SPCK Publishing

One of the best-known figures of British history, collective memory of Henry VIII presents us with the image of a corpulent, covetous, and cunning king whose appetite for worldly goods met few parallels, whose wives met infamously premature ends, and whose religion was ever political in intent.

1536 - focusing on a pivotal year in the life of the King - reveals a fuller portrait of this complex monarch, detailing the finer shades of humanity that have so long been overlooked. We discover that in 1536 Henry met many failures - physical, personal, and political - and emerged from them a revolutionary new king who proceeded to transform a nation and reform a religion.

A compelling story, the effects of which are still with us today, 1536 shows what a profound difference can be made merely by changing the heart of a king.

This special edition has gilt edging, foil titling, and a padded cover, to make it a wonderful gift for a young child.

Bright, vibrant pictures are the focus of this children's Bible for 5-7s; expressive people and animals carry out their lives against a backdrop of colourful and dramatic landscapes. The scenes are set evocatively by author Sarah Dodd, who is able not only to bring life and character to the stories of the Bible for younger, or perhaps first-time readers, but also to explain their implication in the wider context of the Bible.

There is a glossary included in the back to explain the words which may be unfamiliar, and page references for each word.

This book will take the story of astronomy on from where Allan Chapman left it in Stargazers, and bring it almost up to date, with the developments and discoveries of the last three centuries.

He covers the big names - Halley, Hooke, Herschel, Hubble and Hoyle; and includes the women who pushed astronomy forward, from Caroline Herschel to the Victorian women astronomers.

He includes the big discoveries and the huge ideas, from the Milky War, to the Big Bang, the mighty atom, and the question of life on other planets. And he brings in the contributions made in the US, culminating in their race with the USSR to get a man on the moon, before turning to the explosion of interest in astronomy that was pioneered by Sir Patrick Moore and The Sky at Night.

'With their diverse skills and experience, self-supporting ministers are a gift to the Church. John Lees' challenging volume celebrates the importance and dedication of volunteer clergy, offering practical guidance on their development and support, so SSMs may contribute creatively and strategically to the demands of a changing world.'
The Rt Revd Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London

Self-supporting ministers are wonderfully non-standard. They are deployed in a wide variety ofways and have a range of motivations, working patterns and training needs. Sometimes underused or overworked, they may feel unrecognized and under-supported. As the Church turns increasingly to its volunteer minsters, however, there are encouraging signs that SSMs are being given more creative opportunities than in the past.

'This handbook is full of sound common sense... [it] is both an encouragement and a challenge in the task of re-imagining ministry today.'
Robert Atwell, Bishop of Exeter

'John Bell of the Iona Community has been for many years one of the most recognized voices on BBC Radio 4's Thought for the Day, where his cogent and penetrating topical contributions reach an audience well beyond the churches.' Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury

The Apostle's creed proclaims that Jesus Christ was 'born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate'. But these statements, separated by only a comma, tell us very little about the One in whom 'the fulness of God' lived and breathed!

In four provocative and compelling sessions:
Advent: A time for the kids?
The life omitted
Unspoken in Advent
A life of risk

John Bell writes vividly of the people Jesus met; the things he said; the controversy he caused and the affection he had for the marginalised and for women in particular. Urging us to grasp more fully the great implications of the Incarnation, The Life in the Comma liberates us to celebrate Christmas as never before.

TO ACCOMPANY THIS COURSE BOOK

Filmed on location by Monkeynut in an enchanting Georgian country house, The Life in the Comma video (in addition to the usual audio CD download) invites us to join John, Bishop Smitha Prasadam, and writer Lauren Windle as they discuss the themes of the course.

COMPLETE LIST OF THE LIFE IN THE COMMA PRODUCTS

Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (paperback 978 1 91584 341 8)
Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (eBook 978 1 91584 342 5)
Participants' book including transcript of video: pack of 5 (paperback 978 1 91584 345 6)
Participants' book including transcript of video (eBook 978 1 91584 344 9)
Audio book of discussion to support THE LIFE IN THE COMMA (audio digital download 978 1 91584 340 1)
Video of discussion to support THE LIFE IN THE COMMA (available only via the publisher's website)

Reverend Charles Wesley (1707 - 1788): Anglican priest, Oxford University graduate, leader of the English Methodist movement, and arguably the greatest hymn-writer of all time, with at least 6,000 hymns to his credit, many of which retain their popularity and status as "classics".

Charles Wesley was a gifted poet, with an almost unparalleled ability to capture deep truths of Scripture and condense them into meaningful verse, thereby conveying theology in terms that a wide spectrum of people could understand.

For all his genius as a wordsmith, Charles Wesley was an intensely humble Christian, sometimes living in the shadow of his brother, John, but, nevertheless, complementing the ministry of his sibling with a softer touch and a less rigid approach to life and faith.

Through the Year with Charles Wesley offers a glimpse into the works of a great man whose legacy has survived the centuries, and which still influences modern hymnology.

To understand the complexity of modern Israel, you have to first understand the history.

This is a nation that has been exiled not once, not twice, but three times… and each time has returned to re-inhabit their homeland. This is unique. How and why has this happened?

This book encourages an audience who thinks Israel is an irrelevant issue to think again and understand what God has done and is doing through this small nation. This Bible is, after all, a Jewish book. Jesus was Jewish. Our destiny is tied up in both.

A warm-hearted Old Testament Bible story about Joe, who will never forget the day that Elijah came to visit. The cupboards were empty and his mother only had a last bit of flour and a few drops of oil. Sharing their last loaves with Elijah was to change their lives.

A series of picture books of stories from the Old and New Testament by Richard Littledale, inspired by his retellings to groups of young children.

Meet Albert, an elderly mouse, who retells well known Bible stories to eager young mice, perfect for story times with young listeners aged 3-5 years.

Stunning bright and appealing illustrations bring to life the excitement and drama of the storytelling for young children to enjoy looking through time and time again. They will love seeking the mice in each picture!

'John Bell of the Iona Community has been for many years one of the most recognized voices on BBC Radio 4's Thought for the Day, where his cogent and penetrating topical contributions reach an audience well beyond the churches.' Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury

The Apostle's creed proclaims that Jesus Christ was 'born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate'. But these statements, separated by only a comma, tell us very little about the One in whom 'the fulness of God' lived and breathed!

In four provocative and compelling sessions:
Advent: A time for the kids?
The life omitted
Unspoken in Advent
A life of risk

John Bell writes vividly of the people Jesus met; the things he said; the controversy he caused and the affection he had for the marginalised and for women in particular. Urging us to grasp more fully the great implications of the Incarnation, The Life in the Comma liberates us to celebrate Christmas as never before.

