SPCK Publishing

John Muir is regarded as the 'father of America's national parks' and is a towering figure in the history of that country's involvement with ecology.

Born into a harsh home in Dunbar, Scotland he would often escape to revel in the birds and wildlife of the area. When his father suddenly uprooted the family and moved to the United States, the oppression he associated with his childhood continued - and so did his involvement with the natural world.

Despite the difficulty of his formative years Muir grew up to be a man of great joy - first an inventor and then an explorer, he found his haven in the mountains of Sierra Nevada. He was a fascinating character: on the one hand a recluse, who sought solitude, and on the other a passionate activist, determined to save the places he loved.

A strong believer in both God and the essential goodness of humanity, he was the founder and first president of the Sierra Club. This wonderful memoir pays tribute to a giant of ecology and is essential reading for lovers of natural history.

'Two thousand and twenty years after the birth of Christ, we remain the children of the Christian revolution: the most disruptive, the most influential and the most enduring revolution in history.'
Tom Holland

It is often observed that no historical figure has had a greater impact on the world than Jesus Christ. Why is that? And what difference does his impact make to the world today?

It is also often said that Jesus was a 'revolutionary', and numerous books have appeared in recent years claiming just that - from the wild and sensational to the serious and respectable.

This book, written by influential authors reflecting a diversity of expertise and points of view, considers the claims that continue to be made about Jesus, whether by believers or nonbelievers.

Contributors:

Julian Baggini
Philosopher, journalist and co-founder of The Philosophers' Magazine. Author of The Godless Gospel: Was Jesus a Great Moral Teacher? (Granta 2020).

Terry Eagleton
Distinguished Professor of English Literature, Lancaster University. Author of Radical Sacrifice (Yale 2018).

Robin Gill
Emeritus Professor of Applied Theology, University of Kent. Editor of the journal Theology and of The Cambridge Companion to Christian Ethics (CUP 2011).

Amy-Jill Levine
University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies and Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies, Vanderbilt Divinity School and College of Arts and Science. Author of The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus (HarperOne 2006).

Tarif Khalidi
Professor of Islamic and Arabic Studies, American University of Beirut; formerly Professor of Arabic and a fellow of King's College, Cambridge. Translator of The Qur'an (Penguin Classics 2013),and author The Muslim Jesus (Harvard 2003).

Nick Spencer
Senior Fellow, Theos, London Author of The Evolution of the West (SPCK 2016).

Joan E. Taylor
Professor of Christian Origins and Second Temple Judaism, King's College London. Author of What Did Jesus Look Like? (Bloomsbury 2018).

Rowan Williams
Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge and 104th Archbishop of Canterbury (2002-12). Author of God With Us: The meaning of the cross and resurrection - then and now (SPCK 2017).

A. N. Wilson
Novelist, journalist and broadcaster. Author of The Book of the People: How to read the Bible (Atlantic 2015).

An essential feature of successful counselling is the ability to listen and respond well to the information being given in an interview.

In this book, the author shows how this ability may take away the need for leading and advising, creating a counselling encounter that is constructive and helpful.

Leaders, whether clerical or lay, teachers or managers, doctors or social workers, frequently see their role as one of communication, but in the excitement of communicating, forget that theirs are not the only important voices.

The primary purpose of this book is to emphasize the necessity of learning to listen as well as to speak, and to respond to what is said and what is omitted.

Rachel Waddilove has worked for many years as a nanny and private maternity nurse; her clients include celebrities, politicians and royalty.

In this book, she draws on her considerable professional and personal experience to advise young parents on everything they need to know about looking after a baby in its first year. Areas covered include: needs for the nursery, coming home from hospital, breast feeding vs bottle feeding, establishing a routine, sleep, crying and introducing solid food.

In addition to the host of practical information given, Rachel also considers the emotional and social aspects of becoming parents. Rachel's down-to-earth style and wealth of experience makes this an essential guide for new parents, expectant parents and all who want the best for the children in their care.

In this new edition to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Baby Book, Rachel has fully revised and updated the text, and written a new chapter about travelling with a baby.

Written by bestselling author and TV presenter Katie Piper OBE, and with delightful and vibrant illustrations, children will love to join Teeny on this Christmas adventure.

Teeny Mouse is wrapping presents to take to the feast at Grandmouse's house. But on her way she gives her gifts to some friends in need. By the time Teeny gets to the party, will she have anything left to give to Grandmouse?

