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{"id":2439743307876,"title":"Stories for Interactive Assemblies: 15 story-based assemblies to get children talking","handle":"stories-for-interactive-assemblies-15-story-based-assemblies-to-get-children-talking","description":"\u003cp\u003eFifteen easy-to-tell stories combining biblical teaching with contemporary storytelling. Set within the world of the classroom, each story has its roots in one of Jesus' parables. Primary children will recognise themselves and their classmates in the stories and relate to the underlying message that is the essence of the parable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach assembly outline is topped and tailed by a theme to help direct the teacher towards the main teaching objective of the story, and a prayer or reflection and suggested song to close the assembly if desired. Each unit also contains a teacher's page giving the Bible reference for the original parable and information to link the teaching to PSHE\/Citizenship and the National Framework for RE or local SACRE guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNigel Bishop is Head Teacher at Strand Community School Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire. His teaching career spans 20 years. During this time, during which time he has taught children from four to eleven years in a wide range of schools in Grimsby and Cleethorpes, trying to share with them his passion for experiential learning. Nigel is also a Methodist Lay Preacher and has used his communication skills in all-age worship as well as numerous school assemblies. He hopes that the stories he has used in schools and churches might reach and inspire a wider audience through their publication. Nigel lives in Grimsby with his wife, Jackie, their children Nicola and Jonathan, and Megan the dog. \n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\nEvery school should have one of these books. The stories are easy to listen to and children remain engrossed throughout the assembly, even those who find listening difficult. The reason for this is that they can relate to the scenario depicted by the story. An excellent resource and certainly a 'must have' for both KS1 and KS2.'\r\n\u003cem\u003eChristine Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:12+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:13+00:00","vendor":"Nigel Bishop","type":"Paperback","tags":["Feb-12","For schools","KCLC","RE"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21768999174244,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857461438","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Stories for Interactive Assemblies: 15 story-based assemblies to get children talking - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":699,"weight":165,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857461438","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461438-l.jpg?v=1549043177"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461438-l.jpg?v=1549043177","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238874677387,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":562,"width":368,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461438-l.jpg?v=1549043177"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":562,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857461438-l.jpg?v=1549043177","width":368}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eFifteen easy-to-tell stories combining biblical teaching with contemporary storytelling. Set within the world of the classroom, each story has its roots in one of Jesus' parables. Primary children will recognise themselves and their classmates in the stories and relate to the underlying message that is the essence of the parable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach assembly outline is topped and tailed by a theme to help direct the teacher towards the main teaching objective of the story, and a prayer or reflection and suggested song to close the assembly if desired. Each unit also contains a teacher's page giving the Bible reference for the original parable and information to link the teaching to PSHE\/Citizenship and the National Framework for RE or local SACRE guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nNigel Bishop is Head Teacher at Strand Community School Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire. His teaching career spans 20 years. During this time, during which time he has taught children from four to eleven years in a wide range of schools in Grimsby and Cleethorpes, trying to share with them his passion for experiential learning. Nigel is also a Methodist Lay Preacher and has used his communication skills in all-age worship as well as numerous school assemblies. He hopes that the stories he has used in schools and churches might reach and inspire a wider audience through their publication. Nigel lives in Grimsby with his wife, Jackie, their children Nicola and Jonathan, and Megan the dog. \n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\nEvery school should have one of these books. The stories are easy to listen to and children remain engrossed throughout the assembly, even those who find listening difficult. The reason for this is that they can relate to the scenario depicted by the story. An excellent resource and certainly a 'must have' for both KS1 and KS2.'\r\n\u003cem\u003eChristine Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e"}
You may also like:
Stories for Interactive Assemblies: 15 story-based assemblies to get children talking
£6.99
Fifteen easy-to-tell stories combining biblical teaching with contemporary storytelling. Set within the world of the classroom, each story has its...
{"id":2439829749860,"title":"Stories of Everyday Saints: 40 stories with Bible links and related activities","handle":"stories-of-everyday-saints-40-stories-with-bible-links-and-related-activities","description":"The forty men and women whose stories are told in this book may not have started out as perfect people, but they were used by God to do his work. Saints are people who listen to God and try to do what he wants.\u003cp\u003eThe saints included in the book fall into four categories:\u003cbr\u003eBible saints from the New Testament, such as St Paul\u003cbr\u003eHistorical and legendary saints, such as St George\u003cbr\u003eWorldwide saints, such as St Francis of Assisi\u003cbr\u003eMore recent and contemporary saints, such as Mother Teresa\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach story is accompanied by:\u003cbr\u003eKey date and brief description of the saint\u003cbr\u003eBible link\u003cbr\u003ePrayer\u003cbr\u003eRelated activities\u003cbr\u003eSymbol\u003cbr\u003eSuggested songs that might be used\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome of the people have been formally named as saints by their church. In such cases, their name will appear with 'St' before it, as in St Patrick. Others have not been recognized publicly in this way, but are included in this book because God used them to carry out a particular task. These people are referred to simply by their ordinary names such as Florence Nightingale.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nVeronica Heley has taught in Junior Church, and Youth Clubs, and been Events Organiser for the Association of Christian Writers. She now gives talks and runs workshops for writers of all ages. She is author of approximately forty books including Who, Me? Paul and The Easter Tree both published under the Barnabas imprint.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:42+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:44+00:00","vendor":"Veronica Heley","type":"Paperback","tags":["Children and family ministry","For schools","KCLC","RE","Sep-02"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770244685924,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857460721","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Stories of Everyday Saints: 40 stories with Bible links and related activities - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":321,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857460721","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460721-l.jpg?v=1549043116"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460721-l.jpg?v=1549043116","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238882082955,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.677,"height":650,"width":440,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460721-l.jpg?v=1549043116"},"aspect_ratio":0.677,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460721-l.jpg?v=1549043116","width":440}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"The forty men and women whose stories are told in this book may not have started out as perfect people, but they were used by God to do his work. Saints are people who listen to God and try to do what he wants.\u003cp\u003eThe saints included in the book fall into four categories:\u003cbr\u003eBible saints from the New Testament, such as St Paul\u003cbr\u003eHistorical and legendary saints, such as St George\u003cbr\u003eWorldwide saints, such as St Francis of Assisi\u003cbr\u003eMore recent and contemporary saints, such as Mother Teresa\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach story is accompanied by:\u003cbr\u003eKey date and brief description of the saint\u003cbr\u003eBible link\u003cbr\u003ePrayer\u003cbr\u003eRelated activities\u003cbr\u003eSymbol\u003cbr\u003eSuggested songs that might be used\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome of the people have been formally named as saints by their church. In such cases, their name will appear with 'St' before it, as in St Patrick. Others have not been recognized publicly in this way, but are included in this book because God used them to carry out a particular task. These people are referred to simply by their ordinary names such as Florence Nightingale.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nVeronica Heley has taught in Junior Church, and Youth Clubs, and been Events Organiser for the Association of Christian Writers. She now gives talks and runs workshops for writers of all ages. She is author of approximately forty books including Who, Me? Paul and The Easter Tree both published under the Barnabas imprint.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n"}
You may also like:
Stories of Everyday Saints: 40 stories with Bible links and related activities
£9.99
The forty men and women whose stories are told in this book may not have started out as perfect people,...