TO ACCOMPANY THIS COURSE BOOK

Filmed on location by Monkeynut in an enchanting Georgian country house, The Life in the Comma video (in addition to the usual audio CD download) invites us to join John, Bishop Smitha Prasadam, and writer Lauren Windle as they discuss the themes of the course.

COMPLETE LIST OF THE LIFE IN THE COMMA PRODUCTS

Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (paperback 978 1 91584 341 8)
Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (eBook 978 1 91584 342 5)
Participants' book including transcript of video: pack of 5 (paperback 978 1 91584 345 6)
Participants' book including transcript of video (eBook 978 1 91584 344 9)
Audio book of discussion to support THE LIFE IN THE COMMA (audio digital download 978 1 91584 340 1)
Video of discussion to support THE LIFE IN THE COMMA (available only via the publisher's website)

Jo interviewed eleven very different couples for this book. The theme is not marriage, rather how to reach the decision to marry.

The couples represent various situations, and include a couple whose marriage was arranged, an older couple, and a couple for whom previous marriages had failed.

Jo comments: 'There is no "right way" of choosing whom to marry. I believe God gives us enormous discretion. I want to talk about the enduring value of marriage as an institution, the factors that go into finding a spouse, and the way we can discern whether we can make it work."

This delightful and entertaining book includes thought-provoking questions at the end of each chapter.

It would be ideal reading for a young couple who are wondering whether this is The One.

A full-text keepsake baby Bible featuring illustrated pages to record all the precious moments and blessings in your baby's first few years. This is the perfect gift for welcoming a newborn baby, a baby shower or a special gift for a christening, baptism or dedication.

Beautifully designed pages throughout the Bible provide space to record family members, birth details and baby's milestones from first measurements and first tooth to first steps and first words. Celebrate the blessings as your baby grows and treasure the special events and occasions of their life's journey.

Features include:
Presentation page for gift-giving
24 designed pages placed throughout the Bible to record memories
Ribbon marker for easy referencing
Complete text of the New Living Translation anglicised version

The New Living Translation is a clear and easy-to-read version that is accessible to children as they grow either to be read to or begin to read themselves. The NLT's guiding principle is to render words and phrases as simply and literally as possible when that approach yields an accurate, consistent and natural English text. The result is a translation that is accessible, exegetically accurate and powerful, making it ideally suitable for families to use.

'If poems were gifts, and in many ways they are, children will find plenty to absorb and amuse them in this bulging stocking of an anthology.'
Roger McGough

From traditional verses by Christina Rossetti and William Blake to modern classics by Julia Donaldson and Benjamin Zephaniah, this heart-warming Christmas anthology will delight children and adults of all ages.

All the wonders of the season are captured in 100 Best Christmas Poems for Children. Perfect for reading aloud with all the family or for children aged 8-12 to read to themselves, there are verses that will encourage you to reflect on the Christmas themes of joy, hope and peace for all the world, while also savouring the festive fun of everything else that Christmas brings - from the opening of the first Advent window to the tidying away of all the decorations on Twelfth Night.

Edited and introduced by beloved poet Roger McGough, this enchanting children’s poetry book make a wonderful gift and keepsake and will be cherished by all who read it. Children will gain an appreciation for language and storytelling as the magic of Christmas is brought to life by this anthology that they’ll return to over and over again each year.

For girls who want to know where we can find our true value, beauty and purpose.

Are you looking for a book that challenges us to question where we've got our ideas about beauty and identity from? Are you looking to find the identity God created you for?

We learn that our value doesn't come from our grades, our body shape, our past, or the number of likes on our latest social media post.

We girls know what it's like to feel inadequate. Despite our best efforts, we constantly compare ourselves to the models in magazines, the selfies we see on Instagram, and even our closest friends.But we're worth so much more than what we tell ourselves.

'More Than Just Pretty' teaches us about our value that doesn't come from our grades, our body shape, our past, or the number of likes on our latest social media post. We're so much more than just pretty. We're pretty funny, pretty kind, pretty ambitious, and all round pretty great. And it's time we knew it as written in 'More Than Just Pretty'.

Join Jessie and discover even more about who you are, and who you're created to be.

'Lively, fresh and innovative retellings, these fabulous tales of the young Joseph are an absolute delight.'
Alexa Tewkesbury, children's author

Joseph used to live on a farm in the land of Canaan with his dad, stepmothers, eleven brothers and lots and lots of cows! His jealous brothers sold him as a slave and now he lives in Egypt.

After Mrs Potiphar lied about him, Joseph has been thrown into prison, with only his imaginary cows to keep him company. Soon he's joined by a butler and a baker, who used to work for Pharoah. The butler and the baker have strange dreams. Can Joseph work out what they mean?

The idea that God is interested in us as individuals is an unfamiliar concept to many, while rejection has become a fact of life.

This book encourages the reader to embrace the truth of a personal God; one with whom we do not need to struggle to gain recognition, who intervenes and acts on our behalf. A God who knows our name!

Each of the six chapters contains two sections, dealing with situations of rejection. Each tells the story of an individual from the Bible narrative, explaining how God stepped in to change their situation, thus revealing how important they were to Him. The second, connecting story, tells of a present day individual in similar circumstances and how God also positively intervened in their lives.

These are true stories, using carefully researched material for authenticity and accuracy. The stories are told with remarkable power and conviction.

'Read this book, and then rethink everything else.' Danielle Strickland

'A feast of insight and reflection on what just leadership should look like.' The Rt Reverend Dr Jonathan Gibbs

'This book will change the way you lead.' The Rt Reverend Dr Emma Ineson, Bishop of Penrith

'A book that should be on the shelves of every leader today.' The Reverend Will van der Hart

From #MeToo scandals to revelations of spiritual abuse atrocities in the Church, we've watched too many leaders let us down. What went wrong for these leaders? And more importantly, how can we get it right?

Just Leadership offers advice and guidance to empower leaders everywhere to make a difference and answer the call for a fairer, more transparent, more equal society. Drawing on their combined decades of experience in leadership and safeguarding, Justin Humphreys and Simon Barrington explore what it means for a leader to be just, and provide practical ways improve your leadership skills and create a just and open environment.

Across the world, there is a heart cry for justice – but often the fight is too focused on the wider cause, bypassing conversations about individual leaders across our churches, organisations, charities and communities.

Just Leadership is for every leader - whether you are in Church or other Christian leadership, business or professional leadership or even a leader within your local community - who wants to build their skills and start leading the way to a better future.

Every hurt generates anger, even if we are not aware of it. Because we do not understand how common anger is to our everyday experience, we repress it instead of using it to help us.When anger is understood in its original purpose, we grasp how it may work for our benefit.

