that United Methodist theology is actually appropriated from its experience as a missional corporate body. This allows United Methodist to do theology in new ways and to better adapt to its multivalent contexts.
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All Shall Be Well
$26.95Add to cartApproaches emotional and vocational wellness from a faith perspective, unlike majority of general-market wellness books.
Uses established and well-recognized CREDO model as framework.
CREDO has established partnerships with the Presbyterian Church and othe rmainline denominations.
This relevatn, timely, and substantive book addresses the CREDO approach to wellness.Chapters explore the theology of wellness and identity, core values, creativity and passion, renewal, emotional health, spiritual practices, balance, transformation, and fitness.
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Days Of Grace
$15.95Add to cartAuthor is recognized for using Benedictine wisdom to cope with the challenges of chronic illness.
Using the metaphor of pilgrimage, this book invites readers to reflect on living with illness. The heart of the book is a collection of thirty meditations, followed by a reflection, a short prayer, and a suggested spiritual practice. The meditations voice the difficulties and the challenges of living with illness, and call the reader toward a deepening understanding, compassion and generosity. While the meditations intend to offer comfort, they are also written from the conviction that God invites us to grow even in these circumstances. When living with chronic, terminal, or progressive illness, discovering a way to pray can be quite a challenge. These thirty meditations provide a welcome means with practices inspired by the psalms.
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Teaching Godly Play (Revised)
$22.95Add to cartEstablished market
With CPI’s recent acquisition of Godly Play Resources, this anchor edition complements a complete line of popular resources
An original, creative and child-honoring approach to Christian education in the churchThis revised and expanded version of Godly Play founder Jerome Berryman’s 1995 handbook is for current and future users of Godly Play. With this revision, the book’s original formatting has been redesigned to complement the eight volumes in The Complete Guide to Godly Play series. Illustrations have also been updated, and the text now better reflects the playful spirit of Godly Play. Up-to-date research in childhood development and instruction has also been incorporated in this comprehensive update.
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Heaven In Ordinary
$31.99Add to cartGeorge Herbert (1593-1633) is one of English spirituality’s most treasured voices and, with his contemporaries Lancelot Andrewes Izaak Walton and Nicholas Ferrar, he epitomises the best of the 17th century Anglican tradition – learned, holy and self-effacing. Before settling down as a country parish priest – a calling that was cut short by his early death aged 39 – he was a complex character who led a varied life in politics and academia. His inner tensions resulted in memorable writing and a rich spirituality. Here, Philip Sheldrake explores themes in Herbert’s work that stand out as most important: his deep biblical and liturgical roots, his Christ-centred spirituality, his emphasis on the importance of the everyday, his strong sense of place, his understanding of discipleship, his approach to prayer, and, his spirituality of service. Richly illustrated with excerpts from his poetry, prose and letters, this volume offers a comprehensive study guide to one of the most loved poetic voices.
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Conversations With Scripture The Gospel Of Mark (Student/Study Guide)
$21.95Add to cartMarcus Borg is one of the most well-known and respected authors in religious publishing
The newest entry in the only Bible study series written from a uniquely Anglican perspective
Designed for adult formation programs in parish group settings or for use by individuals
Study and reflection questions included
Beautifully designed interior with margin glosses, pull quotes, and boxes -
Political Grace : The Revolutionary Theology Of John Calvin
$33.00Add to cartIn this exploration of Calvin’s political thought, Roland Boer treats Calvin as a biblical scholar and political philosopher, showing us elusive aspects of Calvin’s Institutes. Boer investigates Calvin’s careful thinking in the Institutes as well as in his biblical commentaries, pursuing Calvin’s understanding of political freedom. Calvin argued for a greater freedom for the faith than theologians had imagined but then stepped back from the most radical implications of this call. Boer also explores Calvin’s views on grace with the eye of a careful interpreter, and suggests what we might find in Calvin’s political thought if we took the Bible, grace, and freedom as seriously as Calvin did.
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Spiritual Leadership For Church Officers
$22.00Add to cartThis timely new leadership guide for the PC(USA) is written for church officers who are looking for a deepened relationship with God as they serve the church. Author Joan Gray challenges elders and deacons to see themselves as spiritual leaders and equips them to act as spiritual leaders alongside their pastors. After all, even the most dynamic and gifted pastor will be hamstrung if the congregation’s lay leaders are lethargic, conflicted, or spiritually anemic. Gray lays out a variety of leadership styles and helps leaders understand when each might be appropriate. She goes on to provide resources for dealing with interpersonal relationships in the church and identifies ways churches can create an atmosphere that is supportive of the spiritual leadership of elders and deacons. She also explores things the officers themselves can do to become more effective.
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Martin Luther : A Life
$19.00Add to cartMartin Luther: A Life tells the dramatic story of the renegade monk whose heroic personal struggle ignited a revolution and shook Christendom to its foundations.
Through vivid anecdotes and lively historical descriptions, Martin Luther: A Life captures the turbulent times and historic events through which Luther lived as well as his profound vision of God. A fast-moving narrative, it shows how his stinging criticisms of the Christian church struck a deep and liberating chord in the German people and led to the momentous change we know as the Reformation.