{"id":2854982549604,"title":"Story Assemblies of 24 Saints: 24 off-the-peg assemblies for the school year","handle":"story-assemblies-of-24-saints-24-off-the-peg-assemblies-for-the-school-year","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStory Assemblies of 24 Saints\u003c\/em\u003e features a wealth of saints' days spread across the school year from September to July, making it an ideal ongoing resource and enabling teachers to opt in at any time. The material contains 24 complete assembly plans ready for teachers to pick off the shelf and deliver as a whole school, year group or classroom assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for KS1 and KS2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe material is designed to meet the needs of busy teachers looking for flexible and creative material to take them through the school year. Each assembly plan includes a creative mix of elements, designed to put the life of the featured saint in context and, through differentiated storytelling and focused reflection, help children think about what the message of the saint's story might mean to their own lives today. A suggestion for a relevant symbol is provided with each story, designed to highlight a special feature about the saint and help children use their imaginations to ground the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly provides Teacher's notes, giving background details and essential information to help set the scene and ensure that the teacher has everything to hand for the smooth running of the assembly. Information includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Theme: A short phrase to instantly identify what the assembly is about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Bible link: Helpful Bible verses written out in full, with a short commentary about how the Bible story fits into the theme of the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Resources: Suggestions for visual aids and props to help bring the story to life during the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Saint in context: Background information to place the saint in the context of his or her culture and time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Entry point: Topical introduction to the theme of the story and questions to help children see how the theme is relevant to their own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Reflection: Imaginative guide to help children reflect on the story and what its message might mean for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Suggested songs: Songs that reflect the theme of the assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Optional prayer: Suggestions for a Christian prayer, picking out the main themes of the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 'Build a saint' activity: Classroom follow-up to help build a full picture of the saint, explore a symbol to help children remember how he or she is traditionally recognised, and create a classroom display. In general, the activities use simple, readily available objects, drawing and colouring materials, air-dry modelling clay or play dough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly also offers a differentiated story, offering a choice of two storytelling methods: a simple retelling, ideal for younger children, and an interactive questioning alternative for older children. Many of the interactive options also include ideas for children to act out the story as it unfolds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeather Butler has taught at primary level for over 25 years, with a particular emphasis on special needs, and has been involved with the teaching and nurturing of children within the local church for over 21 years. She now teaches part time, leads story writing workshops in primary schools and is involved with several charities working with traumatised children across the world. She is author of a number of books for children, including Stories to Make You Think, Stories to Make You Think and Further Stories to Make You Think.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T10:07:12+00:00","created_at":"2019-02-20T16:02:04+00:00","vendor":"Heather Butler","type":"eBook","tags":["For schools","Glassboxx","RE","Worship"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":24431468544100,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800394674","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Story Assemblies of 24 Saints: 24 off-the-peg assemblies for the school year - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800394674","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/390.png?v=1742383393","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/391.png?v=1742383393"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/390.png?v=1742383393","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201601548668,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/390.png?v=1742383393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/390.png?v=1742383393","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64201601843580,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/391.png?v=1742383393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/391.png?v=1742383393","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStory Assemblies of 24 Saints\u003c\/em\u003e features a wealth of saints' days spread across the school year from September to July, making it an ideal ongoing resource and enabling teachers to opt in at any time. The material contains 24 complete assembly plans ready for teachers to pick off the shelf and deliver as a whole school, year group or classroom assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for KS1 and KS2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe material is designed to meet the needs of busy teachers looking for flexible and creative material to take them through the school year. Each assembly plan includes a creative mix of elements, designed to put the life of the featured saint in context and, through differentiated storytelling and focused reflection, help children think about what the message of the saint's story might mean to their own lives today. A suggestion for a relevant symbol is provided with each story, designed to highlight a special feature about the saint and help children use their imaginations to ground the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly provides Teacher's notes, giving background details and essential information to help set the scene and ensure that the teacher has everything to hand for the smooth running of the assembly. Information includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Theme: A short phrase to instantly identify what the assembly is about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Bible link: Helpful Bible verses written out in full, with a short commentary about how the Bible story fits into the theme of the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Resources: Suggestions for visual aids and props to help bring the story to life during the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Saint in context: Background information to place the saint in the context of his or her culture and time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Entry point: Topical introduction to the theme of the story and questions to help children see how the theme is relevant to their own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Reflection: Imaginative guide to help children reflect on the story and what its message might mean for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Suggested songs: Songs that reflect the theme of the assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Optional prayer: Suggestions for a Christian prayer, picking out the main themes of the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 'Build a saint' activity: Classroom follow-up to help build a full picture of the saint, explore a symbol to help children remember how he or she is traditionally recognised, and create a classroom display. In general, the activities use simple, readily available objects, drawing and colouring materials, air-dry modelling clay or play dough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly also offers a differentiated story, offering a choice of two storytelling methods: a simple retelling, ideal for younger children, and an interactive questioning alternative for older children. Many of the interactive options also include ideas for children to act out the story as it unfolds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeather Butler has taught at primary level for over 25 years, with a particular emphasis on special needs, and has been involved with the teaching and nurturing of children within the local church for over 21 years. She now teaches part time, leads story writing workshops in primary schools and is involved with several charities working with traumatised children across the world. She is author of a number of books for children, including Stories to Make You Think, Stories to Make You Think and Further Stories to Make You Think.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Story Assemblies of 24 Saints: 24 off-the-peg assemblies for the school year
£7.99
Digital eBook Only - Story Assemblies of 24 Saints features a wealth of saints' days spread across the school year...
{"id":14961532535164,"title":"Story Assemblies of 24 Saints: 24 off-the-peg assemblies for the school year","handle":"story-assemblies-of-24-saints-24-off-the-peg-assemblies-for-the-school-year-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStory Assemblies of 24 Saints\u003c\/em\u003e features a wealth of saints' days spread across the school year from September to July, making it an ideal ongoing resource and enabling teachers to opt in at any time. The material contains 24 complete assembly plans ready for teachers to pick off the shelf and deliver as a whole school, year group or classroom assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for KS1 and KS2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe material is designed to meet the needs of busy teachers looking for flexible and creative material to take them through the school year. Each assembly plan includes a creative mix of elements, designed to put the life of the featured saint in context and, through differentiated storytelling and focused reflection, help children think about what the message of the saint's story might mean to their own lives today. A suggestion for a relevant symbol is provided with each story, designed to highlight a special feature about the saint and help children use their imaginations to ground the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly provides Teacher's notes, giving background details and essential information to help set the scene and ensure that the teacher has everything to hand for the smooth running of the assembly. Information includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Theme: A short phrase to instantly identify what the assembly is about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Bible link: Helpful Bible verses written out in full, with a short commentary about how the Bible story fits into the theme of the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Resources: Suggestions for visual aids and props to help bring the story to life during the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Saint in context: Background information to place the saint in the context of his or her culture and time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Entry point: Topical introduction to the theme of the story and questions to help children see how the theme is relevant to their own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Reflection: Imaginative guide to help children reflect on the story and what its message might mean for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Suggested songs: Songs that reflect the theme of the assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Optional prayer: Suggestions for a Christian prayer, picking out the main themes of the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 'Build a saint' activity: Classroom follow-up to help build a full picture of the saint, explore a symbol to help children remember how he or she is traditionally recognised, and create a classroom display. In general, the activities use simple, readily available objects, drawing and colouring materials, air-dry modelling clay or play dough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly also offers a differentiated story, offering a choice of two storytelling methods: a simple retelling, ideal for younger children, and an interactive questioning alternative for older children. Many of the interactive options also include ideas for children to act out the story as it unfolds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeather Butler has taught at primary level for over 25 years, with a particular emphasis on special needs, and has been involved with the teaching and nurturing of children within the local church for over 21 years. She now teaches part time, leads story writing workshops in primary schools and is involved with several charities working with traumatised children across the world. She is author of a number of books for children, including Stories to Make You Think, Stories to Make You Think and Further Stories to Make You Think.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T14:32:12+00:00","created_at":"2025-01-14T14:31:26+00:00","vendor":"Heather Butler","type":"Paperback","tags":["For schools","KCLC","RE","Worship"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54875866825084,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781841017037","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"Story Assemblies of 24 Saints: 24 off-the-peg assemblies for the school year - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":222,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781841017037","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017037-l.jpg?v=1589991382"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017037-l.jpg?v=1589991382","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3259465891979,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":676,"width":444,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017037-l.jpg?v=1589991382"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":676,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017037-l.jpg?v=1589991382","width":444}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStory Assemblies of 24 Saints\u003c\/em\u003e features a wealth of saints' days spread across the school year from September to July, making it an ideal ongoing resource and enabling teachers to opt in at any time. The material contains 24 complete assembly plans ready for teachers to pick off the shelf and deliver as a whole school, year group or classroom assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for KS1 and KS2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe material is designed to meet the needs of busy teachers looking for flexible and creative material to take them through the school year. Each assembly plan includes a creative mix of elements, designed to put the life of the featured saint in context and, through differentiated storytelling and focused reflection, help children think about what the message of the saint's story might mean to their own lives today. A suggestion for a relevant symbol is provided with each story, designed to highlight a special feature about the saint and help children use their imaginations to ground the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly provides Teacher's notes, giving background details and essential information to help set the scene and ensure that the teacher has everything to hand for the smooth running of the assembly. Information includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Theme: A short phrase to instantly identify what the assembly is about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Bible link: Helpful Bible verses written out in full, with a short commentary about how the Bible story fits into the theme of the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Resources: Suggestions for visual aids and props to help bring the story to life during the storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Saint in context: Background information to place the saint in the context of his or her culture and time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Entry point: Topical introduction to the theme of the story and questions to help children see how the theme is relevant to their own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Reflection: Imaginative guide to help children reflect on the story and what its message might mean for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Suggested songs: Songs that reflect the theme of the assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Optional prayer: Suggestions for a Christian prayer, picking out the main themes of the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 'Build a saint' activity: Classroom follow-up to help build a full picture of the saint, explore a symbol to help children remember how he or she is traditionally recognised, and create a classroom display. In general, the activities use simple, readily available objects, drawing and colouring materials, air-dry modelling clay or play dough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach assembly also offers a differentiated story, offering a choice of two storytelling methods: a simple retelling, ideal for younger children, and an interactive questioning alternative for older children. Many of the interactive options also include ideas for children to act out the story as it unfolds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeather Butler has taught at primary level for over 25 years, with a particular emphasis on special needs, and has been involved with the teaching and nurturing of children within the local church for over 21 years. She now teaches part time, leads story writing workshops in primary schools and is involved with several charities working with traumatised children across the world. She is author of a number of books for children, including Stories to Make You Think, Stories to Make You Think and Further Stories to Make You Think.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2497540915300,"title":"Subscribe to Bible Reflections for Older People","handle":"bible-reflections-for-older-people-subscription","description":"\u003cp\u003eWritten by older people for older people, these reflections are designed to bring hope, assurance and sustenance, reminding the reader of the presence and love of God. In each issue are 40 Bible reflections and prayer suggestions to use and revisit as often as is needed. 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If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. 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In each issue are 40 Bible reflections and prayer suggestions to use and revisit as often as is needed. In the central section, Debbie Thrower of BRF’s Anna Chaplaincy ministry offers interviews and ideas to encourage and inspire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBible Reflections for Older People\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis commissioned and edited by Eley McAinsh and is published every four months - in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanuary\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eand\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeptember\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Written by older people for older people, these reflections are designed to bring hope, assurance and sustenance, reminding the reader...