This book provides a new understanding of anger and its valuable place in our lives.

'The first third of the book describes my understanding of anger from a Biblical perspective. The second part is about practical ways to deal with anger issues in one's life. The final third of the book deals with forgiveness and how forgiveness can release us from the grip of unresolved hurt and anger in our lives.'

This hugely heartening book on hope will galvanise readers into looking at the world and the challenges we're facing in a new way.

It gathers together a fantastic range of lively, up-and-coming writers who are willing to dig deep. Here they write passionately about what gives them hope, in reflections including Seeds of unity, A beautiful and messy awakening, Kingdom diplomacy across faiths, A vision for hope in politics, Wild paths of peace and Hope in suffering.

Wild Bright Hope urges us not only to embrace a more hopeful perspective, but also to consider how we ourselves might play a full part in bringing in the kingdom of God.

'In a strange, vast and wonderfully imagined museum, an apprentice sculptor and student scientist must solve a murder. Julia Golding has written a gripping helter-skelter story that will keep you guessing and start you thinking.' - Roger Wagner, artist and painter

Is curiosity a crime? Ree discovers the unfairness of being a girl in a male-dominated scientific world, where alternative ideas are swiftly squashed.

Enter a fantasy island where Phil the dodo and other unusual wild animals roam corridors, great halls and an underground network of passages of a magnificent museum and science academy. Prevented from following her creative passion as a stonemason, Ree is confined to cleaning the halls at night as a maid.

But then the murders start happening... A determined scholar Henri and strong-willed Ree join forces to solve the mysteries and prove their innocence.

Newly married, Chris and Susanna Naylor set off for a new life in the Arab world - living first in Kuwait, then Jordan and finally Lebanon.

In a region never far from the news, they discovered their expectations - of war, terrorism, desert sand dunes, men in white robes and veiled women, camels and Kalashnikovs, indeed their own reasons for being there - were to be constantly challenged. As they found out, the reality bore little resemblance to their pre-conceptions.

Postcards from the Middle East is a tale of love from one family's experiences: a story of work, schooling, friendships, worship and shared family life, lived out in precious communities against a back drop of world-changing events and spectacular scenery. The Naylors had never experienced such hospitality, danger, wildlife spectacles or snow before they moved to the Middle East. Their story provides a multi-coloured window on an extraordinary and rapidly changing Arab world.

'Deeply grounded, practical and real.' Margaret Silf, author and spiritual explorer

Isn't a deep prayer life only for religious specialists?

In this introduction to the spiritual life, Gemma Simmonds shows that everyone can find prayer a rewarding experience. She explores the story and prayer tradition of Ignatius of Loyola, together with the contribution of the seventeenth-century Yorkshire woman, Mary Ward.

A guide for Lent and the rest of the year, The Way of Ignatius helps us to pray with the Scriptures in an imaginative way. To aid reflection and discussion, there are questions at the end of each chapter.

'In this wonderful book, Gemma Simmonds explores the method of prayer developed by St Ignatius in a way that makes this profound approach to prayer accessible . . . I highly recommend this book.' Ian Mobsby, Anglican priest, writer, speaker and Prior, Wellspring New Monastic Community, Peckham, London

'If you are looking for insightful and encouraging spiritual reading, you have found your book! . . . Gemma Simmonds invites us to be pilgrims in the company of Jesus, Ignatius and Mary Ward.' Kevin O'Brien SJ, author, The Ignatian Adventure: Experiencing the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius in daily life

Maybe Jesus was joking, the disciples didn't know what they were doing and the New Testament is a lot funnier than you might think.

You would think it weird if someone suddenly ascended into heaven, right? Reading between the lines, do we detect a touch of rivalry between Peter and John? And surely the lack of parables in the latter's mystical tome is simply crying out to be redressed...

In this sparklingly witty book, BBC sitcom writer James Cary gives us a new and liberating way of looking at the gospel as he entertainingly relates it to a modern context, with references ranging from Charles Dickens to The Vicar of Dibley. Cheerfully playing around with the text, he takes the Bible seriously but allows us to laugh at our own petty vanities and foibles - and be enlightened in the process.

The Gospel According to a Sitcom Writer is ideal for anyone wanting to liven up their Bible reading and looking for new ways to be thrilled by this sacred text. It's also perfect for priests, pastors, youth leaders and all those involved in ministry and giving sermons, as James Cary shows using comedy and humour is a brilliant way to communicate the gospel.

Warm, funny and full of brilliant insight and Christian humour, The Gospel According to a Sitcom Writer will make you laugh out loud and shake your head in awe. You'll never read the Bible the same way again.

Reverend Charles Wesley (1707 - 1788): Anglican priest, Oxford University graduate, leader of the English Methodist movement, and arguably the greatest hymn-writer of all time, with at least 6,000 hymns to his credit, many of which retain their popularity and status as "classics".

Charles Wesley was a gifted poet, with an almost unparalleled ability to capture deep truths of Scripture and condense them into meaningful verse, thereby conveying theology in terms that a wide spectrum of people could understand.

For all his genius as a wordsmith, Charles Wesley was an intensely humble Christian, sometimes living in the shadow of his brother, John, but, nevertheless, complementing the ministry of his sibling with a softer touch and a less rigid approach to life and faith.

Through the Year with Charles Wesley offers a glimpse into the works of a great man whose legacy has survived the centuries, and which still influences modern hymnology.

Advent is celebrated when the year is becoming darker and colder, moving into the death and dormancy of winter.

Before we can greet the coming of the light, we need to engage with some themes that are challenging and occasionally fearful. Like the Magi who travelled a long distance to search out and adore the infant Jesus, and who took some wrong turns on the way, we too have a journey to undertake before we find that we have

'Walked haphazard by starlight straight
Into the kingdom of heaven.'
U. A. Fanthorpe, BC:AD

Haphazard by Starlight is a companion volume to Janet Morley's bestselling Lent book, The Heart's Time, which delighted readers with its thoughtfully chosen selection of poems and its biblically sensitive commentaries.

Here, the reader is given an opportunity to engage in a pilgrimage of the heart, through Advent and Christmas to the feast of the Epiphany. Each day - from 1 December to 6 January - offers a poem (sometimes explicitly Christian, often not) and an accessible commentary that is both critically informed and devotional in intent.

The poets represented include Rowan Williams, Elizabeth Jennings, Edwin Muir, Philip Larkin, Jane Kenyon, Gillian Clarke, George Herbert, T. S. Eliot, Sylvia Plath, Emily Dickinson, Waldo Williams, P. J. Kavanagh, Ruth Fainlight, William Blake and many more.