For all who wish to understand Luther the man, the rebel, and the visionary, James Nestingen’s account also offers insight into Luther’s momentous contributions to the Western world and his personal encounter with God, the Christian scriptures, and the relentless demands of his own conscience.
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Confirmation Basics
$24.99Add to cartThis new addition to our popular Basics series explores a variety of educational models for teaching confirmation. Learn the pros and cons of each model and discover which approach works best for you. It’s a must-have resource for helping students grow in the Word of God, the catechism, and their relationship with Christ.
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Church Rituals Handbook
$15.99Add to cartAccent the participation of the whole family of faith by discovering the meaning and blessing of holy rituals!
The Church Rituals Handbook provides pastors with a meaningful tool for the services they perform as shepherds of the flock of God. Covering a wide array of services, from less common rituals to the more known practices, this updated and expanded edition gives pastors immediate practical helps to service preparation. This helpful resource includes: instructions, an order of service, suggested hymns, Scripture readings and ecitations for:
The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper
The Reception of Church Members
The Sacrament of Baptism
Marriage
Installations
Includes Calls to Worship, Offertories Ideas and Prayers and lesser known rituals
John Wesley’s Covenant Service
A Service of healing
Service of Reconciliation
Seasonal services including Advent, Easter, and Christmas -
Story Of Holy Island
$20.00Add to cartKate Tristam is a well-known island resident whose talks on the history of Lindisfarne hold visitors spellbound. A historian and a priest in the Church of England, she is ideally qualified to tell the remarkable story of this captivating place. From its misty beginnings as part of the mainland in the Stone Age right up to the present day, this popular history covers: its formation as an island, the Roman and Anglo-Saxon eras, the influence of Columba and Iona, Lindisfarne’s own apostle, Aidan, the making of the Lindisfarne Gospels, Cuthbert, Cedd, Chad and Aidan’s other followers, Hilda and the community at Whitby, Bede and the monastic tradition, the coming of the Vikings, the Benedictine years, the dissolution of the monasteries, and more.
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Our Watchword And Song
$74.99Add to cartThis study of the growth of the Church of the Nazarene traces the denomination s doctrinal roots to the English Reformation and then explores the church’s historical, intellectual, and doctrinal development.
Giving special attention to the church s distinctive belief in entire sanctification and emphasis on education, the authors colorfully retell the story of the church from its humble origins in Pilot Point, Texas, to its expansion into an international community reaching the world through a warm-hearted faith.
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Labour Of Obedience
$35.00Add to cartThis important study of key Anglican Benedictine Communities in the first half of the 20th century provides a vital record of how the Anglican Communion dealt with an issue that was as divisive in its day as today’s disputes over sexuality and women bishops, and explores the origins of the influential Anglican Papalism movement. It was the heyday of Anglo-Catholicism in the Church of England. Religious life was flourishing for the first time since the Reformation. The first shock came when the Abbot of Caldey, a flamboyant character noted for luxurious tastes, and his monks went over to Rome. Nashdom – the great Benedictine community to which Gregory Dix belonged and, in many ways, the ultimate expression of Anglo-Catholicism – threatened to do likewise over the crisis of the Church of South India where the very idea of priestly ordination and identity was being challenged. Thanks to Archbishop William Temple the crisis was averted, the monks of Nashdom stayed and the scene was set for Anglican Papalism to enter the stag
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Pentecostalism
$52.99Add to cartThe Pentecostal and charismatic movements showed astonishing growth in the twentieth century so as to arrive at a total that is said to include at least 400 million people worldwide. The academic study of the Pentecostal and charismatic movement has been gaining momentum in the last few years, both as an element within contemporary religious studies and as a strand within the subject area of church history, going back to the early church. This student-friendly text is essential reading for students of Theology and Religious Studies, taking second or third year modules in Pentecostal studies. It is also of great relevance to students of sociology of religion, as well as cultural and historical studies of religion and religious movements. In addition to a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the subject, it offers useful resources such as suggestions for further reading, questions for reflection and a glossary of technical terms.
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Prayer Book Guide To Christian Education
$36.95Add to cartA Christian educator’s one-volume guide for how to teach week by week according to the ethos and tradition of the Episcopal Church ethos while still connected to experience and faith in daily life. This guide to education and formation is based on the Book of Common Prayer, the cornerstone of Anglican liturgy and theology. Keyed to the Revised Common Lectionary, all activities and lessons are structured on the seasons and lessons for Years A, B, and C. The Guide stresses the major themes of baptismal theology and shows how teachers, parents and children can live the liturgical cycle in its Christian formation ministries at church and at home.
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Romans Leader Guide (Teacher’s Guide)
$17.49Add to cart1. What Must I Do To Be Saved?
Romans 3:9-31
2. Saved By Grace . . . Isn’t That Too Good To Be True?
Romans 5:1-11
3. If What I Do Doesn’t Save Me, Does It Matter How I Live?
Romans 6:1-23
4. Where Is God When We Suffer?
Romans 8:18-39
5. How Can I Keep From Singing?
Romans 10:1-21
6. What Does God Want From Us?
Romans 12:1-21Additional Info
Lead your group into informed and enlightening conversation on the book of Romans. This Leader Session Guide contains all the content from the Romans Learner Session Guide, plus these unique elements, designed to help leaders prepare to engage participants in conversation:*Before You Begin: Helpful tips to use as you prepare to lead the session.