Join Teeny on this Christmas journey that reminds us that the greatest gift you can ever give to someone is your love.

Also in the Teeny Mouse Adventure series is All You Need, about finding courage and having faith in yourself when trying out new things, and Together We are Stronger, a celebration of friendship, diversity and teamwork.

Praise for All You Need, Teeny Mouse's first adventure:

'So inspiring!' Joe Wicks (aka The Body Coach)

Praise for Katie Piper OBE...

'Katie radiates positivity! One of the most inspiring women I know. A must-read to brighten up your days!' - Laura Whitmore, author and presenter

'Katie embodies strength, resilience and positivity' - Alice Liveing, personal trainer, author and Instagrammer

'Faith, positivity and spirituality can be such a powerful tool in life. No-one epitomises this more than Katie Piper does' - Nadia Sawalha, TV presenter and personality

An elegantly illustrated collection of ten favourite Bible stories with an interesting twist.

Margaret McAllister imaginatively retells these tales from the point of view of the women involved: Noah's wife, Miriam, Ruth, Mary mother of Jesus, Pilate's wife, Mary Magdalene are among some of the women who put their side of the story forward.

A stylish compilation of Bible stories with a difference, this is a perfect gift for girls and boys alike.

Popular author Margaret Silf introduces you to the seven traditional 'sacred spaces' - reflect on practises and scripture.

There are many books that explore actual, physical, sacred space and pilgrimage sites. This is a different kind of book. It introduces seven traditional 'sacred spaces' but then leads readers into a deeper reflection on what such 'sacred space' means in our own lives and experience.

The various sacred spaces explored are: the Celtic Cross; the infinite knot; hilltops; wells and springs; causeways and bridges; thresholds and burial grounds; and boundaries.

In each chapter, the author introduces a 'sacred space' as the main theme and then illustrates this by associating it with a particular stage of life and a particular sacramental experience. The ideas are then brought together by means of a scripture story.

Christians today are becoming more and more interested in studying the roots of their faith and the development of the church.

Finally there is an accessible but authoritative series every Christian can turn The Monarch History of the Church. Readers will not merely learn the basics but also examines much-ignored themes, such as the role of popular religion, women, and the history of the Bible.

In volume one, The Birth of the Church, Ivor J. Davidson helps readers explores the first 300 years of church history using the most recent biblical research and historical scholarship. This highly readable series also examines recurring problems of the church, like its relationship with the state, other religions, and secularism.

The Monarch History of the Church is an eight-volume series by world-renowned historians and theologians.

Each volume offers an even-handed, comprehensive and readable assessment of the main strands of Christianity within its period.

God has given us lots of clues about how He made the world. This is how we think He did it.

Discover how our world was made, beginning with His amazing stars. Follow the process of how Earth was formed and filled with amazing life.

The 'God made' series encourages young children to explore and discover the world around them and tells them about the loving God who made it all. Scientific ideas about how and why everything was created are simply explained through the lively narrative and wonderful illustrations, leaving children marvelling at God's creativity, love and power.

With additional information by the Faraday Institute about Science and the Bible for parents to open up discussion and some simple science experiments to engage budding young scientists.

This shrink-wrapped pack of 10 copies of Jonah and the Whale enables easy multiple-purchase of a key Bible story.

This is one of 12 key Bible stories that have been made available as part of the Bible Story Time My Little Library. Each story is retold in about 500 words with bright and cheerful pictures.

In this exhilarating book, John Pritchard reclaims the narrative power of the gospels by retelling well-known stories in vivid, imaginative language, and showing us how our own stories fit into the Christian story and can be transformed by it.

He takes key narratives like the visit of Mary to Elizabeth, the parable of the rich fool, and the Last Supper, and helps us to be part of them.

We are given the opportunity to see the people involved more clearly, not least of all Jesus himself - and so to consider whether we might live our own lives a little differently.

An ideal resource for anyone concerned to communicate the Christian faith in a lively, contemporary style, Living the Gospel Stories Today will prove no less helpful as an aid to personal meditation and group discussion.

Share God's love and the beauty and power of Bible verses with little ones.

God is Everywhere is a heartwarming picture book that introduces young children to the reassuring messages found in Bible verses. Each of the three Bible verses are woven into a lyrical narrative with key repetitive phrases and applied to young children's daily lives.