Readings for Funerals is a perceptive collection of Bible quotations, poems, hymns and prose, offering consolation and comfort to those bereaved. It helps them to express their thoughts and feelings and make them more confident in planning a funeral service and dealing with clergy.

Featuring the writing of, amongst others, W. H. Auden, Simon Armitage, Wendy Cope, T. S. Eliot and Joyce Grenfell, it is suitable for use at secular funerals, celebrations of a life and church services.

This book follows the style of the highly successful Readings for Weddings which has sold over 7,000 copies.

When gynecologists Catherine and Reg Hamlin left their home in Australia for Ethiopia, they never dreamed that they would establish what has been heralded as one of the most incredible medical programs in the modern world.

But more than forty years later, the couple has operated on more than 20,000 women, most of whom suffered from obstetric fistula, a debilitating childbirth injury.

In this awe-inspiring book, Dr. Catherine Hamlin recalls her life and career in Ethiopia. Her unyielding courage and solid faith will astound Christians worldwide as she talks about the people she has grown to love and the hospital that so many Ethiopian women have come to depend on. She truly is the Mother Teresa of our age.

The second edition includes an afterword that brings Catherine's story up to date and new color photographs.

Travelling in his early years with his artist father in the United States, France and England, Thomas Merton prided himself on his worldly accomplishments. His year at Clare College, Cambridge, was indulgent, and although Columbia University to which he went next suited his temperament better, it did nothing to assuage his restlessness.

Gradually Merton recognized his need for faith and became a Catholic. With his baptism he began entertaining thoughts of monasticism but his desire to enter the priesthood in a Franciscan monastery came to nothing, and he remained a lay teaching member of the order for some time. However, when he was twenty-seven he made a retreat to a Trappist monastery in Kentucky. This momentous experience convinced him that the silence of the Cistercian Order was what he craved.

The Seven Storey Mountain tells the story of Merton's search for faith and peace in a world which first fascinated and then appalled him. It is written with the profound insight of a man who has seen himself clearly.

'The Seven Storey Mountain is a book one reads with a pencil so as to make it one’s own.'
Graham Greene

'A remarkable book, a classic of its kind, written in a vivid, rich and alert style which ranges from crisp vernacular to passionate eloquence, full of picturesque incident and passing at times into religious ecstasy.'
The Times Literary Supplement

'A book which may well prove to be of permanent interest in the history of religious experience.'
Evelyn Waugh

This BIG book is ideal for shared reading.

Derived from the award-winning My Very First Bible, this well-known Bible story is presented in simple words and illustrated with child-friendly paper collage illustrations.

Notes are included for parents and teachers putting the story in context and giving ideas for discussion. The story is written in full on the back cover to help show the illustrations at the same time as reading to a large group.

The Song of Songs is a short, beautiful but currently neglected book of the Bible. Whilst acknowledging it's fascinating portrayal of human love and longing for love, this unusual book explores the possibility of drawing on the mystics and the poets to read the book at a more profound level as a resource for contemplative prayer.

Aims to present the Song of Songs as a resource for contemplative prayer. From its recorded beginning before Christ, this biblical poem was widely, and in fact exclusively, interpreted both by Jews and Christians as a hymn of God's passionate love for his chosen people.

The Song of Songs is however a mysterious book, and the more modern reading of it as a celebration of human erotic love has largely displaced this older interpretation. Here, the author presents a contemporary mystical reading, with reference to some later Christian poetry, including John Donne, George Herbert, Gerald Manley Hopkins, and R. S. Thomas.

The popular Would You Like to Know? series introduces children to the idea of prayer, who Jesus is, what the Bible is, and more.

This addition to the range is a fantastic little story Bible with five Old Testament and seven New Testament stories, which offers a great starting point to getting to know the Bible.

The small format, range of stories and price makes this an ideal award in church or school.

Brian Draper was tired of feeling tired; "life in its fullness" felt like a life crammed full of stuff, and no more.

"I don't want to be the kind of father who turns up late and exhausted for his children's school concert and sits at the back fiddling with a Blackberry, distracted, vacant. I want to be THERE, in the front row, fully present."

Drawing on the guidance of Christian wisdom, he began to notice opportunities, day to day, to reduce the quantity, and increase the quality of life - to make room for his soul.

LESS IS MORE distills a wonderful spiritual principle which is especially significant at this point in history, when time is limited and money is in short supply.

Chapters include: Clearing the loft - literally and spiritually; Using your senses to savour what is free; Finding rhythm; Giving freely; Expressing yourself.

'Be encouraged by Bishop Emma's advice and inspired by her wisdom and humour.' JUSTIN WELBY, ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY

Counting things is very much on the table at the moment. But what is the theology around notions of ambition and success? Why do they sit so uncomfortably in a Christian context? After all, growth is not the preserve of big business when viewed through the lens of the story of God and his people. So, we need to ask, what is right about ambition for the Christian leader? And what were Jesus' views?

Inevitably (because everything interesting is paradoxical), success and failure are close bedfellows. The single most successful event in the history of humankind - the victory of love over sin and death - looked very much like one man, naked, shamed and abandoned by most of his followers, hanging on a cross.

If we keep a vision of the Kingdom of God at the centre of all we do, we cannot go far wrong. This lively and liberating book includes a brilliant take on Jesus' teaching in 'The Beatitudes for Ambitious Leaders'. Here Emma Ineson describes key spiritual dispositions that will enable us - whether in the church or living out our vocation elsewhere - to do just that.

Join the Cheeky Pandas - CJ, Lulu, Benji, Rory, and Milo – for a fun, action-packed everyday adventure at their treehouse music studio.

The recording company keep sending gifts to the Cheeky Pandas, including a top of the range drum machine that pumps out beats. Benji is sad that he is no longer needed as a drummer in the band. Will the other Cheeky Pandas help Benji find joy and discover that joyful thoughts can always be found deep within by knowing Jesus?

Filled with lively and colourful pictures and based on the free online animation, Cheeky Pandas®, Cheeky Pandas: The Drum Machine encourages children to think about what it means to be joyful.

Cheeky Pandas® provide free online resources to help children and families grow in their faith. The songs, music videos, episodes and devotionals are fun, bright, professionally written and produced. Families, churches and ministries around the world can access and directly watch these resources. .

To find out more go to: https://cheekypandas.com/

In most churches, Christian education for children is run by enthusiastic volunteers from the worshipping community. But how much support and training do they receive? Do they get the opportunity to explore and apply principles of child development or current theories of faith development? And to what extent are they supported by their ministers and congregations with a clear focus on children's work?

Including empirical research and drawing on the author's extensive experience of working with children, Faith in Children offers a window into the process going on inside our children and enables those who work with them to understand what makes a particular child tick.