*Session Overview: Detailed description of key themes and content covered in each of the four contexts (Historical, Literary, Lutheran, Devotional). Highlighted parts of the Session Overview provide a kind of “quick prep” for those wanting to do an initial scan of the key session themes and content.
*Key Definitions: Key terms or concepts that appear in the Session Overview.
*Facilitator’s Prayer: Helps the leader center on the session theme and leadership task
*Bonus Activities: Optional activities included in each of the four sections of “Join the Conversation”. These can be used by the leader to expand the core session.
*Tips: Helpful hints, instructions, or background content to help you lead.
*Looking Ahead: Reminders about preparation for the next session.This is a 6-session study.
For additional preparation assistance, try the Romans Session Prep DVD.
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John Leader Guide (Teacher’s Guide)
$22.99Add to cart1. What Is Jesus’ Relationship With God?
John 1:1-18
2. How Is It Possible For Us To Be In Relationship With God?
John 3:1-21
3. What Does It Mean That Jesus Is The “Bread Of Life”?
John 6:25-59
4. Who Can See Jesus?
John 9:1-41
5. What Does It Mean That Jesus Is The “Resurrection And The Life”?
John 11:1-44
6. What Does It Mean To Be A Disciple Of Jesus?
John 13:1-35
7. How Does Jesus Want His Disciples To Relate To The World?
John 17:1-26
8. How Does Jesus’ Relationship With His Disciples Continue?
John 20:11-31Additional Info
Lead your group into informed and enlightening conversation on the book of John. This Leader Session Guide contains all the content from the John Learner Session Guide, plus these unique elements, designed to help leaders prepare to engage participants in conversation:*Before You Begin: Helpful tips to use as you prepare to lead the session.
*Session Overview: Detailed description of key themes and content covered in each of the four contexts (Historical, Literary, Lutheran, Devotional). Highlighted parts of the Session Overview provide a kind of “quick prep” for those wanting to do an initial scan of the key session themes and content.
*Key Definitions: Key terms or concepts that appear in the Session Overview.
*Facilitator’s Prayer: Helps the leader center on the session theme and leadership task
*Bonus Activities: Optional activities included in each of the four sections of “Join the Conversation”. These can be used by the leader to expand the core session.
*Tips: Helpful hints, instructions, or background content to help you lead.
*Looking Ahead: Reminders about preparation for the next session.This is an 8-session study.
For additional preparation assistance, try the John Session Prep DVD.
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Romans Learner Guide (Student/Study Guide)
$8.49Add to cart1. What Must I Do To Be Saved?
Romans 3:9-31
2. Saved By Grace . . . Isn’t That Too Good To Be True?
Romans 5:1-11
3. If What I Do Doesn’t Save Me, Does It Matter How I Live?
Romans 6:1-23
4. Where Is God When We Suffer?
Romans 8:18-39
5. How Can I Keep From Singing?
Romans 10:1-21
6. What Does God Want From Us?
Romans 12:1-21Additional Info
Open Scripture and join the conversation around the book of Romans with this Learner Session Guide. Each session opens with a gathering prayer and focus activity. From there, participants open Scripture and explore a key passage from the book of Romans. Using the text, participants then join the conversation around that passage, focusing on literary, historical, Lutheran-theological, and devotional readings. Each session ends with prayer and opportunities for extending the conversation, which include optional “homework” assignments and enrichment activities that allow participants to continue their study and conversation between sessions.This study is 6 sessions in length.
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Jesus The Bible And Homosexuality (Expanded)
$23.00Add to cartIn this revised and expanded best seller, evangelical theologian and former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Jack Rogers makes a biblical case for equal rights for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Throughout history, he observes, Christianity has moved towards ever greater openness and inclusiveness. Today’s church is led by many of those who were once excluded: people of color, women, and divorced and remarried people. He argues that when we interpret the Bible through the lens of Jesus’ redemptive life and ministry, we see that the church is called to grant equal rights to all people. Jesus, the Bible, and Homosexuality describes Rogers’ own change of mind and heart on the issue, charts the church’s history of using biblical passages to oppress marginalized groups, argues for a Christ-centered reading of Scripture, debunks stereotypes about people who are LGBT, refutes the conventional wisdom about the texts that are often used against people who are LGBT, and presents ideas for how the church can heal itself and move forward again. A fascinating combination of personal narrative, theology, and church history, this book is essential reading for all concerned with the future of the church and the health of the nation.
The revised and expanded edition also includes:
* A new preface with ‘stories from the road’ as a result of Rogers’s two year book tour in support of the first edition,
* Updates on recent developments within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),
* A new chapter that examines God’s radical welcome for all who have faith as revealed in Scripture,
* A new appendix that maps the recent progress toward LGBT equality in major U.S. denominations, and
* A study guide for group or personal reflection. -
Faithful Disagreement : Wrestling With Scripture In The Midst Of Church Con (Stu
$21.00Add to cartConflict is all too common in the church today. But as Frances Taylor Gench reminds us in this book, conflict over scriptural interpretation has been with the church since its earliest days. Gench reflects on those early experiences of conflict, presenting substantive studies of biblical texts showing that discord (e.g., Rom. 1415; Matt. 14; Jer. 28; 1 Cor. 1214; John 1317) and drawing lessons from each about how it informs current conflicts in the church. In the process, she provides a constructive resource to help Christians wrestle with Scripture when they disagree.