The Bible verses are based on:
You are a Child of God
Memory verse: "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!" (1 John 3 verse 1)
Never Fear, God is Near!
Memory verse: Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1 verse 9)
Love God, Love All.
Memory verse: Jesus replied, "You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind... Love your neighbour as yourself." (Matthew 22 verses 37, 39)

At the end of the three narratives are some reassuring discussion points and activities to help children remember each memory verse.

Beautiful story-telling illustrations showing activities of young children's everyday lives at home, at school, and out and about.

Some Daily Prayers for Church of England People - the product of decades of parish ministry - hits the spot in many crucial areas.

Laid out in a way that makes a daily pattern of prayer possible and sustainable, it has a wealth of common-sense teaching about faith and the practice of it, and an imaginative and catholic selection of material.

Over 100,000 copies sold since first publication, and a perfect confirmation present.

'I cannot recommend this book too highly. It could be used as a gift to any kind of enquirer and searcher with complete confidence.'
Andrew Hawes, Warden, Edenham Retreat House

'A publishing phenomenon [that has] occupied the Church Times best-seller lists for many weeks.'
Church Times

This highly successful children's Bible provides a story for each day of the year for 7 to 11 year olds.

The artwork is truly attractive and of the very highest quality, warm and bright, giving fresh perspectives on the classic stories.

Each story has approximately 250 words is complemented by a matching prayer.

The Bible features full Bible references on each page as well as a 'story finder' to help the reader choose a story to suit the occasion, making this a complete resource and enable further exploration of the Bible as the child grows up.

The Malines Conversations are often described as a precursor to the theological dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion initiated after the Second Vatican Council.

The fruit of a friendship between a French priest and an English aristocrat, Cardinal Mercier's initial invitation in 1921 to a group of thinkers from both communions led to several rounds of discussion focused on issues that have long divided Catholics and Anglicans.

Since 2013, an informal and international group of Anglican and Catholic friends, known as the Malines Conversations Group, has been meeting annually for discussion and fellowship.

This volume represents the fruit of some of these conversations. The informal nature of the group allows for wide-ranging interrogation of diverse topics. The discussions acted as a kind of theological laboratory, enabling us to explore afresh some of the issues at stake both between and within our churches.

This volume of essays includes contributions from sacramental theologians, liturgists, ecclesiologists, historians and philosophers. Most are actively involved in Christian ministry.

Interspersed throughout are very short reflections from other theologians and Church leaders who have participated in the conversations as guests over the last decade.

In the words of Rowan Williams' epilogue, the hope and prayer of the contributors is that 'this celebration and exploration of the heritage of Malines [might] give us again the grace of being surprised by the gift of Catholic communion.'

What scares you to death? Terminal illness? Financial ruin? Loss of someone dear? For everyone whose life has been crippled by anxiety, here is a book about finding freedom.

Pat Palau provides practical, tangible ways to make progress.

Fear incapacitates; it strangles the life out of us. Her book guides the reader to those passages in the Bible that comfort, strengthen, and encourage. She provides trustworthy steps to get you moving again - despite and through your fear. Readers will understand their fear and its root causes; adopt practical, tangible tools to overcome fear; and begin new healthy life habits.

Fear does not need to choke your life. Jesus Christ has already paved the way for your freedom.

'This book is electric. Meg Warner has that rare knack of using personal story to bring the biblical story to life... It makes for compulsive reading.'
Nicholas Holtam, Bishop of Salisbury

You may think you know the story of Joseph, but this book will make you think again! It invites you to think deeply about Joseph’s character and how he responds to the traumatic events that threaten to overwhelm him. Lacing her commentary with telling anecdotes from her own life story, Meg Warner shows how a deeper understanding of Joseph's story can help you develop the vital quality of resilience: the will and the strength to endure life's hardships and rise above the effects of trauma whenever it may strike.

'With characteristic deftness, disarming honesty and exegetical skill, Meg Warner makes the story of Joseph a parable for our lives and times.'
Sam Wells, Vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields, London

'A great read for individuals, this book is also an invaluable resource for groups.'
Liz Boase, University of Divinity, Australia

'There is not a person on the planet who has not needed a book like this.' Dr R. T. Kendall

'Fresh, insightful and utterly relevant . . . Here you will find depth of insight and height of vision, breadth of wisdom and sharpness of illustration.' Canon J. John

'A very applicable and moving book serving as a reminder of the freedom that is available in Christ.' Rachelle Ann Go

The gospels tell us that God wants to take away our burdens and offer us forgiveness. Confessing our sins should be liberating and joyful - so why do we so often feel only shame and guilt?