With insights into a range of teaching methods, learning styles and the unique spirituality of children, this book suggests how adults can truly learn from children as they learn from us.

There are tips for ministers and educators on how this precious teaching and nurturing resource can be sustained and used to work with children in a more effective manner. Through this increasing knowledge and understanding, adults can come closer to understanding children understanding God.

July 1540. The courts of Europe are stunned to hear that Henry VIII has executed his all-powerful minister, Thomas Cromwell.

Poet and classicist Nicholas Bourbon is sent from the cultured court of Queen Marguerite of Navarre to investigate. Thrust into a turbulent world of religious, political and personal rivalries, his travels take him far and wide. He endures perils at sea, incarceration in a monastic prison and poisonous intrigue in the Tudor court. Yet this retiring scholar cannot abandon a quest which steadily becomes an obsession, drawing him ever deeper into the beliefs and motivations of his mysterious quarry.

Only after facing many hazards does he discover the astonishing secret that unlocks the Cromwell enigma.

This thrilling historical novel blends fact and fiction together seamlessly to deliver a novel about Thomas Cromwell rich in description and history. A real page turner for those who are fans of Hilary Mantel and Alison Weir, The Cromwell Enigma will captivate anyone with an interest in the Tudor period. This is historical fiction at its finest as Derek Wilson delivers an engaging narrative on the life and mystery of Thomas Cromwell.

'Brilliant, witty, and full of down-to-earth humour... The perfect 'church hall' anecdotal read' JB Gill, TV Presenter

Songs of Praise presenter is back with another thrilling read and an unputdownable series centered on a Victorian church hall and Kath, its brash and inexperienced administrator.

There's never a dull moment at Hope Hall. Its rooms are filled throughout the day with gossipy grandmas, body-popping teenagers, and a nursery group where it's the grown-ups who are near to tears!

But it's all in a day's work for administrator, Kath, whose job it is to make sure Hope Hall offers something for everyone! As the team works to pull off their ambitious Hope Hall Centenary Easter Monday Fayre, Kath realizes reinforcements are needed. Brash, loud and inexperienced though she may be, Kath has a feeling that Shirley might be just the ticket! The Fayre is a triumph but when Kath's old flame comes back on the scene, she's faced with some tough choices. Will Kath make the right decision?

Unedited. Unchanged. Unlike ever before.

The latest of the four-part film series which, word for word, recreates the gospels in their entirety through the most authentic portrayal to-date.

Breaking the cinematic tradition of Jesus being played by a white, English speaking actor, the Lumo project pours its efforts to create the truest account of the four Gospels as possible. Using the very latest digital technology to create seamless miracles and realistic re-buildings of Jerusalem, as well as other towns and cities, the four-part series is able to do more than was ever possible before.

Not only with computers do the people behind the Lumo Project create a tangible 1st century Holy Land. Using the latest research in history, theology, and archaeology, they are able to create a series filled with a rugged authenticity.

Despite all the technological wizardry and thorough research, there is one thing that is always kept at the heart of these adaptations:

The Gospel.

Each film present's the text of its Gospel unedited. No words changed, added, or taken away.

They are simply narrated in both NIV and KJv by famed actors David Thelfall (Master and Commander) and Stephen Tompkinson (Wild at Heart) as the film's population all speak in the correct, era-appropriate, Hebrew.

'The most important bits are here!'
Jeremy Vine

Highly readable and filled with dynamic illustrations, The Bible in a Flash is the perfect children's Bible to introduce young readers aged 8-10 to God's Word.

This abridged version of the NLT Children's Bible will take children on an expedition through the most famous Bible stories from Genesis to Revelation, so they can see how the story of the Bible fits together. The clear, easy-to-read New Living Translation text is ideal for primary school aged children beginning to read by themselves, or for families to read together with younger children at bedtime or story-time.

The Bible in a Flash is composed entirely from the words of the Bible itself, and also features biblical poems, prayers and teachings. Children will gain new insight into how many familiar Bible stories make up one seamless tale from creation to the end of time, enabling them to engage with faith and church in a fresh way.

With fun, energetic illustrations from Becka Moor bringing to life beloved Bible characters and scenes on every page, this is a children's Bible that will captivate a new generation of readers as they discover the amazing Bible stories that can be read a bit at a time - or all the way through in a flash!

Timeless, powerful Bible stories from the Old and New Testament are faithfully retold in this Children's Bible from the Friends and Heroes collection.

Bible stories are full of truths about God's relationship with people, and how lives are changed by showing courage, faith, and hope as they trust and are guided by God. Discover the great stories of faithful followers such as Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel and Esther, and the prophets Elijah and Elisha, the life and teachings of Jesus, and the further adventures of his apostles, such as Peter and Paul. With Bible references, the significant details are retold so that children can engage and be inspired with the powerful message of God's plans and promises fulfilled.

Illustrations of the Bible stories are taken from the epic animated Friends and Heroes videos for 6-10 year olds that brings the inspiring stories of the Old and New Testament to a new, worldwide generation of children in the twenty-first century, whatever their faith or background.

Let Antonia Woodward's beautiful retelling take young children aged 3 to 5 years back to the heart of the very first Easter.

Jesus made sick people well, made food for thousands, and cared for the lonely and the needy.

He was like no one else, and the people believed the Promised One - God-on-earth - had arrived. Others were not so sure. But God always has a plan.

This is the story of God's plan, and how Jesus came for everyone, everywhere, for all time.

This colourful and softly illustrated picture book is a perfect bedtime book for reading during Easter or for sharing with a group of children from Palm Sunday to Ascension.

'Read this for the chapter on Hillsborough alone' JEREMY VINE

'Makes a powerful plea for the "earthing" of God's vision of justice' BARONESS HALE

'A plentiful source of comfort, strength and, most importantly, hope' ANDY BURNHAM

For twenty-five years, Bishop James Jones has been working on the frontlines to try and create a more just and merciful world. In Justice for Christ's Sake, he reflects on the work he has been a part of and the ways in which justice and faith go hand in hand.

With touching honesty, he tells of his time as a Bishop and his role on three key independent panels into matters of national conscience - including chairing the panel that investigated the Hillsborough Disaster of 1989, when ninety-six Liverpool football fans tragically lost their lives. All the dimensions of justice that James has experienced - environmental, social, racial, political and judicial - are vividly conveyed, as he offers up the lessons he has learned in his search for a better, fairer way to live and how the answers might be found in the teachings of Jesus.

Justice for Christ's Sake is a remarkable and fascinating Christian memoir, that offers a unique perspective on some of the most significant inquiries of the last three decades. It is a book that encourages us all in our longing for justice, with insight born from first-hand experience, and will leave you with a better of understanding of events that have shaped conversations on justice in Britain.