{"id":2497540096100,"title":"Subscribe to Day by Day with God: Rooting women's lives in the Bible","handle":"day-by-day-with-god-subscription","description":"\u003cp\u003eEach day's reading in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay by Day with God\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a suggested Bible reading, with the key verse written out in full, and a comment written by a regular team of contributors. The Bible text is explained and applied especially for women, by women who have themselves found the Bible a source of strength and inspiration for life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA suggested daily prayer or meditation is included, and that plus the further readings to explore will help you connect the daily notes with your own spiritual journey as you seek to follow Jesus more closely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay by Day with God\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis commissioned and edited by\u003cstrong\u003e Jackie Harris\u003c\/strong\u003e and is published every four months - in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanuary\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eand\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeptember\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. 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The Bible text is explained and applied especially for women, by women who have themselves found the Bible a source of strength and inspiration for life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA suggested daily prayer or meditation is included, and that plus the further readings to explore will help you connect the daily notes with your own spiritual journey as you seek to follow Jesus more closely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay by Day with God\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis commissioned and edited by\u003cstrong\u003e Jackie Harris\u003c\/strong\u003e and is published every four months - in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanuary\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eand\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeptember\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2497538883684,"title":"Subscribe to Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission","handle":"guidelines-subscription","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world, while helping to equip church leaders as they meet the challenges of mission and disciple-building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of the usual dated daily readings,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuidelines\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eprovides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction giving context for the passage, and a final section of points for thought and prayer. On any day you can read as many or as few sections as you wish. You will need to use a Bible alongside Guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuidelines\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eis published every four months - in January, May and September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-06-19T13:03:11+01:00","created_at":"2019-01-21T11:46:12+00:00","vendor":"Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"Subscription","tags":["Bible reading notes","Guidelines","Prints","Subscriptions"],"price":2130,"price_min":2130,"price_max":3525,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54906466369916,"title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"UK","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"GLUK1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271367422143,"product_id":2497538883684,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:59:27+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:59:28+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_0b2dd892-2bae-4229-b809-030b1c40ad30.png?v=1718708368","variant_ids":[54906466369916,54906466402684,54906466435452]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission - UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","public_title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","options":["UK","1 year","May-25"],"price":2130,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"GLUK1YMAYSUB","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29057736540351,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_0b2dd892-2bae-4229-b809-030b1c40ad30.png?v=1718708368"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[{"price_adjustments":[{"position":1,"price":2130}],"price":2130,"compare_at_price":2130,"per_delivery_price":2130,"selling_plan_id":4070801599,"selling_plan_group_id":"3c8b9d764da421c41eef5909e8cf47c1453544d1"}]},{"id":54906466402684,"title":"Europe \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"Europe","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"GLEU1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271367422143,"product_id":2497538883684,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:59:27+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:59:28+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_0b2dd892-2bae-4229-b809-030b1c40ad30.png?v=1718708368","variant_ids":[54906466369916,54906466402684,54906466435452]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission - 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Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world, while helping to equip church leaders as they meet the challenges of mission and disciple-building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of the usual dated daily readings,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuidelines\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eprovides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction giving context for the passage, and a final section of points for thought and prayer. On any day you can read as many or as few sections as you wish. You will need to use a Bible alongside Guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuidelines\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eis published every four months - in January, May and September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2877689102436,"title":"Subscribe to New Daylight by email: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible","handle":"new-daylight-by-email-sustaining-your-daily-journey-with-the-bible","description":"\u003cp class=\"product-description\"\u003eYou can receive our popular notes by daily email directly to your inbox. You can subscribe for \u003cstrong\u003e4 months\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e12 months\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e provides daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. \u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach day offers a short Bible passage (text included), thought-provoking comment and a prayer or point for reflection, and aims to give a fresh, devotional approach to Bible reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease allow 1-3 business days for your New Daylight by email subscription to commence.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-06-21T12:47:14+01:00","created_at":"2019-02-22T12:36:54+00:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"Subscription","tags":["Bible reading notes","Emails","New Daylight","Subscriptions"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":1575,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":24522344759396,"title":"4 months","option1":"4 months","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"NDEM4M","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271551479999,"product_id":2877689102436,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T13:00:15+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T13:00:17+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017","variant_ids":[24522344759396,24522367565924]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to New Daylight by email: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible - 4 months","public_title":"4 months","options":["4 months"],"price":525,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"NDEM4M","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29057944617151,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":24522367565924,"title":"1 year","option1":"1 year","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"NDEM1Y","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271551479999,"product_id":2877689102436,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T13:00:15+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T13:00:17+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017","variant_ids":[24522344759396,24522367565924]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to New Daylight by email: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible - 1 year","public_title":"1 year","options":["1 year"],"price":1575,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"NDEM1Y","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29057944617151,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017","options":["Length"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":29057944617151,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9_805043e4-ac12-4d8d-8569-e1418f9d3162.png?v=1718712017","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp class=\"product-description\"\u003eYou can receive our popular notes by daily email directly to your inbox. You can subscribe for \u003cstrong\u003e4 months\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e12 months\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e provides daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. \u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach day offers a short Bible passage (text included), thought-provoking comment and a prayer or point for reflection, and aims to give a fresh, devotional approach to Bible reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease allow 1-3 business days for your New Daylight by email subscription to commence.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2497539604580,"title":"Subscribe to New Daylight Deluxe: Your daily Bible reading, comment and prayer","handle":"new-daylight-deluxe-subscription","description":"\u003cp\u003eAll the content of \u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e, but with bigger text. Each issue of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprovides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecovers a varied selection of Old and New Testament, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach day offers a short Bible passage (text included), thought-provoking comment and a prayer or point for reflection, and aims to give a fresh, devotional approach to Bible reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is ideal for anyone wanting an accessible yet stimulating aid to spending time with God each day, deepening their faith and their knowledge of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-06-19T13:03:23+01:00","created_at":"2019-01-21T11:46:15+00:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"Subscription","tags":["Bible reading notes","New Daylight Deluxe","Prints","Subscriptions","Torch Trust"],"price":2655,"price_min":2655,"price_max":4410,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54906495271292,"title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"UK","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"NDDUK1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271246966975,"product_id":2497539604580,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:17:42+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:17:44+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/7_94ed6c91-b1bc-407e-aa1a-31219ed41121.png?v=1718705864","variant_ids":[54906495271292,54906495304060,54906495336828]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to New Daylight Deluxe: Your daily Bible reading, comment and prayer - 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auto renewal","options":[{"name":"Deliver every","position":1,"values":["year"]}],"selling_plans":[{"id":4070801599,"name":"BRF yearly subscription for Bible Reading Notes","description":"","options":[{"name":"Deliver every","position":1,"value":"year"}],"recurring_deliveries":true,"price_adjustments":[{"order_count":null,"position":1,"value_type":"percentage","value":0}],"checkout_charge":{"value_type":"percentage","value":100}}],"app_id":"Seal Subscriptions"}],"content":"\u003cp\u003eAll the content of \u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e, but with bigger text. Each issue of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprovides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecovers a varied selection of Old and New Testament, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach day offers a short Bible passage (text included), thought-provoking comment and a prayer or point for reflection, and aims to give a fresh, devotional approach to Bible reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is ideal for anyone wanting an accessible yet stimulating aid to spending time with God each day, deepening their faith and their knowledge of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Subscribe to New Daylight Deluxe: Your daily Bible reading, comment and prayer
£26.55
All the content of New Daylight, but with bigger text. Each issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and...