Spiritual Detox invites you to rethink the way you see confession and discover greater joy through the recovery of this much-neglected spiritual discipline. Blending biblical teaching with practical advice and application, it will show you how making regular, heart-felt confession will revitalise your spiritual life - whether you are unhappy and discouraged, wrestling with guilt and shame or just longing to drink more deeply of God's forgiveness and abundant grace.

Using examples from Scripture, and with meditations on 1 John 1:9, Spiritual Detox explores how confessing sin frees us from guilt to strengthen our relationship with God. Packed full of practical wisdom and insight, it will leave you with a clearer vision of God's forgiveness, help you to make confession part of your everyday spiritual formation and set you on a path of liberating joy and discipleship.

The five letters - from 1 Thessalonians to Titus - form a discipleship training school for anyone who wants God to transform their life.

Paul was forced to flee the city of Thessalonica so quickly the he wrote 1 Thessalonians as the first lesson in his discipleship training school, teaching us how to be true converts. He was unable to return so he wrote 2 Thessalonians as a second lesson, which teaches us how to be true warriors.

The last three letters were to individual graduates: Titus lays out the syllabus which we need in order to be truly fruitful; 1 Timothy explains how his young graduate can help the Ephesians to become truly mature in their faith and 2 Timothy acts as Paul's final will and testament in which he assures his converts that they are truly ready to continue the work after his death.

The Straight to the Heart of series of devotional commentaries allow people to get to grips with each book of the Bible one bite at a time. Phil Moore focuses on key sections which together form a useful introduction.

There will be 25 volumes in all, each containing 60 readings. The short chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship.

Was St Paul a distorter of Jesus' original message, or a faithful follower?

Over recent years some critics of Christianity have claimed that while Jesus was a gifted teacher and a man of unparalleled kindness, St Paul was the true founder of Christianity, which he based on a delusional mistake: the idea that Jesus was God.This theory has found its way into academia, churches, newspapers, and, most recently, novels.

In Did St Paul Get Jesus Right? respected New Testament scholar David Wenham looks at the historical evidence for such claims. Comparing the life and message of Jesus with the writings of St Paul, he offers a thoughtful exploration of their relationship, concluding that far from imagining Christianity, Paul was the messenger of an inherited faith.

An illustrated gift book for a young child's christening with a collection of prayers, including those based on bible verses, and pages for recording details, memories, and messages of the special occasion.

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.

Parents can add their own memories of their child's christening with spaces for photos and special blessings from the guests, as well as recording key milestones in their child's early years.

This book will be treasured for a lifetime and is an ideal gift for a grandparent, godparent, family member, or guest to give to a young child.

Ten years ago there were only a few hundred Jewish Christians in Israel. Today that figure is over 10,000 and the number is growing rapidly.

Some of the leading Messianic believers are starting to look to the future and turn their attention to passages in the Bible that talk about the role of Israel in the future being a light to the world. A number of Jewish believers are emerging who are passionate, fearless evangelists.

The stories told in this book feature some of those who are turning their attention to the Arab world in particular. Who are these people? How are they going about their 'mission' and why are they so passionate to share their faith in the God of Israel with Arabs?

David Livingstone has gone down in history as a fearless explorer and missionary, hacking his way through the forests of Africa to bring light to the people - and also to free them from slavery. But who was he, and what was he actually like?

"He was an extraordinary character," according to biographer Stephen Tomkins, spectacularly bad at personal relationships, at least with white people, possessed of infinite self-belief, courage, and restlessness. He was an almost total failure as a missionary, and so became an explorer and campaigner against the slave trade, hoping to save African lives and souls that way instead. He helped, however unwittingly, to set the tone and the extent of British involvement in Africa. He was a flawed but indomitable idealist.

Fascinating new evidence about Livingstone's life and his struggles have come to light in the letters and journals he left behind, now accessible to us for the first time through spectral imaging. These form a significant addition to the source material for this excellent biography, which provides an honest and balanced account of the real man behind the Victorian icon.

"It is a grandiose claim to have banished God. With such a lot at stake we surely need to ask Hawking to produce evidence to establish his claim. Do his arguments really stand up to close scrutiny? I think we have a right to know."