This innovative book can be used by individuals and in groups. Numerous helpful study questions conclude each chapter.
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Feasting On The Word Year B 4
$55.00Add to cartSeason after Pentecost 2 (Propers 17-Reign of Christ) With this popular new lectionary commentary series, Westminster John Knox Press offers one of the most extensive resources for preaching on the market today. When complete, the twelve volumes of the series will cover all the Sundays in the three-year lectionary cycle, along with movable occasions, such as Christmas Day, Epiphany, Holy Week, and All Saints Day.
For each lectionary text, preachers will find four brief essays one each on the theological, pastoral, exegetical, and homiletical challenges of the text. They might focus on the Gospel text, for instance, by reading all four essays provided for that text, or they might explore connections between the Hebrew Bible, Psalm, Gospel, and Epistle texts by reading the theological essays for each one. Each lectionary year will consist of four volumes, one for the Advent and Christmas season, one for Lent and Easter, and one for each half of Ordinary Time.
In Ordinary Time, the Old Testament lections in Feasting on the Word are from the complementary stream for Year A, split between the complementary and semicontinuous streams for Year B, and from the semicontinuous stream for Year C. Essays on the alternate lections will be available on the Feasting on the Word web site beginning for Year C in May 2010.
For each lectionary text, preachers will find four brief essays one each on the theological, pastoral, exegetical, and homiletical challenges of the text. They might focus on the Gospel text, for instance, by reading all four essays provided for that text, or they might explore connections between the Hebrew Bible, Psalm, Gospel, and Epistle texts by reading the theological essays for each one. Each lectionary year will consist of four volumes, one for the Advent and Christmas season, one for Lent and Easter, and one for each half of Ordinary Time.
In Ordinary Time, the Old Testament lections in Feasting on the Word are from the complementary stream for Year A, split between the complementary and semicontinuous streams for Year B, and from the semicontinuous stream for Year C.
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About The Bible (Revised)
$15.00Add to cartIn this newly revised and expanded edition About the Bible: Short Answers to Big Questions, Terence E. Fretheim offers straightforward answers to reoccurring questions about how the Bible was written, organized, and interpreted – and why people have such different opinions about what the Bible has to say.
Built on a bestselling volume first introduced to readers in 1999, this edition welcomes added questions to a unique question-and-answer format. Among the questions are: Who wrote the Bible? How did it come to be? Do Lutherans believe in a literal interpretation of the Bible, for instance the Creation Story? Can we draw responsible ethical discernment from the Bible? How do we read the Bible for spiritual growth?
Arranged according to topic, the books is ideal for individual and group use. Both devoted Bible readers and Bible novices are sure to find answers to many of their biggest questions here
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Book Of Mary
$19.95Add to cart“Of all the women in the Bible,” writes Nicola Slee, “Mary has been for me the most ambivalent, the most alien and yet, at some level, the most alluring. I’ve taken a long time to come to her-or for her to come to me. I grew up in a religious tradition-low church Methodism-in which Mary hardly featured, other than in the nativity story. Yet it is hardly possible to exist as an inhabitant of the western world, with even half an eye open to the visual and cultural heritage of Christendom, and not to have been in some way affected by this woman, the woman of the Christian tradition.”
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Ripe Fields : Promise And Challange Of Latino Ministry
$23.95Add to cartTimed to be launched at 2009 General Convention, Juan Oliver definitive look at the history and potential future of Latino ministry in the Episcopal Church comes at an opportune time. With Latino ministries growing around the country in all traditions, and with increasing resource and programmatic offerings being allocated to serve those communities, this highly descriptive handbook profiles the culture, faith, and importance of this emerging minority.
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Transforming Stewardship
$25.95Add to cartAt once a “travel guide” and a vision for the future, this series is good news for the Episcopal Church at a time of fast and furious demographic and social change. It analyzes the present plight of the church and sketches a positive way forward, sprouting from the seeds of change-those transformative practices already at work renewing the church. What church models can help point us toward transformation? What are the essential tools? What will give us strength, direction, and purpose to the journey?
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Bioethics
$16.00Add to cartBioethics helps Christians develop a biblical perspective on complex and controversial issues such as abortion, assisted reproduction, euthanasia, stem cell research, and genetic manipulation. It also encourages a compassionate Christian response to global health crises.
Discussions of life and death choices raise difficult questions:
How should Christians understand complex and controversial issues such as abortion, assisted reproduction, euthanasia, stem cell research, and genetic manipulation?
How do we respond to global health crises, or to chronic illness and suffering?
What is the biblical vision for life-and how should we go about voicing it?
This new book helps Christians develop a biblical understanding of bioethics and challenges us to apply that understanding to difficult issues. Discussion questions in each chapter make this book an excellent choice for group study or personal reflection.
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Liturgical Life Principles
$18.95Add to cartIn clear, accessible language, Markham demonstrates how the liturgy of the Episcopal Church can enable us to cope more effectively with the stresses and strains of modern life. This book is a delightful introduction to the movement and flow of Episcopal services and demonstrates how the liturgy can transform human lives. Markham shows persuasively how the whole purpose of the Christian liturgy is to provide us with the resources to enable God to facilitate healthy and authentic living.