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If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-06-19T13:03:33+01:00","created_at":"2019-01-21T10:27:21+00:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"Subscription","tags":["Bible reading notes","New Daylight","Prints","Subscriptions"],"price":2130,"price_min":2130,"price_max":3525,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54907284259196,"title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"UK","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"NDUK1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271249031359,"product_id":2496709099620,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:18:08+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:18:09+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/3_03206217-4469-4321-b931-aae77d7db67b.png?v=1718705889","variant_ids":[54907284259196,54907284291964,54907284324732]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to New Daylight: Your daily Bible reading, comment and prayer - 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If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Subscribe to New Daylight: Your daily Bible reading, comment and prayer
£21.30
New Daylight offers four months of daily Bible reading and reflection for everybody who wants to go deeper with God....
{"id":2497540554852,"title":"Subscribe to The Upper Room: Where the world meets to pray","handle":"the-upper-room-subscription","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Upper Room\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ehas a worldwide readership of some three million, and is unique in that all the meditations are written by readers of The Upper Room, who seek to share the insights of their faith with others, thus providing a personal take on each passage and a different style each day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach daily meditation includes a recommended Bible reading and a key verse (you will need a Bible), reflection and prayer, and questions for small group study are also included for each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis edited by Daniele Och, and is published three times a year in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanuary\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eand\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeptember\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-06-19T13:03:41+01:00","created_at":"2019-01-21T11:46:20+00:00","vendor":"Daniele Och","type":"Subscription","tags":["Bible reading notes","Prints","Subscriptions","The Upper Room"],"price":2130,"price_min":2130,"price_max":3525,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54906517356924,"title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"UK","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"URUK1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271262728383,"product_id":2497540554852,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:19:56+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:19:57+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997","variant_ids":[54906517356924,54906517389692,54906517422460]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to The Upper Room: Where the world meets to pray - UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","public_title":"UK \/ 1 year \/ May-25","options":["UK","1 year","May-25"],"price":2130,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"URUK1YMAYSUB","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29057625817279,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[{"price_adjustments":[{"position":1,"price":2130}],"price":2130,"compare_at_price":2130,"per_delivery_price":2130,"selling_plan_id":4070801599,"selling_plan_group_id":"3c8b9d764da421c41eef5909e8cf47c1453544d1"}]},{"id":54906517389692,"title":"Europe \/ 1 year \/ May-25","option1":"Europe","option2":"1 year","option3":"May-25","sku":"UREU1YMAYSUB","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36271262728383,"product_id":2497540554852,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-06-18T11:19:56+01:00","updated_at":"2024-06-18T11:19:57+01:00","alt":null,"width":1080,"height":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997","variant_ids":[54906517356924,54906517389692,54906517422460]},"available":true,"name":"Subscribe to The Upper Room: Where the world meets to pray - 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Rest of the World \/ 1 year \/ May-25","public_title":"Rest of the World \/ 1 year \/ May-25","options":["Rest of the World","1 year","May-25"],"price":3525,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"URAM1YMAYSUB","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29057625817279,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[{"price_adjustments":[{"position":1,"price":3525}],"price":3525,"compare_at_price":3525,"per_delivery_price":3525,"selling_plan_id":4070801599,"selling_plan_group_id":"3c8b9d764da421c41eef5909e8cf47c1453544d1"}]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997","options":["Shipping to","Length","Start"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":29057625817279,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/2_39ca37fe-eb44-4096-a9ae-379d50c4cdb7.png?v=1718705997","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[{"id":"3c8b9d764da421c41eef5909e8cf47c1453544d1","name":"Subscribe - auto renewal","options":[{"name":"Deliver every","position":1,"values":["year"]}],"selling_plans":[{"id":4070801599,"name":"BRF yearly subscription for Bible Reading Notes","description":"","options":[{"name":"Deliver every","position":1,"value":"year"}],"recurring_deliveries":true,"price_adjustments":[{"order_count":null,"position":1,"value_type":"percentage","value":0}],"checkout_charge":{"value_type":"percentage","value":100}}],"app_id":"Seal Subscriptions"}],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Upper Room\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ehas a worldwide readership of some three million, and is unique in that all the meditations are written by readers of The Upper Room, who seek to share the insights of their faith with others, thus providing a personal take on each passage and a different style each day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach daily meditation includes a recommended Bible reading and a key verse (you will need a Bible), reflection and prayer, and questions for small group study are also included for each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis edited by Daniele Och, and is published three times a year in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJanuary\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eand\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeptember\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT INFORMATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to view your subscription plan and payment schedule you must have a BRF Online account. If you do not have a BRF Online account your subscription will still be valid but you will be unable to access your plan and payment schedule. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/account\/login\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here to create a BRF Online account\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t want to create a BRF Online account now you will still be able to do this in the future. By using the \u003cstrong\u003esame e-mail address\u003c\/strong\u003e used to set up your subscription you can create a BRF Online account where you will be able to view previous and current purchases and manage your current subscriptions.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2439813398628,"title":"Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry","handle":"sustaining-leadership-you-are-more-important-than-your-ministry","description":"\u003cp\u003eMany books on leadership and ministry are written from the point of view of success and strength. In Sustaining Leadership Paul Swann writes out of the raw experience of failure, getting to the heart of who we are as leaders rather than what we do. From this, he offers both hope and practical resources for sustaining effective long-term ministry, looking at self-care, balance and healthy ministry, feasting on divine love, and more. As he says, this is the best gift we can offer those we serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a story of a successfully growing ministry plunged suddenly into soul searching physical, mental and emotional depths. At times shockingly raw, these personal experiences, reflected on so honestly, drive home such hard learned spiritual insights, that I needed to re-read some sections to allow the message to sink in. And it's a profound message: learning simply to be still before God; clinging to personal worth even at the expense of ministry; loving self as well as neighbour; enjoying real Sabbath rest. This is not a book for the casual believer or religiously comfortable. Neither is it just for 'leaders'. Rather, it is essential reading for those courageous enough to accept a God given call to active and costly service. Spoiler alert! It does all work out well in the end. But that, after all, is rather down to God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClive Langmead, Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis courageous, raw and inspiring book is a 'must read' for any who long to live in the fullness God intends for us, amidst the realities and challenges of everyday life. A 'how to' walk the Truth of God's strength in our weakness. I wish I had had this treasure twenty years ago!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlina Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is both wonderfully easy to read yet at the same time deeply challenging. Paul Swann's gutsy and honest story made me realise the true importance of self-care in ministry (which is ideal as I prepare for ordination). The 'Pause to Reflect' moments scattered throughout the book really help with not just reading it as someone else's story but as a guide through your own story too. This will be re-read many times in the years to come!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSarah Bardell (Ordinand)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthenticity is perhaps the most important value for any religion in the 21st Century Western world. Paul Swann demonstrates in this vital book how the Christian religion and its leaders can be authentic and life-giving even in the most desperate, dark and dismal of experiences that arise from becoming 'addicted' to ministry. Combining insights from the bible, contemporary film and popular culture with his own deeply vulnerable experience here is a plea for leadership which is rooted way down in the God who simply is and therefore is not trying to be anything it can't be, other than the sharing of our beautiful and flawed humanity. I hope it becomes widely used in our highly anxious and often success oriented church systems.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Dr Nigel Rooms, Leader, Partnership for Missional Church UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul, I wish you had written your book 50 years ago! But at least it was published at the end of a long hot summer, when I'm wondering if I shall ever walk the hills again... but the last chapter (as you say) belongs to hope! Your humbling honesty, coupled with wonderful biblical expositions, have brought both inspiration and clarification. I now know what I want to be when I grow up!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Michael Dunn (Spiritual Director and Retired Priest)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSO refreshing to have this deep wisdom - on being\/doing, self-care\/giving, nature of success etc - served up from the point of view of someone who has got there the hard way. This is not a happy, shiny, just-copy-me sort of read, it's more in the painful\/raw\/honest category, which adds to its value. And although this is a Christian book written out of his experience of being a vicar I'd say it's pretty clearly going to be profoundly helpful to a whole range of people. I've already bought four more to pass on!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Owen Gallacher (Vicar)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving known Paul for many years, we initially bought this book to support him. I'm not a great reader but it was such a delight that I soon finished it. Paul speaks openly of his struggles and sets out the challenges we all face in our lives and how to balance things before it gets too much. I would highly recommend this resource to people in any form of leadership.