The Grand Design and Brief Answers to Big Questions by eminent scientist the late Stephen Hawking were blockbusting contributions to the science religion debate. They claimed it was the laws of physics themselves which brought the universe into being, rather than any God. In this forthright response, John Lennox, Oxford University mathematician and internationally-known apologist, takes a closer look at Hawking's logic and questions his conclusions.

In lively, layman's terms, Lennox guides us through the key points in Hawking's arguments - with clear explanations of the latest scientific and philosophical methods and theories - and demonstrates that far from disproving a Creator God, they make his existence seem all the more probable.

In 30AD, Jesus of Nazareth looked to have been an utter failure. If you don't understand that, then you will miss the message of the book of Acts. It is a record of survival through adversity, triumph against all odds, and victory snatched from the jaws of defeat. It is the story of a group of ordinary people who turned the tide of history through the power of their extraordinary God.

God inspired the Bible for a reason. He wants you to read it and let it change your life. If you are willing to take this challenge seriously, then you will love Phil Moore's devotional commentaries.

Their bite-sized chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship too. Welcome to a new way of reading the Bible with fresh eyes. Welcome to the Straight to the Heart series.

A society with no grasp of its history is like a person without a memory. This is particularly true of the history of ideas.

This book is an ideal introduction to the thinkers who have shaped Christian history and the culture of much of the world.

Writing in a lively, accessible style, Jonathan Hill takes us on an enlightening journey from the first to the twenty first centuries. He shows us the key Christian thinkers through the ages - ranging from Irenaeus, Origen, Augustine and Aquinas through to Luther, Wesley, Kierkegaard and Barth - placing them in their historical context and assessing their contribution to the development of Christianity.

'The late South African president Nelson Mandela once famously declared, "It always seems impossible until it is done." His words could easily have been applied to the life of Rose Hudson-Wilkin... there is a genuine exuberance in her narration that is both contagious and inspiring.'
THE MOST REVD MICHAEL B. CURRY, XXVII PRESIDING BISHOP OF THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, from the foreword

The Girl from Montego Bay is the autobiography of trailblazer Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Britain's first black woman bishop, who has been right at the heart of a changing nation for over forty years.

As a student, Rose had a poster over her desk that read: 'Do not go where the path leads. Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail.'

And she does! Offering eye-opening insights into her humble and challenging beginnings in Jamaica, Rose charts her call to train as an evangelist at the Church Army College in London, where she met her future husband, Ken. Captivatingly open to the nudging of the Spirit, Rose simply has a go at everything that comes her way. The discrimination she's faced, due to her gender and minority-ethnic background, is very real. Yet Rose's infectious energy and humour shine through stories of her beloved Hackney, the ten years she ministered to (sometimes wayward) colleagues in Parliament, and her joy at playing a major role in the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla in 2023.

Rose discloses that if there's one thing she would like to see change in her lifetime, it's that accomplishments like hers stop being 'firsts' and simply become normal.

Appointed MBE in the 2020 New Year Honors for 'services to young people and the Church', and listed in the 2020 and 2021 Power list of the 100 the most influential people in the UK of African/African-Caribbean descent, Rose discloses that if there’s one thing she would like to see change in her lifetime, it's that accomplishments like hers stop being 'firsts' and simply become normal.

This book describes how a new understanding of dementia is leading to better care, helping to maintain the personality of the sufferer. It also offers practical, day to day advice from a hands-on perspective, using a narrative structure.

It follows the story of an older couple, Linda and Frank. Frank develops dementia. The story covers the first, early signs and the development of the disease; the couple's struggle to manage and find help, the wife's failing health and the search for a suitable care home, and life after Frank goes to live in the home.

An index at the back of the book allows readers to look up help on specific topics.

Throughout, the narrative keeps a clear Christian perspective. For example, Linda finds that singing familiar hymns as she dusts around the house not only helps her feel better, but lifts Frank's spirits, too, and he will sometimes join in. Each chapter concludes with a short section of devotions for carers and sufferers.

Eileen Mitson has collected thirteen authentic accounts of people whose lives have been utterly transformed by an encounter with Christ. As every Christian leader recognises, the simple step of becoming a Christian doesn't solve the problems.

Eileen Mitson has collected thirteen authentic, first-hand accounts of people whose lives have been utterly turned around by a deep encounter with Christ.