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In The Footsteps Of Phoebe
$33.99Add to cartThis book presents a rich and insightful look at the deaconess vocation and its blessing to the LCMS. Utilizing primary sources to document the inspiring story of the deaconess movement within the LCMS, it fills a significant gap in the annals of synodical history. Collected in this one volume is a record of events as well as the thoughts and actions of deaconesses during every era of the Synod’s history.
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Things He Carried
$10.99Add to cartThe narrative of Holy Week is powerful and painful, and because we know how the story ends it’s easy to gloss over the difficult details, and stay in the comfort zone of our understanding. Stephen Cottrell brings home, vividly and poignantly, the physical reality of the passion story. This is a book to stimulate thought, provoke discussion and create space for contemplation.
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Together And Apart
$20.95Add to cartIn an easy, conversational style, the author, a nun for over 40 years, gives readers the facts and fictions of the monastic life: how the choice is made; what lies behind the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience; the nuts and bolts of monastic calling; what monks and nuns do all day; how they support themselves; and why they live as they do. Brushing away the stereotypes of sainthood, she provides an enlightening glimpse into a vibrant female subculture that is richly diverse, faith-filled, and often supremely rewarding.
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Methodisms Founder John Wesley Believed In Angels
$16.99Add to cartDo we have good angels assigned to us as well as evil angels? Author Don R. Harper shares true stories about angels and how they influence our lives from the cradle to the grave. Enjoy quotations from Methodism’s founder John Wesley including why and how you must be born again.
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Jonathan Edwards For Armchair Theologians
$24.00Add to cartThis witty and illuminating volume introduces the life and writings of the great American theologian and preacher Johathan Edwards (1703-1758). The most studied figure in American religious history and an iconic figure of the American colonial period, Edwards is well known and highly regarded as a stalwart defender of Calvinist theology and his Puritan heritage. As James P. Byrd deftly reveals, however, Edwards was also a brilliant thinker and passionate pastor who wrestled continuously with the most important issue of his time, the relationship between faith and reason. Exploring his life, most important writings, and enduring legacies, Jonathan Edwards for Armchair Theologians provides an engaging overview of a man far more complex and multifaceted than most understand.
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Conversations With Scripture 2 Isaiah (Student/Study Guide)
$21.95Add to cartEngages readers with the astonishing beauty and depth of Second Isaiah and its relevance today
Newest entry in the only Bible study series written from a uniquely Anglican perspective
For use by adult formation programs in parish group settings and by individuals
Study and reflection questions included
Beautifully designed interior with margin glosses, pull quotes, boxes
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Spiritual Direction : A Practical Introduction
$36.99Add to cartSpiritual direction has been an intrinsic part of the Christian tradition since the earliest days of the church when desert mothers and fathers were sought out for their wisdom and guidance. Today, the popularity of retreats and renewed interest in monastic spirituality has put spiritual direction in the spotlight. It is shedding its rather exotic, mystical associations and is increasingly regarded as a core component of Christian ministry. This guide aims to equip clergy and laity engaged in this task, or in training for it. It includes, Part One: What is spiritual direction? This is an exploration of biblical, historical and contemporary models of spiritual direction. What makes a good spiritual director? Part Two covers listening and responding to God, prayer, paying attention, discernment, interpreting religious experience, recognising God in the every day, journalling, and holy leisure. Part Three covers listening and responding to others, listening to stories and experience, looking for signs of grace, pain
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Book Of Common Prayer Personal Edition
$49.99Add to cartThe perfect style for a wide variety of uses, such as pew book or special gift, the Personal Edition includes a Family Record section with certificates for the rites of Baptism, Confirmation, and Marriage. All bindings feature ribbon markers and gilded page edges. Includes Revised Common Lectionary.
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Happiness And Holiness
$40.00Add to cartThe 17th century writer Thomas Traherne is increasingly being recognised and studied as a theologian as well as a poet. The discovery, in 1997, announced by the author of this volume, of five new prose works and a poetic work has given huge impetus to the study of Traherne in literature and theology. Two editions of Complete Works are in preparation (OUP and Boydell & Brewer) and a major autobiography is due in 2006.
This affordable, concise introduction to Traherne’s life and work concerns Traherne primarily as a theologian and places him in an historical and intellectual context he has thus far lacked. It demonstrates his distinctive contribution to Anglican theology.
Consisting of a 10,000 word introductory essay and biography it is followed by extracts from Traherne’s work under the following headings: Creatures and Powers, Holiness and Happiness, Sin and Salvation, Christian Liberty, Advice on Ministry, Prayers.
This affordable, concise introduction to Traherne’s life and work concerns Traherne primarily as a theologian and places him in an historical and intellectual context he has thus far lacked. It demonstrates his distinctive contribution to Anglican theology.Consisting of a 10,000 word introductory essay and biography it is followed by extracts from Traherne’s work under the following headings: Creatures and Powers, Holiness and Happiness, Sin and Salvation, Christian Liberty, Advice on Ministry, Prayers.