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Davenport (Computer Programmer)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann trained for ordination in the Anglican Church and served in two growing parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, Paul was forced to retire early and spent four years in the wilderness of total fatigue. Since 2012, Paul has begun to offer a new ministry from this place of weakness. He has served as diocesan adviser on spirituality, offers spiritual direction and leads retreats. The insights of this book are drawn from these experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of Sustaining Leadership - Evangelicals Now, April 2019. Review by\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Underwood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann served in two Anglican parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, he retired early and spent two years existing on what he describes as 'Planet Fragile'.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis his story, but much more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part I, Swann describes the process of his own disintegration as he slipped into that slough of physical, mental and emotional despond we call ME.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part II, he offers us first his personal and theological reflection on reintegration and then, in Part III, a host of practical and life-enhancing measures towards beginning and nurturing that process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting for a broader constituency than mine and drawing on an impressive range of sources and resources, the basic thesis of this short book is that 'broken is best' ... that our human capabilities are often expressions of weakness rather than strength ... that Father-God is more concerned about we are in him than what we do for him. As Paul Swann rightly observes, we are 'human beings' rather than 'human doings'. What we do should flow from who we are, rather than the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remedy for our pervasive passion for proving ourselves is to take a long hard look at the three dials on the dashboard of our humanity - our God-given physical, spiritual and emotional needs. It's time for those of us who are pastors to take control of our self care and our soul care. If we can't care for ourselves, how can we hope to care for those the Lord Jesus has entrusted to us?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe don't have to do this on our own; we need both personal friends and the body of the local church to help and encourage us. Taking\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eto heart will fill us not with optimism, but with hope. As Paul Swann rightly observes: 'What we hope for is secondary to who we hope in'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWho should read this book? Every pastor on sabbatical who has time to think and pray. Every member of a leadership team that has responsibility for caring for its pastoral staff. And every church member who is concerned to encourage their pastors and help them thrive in serving the Lord Jesus for the long haul. Humanly, the health of our churches and the spread of the Lord Jesus' mission depends on the well-being of our pastors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Richard Underwood, Elder, Christchurch, Market Harborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by John Knowles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Jesus' disciples learnt what it meant to follow him through failed fishing trips, under-catered picnics and abortive exorcisms' sets the context for a very frank description of what happened after Paul Swann woke one morning with chronic ME. In his own words: 'I had been smashed to pieces through overwork, stress, damage to health and lack of self-care.' Out of his own experience come very practical and specific self-care strategies that recognise the specific stresses, positive and negative, that often accompany church leadership. Central to the book's thrust is its subtitle - 'You are more important that your ministry' - with the need to keep life and ministry in balance, where being is more important than doing and the rediscovery of Sabbath can be the antidote to 'hurry sickness'. Ministry can be very challenging and my experience as a diocesan Warden of Readers would suggest that it is not just stipendiary clergy who need to take care of themselves, making the advice enormously valuable to all in church leadership long before any warning lights begin to flash. Buy a copy for yourself and one for your incumbent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Knowles\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Kate Wharton. 12.01.19 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\"\u003ehttps:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wildly and hopelessly overdue blog! I read this wonderful book ages ago, and promised to review it here, but never got round to it. And be assured that the irony of not being able to find time to review a book about developing and maintaining healthy patterns of life and work is in no way lost on me...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by Paul Swann, and its subtitle is 'You are more important than your ministry'. A reasonable enough statement, you'd think, except that so many of us seem to forget this at one time or another, as we fall into the trap of believing ourselves to be indispensable, and allow our diaries, our ministries and our pressures define us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann speaks from very personal, and very difficult, experience. In 2005 he experienced a period of illness and fatigue which resulted in 4 years of trying to manage his health and ministry, before he decided completely to step back from his full time role. Out of that experience, and the ways in which he has since sought to rebuild and rebalance his life, he shares much insight and wisdom which every one of us in any sort of 'ministry' role would do well to heed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is really superb, and an absolute must read. It's easy to read in the sense of being clear and well written, with short chapters, but certainly not in the sense of being without substance. I sense that it's a book I will return to time and time again throughout the course of my ministry, when I need to be reminded of the nuggets it contains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the first page of the Introduction comes a quote that I know I need to keep front and centre of my mind (from Parker Palmer): 'Self-care is never a selfish act - it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI know I have found a book enormously helpful when I highlight something on almost every page - and my copy of Sustaining Leadership is already well thumbed and with many yellow highlights! \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 1, entitled 'Disintegration' Paul outlines his own story in 'Arriving on Planet Fragile'. I read it knowing it could easily have been me or any one of us. He is honest about his own personal and painful experiences, and the devastating impact they had upon him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 2, 'Reintegration', Paul describes how he began to recover, and gives a wealth of invaluable advice about self care, what healthy and unhealthy patterns of ministry might look like, and how we can find the right balance of all the competing demands and priorities within our lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI often say that the thing I find most frustrating about my job as a vicar (which I love almost all of the time), is that it is simply never finished. There is always something more which could or should be done. Paul speaks to this when he writes, 'From where will you get your permission to stop? It will not come from completing a job that has no ending, from receiving affirmation that seldom comes or from a hierarchical permission that rarely exists. Instead, it will have to come from the self-love and self-care of which we have spoken, augmented by obedience to the fourth commandment, which is our permission to rest.' I'm seriously considering getting that tattooed on my person, or at the very least stuck on the door of my study!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 is called 'Holding on to Hope'. This reminds us of why we ultimately do what we do, and in whose strength we do it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really enjoyed the way this book is written. It is very practical, and actively encourages the reader to engage with the content rather than just to read the words. Throughout the book there are grey boxes where questions are asked which invite us to pause and reflect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is immensely real and honest, with just the right level of challenge - having gone through such a difficult period in his own life, Paul very much wants to make sure that others don't have to go through the same thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is wonderful and important - a definite must read for anyone involved in any kind of leadership or ministry. The future you will be glad you read this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Paul says in the Introduction: 'Sustaining Leadership is not a book about what to do as a leader. It is a book about how to be as a leader.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Kate Wharton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLead On - CPAS e-newsletter, January 2019 Review by James Lawrence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the start of the year it is good to take stock, to think and pray about the pressure and pace of life and leadership and any adjustments that it might be good to make for the year ahead. If you are planning to do that in any way, may I encourage you to get hold of Sustaining Leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann writes from personal experience of having 'four years in the wilderness of total fatigue'. This is an honest book. It recounts his descent into a place of fragility, and the stripping away of many of the things he relied on to bolster his own sense of identity. He reflects that there are 'no words to describe the density of the darkness and the intensity of the isolation.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen follow chapters that helpfully explore the relationship between self-care and self-sacrifice, ways of identifying 'hurry sickness', symptoms of burn out and stress, the place of boundary keeping and Sabbath disciplines. The insights are well illustrated from a wide variety of sources, and contain short perceptive comments that make you think: for example 'margin is the vital space between your load and your limits.' The final chapters on soul food and holding onto hope introduce practical ways to self-compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership will make a good companion for a Quiet Day or a month of reflecting on yourself through January. Heed its wise insights, and we may find ourselves in a more sustainable place as leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by James Lawrence, Director CPAS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 12 October 2018. Review by Peter Selby, former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee beyond the small size of this book to an offering of generosity and wide-ranging wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts generosity lies in Paul Swann's writing about his experience of illness without holding much back: he invites us into his experience of chronic fatigue. We are given a graphic, though not over-dramatised, account of the terrible toll that ME took on the author.