All have, at a crucial stage, worked through the Steps to Freedom in Christ, the Bible-based discipleship programme developed by Neil Anderson with Steve Goss. Steve provides a commentary to each story, bringing out key points.

A short guide to the origins, structure and values of the Churches of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

Paul Avis explains and clarifies the history and theology involved, and introduces concepts in a structured way, making the book clear to those who may be coming to these issues for the first time. It is also an invaluable aide-memoire and reference tool for the specialist, presenting a clear outline of the structure, form, function, disposition and beliefs of the Church.

The 2nd edition is more up-to-date in its examples and refers to developments such as Fresh Expressions, women bishops and the Anglican Covenant, and is also more reader-friendly, with questions for reflection or discussion and suggestions for further reading.

Jonathan Aitken and Edward Smyth both experienced a dramatic fall from grace.

Each of them found themselves removed from their homes and loved ones, locked up in prison and having to deal with the fallout of their actions. However, in the middle of their lowest point they discovered something life-changing. God hadn’t forgotten about them.

Doing Time offers encouragement and advice on how to survive and even make the most of life inside prison. Offering the sort of practical and spiritual wisdom that only comes from personal experience, it shows that it is never too late for God to help us find a new way forward in our lives.

But Where Are You Really From? is a thought-provoking book about identity from CEO of Christian Aid, Amanda Khozi Mukwashi. Through telling the story of her experience as a Christian black woman with Zambian heritage, born and living in the UK, she explores issues of race and culture and how it feels to be judged on skin colour when identity is made up of so many things.

Until we share and make time to listen to a diversity of stories, dangerous assumptions will persist. This little book offers a challenge to those assumptions and polarising perceptions while celebrating the universal connections we all share. Read it, and discover a new perspective on identity, humanhood and hope.

But Where Are You Really From? is a book for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of the current race and cultural transformation that is happening across the world today. A powerful story from the voice of a successful black woman, navigating the search for identity against a backdrop of faith, humanity and hope that needs to be heard.

Completely revised, re-illustrated and enlarged this new edition of the reliable classic Lion Handbook of History of Christianity has new maps, study questions and many helpful aids to enhance you understanding of Christianity's past, present and future.

Combining the accuracy and readability of the first edition of this highly acclaimed text, Dowley has enhanced the second edition with new contributions from Pheme Perkins on "The Thought-World of Early Christianity" and Richard Burridge on "Jesus and the Gospels" as well as updated and revised contributions from Ward Gasque, Richard Pierard, John H. Y. Briggs, and more.

With many new photographs, illustrations, maps, charts, and timelines, the inviting new full colour format tells the dramatic, intriguing, and often surprising story of Christians in their 2000-year journey to the present day.

After a long and painful wait for the Jewish exiles, Ezra and Nehemiah lead their people back to the Promised Land.

Despite hardships and setbacks, they would rebuild their nation in time for the arrival of its Messiah. Whenever we are tempted to doubt the promises of God these books remind us that that God is a promise-keeper that is able to redeem any situation. 

God inspired the Bible for a reason. He wants you read it and let it change your life. If you are willing to take this challenge seriously, then you will love Phil Moore’s devotional commentaries. Their bite-sized chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship.

Welcome to a new way of reading the Bible. Welcome to the Straight to the Heart series.

A practical, engaging resource about the moral, spiritual, and cultural values that shape our lives and society for families, children's church groups and schools to share, explore, and respond with children together.

Based on the successful and cherished stories from The Lion Storyteller Bedtime Book and The Lion Storyteller Animal Tales 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 children with adults.

Includes optional links to Bible references and pause moments to think about situations and others with God.

Through these retelling of traditional and modern stories, the values explored include establishing good relationships, treating others well, perseverance, responding to bullying, team-working, and many other society and Christian values.

Explore the setting, characters, and situation in these stories, thinking about how you would react in the same situation, and developing empathy and respect for others.

There is an index list for the values covered in the stories for easy-to-use reference.

A useful resource for school assemblies and PSHE lessons on relationships and citizenship, and to support parents, carers, church group leaders to share values with children.

What are clergy for?

In this lively and provocative volume, Alan Billings argues that they serve the mission and ministry of the Church, which is to make God possible.

In each new era, how to carry out this mission effectively will vary, as the Church seeks to respond to changes in society and culture, but it is likely to involve clergy in a refocusing of their ministry.