Most of us long deep down for a fairer world, however selfishly we may act on occasions. James Jones reassures us that we are not alone and that we can all be part of the fight for justice for Christ's sake.

In 'Slaying the Dragons', professor and member of the Faculty of History at Wadham College, Oxford, Allan Chapman examines the claims of the 'New Atheists that: religion really belongs to an earlier phase of human development, and that nowadays science has taken its place as the yardstick of authority. But are science and religion friends or foes? There are a great many scientists of the highest intellectual distinction - ranging from cosmology to medical research, who make no bones about their faith and cannot understand what the 'New Atheists' are getting so worked up about.

Chapman explores whether anything has changed in the nature of scientific discovery to allow for the modern atheistic interpretations of science that did not exist in the past. He also examines whether or not modern discoveries in biology, brain science, cosmology and physics seriously undermine religious belief.

In this study, Allan Chapman examines popular misunderstandings about key events in the history of science-faith relations. He covers the major episodes such as Galileo's trial, the Wilberforce-Huxley debate and the Scopes trial of 1925, but also looks further back through the medieval period to the Classical age, revealing how these events have acquired mythical and misleading status.

Asking if religious modern scientists just the fools that new atheists paint them to be, or are the latter just so blind in their dogmatic brain-washing that they cannot see the bigger world beyond their test-tubes, 'Slaying the Dragons' exposes the atheists' worn-out tale which itself goes back centuries, and which they are trying to spice up with big helpings of rhetoric and ridicule.

The great stories of the Bible have been treasured for generations.

They are astonishing and inspiring tales of people who came to know and believe in God, and the miracles and teachings of Jesus. Most of all, they tell of the love of God.

This collection of 30 favourite stories are selected from the Old Testament and the New Testament and retold by acclaimed writer and dramatist Brian Sibley. Stylish and witty illustrations by Stephen Waterhouse make the book a visual treat to enjoy while reading and sharing with children.

A practical, engaging devotional Bible for families to share, explore, and respond to the stories together.

Based on the successful and cherished stories from The Lion Storyteller Bible by Bob Hartman, interactive elements work alongside the original stories to encourage children to think, engage, and make connections with their lives. Writing elements and questions relevant to school and family life encourage a shared reading and discussion experience for the whole family.

Explore the setting, characters, and situation in Bible stories, seeing God working through them, and thinking about how you would react in the same situation, and what God wants them to do. Spark discussion about faith and trusting God as problems arise and solutions are found, looking for God in every day, and involving God in family decision-making.

With Bible references to encourage the next step to reading an actual Bible and prayer prompts and making time to listen to God. An ideal resource to support parents and carers to share their faith with children.

'Sister Wendy’s deep and insightful commentaries are utterly unique. You will want this splendid book for yourself but also to give to others.' Delia Smith

Hailed by The New York Times in 1997 as 'the most unlikely and famous art critic in the history of television', Sister Wendy Beckett went on to present numerous TV documentaries and published over thirty popular books on art history and appreciation.

Shortly before she died in December 2018, and nearly thirty years on from her first book, Sister Wendy was working with SPCK on an anthology of her all-time favourite paintings. The result is this enthralling collection, which will delight her many fans all over the world while also inspiring a new generation of art lovers as they develop their understanding of the depths and subtleties of some of the world's greatest works of art.

Ten silly Santas
At the north North Pole
One Santa cracked the ice
And fell down through a hole.

Find out what happened to the nine other silly Santas in this brand-new, fun-filled collection of Christmas poems for children.

Written by one of the nation's favourite children’s poets, Ten Silly Santas captures both the joy and the angst of the Christmas season - making you laugh out loud while also prompting you to quietly reflect on the mystery that lies at the heart of it all.

'Great poems. Lovely book!'
Charlie Mackesy

This is a book for all preachers (of any denomination), be they ordained, readers, students preparing for a preaching ministry, or lay people called on to deliver a sermon from time to time.

In his introduction, David Day describes the ambivalence in churches about preaching. He goes on to help preachers construct and deliver addresses that draw the practice closer to the high theology we hold of the sermon as the 'word of God'. The author believes that the best and most effective preaching is biblical, and several chapters focus on how to draw our message authentically from scripture. He also gives plenty of practical help on the craft of preaching. And in doing so, he is courageous enough to expose some of his own sermons as examples of good or (occasionally) bad practice, as well as sermons from fifty or so preachers who are equally brave in offering their own efforts.

'David Day is a superb communicator. His style is economical, vivid, subtle and clear, and he uses those gifts to help others discover their own voice.'
Anvil

'This is perhaps the best book I have ever been asked to review. It is practical, packed with relevant exercises, clear, non-technical and often very funny.'
The Reader

Having it all together is a myth. Thank God, His grace is real - and it's time to take the pressure off...

Every day we are bombarded with messages that tell us we have to be productive, powerful, perfect. And the Church is no exception.

The Good News of Jesus says that we are saved by grace but for Monique Thomas the gravity of this message didn't sink in until over six years after she first became a Christian. Throughout her time at Bible college, she soon learnt that much of what she had learnt from church culture simply added an extra layer of pressure to that already placed on her by society: do more, strive more, be more.

This book is for every person who desperately needs to understand the real Gospel: God has grace for us in our mess, not just in the moments we get out of it.

A delightful retelling of the story of Daniel in the Lions' Den, especially for under 5s.

It features full-colour photographic spreads of the characters from the award-winning Big Bible Storybook.

This board book is perfectly sized for small hands, with short text for a parent or carer to read to the child.

The book of Acts recounts the birth of the Church and the ministry of the earliest disciples. It is arguably one of the most exciting books in the New Testament; it tells of a shipwreck, a prison escape and political squabbles.

The book of Acts also occupies a place of critical importance in the New Testament. The Gospels tell us about the earthly ministry of Jesus of Nazareth while Acts continues the story of the people who believed in him. It thus bridges the gap between the Jesus of history and the Jesus of faith. It is an immensely valuable historical record of the early Church, a rich source of theological wisdom and a powerful testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

In this helpful guide, the section-by-section commentary draws out the historical, theological and pastoral significance of the biblical text. There are also four theological essays that highlight the relevance of the book of Acts today. Clear and helpful maps and study suggestions at the end of each chapter make A Commentary on Acts ideal for students on Biblical Study courses, and for anyone wishing to learn more about this thrilling New Testament book.

A long time ago, a long way away, some very clever men discovered a very exciting promise!

In Bethlehem, under the quiet night sky, an Extra Special Baby was born.