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Transforming Disciples
$26.95Add to cartMaking disciples through Christian formation too often looks like a limited number of educational programs offered to child, teen, and adult “consumers” who move on if they don’t find what they want. How can we make the transition from consumer religion to participatory faith by building congregational relationships that nourish people spiritually and empower them to risk living, worshipping, learning, and serving God and each other in new and enlivening ways?
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Better Get It In Your Soul
$23.95Add to cartThis book offers hope to parishes searching for a way to make their liturgies more meaningful in the local context. Written by a priest and a musician who have worked together for many years in the Canterbury House ministry at the University of Michigan, this book describes methods that demonstrate a respect for others’ gifts and skills, discernment of spiritual needs, and welcoming the creative force of the Holy Spirit into the planning process. Though thoroughly based in the Book of Common Prayer liturgy, the experience and ideas presented here are described in ways that will be useful to all liturgical denominations.
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From Holidays To Holy Days
$20.95Add to cartRather than criticizing trappings of the holiday season, this book looks at them from the viewpoint of Christian contemplation, once aptly described as “a long, loving look at the real.” The author, a Benedictine monk who lives in the center of downtown Newark, New Jersey, invites the reader to join him on his daily walks as he points out dozens of often-unnoticed connections between our holidays and the spiritual meaning of Advent and Christmas. In a string of colored lights, a crowd of shoppers, or the window of a toy store, he uncovers such traditional Advent themes as watchful waiting, repentance, and selfless love. On the bustling sidewalks, he introduces us to Isaiah, John the Baptist, and Jesus himself, all speaking their ancient Advent and Christmas messages of peace and hope and good will.
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Restoring The Anglican Mind
$16.00Add to cartWith the Lambeth Conference of 2008 in mind, the author presents this timely proclamation to Anglicans across the world of the need to return to a “Western Orthodoxy”. Canon Middleton takes us back to early principles and shows us how they still speak to us today.
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Light To The Darkness
$21.95Add to cartLight to the Darkness is a fresh interpretation of the well-loved Advent traditionof Lessons and Carols. Replacing the usual scriptural readings from the Old and New Testaments are first-person dramatic monologues based on these and other passages of scripture. Special emphasis is given to the role of the prophets, pointing the way to the Messiah and offering guidance to the Hebrew people, while providing very contemporary guidance for the 21st-century.
With a reading for each day of Advent, churches can choose pieces for their services of Lessons and Carols, while individuals can use the book for private devotions. Suggested music for these services is also included, encompassing a broad range of selections to accommodate parishes? needs and abilities. -
Liturgy For The Whole Church
$28.95Add to cartThis fresh collection of group readings and simple dramas based on stories from scripture, together with meditations, story-telling methodology, and an instructed Eucharist, helps church leaders design liturgy for children and adults who worship together. Includes seasonal introductions, congregational readings, meditations, simple dramas, stories, simple sermons, and tableaux vivants.
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History Of Presbyterian Missions
$48.00Add to cartThis comprehensive volume features a collection of interpretive essays on the work of missions in the Presbyterian Church for over sixty years. It discusses events and challenges to the churchs mission activities and to its missionaries and examines the ways in which changes in denominational structures impacted mission work. Reflections from Presbyterian mission leaders, firsthand accounts from missionaries, and an overview of the work in specific mission areas from Latin America to East Asia make this an ideal resource for those involved in Presbyterian missions, scholars, and all those who seek to understand the breadth and depth of Presbyterian missions during this period.
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Heritage In Crisis
$50.99Add to cartAcknowledgements
Introduction
1. The Identity Crisis Facing Churches Of Christ
2. The Generation Gap In The Church Of Christ
3. Where We Are In The Discussion Or “Desecularizing The Church Of Christ In The 21st Century”
4. The Holy Spirit And Christian Union
5. Baptism And Our View Of Other Denominations
6. Hermeneutics
7. Instrumental Music
8. Purpose And Style In Worship
9. Women’s Roles
10. The Qualification And Selection Of Elders
11. Missionary Societies And Denominational Structures
12. Theological Trends From 1960 To The Present
Afterward
Bibliography
Index
Additional Info
The Churches in Christ are in growing disagreement about the direction that the Restoration Movement should take. A Heritage in Crisis introduces the background of this “identity crisis,” evaluates nine specific issues that threaten to divide the Churches of Christ today–such as worship styles and women’s roles–and suggests changes Churches in Christ can make in order to facilitate the change back to God’s original intent for the church. More than simply an academic examination of doctrinal issues, A Heritage in Crisis seeks to identify a path by which the Churches of Christ might move into a future illuminated by the light of God’s Word. -
Feasting On The Word Year B 1
$55.00Add to cartThis new lectionary commentary series offers the most extensive resource for preaching on the market today. When complete, the twelve volumes will cover all of the Sundays in the three-year lectionary cycle, along with moveable occasions such as Christmas Day, Epiphany, Holy Week, and All Saints Day.
For each lectionary text, preachers will find four brief essays on the exegetical, theological, pastoral, and homiletical challenges of the text, with freedom to begin where they choose. They may decide to focus on the Gospel text, for instance, by reading all four essays provided for that text. Or they may decide to look for connections between the Hebrew Bible, Psalm, Gospel, and Epistle texts by reading the theological essays on each one.