Part 1 of Making God Possible looks at recent cultural shifts and the challenges they present to Christianity in the twenty-first century.

Part 2 explores some of the models of ministry which have been found in the Church in the past and which continue to exercise an influence: classical (the parson); evangelical (the minister); catholic (the priest), and utility (the social activist and personal therapist).

The author skilfully draws out those things of lasting importance and value in each model that might contribute towards the renewal of the ordained ministry today.

A fantastically fun-filled little book great for journeys, Sunday schools, awards, or a rainy day!

All the puzzles and activities are based around the exciting adventures in the Bible.

The activities include dot-to-dot, spot the difference, colouring, match the pairs, put the story in the right order, complete the drawing, spot the deliberate mistakes.

At the bottom of the page the story that the activity is from is explained, and a Bible reference included.

Sometimes there is a bonus question for more puzzling fun!

Is it possible to be a Christian and a feminist?

The hot topic of feminism has been well documented and debated in mainstream media and yet, as Christians we come to the conversation from a slightly different vantage point. For starters, we have the benefit of a personal relationship with our creator plus the ultimate handbook in the Bible to work out what is right and just when it comes to equality. So why do many Christians feel the Bible presents a barrier rather than a boost when it comes to championing equality between the sexes?

Lauren Windle draws upon her years as a journalist to weave together a wide range of voices on a subject that society has been wrestling with but, in the Church, few are brave enough to probe too deeply for fear of what they might find. This book isn't here to tell you what to think. The views it presents are intended to inform, not form, your opinion on key topics, including: defining feminism, the lessons we teach boys, female preachers, a woman's place in the household, beauty standards and #ChurchToo.

Notes On Feminism features contributions from several high-profile women:

- Writer and model Katie Piper on true beauty
- Olympian Abigail Irozuru on women's bodies
- Comedian Cassandra Maria on why people think women aren't funny
- Author Tiffany Bluhm on why people don't believe women
- Journalist Delphine Chui on why she isn't a feminist.

If feminist stirrings feel like a barrier to your faith, let Notes on Feminism help you unpick the confusion and ongoing debate, while keeping God at the centre.

'Carefully edited, this beautiful little volume is a rare gem . . . highly recommended for anyone seeking new inspiration in prayer.' The Reader

Such is the far-reaching influence of the modern mystic Evelyn Underhill that she is commemorated liturgically by the Church of England on 15 June. Her best-known book, Mysticism, was widely read in the first half of the twentieth century and her work continues to have great impact on the theology of contemporary spiritual writers, such as Richard Rohr.

Between 1924 and 1938, Evelyn Underhill compiled two personal prayer books for use when conducting spiritual retreats at Pleshey (the retreat house for the diocese of Chelmsford). The prayers were carefully selected and include quotes from a variety of theologians and writers in Christian spirituality, as well as her own very rich, metaphorical and theologically deep prayers.

These collections are now available for the first time.

Jesus has come back from the dead!

Join the crowds waving palm branches, the disciples at the last supper, and the women on that first Easter morning.

An engaging retelling of the first Easter, with bright and appealing pictures that bring the powerful scenes to life.

Ideal for reading aloud, sharing the events of the Easter story with children aged 4-6.

What's behind the mask?

Antigone Kingsley (Tig) takes the helm to organize a school fundraiser – a summer masquerade ball.

In the third book of this captivating coming-of-age series, Tig continues to grapple with her own challenges. Embarrassed by recent blunders in her online videos and stung by the breakdown of her friendship with Fidge, she's driven by an overwhelming desire to do something so remarkably good that it redefines her identity: organizing a summer masquerade ball to spark a wave of excitement and unite the school.

However, just as the masquerade's plans start falling into place, a startling revelation threatens to ruin everything. Antigone stands at a crossroads: will she reveal her vulnerabilities and seek the help she so desperately requires, or will she continue to conceal her true feelings behind the guise of her perpetually cheerful and carefree mask?

Antigone Kingsley: Masquerade by author Marina Magdalena is the perfect companion for middle grade girls going through the highs and lows of growing up. Filled with positive role models, healthy self-exploration, fruitful relationships, vulnerability, and good humour, preteens will love journeying with Tig as she faces the social pressures, spiralling emotions, and the grand disappointments of teenage life! Tig is your relatable, imperfect, clumsy, hot-headed girl next door who learns to embrace who she is, solve problems, and bring sparkle to the world.