Let Antonia Woodward's beautiful retelling of the Nativity story take you back to the excitement of that very first Christmas night. Read about the baby that was so extra special that life on earth would change forever, in this exquisitely illustrated Christmas picture book, full of warmth.

From the same author-illustrator as the popular Would You Like to Know Jesus?, this little paperback book explains to children what the Bible is and why it is so important, in a way that is easy to understand.

The illustrations show children with the Bible and help the reader to relate to the concepts in the book. The book includes a presentation page and it makes a fantastic little gift or award.

Bible Promises for Baby's Dedication is an elegant and thoughtful keepsake gift book for a baby on the special occasion of their dedication.

This charming Dedication gift book contains promises that are simple and affirming. The celebration of gathering together to welcome a new baby into your family and into the church will be remembered and treasured with this wonderful keepsake book for the occasion.

This adorable little book is full of words from the Bible and encouraging prayers that a child can grow to treasure. Share these words of God's love with the child who is special to you and let them know that they are cherished by you and forever held in God's care through their faith journey.

An activity book based on the story of the first Christmas retold in Share a Story Bible.

24 pages of simple early learning activities such as counting, colouring, I spy, sorting, following lines, and matching and includes stickers ideal for young children aged 2-4 years.

This activity book provides a fun first step of engaging with the story of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the shepherds. The illustrations by Jennifer Davison are bold, bright and appealing.

Florence Nightingale is remembered in history for the part she played in nursing wounded soldiers during the Crimean War and is often credited as the founder of modern nursing.

In this brand new introduction, Lynn McDonald explores the social, political and religious factors that formed the original context of her life and writings such as her faith in a secular world, the Crimean War and the founding of a new profession, before considering how those factors affected the way she was initially received before turning to the intellectual and cultural 'afterlife' of Florence Nightingale.

Part One: The History (What do we know?) This brief historical introduction to Florence Nightingale explores the social, political and religious factors that formed the original context of her life and writings, and considers how those factors affected the way she was initially received. What was her impact on the world at the time and what were the key ideas and values connected with her?

Part Two: The Legacy (Why does it matter?) This second part explores the intellectual and cultural 'afterlife' of Florence Nightingale, and considers the ways in which her impact has lasted and been developed in different contexts by later generations. Why is she still considered important today? In what ways is her legacy contested or resisted? And what aspects of her legacy are likely to continue to influence the world in the future?

The book has a brief chronology at the front plus a list of further reading at the back.

In the third book in the series, Joseph finds himself in Egypt and is sold to a very important man called Potiphar.

Potiphar is very busy and his servants are very lazy - as a result his house is a mess! With the help of his ever-helpful cow companions, Joseph soon takes charge and has things spick-and-span in no time.

There's only one problem - and that is Mrs Potiphar, who is jealous of Joseph. What scrapes will Joseph get into next?

A valuable resource for clergy and those looking to study the words from the Eucharist this book tackles the questions and meanings behind the language of Common Worship.

Popular author Paula Gooder and liturgical expert Michael Perham come together to bring wisdom and insight to the words so familiar to many.

The book takes the shape of the texts as they are found in Common Worship and includes brief reflections on each section.

"Fans of medieval mysteries will revel in Starr's lively blending of intriguing suspense and telling historical detail." - Library Journal

It is the autumn of 1367. Master Hugh is enjoying the peaceful life of Bampton, when a badly beaten man is found under the porch of St. Andrew's Chapel.

The dying man is a chapman - a traveling merchant. Before he is buried in the chapel grounds, an ancient, corroded coin is found in the man's mouth.

Master Hugh's quest for the chapman's assailants, and his search for the origin of the coin, makes steady progress - but there are men of wealth and power who wish to halt his search, and an old nemesis, Sir Simon Trillowe, is in league with them.

But Master Hugh, and his assistant, the groom Arthur, are determined to uncover the thieves and murderers, and the source of the chapman's coin. They do, but not before they become involved with a kidnapped maiden, a tyrannical abbot, and a suffering monk - who needs Master Hugh's surgical skills and in return provides clues which assist Hugh in solving the mystery of the tainted coin.

From the same author-illustrator as the popular Would You Like to Know Jesus?, this little paperback book explains to children what the Bible is and why it is so important, in a way that is easy to understand.

The illustrations show children with the Bible and help the reader to relate to the concepts in the book. The book includes a presentation page and it makes a fantastic little gift or award.

Throughout history, scientists have made discoveries and tested hypotheses that have revolutionised the way that we see the world. Our industry has been shaped by the discovery of electricity and the invention of machines; our understanding of the world has deepened as we have had gravity and the magnetic forces that govern the earth explained to us.

Century after century, big questions about our earth, nature around us, and the way our bodies work have been posed and gradually, or sometimes dramatically, answered.

Yet, there are still further questions to be asked.

What is science?

What is it for?

Why do we have the need to continually be exploring the answers to more questions

Authors Tom McLeish and David Hutchings examine the story of science, and look at the part that Christian faith has played in that history. As they tell the stories of discovery after discovery, they reveal a powerful underlying reason for doing science in the first place. They argue that Christianity has been involved with and sometimes directly responsible for some of the biggest leaps forward in scientific history.

'The Peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and the love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.'

The Book of Common Prayer, with local variations, is still used in churches inside and outside the Anglican Communion in over 50 countries and in over 150 languages.

The Rise and Fall of the Incomparable Liturgy is the first study to trace the evolution and reception of the BCP, from the Elizabethan settlement of 1559 to the Royal Commission report of 1906, when work on a new prayer book was begun.

Written by a world authority, here is an illuminating and highly readable account of the ascent and decline of a world classic, which still informs our common language as well as much of the great literature of the past four centuries. It will appeal not only to students of liturgy but also to general readers interested in history, literature, theology and cultural studies.

A boundary-breaking devotional for 7-11 years that aims to help children know who they are in Christ.

There are so many distractions in life and it's easy to look for answers in all the wrong places, yet this book is an encouragement to look towards Jesus - no matter what's up!

Engaging and fun, easy to read and accessible to all, the hopeful and reassuring words within this book tackle topical issues that young people face. Filled with inspiring Bible verses, purposeful prayers and space to reflect, What's Up facilitates spending time with God and helps to explore our God-given identity. The fun style of the book is eye-catching, and uses a range of engaging, child friendly graphics to bring to life the real-life stories told. This devotional also includes fun facts, challenges and opportunities to reflect and grow.

Based on a range of experiences, Joanna has shared 30 encouragements that speak directly to some of the adventures and setbacks that tweens face as they grow and walk along their path in life. Whether it is reassuring those who lack confidence and are feeling left out, those facing challenging and uncertain choices, or young readers who need reminding that they are important, valuable and heard, the very personal voice of Joanna shines through the pages of this book, supporting, guiding and encouraging readers, whilst being open and honest-rather like a big sister.