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven more significant is the particular distress that burnout brings to a person of great talent and deep commitment, when he reaches the point when he has to say, 'I can't do this any more.' Fragility - to put it mildly - was what he encountered as he 'hit the buffers'; then fragility was what had gradually to be emerged from, and then, as its meaning became clear, to be embraced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the first third of the book is about that experience, although even as we read it we have the sense that faith, though tested, never totally lost its ability to provide perspective and meaning in his suffering. That perspective is the foundation for the wisdom in the next hundred pages: the practical necessity as well as the spiritual importance of self-care, particularly for the most energetic, creative, and committed, who find self-care hardest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many sermons, the Pauline image of the clay pot - to which Swann refers a great deal - can remain a general comment about ministerial humility rather than pointing to specific vulnerabilities that need specific remedies and responses. It is because this author gets specific that this book is lifted above well-meaning exhortation to be both challenging and of practical use to those who find it hard in practice to accept the subtitle's message that 'You are more important than your ministry.' The many examples of vulnerability and practical self-care are supported by a wide selection of biblical citation and the wider reading that was, no doubt, part of the author's self-care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlongside all that is worth while in the book, there remain some questions. Surely, a more artistic and nourishing front-cover design would have portrayed the book more accurately. And isn't the subtitle rather than the title the real message of this book? It is for everyone, not just, or even mainly, 'leaders'? The book is at least partly a critique of what the designation 'leader' engenders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet, if this is a book for everyone, it especially challenges those who have oversight of others' ministry. I happen to have been the bishop involved in the author's call to undertake the special challenge of growing and enlivening a church in the centre of Worcester. It is hardly a decision that I can regret, given all the good that has flowed from it. But, since the disintegration and the reintegration that this book describes are also what (in part) flowed from that decision, I found the book a particular challenge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at my former ministry, I ask myself, in gladly appointing some of our strongest people to the hardest tasks, are we as aware as we need to be of the particular support and resourcing needs that such colleagues have? Or do we just hope that the talented and the committed will find their own way of avoiding burnout? That goes along with a more searching question: how well are we ourselves modelling self-care?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this gentle author also knows how to use examples that challenge lightly; so if you ever catch yourself not completing the two minutes that your electric toothbrush allows, remember it's not just your teeth that you're not caring for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by t\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ehe Rt Revd Dr Peter Selby, a former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens when you realise that the work you love is making you sick?\u003cbr\u003eThis gem of a book traces the story of how a capable Christian leader experiences such physical and emotional disintegration that he hears himself saying to his bishop, 'I can't do this any more'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLucid and concise, Paul Swann's book is an essay in practical spirituality, one that is based on grace rather than our own attempts at self-justifying significance. The central argument is that, with a proper understanding of our belovedness as God's children, and a clear view of God's loving character, we can be freed to care for ourselves and live healthy, grateful lives. How many of us, not just Christian leaders, need to learn this lesson?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is the way the writer communicates the reality of grace in the midst his own sense of failure and weakness which distinguishes this book: 'One day, as I was struggling with low self-esteem and the battle to recover... I complained to God, 'This is too hard for me to do!' Swiftly and firmly, but with extreme gentleness, came the response: 'Is it too hard to be my son?'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInsights from films like Wonder Woman, spiritual writers like Margery Kempe, storytellers such as Lewis Carroll and theologians like Walter Breuggemann, combine with Paul Swann's own experience of reintegration to make the book a compelling read. The lesson that every Christian minister - every human being - needs to hear is brought home with elegance and power: you are more important than what you do. Get hold of this book and read it slowly. If I could, I would buy a copy for every church leader I know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by John Pellowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a real challenge to church leaders to take better care of themselves and to more intentionally build up the local church they serve. Paul Swann's story of his descent into illness, burnout, and depression is mercifully short (one chapter) but it is sufficient to help people who have not had a similar experience to understand what it is really like, and how much they are suffering something real. He gave me a real empathy for those who suffered as he did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really thought it helpful how he framed his situation - 'fragility' is such a good word! We are all fragile people and need to accept that fragility is part of our human condition. No one is impervious to what this writer experienced. The two chapters on emerging from fragility and embracing fragility are very practical and inspirational. Paul has redeemed his story of recovery in sharing it with others, and much good will come of it, I'm sure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rest of the book is full of great ideas to build strength into the people of the Church so that we can better serve those in the world around us who are suffering, as well as protecting ourselves from suffering as Paul did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I finished the book, my thought was, 'How much more effective the Church would be if we all caught on to the principles and practices outlined in the book!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Pellowe, CEO Canadian Council of Christian Charities\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Timothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the world in which we live, everyone wants to be seen as perfect. We gloss over the failures, claim insight after the event which wasn't there at the time, even post our best selfies on social media. We long to be seen as successful, and to be liked by all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what happens when it all goes wrong? When you're made redundant? Or you're broken by the expectations placed on you? Especially if you're supposed to be in Christian ministry?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann has helpfully broken this book into small digestible chunks, with loads of practical advice. If you're in pain, or struggling in any way. Even if you're just feeling a little weary or burdened, then you can flick through it and find something which resonates before working out from there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul observes that burnout doesn't suddenly happen. Rather it creeps up on us over time. We all need the advice he gives for maintaining ourselves. Buy this book, read it carefully, then keep it handy so that you can dip into it regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTimothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Steve Chase\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership is written from the reality of Paul Swann's own personal journey through the difficult challenges of leadership and life. He writes with honesty, great vulnerability and deep self-awareness. Sharing lessons hard learnt in the weakness of his humanity, Paul takes the reader gently into some of the places we so often avoid. He offers proven examples from his own faith journey, along with insights from the lives of those who gone before, that our most authentic identity is found in being loved by God. Paul encourages the discovery of that authentic place of 'being', from which all can learn to love well, live well and lead well! I have already brought 3 copies and passed them on!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteve Chase\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:42+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:43+00:00","vendor":"Paul Swann","type":"Paperback","tags":["Jul-18","KCLC","Kindle","Leadership"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769971662948,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466518","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436952633444,"product_id":2439813398628,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:43+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:26+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126","variant_ids":[21769971662948]},"available":true,"name":"Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":186,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466518","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238880805003,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238880805003,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466518-l.jpg?v=1549043126","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eMany books on leadership and ministry are written from the point of view of success and strength. In Sustaining Leadership Paul Swann writes out of the raw experience of failure, getting to the heart of who we are as leaders rather than what we do. From this, he offers both hope and practical resources for sustaining effective long-term ministry, looking at self-care, balance and healthy ministry, feasting on divine love, and more. As he says, this is the best gift we can offer those we serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a story of a successfully growing ministry plunged suddenly into soul searching physical, mental and emotional depths. At times shockingly raw, these personal experiences, reflected on so honestly, drive home such hard learned spiritual insights, that I needed to re-read some sections to allow the message to sink in. And it's a profound message: learning simply to be still before God; clinging to personal worth even at the expense of ministry; loving self as well as neighbour; enjoying real Sabbath rest. This is not a book for the casual believer or religiously comfortable. Neither is it just for 'leaders'. Rather, it is essential reading for those courageous enough to accept a God given call to active and costly service. Spoiler alert! It does all work out well in the end. But that, after all, is rather down to God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClive Langmead, Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis courageous, raw and inspiring book is a 'must read' for any who long to live in the fullness God intends for us, amidst the realities and challenges of everyday life. A 'how to' walk the Truth of God's strength in our weakness. I wish I had had this treasure twenty years ago!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlina Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is both wonderfully easy to read yet at the same time deeply challenging. Paul Swann's gutsy and honest story made me realise the true importance of self-care in ministry (which is ideal as I prepare for ordination). The 'Pause to Reflect' moments scattered throughout the book really help with not just reading it as someone else's story but as a guide through your own story too. This will be re-read many times in the years to come!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSarah Bardell (Ordinand)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthenticity is perhaps the most important value for any religion in the 21st Century Western world. Paul Swann demonstrates in this vital book how the Christian religion and its leaders can be authentic and life-giving even in the most desperate, dark and dismal of experiences that arise from becoming 'addicted' to ministry. Combining insights from the bible, contemporary film and popular culture with his own deeply vulnerable experience here is a plea for leadership which is rooted way down in the God who simply is and therefore is not trying to be anything it can't be, other than the sharing of our beautiful and flawed humanity. I hope it becomes widely used in our highly anxious and often success oriented church systems.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Dr Nigel Rooms, Leader, Partnership for Missional Church UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul, I wish you had written your book 50 years ago! But at least it was published at the end of a long hot summer, when I'm wondering if I shall ever walk the hills again... but the last chapter (as you say) belongs to hope! Your humbling honesty, coupled with wonderful biblical expositions, have brought both inspiration and clarification. I now know what I want to be when I grow up!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Michael Dunn (Spiritual Director and Retired Priest)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSO refreshing to have this deep wisdom - on being\/doing, self-care\/giving, nature of success etc - served up from the point of view of someone who has got there the hard way. This is not a happy, shiny, just-copy-me sort of read, it's more in the painful\/raw\/honest category, which adds to its value. And although this is a Christian book written out of his experience of being a vicar I'd say it's pretty clearly going to be profoundly helpful to a whole range of people. I've already bought four more to pass on!