Join two children, Sophie and Thomas on their investigation to learn more about the world religions with one God.

Through searching questions, this engaging non-fiction book explains the beliefs and practices of Christians, Jews, and Muslims.

Find out about the origins of the faiths, the holy books and important places. The book explores the shared importance of Abraham and Jerusalem, but investigates the differences as well. Discover the way of life for believers such as prayer, worship and celebrating festivals, and includes discussion about the beliefs about what happens after death.

Also provides a useful quick reference for children learning about these three world religions.

Popularity has a price!

Meet Antigone 'Tig' Kingsley - your new BFF.

Antigone Kingsley (Tig) and her sister Ismene are invited to join their French cousin Amelie at a holiday camp in Switzerland.

Upon arriving at the camp, Tig is upset to find that she has been enrolled in a pottery course while her sister and cousin enjoy the exciting drama camp. Clearly, the events of last summer have not been forgotten or forgiven. To keep the peace, disappointed Tig reluctantly agrees. Over the course, Tig captures some hilarious moments on video of her classmates and uploads them to her social media channel. Elated that the views hit record likes, Tig swiftly discovers that the videos have been tampered with and the fallout has catastrophic consequences.

Will Tig's need for popularity jeopardise new friendships leading to a lonely path ahead? Or can Tig make amends with her classmates when facing a hiking challenge together? Does it really matter what others think if true friendship delights and accepts just being yourself?

Antigone Kingsley: Don't Judge Me by author Marina Magdalena, is the second book in this coming-of-age series that makes the perfect companion for middle grade girls going through the highs and lows of growing up. Filled with positive role models, healthy self-exploration, fruitful relationships, vulnerability and good humour, teens will love journeying with Tig as she faces the social pressures, spiralling emotions, burning desires and grand disappointments of teenage life! Tig is your relatable, imperfect, clumsy, hot-headed girl next door who learns to embrace who she is, solve problems and bring sparkle to the world.

This deeply researched and vibrantly illustrated overview of the Bible clearly sets out the grand narrative of scripture.

By linking each of its many parts back to the whole, it moves beyond simply retelling biblical stories to help us to see how the Bible remains vitally relevant to our daily lives.

Giving historical context and theological insight, this book functions as both an accessible introduction for new readers of the Bible and an effective guide for those looking to grow their understanding of God’s word.

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.

Kathleen Norris had written several much-loved books, yet she couldn't drag herself out of bed in the morning or summon the energy for daily tasks.

Even as she struggled, Norris recognized her familiar battle with acedia. She had discovered the word in an early Church text when she was in her thirties, and instantly recognized herself in a passage describing the affliction as sinking into a state of being unable to care.

Fascinated by this 'noonday demon' so familiar to the early Church, Norris read intensively and knew she must restore this forgotten but utterly important concept to the modern world's vernacular.

As Kathleen explains, 'restless boredom, frantic escapism, commitment phobia, and enervating despair that we struggle with today are the ancient demon of acedia in modern dress.'

A delightful re-telling of the Christmas story ideal for sharing with toddlers, with bright charming illustrations by Marie Allen.

An engaging re-telling of Mary and Joseph' journey to Bethlehem, the birth of their special baby, and all the wondrous events that surround them. The story is expanded to give a little more detail and to enable it to be read as a continuous story over a number of days or weeks leading up to Christmas.

This is a Christmas story with a difference for young children, perfect for bedtimes or church groups throughout the Advent season.

The Beano meets the Bible.

Over 60 stories in comic strip style, from artists who brought us the Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep cartoon strips.

Having worked on Sesame Street, Transformers, Beano, Dandy and Marvel cartoons. Great for reluctant readers.

Fun for all ages!

Spend a month in the company of Julian of Norwich, with sixty-two reflections to enrich your mornings and evenings.

Julian of Norwich was a fourteenth-century mystic whose writings vividly convey the love of God and his presence in suffering.

These 62 readings help you bookend the day with deep contemplation.

'According to her vision of God, he . . . has always been imparting unconditional love.' - Janina Ramirez, from Julian of Norwich: A very brief history

'This series helps us to be properly nurtured by the living, radical Christian tradition of faith.' - Mark Oakley, author and Dean of St John's College, Cambridge

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.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

'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.