Each lectionary year will consist of four volumes, one for the Advent and Christmas season, one for Lent and Easter, and one for each half of Ordinary Time.
While the twelve volumes of the series will follow the pattern of the Revised Common Lectionary, each volume will contain an index of biblical passages so that non-lectionary preachers may make use of its contents.
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Theology In Service Of The Church
$25.00Add to cartTheology in service of the church must be deeply rooted in Scripture and tradition, be sensitive to the contemporary context, be shaped through deep engagement with liturgical theology and worship practices, be engaged in ecumenical conversation, and be focused on personal and congregational transformation. These essays by distinguished pastors, scholars, and church leaders in honor of Joseph Small serve as an introduction to ecclesial theology in the Reformed tradition. The contours of this collection are shaped by Joe Small’s three primary concerns: theological integrity, liturgical leadership, and ecumenical/interfaith engagement.
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Work Of Jesus Christ In Anabaptist Perspective
$26.95Add to cartHow have Anabaptists traditionally understood the work of Christ? How should Mennonites and other Christians think today about the saving work of God in Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection? In this book, 20 leading theologians, biblical scholars, pastors, and others offer their reflections.
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Eastern Path To Heaven
$19.95Add to cartGeshe Michael Roach and Christie McNally have, for the last ten years, explored together the ancient cities, rare manuscripts, and oral traditions of India and Tibet which bear witness to teachings of Thomas – the disciple that Jesus sent to the east. The Eastern Path to Heaven presents the great ideas that came to those lands through Thomas, and describes how we can use authentic Christian teachings of ancient Asia to achieve six goals of life: physical health; financial security; love; happiness; freedom from aging and death; and fulfilment in the service of others. Brief, accessible, chapters each open with a quotation by Jesus from the New Testament that speaks to achieving the six goals according to the wisdom of the Eastern side of the Christian family. Brief historical summaries show how the teachings of Jesus entered India with Thomas, traveling along the routes pioneered by Alexander the Great, and then reached Tibet. These sketches utilize information from Syrian, Coptic, Greek, Tibetan, and Sanskrit manuscripts, often translated by the authors for the first time.
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New Church For A New World
$16.00Add to cartThe volumes in the Foundations of Christian Faith series explore central elements of Christian belief in a clear and concise manner.
In this new volume, pastor and distinguished church leader John Buchanan reviews the history of the Christian community, examines the realities of the church worldwide, and looks forward to the future where a new church may be needed to meet the challenges of a new world. Buchanan describes changes impacting the church and invites Christians to be hopeful and look for signs of what God might be calling the church to be in our time and beyond.
A New Church for a New World is insightful, informative, and ideal for individual or group study.
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Transforming Congregations
$25.95Add to cartHow can our patterns of congregational life and mission renew themselves and adjust to changing culture without selling out what Episcopalians stand for? How can local faith communities stay resilient and hopeful? What styles and practices of spirituality do most to enrich our mission?
These are some of the questions James Lemler poses in this book on mission for clergy and congregational discussion. As with evangelism, there is both good and bad news about Episcopalians and mission. Lemler also provides a variety of models for moving forward in mission and hope, to a more abundant future.
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Young Restless Reformed
$17.99Add to cartFrom places like John Piper’s den, Al Mohler’s office, and Jonathan Edwards’s college, Christianity Today journalist Collin Hansen investigates what makes today’s young Calvinists tick. Church-growth strategies and charismatic worship have fueled the bulk of evangelical growth in America for decades. While baby boomers have flocked to churches that did not look or sound like church, it seems these churches do not so broadly capture the passions of today’s twenty-something evangelicals. In fact, a desire for transcendence and tradition among young evangelicals has contributed to a Reformed resurgence. For nearly two years, Christianity Today journalist Collin Hansen visited the chief schools, churches, and conferences of this growing movement. He sought to describe its members and ask its leading pastors and theologians about the causes and implications of the Calvinist resurgence. The result, Young, Restless, Reformed, shows common threads in their diverse testimonies and suggests what tomorrow’s church might look like when these young evangelicals become pastors or professors. “Collin Hansen invites us on a voyage of discovery, learning how our restless youth are discovering anew the great doctrines of the Christian faith. Weary of churches that seek to entertain rather than teach, longing after the true meat of the Word, these young people are pursuing doctrine. Discover how God is moving among the young, the restless, and the Reformed.” Tim Challies, author, The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment; blogger at Challies.com “Young, Restless, Reformed is the product of some outstanding research. This book will help the reader gain valuable insight into the growing Reformed movement in America.” Jerry Bridges, author of The Pursuit of Holiness “Collin Hansen has uncovered a fresh movement of young Christians for whom doctrine fuels evangelism, kindles passion, and transforms lives. Read it and rejoice.” David Neff, editor-in-chief, Christianity Today media group “A number of strategic ministries have been quietly upholding the doctrines of grace, planting churches, seeing people converted, teaching the whole counsel of God. It is time for quiet gratitude to God and earnest intercessory prayer that what has begun well will flourish beyond all human expectation.” D. A. Carson, Research Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School “This lively account is must reading for ministry leaders working with young adults. A wake-up call to ba
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Social Ministry In The Lutheran Tradition
$22.00Add to cartThis indispensable volume offers a fundamental rationale or “case” for Lutheran engagement in social services by highlighting the biblical warrants, panoramic historical expressions, and deep theological under-pinnings of such Christian corporate social engagement.