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Owen Gallacher (Vicar)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving known Paul for many years, we initially bought this book to support him. I'm not a great reader but it was such a delight that I soon finished it. Paul speaks openly of his struggles and sets out the challenges we all face in our lives and how to balance things before it gets too much. I would highly recommend this resource to people in any form of leadership.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Davenport (Computer Programmer)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann trained for ordination in the Anglican Church and served in two growing parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, Paul was forced to retire early and spent four years in the wilderness of total fatigue. Since 2012, Paul has begun to offer a new ministry from this place of weakness. He has served as diocesan adviser on spirituality, offers spiritual direction and leads retreats. The insights of this book are drawn from these experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of Sustaining Leadership - Evangelicals Now, April 2019. Review by\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Underwood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann served in two Anglican parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, he retired early and spent two years existing on what he describes as 'Planet Fragile'.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis his story, but much more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part I, Swann describes the process of his own disintegration as he slipped into that slough of physical, mental and emotional despond we call ME.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part II, he offers us first his personal and theological reflection on reintegration and then, in Part III, a host of practical and life-enhancing measures towards beginning and nurturing that process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting for a broader constituency than mine and drawing on an impressive range of sources and resources, the basic thesis of this short book is that 'broken is best' ... that our human capabilities are often expressions of weakness rather than strength ... that Father-God is more concerned about we are in him than what we do for him. As Paul Swann rightly observes, we are 'human beings' rather than 'human doings'. What we do should flow from who we are, rather than the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remedy for our pervasive passion for proving ourselves is to take a long hard look at the three dials on the dashboard of our humanity - our God-given physical, spiritual and emotional needs. It's time for those of us who are pastors to take control of our self care and our soul care. If we can't care for ourselves, how can we hope to care for those the Lord Jesus has entrusted to us?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe don't have to do this on our own; we need both personal friends and the body of the local church to help and encourage us. Taking\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eto heart will fill us not with optimism, but with hope. As Paul Swann rightly observes: 'What we hope for is secondary to who we hope in'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWho should read this book? Every pastor on sabbatical who has time to think and pray. Every member of a leadership team that has responsibility for caring for its pastoral staff. And every church member who is concerned to encourage their pastors and help them thrive in serving the Lord Jesus for the long haul. Humanly, the health of our churches and the spread of the Lord Jesus' mission depends on the well-being of our pastors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Richard Underwood, Elder, Christchurch, Market Harborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by John Knowles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Jesus' disciples learnt what it meant to follow him through failed fishing trips, under-catered picnics and abortive exorcisms' sets the context for a very frank description of what happened after Paul Swann woke one morning with chronic ME. In his own words: 'I had been smashed to pieces through overwork, stress, damage to health and lack of self-care.' Out of his own experience come very practical and specific self-care strategies that recognise the specific stresses, positive and negative, that often accompany church leadership. Central to the book's thrust is its subtitle - 'You are more important that your ministry' - with the need to keep life and ministry in balance, where being is more important than doing and the rediscovery of Sabbath can be the antidote to 'hurry sickness'. Ministry can be very challenging and my experience as a diocesan Warden of Readers would suggest that it is not just stipendiary clergy who need to take care of themselves, making the advice enormously valuable to all in church leadership long before any warning lights begin to flash. Buy a copy for yourself and one for your incumbent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Knowles\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Kate Wharton. 12.01.19 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\"\u003ehttps:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wildly and hopelessly overdue blog! I read this wonderful book ages ago, and promised to review it here, but never got round to it. And be assured that the irony of not being able to find time to review a book about developing and maintaining healthy patterns of life and work is in no way lost on me...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by Paul Swann, and its subtitle is 'You are more important than your ministry'. A reasonable enough statement, you'd think, except that so many of us seem to forget this at one time or another, as we fall into the trap of believing ourselves to be indispensable, and allow our diaries, our ministries and our pressures define us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann speaks from very personal, and very difficult, experience. In 2005 he experienced a period of illness and fatigue which resulted in 4 years of trying to manage his health and ministry, before he decided completely to step back from his full time role. Out of that experience, and the ways in which he has since sought to rebuild and rebalance his life, he shares much insight and wisdom which every one of us in any sort of 'ministry' role would do well to heed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is really superb, and an absolute must read. It's easy to read in the sense of being clear and well written, with short chapters, but certainly not in the sense of being without substance. I sense that it's a book I will return to time and time again throughout the course of my ministry, when I need to be reminded of the nuggets it contains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the first page of the Introduction comes a quote that I know I need to keep front and centre of my mind (from Parker Palmer): 'Self-care is never a selfish act - it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI know I have found a book enormously helpful when I highlight something on almost every page - and my copy of Sustaining Leadership is already well thumbed and with many yellow highlights! \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 1, entitled 'Disintegration' Paul outlines his own story in 'Arriving on Planet Fragile'. I read it knowing it could easily have been me or any one of us. He is honest about his own personal and painful experiences, and the devastating impact they had upon him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 2, 'Reintegration', Paul describes how he began to recover, and gives a wealth of invaluable advice about self care, what healthy and unhealthy patterns of ministry might look like, and how we can find the right balance of all the competing demands and priorities within our lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI often say that the thing I find most frustrating about my job as a vicar (which I love almost all of the time), is that it is simply never finished. There is always something more which could or should be done. Paul speaks to this when he writes, 'From where will you get your permission to stop? It will not come from completing a job that has no ending, from receiving affirmation that seldom comes or from a hierarchical permission that rarely exists. Instead, it will have to come from the self-love and self-care of which we have spoken, augmented by obedience to the fourth commandment, which is our permission to rest.' I'm seriously considering getting that tattooed on my person, or at the very least stuck on the door of my study!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 is called 'Holding on to Hope'. This reminds us of why we ultimately do what we do, and in whose strength we do it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really enjoyed the way this book is written. It is very practical, and actively encourages the reader to engage with the content rather than just to read the words. Throughout the book there are grey boxes where questions are asked which invite us to pause and reflect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is immensely real and honest, with just the right level of challenge - having gone through such a difficult period in his own life, Paul very much wants to make sure that others don't have to go through the same thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is wonderful and important - a definite must read for anyone involved in any kind of leadership or ministry. The future you will be glad you read this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Paul says in the Introduction: 'Sustaining Leadership is not a book about what to do as a leader. It is a book about how to be as a leader.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Kate Wharton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLead On - CPAS e-newsletter, January 2019 Review by James Lawrence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the start of the year it is good to take stock, to think and pray about the pressure and pace of life and leadership and any adjustments that it might be good to make for the year ahead. If you are planning to do that in any way, may I encourage you to get hold of Sustaining Leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann writes from personal experience of having 'four years in the wilderness of total fatigue'. This is an honest book. It recounts his descent into a place of fragility, and the stripping away of many of the things he relied on to bolster his own sense of identity. He reflects that there are 'no words to describe the density of the darkness and the intensity of the isolation.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen follow chapters that helpfully explore the relationship between self-care and self-sacrifice, ways of identifying 'hurry sickness', symptoms of burn out and stress, the place of boundary keeping and Sabbath disciplines. The insights are well illustrated from a wide variety of sources, and contain short perceptive comments that make you think: for example 'margin is the vital space between your load and your limits.' The final chapters on soul food and holding onto hope introduce practical ways to self-compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership will make a good companion for a Quiet Day or a month of reflecting on yourself through January. Heed its wise insights, and we may find ourselves in a more sustainable place as leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by James Lawrence, Director CPAS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 12 October 2018. Review by Peter Selby, former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee beyond the small size of this book to an offering of generosity and wide-ranging wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts generosity lies in Paul Swann's writing about his experience of illness without holding much back: he invites us into his experience of chronic fatigue. We are given a graphic, though not over-dramatised, account of the terrible toll that ME took on the author.