Joining Joanna, in cheering all readers on and offering encouragements from their own unique perspectives, are some of Joanna's friends - Rhys Stephenson (TV presenter), Emma Borquaye (Girlgotfaith), Pete Sheath (Creative media director) and Tracy Wood (Salvation Army Children's worker).

What's up is also available as an eBook, and an audiobook with the devotional content read by the author herself, so enabling even the most reluctant of readers to engage with the content.

The New Living Translation is an authoritative version of scripture, rendered faithfully into today's English by an international team of over 90 leading biblical scholars.

The translation conveys the message of the original texts in clear, contemporary language. Its guiding principle is to render words and phrases as simply and literally as possible when that approach yields an accurate, consistent and natural English text, thus preserving literary devices, metaphors and word choices that give structure and provide meaningful connections between different passages.

The result is a translation that is both exegetically accurate and idiomatically powerful, making it eminently suitable for both private and public use.

Features:
- 8.15 point More Pro font
- Two-column layout with 12mm margins
- Printed laminated gloss binding
- Lay-flat binding
- Soft tone, debossed cover
- White paper with printed endpapers and ribbon

This clear and practical approach will enable anyone to read the Bible better.

Tackles the key questions that people ask about the Bible. Courteous and humorous style helps break through preconceptions. Explains all its references (and, indeed, how the Bible is referred to).

Suitable for individual use or in study or book groups Bible reading for everyone - that's what this book offers! It will speak to those who already read the Bible but find themselves asking why; and to those who don't read the Bible but would like to if only it weren't so strange.

It explains what the Bible is, offers an overview of what is found in it, and addresses questions people ask, such as: Does science disprove the Bible? Why is there so much violence in the Bible? What does the Bible say about sex?

The author also presents an account of reading the Bible in the context of a life of faith and suggests how the Bible might be integrated with a life of prayer.

Starting in the first century with St Paul and ending in the twentieth with St Oscar Romero, Rowan Williams invites you to reflect with him on the lives and legacies of twenty great Christians - saints, martyrs, poets, theologians and social reformers.

Their stories and writings have profoundly influenced his own life and thought, and this sequence of short reflections is sure to sharpen your theological vision and cast a fresh light on what it means to live and breathe the gospel.

Included among these 'luminaries' are Augustine of Hippo, William Tyndale, Teresa of Avila, Charles Dickens, Florence Nightingale, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Simone Weil.

Let these brilliant meditations light your way as you follow the footsteps of the faithful who have gone before.

With an introduction by Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh, The Way of a Pilgrim presents one of Russia's greatest spiritual classics of Christian truth in prose of genuine beauty.

In The Way of a Pilgrim, an unknown pilgrim describes his wanderings through mid-nineteenth century Russia and Siberia, from one holy place to another, in search of the way of prayer.

R.M. French's superb translation conveys the charm of the original text, as well as brilliantly communicating the spiritual truths of the gospel. In the much-loved sequel, The Pilgrim Continues His Way, the narrator shares more of his story, as desire burns within him to discover deeper experiences of prayer, and to draw closer to the heart of God.

At a time when there are often as many adults as young people preparing for confirmation, the concept of notes written in adult language, which the younger candidate can grow into, is particularly appropriate for today's needs.

The growing number of adult study groups, working through mutual questioning within group discussions, will find it helpful to have these clear succinct notes about the content of Christian belief and practice.

Few books have been more influential in confirmation preparation than Hugh Montefiore's 'Confirmation Notebook', written while he was vicar of the University Church in Cambridge.

After five editions, with nineteen printings of the fifth edition alone, the notebook is now in a handy pocket-sized format that includes space at the end of each chapter for notes. Existing chapters have been updated and, in most cases, enlarged, while new chapters have been added on 'Common Worship', Christian festivals and fasts, Christian responsibilities, Christian behaviour, and the Christian view on sex and marriage.

A practical book that outlines (at a lay level) current thinking on child development and spirituality, and brings them together to propose effective ways to work with children in the church.

This book engages with the ideas of Godly Play, an approach developed by Jerome Berryman in the US and gaining ground and enthusiasts among those involved in faith development here, and puts them into a UK context.

The grounding in theory and the case histories from the author's own work fill out a rounded picture.

Explore a comprehensive book that connects child development theories with spirituality, providing insights and methods for nurturing children's faith in church environments.

'Martin's book is the delighted exclamation of someone who has learnt - is learning - to swim in the ocean that is Orthodoxy: "Come on in; it is lovely here!"' Andrew Louth

Until now, there has been little in the way of an accessible guide for those who seek to become or live as Orthodox Christians. A new convert himself, Martin Dudley is familiar with the questions, feelings and challenges that arise.

He explains that, to grasp Orthodoxy, we must think and act as the Orthodox do. This involves suspending the Western analytical tendency and allowing free rein to the synthetic tendency, which enables us to detect a unity and perceive, however dimly, the interaction between the parts and the whole in relation to God and the Church.

The author draws on a wealth of material, from the Church Fathers to straight-talking Mother Thekla, to explore the essentials of belief. He provides guidance on participating in the Liturgy, the requirements for fasting, confession and Orthodox prayer.

In celebrating the culture of Orthodoxy - shaped by many different ethnicities and languages, gloriously expressed in art, music and literature - this volume fully conveys the rigour and joy of becoming and being Orthodox.

An illustrated reader retelling the story of Jesus' friends being afraid in the storm even though Jesus was in the boat with them. But God cares and Jesus woke up and told the storm to be still.

A reassuring story to help young children talk to parents or those who care for them about their fears, when they are afraid, and that Jesus is always with them.

The 'God cares' series provides a Biblical approach to discussing emotions and behaviour with children to nurture an attitude of wellness.

Children at different ages approach things differently in their stages of emotional development, so this series works at two different levels: illustrated Readers aimed at 6-8 year olds and Chapter books aimed at 8+ years. Please note that children progress at different reading abilities and stages of emotional development so the age ranges are only a guide for parents and carers. The Bible stories are retold reflecting on the emotions and encourages children to discuss and relate this within their situations. Sections at the back provide a reflective space for children and practical advice for parents and carers.

Debbie Duncan, author of The Art of Daily Resilience and Brave, is a nurse and a teacher, and mother of four children. She has considerable insight into what constitutes resilience and bravery: the ability to cope, to stay on course, to bounce back. In her books she considers what is required for physical, mental, and spiritual durability, interweaving biblical teaching, prayers, with personal anecdote and sound advice. This she now applies specifically to support parents and carers raising children.