Social Ministry in the Lutheran Tradition gathers the insights of historians, theologians, and organizational leaders to address this task.
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Reweaving The Sacred
$19.95Add to cartIdeal growth and development tool for small congregations in all mainline denominations
Simple, clear exercises and techniques to help leaders and members pinpoint problems and claim and identify gifts and values of their shared history, in order to engage in a ministry of renewal, welcome, and growth
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Methodism In Recovery
$30.99Add to cartBroken bodies mend. Depressed minds heal. Storm-tossed cities rebuild. Troubled institutions recover. Churches experience renewal. So why not the Methodist Church? This book confronts the facts and invokes the Spirit. It will explore the multiple meaning of recovery and the denomination’s prospect for recovering. It will take seriously the possibility that recovery of Methodism may not require–or include–the survival of The United Methodist Church as a denomination. That is part of the mystery of recovery. By confronting provocative questions relating to funding missions, declining membership, itinerancy, guaranteed appointments, ordination requirements and authorization, the author helps Methodism take those crucial first steps on the road to recovery.
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Transforming Vocation
$26.95Add to cartIn the Episcopal Church, it seems the only real purpose and end of Christian discernment is professional ordination, either to the priesthood or to the vocational diaconate. This book deals with such questions as, How can both communities and individuals discern a call from God within the vocations and tasks in which they find themselves? How can the Church deal creatively with its confusion about the differing roles and authority of ordained and lay ministers?
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Transforming Evangelism
$25.95Add to cartHow can Episcopalians reclaim evangelism primarily as an enriching spiritual practice? How soon will we recognize that our traditional hands-off approach has led to a crisis of evangelism with our own children? How can we learn to practice evangelism in an multicultural and multifaith society ? and to what purpose? What styles and practices of spirituality do most to enrich our sense of evangelical calling?
These are some of the questions David Gortner asks in this book on evangelism for clergy and congregational discussion. He delivers both good and bad news about Episcopalians and evangelism, and provides models and spiritual practices to feed the growing hunger in our churches for good news.
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1979 Book Of Common Prayer Readers Edition
$81.00Add to cartThis handsome edition of the Book of Common Prayer features a large, easy-to-read typeface which is perfect for use in public worship settings or for people with vision difficulties. This new edition includes the Revised Common Lectionary.
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Through Julians Window
$16.00Add to cartLike her 14th century predecessor Julian of Norwich, Sr Elizabeth lives as a solitary attached to a religious community. Like Julian, she is available to all who come for help, advice or direction. In Julian’s cell were three windows – one looking into the sanctuary of the church, one opening on to a secluded garden where she could attend to her own physical needs and a third where she conversed with all who came for help. Sr Elizabeth relates the three different aspects of these windows to the three things that Julian desired of God – contrition, compassion and longing for God. So deeply did she desire these qualities that she asked God to ‘wound’ her with them, but they became gifts of healing for herself and for others. Through contrition she learned her limitations and her need of others, compassion enabled her to become an effective spiritual guide and in longing for God she found purpose and meaning for her whole life.
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Partakers Of The Divine Nature
$37.00Add to cartThis critical volume focuses on the concept of deification in Christian intellectual history. It draws together Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant scholars to introduce and explain the theory of deification as a biblically rooted, central theme in the Christian doctrine of salvation in diverse eras and traditions. The book addresses the origin, development, and function of deification from its precursors in ancient Greek philosophy to its nuanced use in contemporary theological thought. The revival of interest in deification, which has often been seen as heresy in the Protestant West, heralds a return to foundational understandings of salvation in the Christian church before divisions of East and West, Catholic and Protestant. Originally published in hardcover, this book is now available in paperback to a wider readership.
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Book Of Common Prayer Personal Edition
$66.00Add to cartThe perfect style for a wide variety of uses, such as pew book or special gift, the Personal Edition includes a Family Record section with certificates for the rites of Baptism, Confirmation, and Marriage. All bindings feature ribbon markers and gilded page edges. Includes Revised Common Lectionary.
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Book Of Common Prayer 1979 Gift Edition
$32.99Add to cartThis gift edition of The Book of Common Prayer by Oxford University Press features a durable imitation leather cover, stained page edges, a ribbon marker, presentation page, and baptismal, confirmation and marriage certificates. It also includes the Revised Common Lectionary.
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Substance Of The Faith
$23.00Add to cartThis useful and insightful volume aims to illustrate, espouse, and renew the discipline of doctrinal theology, particularly as exemplified historically by Martin Luther and his theological reflection on the Trinity.
The authors, steeped both in Luther’s works and in the doctrinal tradition, show how dogmatics in the Lutheran tradition entails a delicate juxtaposition of credal commitment, scriptural interpretation, and doctrinal elaboration. Their respective chapters retrieve surprising historical insights about Luther’s own practice of doctrinal theology, the interaction of the credal and doctrinal dimensions with a nuanced hermeneutic of scripture, and the future shape of a doctrinal theology genuinely responsive to the gospel and the present age.