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven more significant is the particular distress that burnout brings to a person of great talent and deep commitment, when he reaches the point when he has to say, 'I can't do this any more.' Fragility - to put it mildly - was what he encountered as he 'hit the buffers'; then fragility was what had gradually to be emerged from, and then, as its meaning became clear, to be embraced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the first third of the book is about that experience, although even as we read it we have the sense that faith, though tested, never totally lost its ability to provide perspective and meaning in his suffering. That perspective is the foundation for the wisdom in the next hundred pages: the practical necessity as well as the spiritual importance of self-care, particularly for the most energetic, creative, and committed, who find self-care hardest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many sermons, the Pauline image of the clay pot - to which Swann refers a great deal - can remain a general comment about ministerial humility rather than pointing to specific vulnerabilities that need specific remedies and responses. It is because this author gets specific that this book is lifted above well-meaning exhortation to be both challenging and of practical use to those who find it hard in practice to accept the subtitle's message that 'You are more important than your ministry.' The many examples of vulnerability and practical self-care are supported by a wide selection of biblical citation and the wider reading that was, no doubt, part of the author's self-care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlongside all that is worth while in the book, there remain some questions. Surely, a more artistic and nourishing front-cover design would have portrayed the book more accurately. And isn't the subtitle rather than the title the real message of this book? It is for everyone, not just, or even mainly, 'leaders'? The book is at least partly a critique of what the designation 'leader' engenders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet, if this is a book for everyone, it especially challenges those who have oversight of others' ministry. I happen to have been the bishop involved in the author's call to undertake the special challenge of growing and enlivening a church in the centre of Worcester. It is hardly a decision that I can regret, given all the good that has flowed from it. But, since the disintegration and the reintegration that this book describes are also what (in part) flowed from that decision, I found the book a particular challenge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at my former ministry, I ask myself, in gladly appointing some of our strongest people to the hardest tasks, are we as aware as we need to be of the particular support and resourcing needs that such colleagues have? Or do we just hope that the talented and the committed will find their own way of avoiding burnout? That goes along with a more searching question: how well are we ourselves modelling self-care?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this gentle author also knows how to use examples that challenge lightly; so if you ever catch yourself not completing the two minutes that your electric toothbrush allows, remember it's not just your teeth that you're not caring for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by t\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ehe Rt Revd Dr Peter Selby, a former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens when you realise that the work you love is making you sick?\u003cbr\u003eThis gem of a book traces the story of how a capable Christian leader experiences such physical and emotional disintegration that he hears himself saying to his bishop, 'I can't do this any more'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLucid and concise, Paul Swann's book is an essay in practical spirituality, one that is based on grace rather than our own attempts at self-justifying significance. The central argument is that, with a proper understanding of our belovedness as God's children, and a clear view of God's loving character, we can be freed to care for ourselves and live healthy, grateful lives. How many of us, not just Christian leaders, need to learn this lesson?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is the way the writer communicates the reality of grace in the midst his own sense of failure and weakness which distinguishes this book: 'One day, as I was struggling with low self-esteem and the battle to recover... I complained to God, 'This is too hard for me to do!' Swiftly and firmly, but with extreme gentleness, came the response: 'Is it too hard to be my son?'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInsights from films like Wonder Woman, spiritual writers like Margery Kempe, storytellers such as Lewis Carroll and theologians like Walter Breuggemann, combine with Paul Swann's own experience of reintegration to make the book a compelling read. The lesson that every Christian minister - every human being - needs to hear is brought home with elegance and power: you are more important than what you do. Get hold of this book and read it slowly. If I could, I would buy a copy for every church leader I know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by John Pellowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a real challenge to church leaders to take better care of themselves and to more intentionally build up the local church they serve. Paul Swann's story of his descent into illness, burnout, and depression is mercifully short (one chapter) but it is sufficient to help people who have not had a similar experience to understand what it is really like, and how much they are suffering something real. He gave me a real empathy for those who suffered as he did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really thought it helpful how he framed his situation - 'fragility' is such a good word! We are all fragile people and need to accept that fragility is part of our human condition. No one is impervious to what this writer experienced. The two chapters on emerging from fragility and embracing fragility are very practical and inspirational. Paul has redeemed his story of recovery in sharing it with others, and much good will come of it, I'm sure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rest of the book is full of great ideas to build strength into the people of the Church so that we can better serve those in the world around us who are suffering, as well as protecting ourselves from suffering as Paul did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I finished the book, my thought was, 'How much more effective the Church would be if we all caught on to the principles and practices outlined in the book!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Pellowe, CEO Canadian Council of Christian Charities\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Timothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the world in which we live, everyone wants to be seen as perfect. We gloss over the failures, claim insight after the event which wasn't there at the time, even post our best selfies on social media. We long to be seen as successful, and to be liked by all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what happens when it all goes wrong? When you're made redundant? Or you're broken by the expectations placed on you? Especially if you're supposed to be in Christian ministry?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann has helpfully broken this book into small digestible chunks, with loads of practical advice. If you're in pain, or struggling in any way. Even if you're just feeling a little weary or burdened, then you can flick through it and find something which resonates before working out from there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul observes that burnout doesn't suddenly happen. Rather it creeps up on us over time. We all need the advice he gives for maintaining ourselves. Buy this book, read it carefully, then keep it handy so that you can dip into it regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTimothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Steve Chase\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership is written from the reality of Paul Swann's own personal journey through the difficult challenges of leadership and life. He writes with honesty, great vulnerability and deep self-awareness. Sharing lessons hard learnt in the weakness of his humanity, Paul takes the reader gently into some of the places we so often avoid. He offers proven examples from his own faith journey, along with insights from the lives of those who gone before, that our most authentic identity is found in being loved by God. Paul encourages the discovery of that authentic place of 'being', from which all can learn to love well, live well and lead well! I have already brought 3 copies and passed them on!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteve Chase\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry
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Many books on leadership and ministry are written from the point of view of success and strength. In Sustaining Leadership...
{"id":14698359751036,"title":"Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry","handle":"sustaining-leadership-you-are-more-important-than-your-ministry-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMany books on leadership and ministry are written from the point of view of success and strength. In Sustaining Leadership Paul Swann writes out of the raw experience of failure, getting to the heart of who we are as leaders rather than what we do. From this, he offers both hope and practical resources for sustaining effective long-term ministry, looking at self-care, balance and healthy ministry, feasting on divine love, and more. As he says, this is the best gift we can offer those we serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a story of a successfully growing ministry plunged suddenly into soul searching physical, mental and emotional depths. At times shockingly raw, these personal experiences, reflected on so honestly, drive home such hard learned spiritual insights, that I needed to re-read some sections to allow the message to sink in. And it's a profound message: learning simply to be still before God; clinging to personal worth even at the expense of ministry; loving self as well as neighbour; enjoying real Sabbath rest. This is not a book for the casual believer or religiously comfortable. Neither is it just for 'leaders'. Rather, it is essential reading for those courageous enough to accept a God given call to active and costly service. Spoiler alert! It does all work out well in the end. But that, after all, is rather down to God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClive Langmead, Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis courageous, raw and inspiring book is a 'must read' for any who long to live in the fullness God intends for us, amidst the realities and challenges of everyday life. A 'how to' walk the Truth of God's strength in our weakness. I wish I had had this treasure twenty years ago!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlina Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is both wonderfully easy to read yet at the same time deeply challenging. Paul Swann's gutsy and honest story made me realise the true importance of self-care in ministry (which is ideal as I prepare for ordination). The 'Pause to Reflect' moments scattered throughout the book really help with not just reading it as someone else's story but as a guide through your own story too. This will be re-read many times in the years to come!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSarah Bardell (Ordinand)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthenticity is perhaps the most important value for any religion in the 21st Century Western world. Paul Swann demonstrates in this vital book how the Christian religion and its leaders can be authentic and life-giving even in the most desperate, dark and dismal of experiences that arise from becoming 'addicted' to ministry. Combining insights from the bible, contemporary film and popular culture with his own deeply vulnerable experience here is a plea for leadership which is rooted way down in the God who simply is and therefore is not trying to be anything it can't be, other than the sharing of our beautiful and flawed humanity. I hope it becomes widely used in our highly anxious and often success oriented church systems.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Dr Nigel Rooms, Leader, Partnership for Missional Church UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul, I wish you had written your book 50 years ago! But at least it was published at the end of a long hot summer, when I'm wondering if I shall ever walk the hills again... but the last chapter (as you say) belongs to hope! Your humbling honesty, coupled with wonderful biblical expositions, have brought both inspiration and clarification. I now know what I want to be when I grow up!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Michael Dunn (Spiritual Director and Retired Priest)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSO refreshing to have this deep wisdom - on being\/doing, self-care\/giving, nature of success etc - served up from the point of view of someone who has got there the hard way. This is not a happy, shiny, just-copy-me sort of read, it's more in the painful\/raw\/honest category, which adds to its value. And although this is a Christian book written out of his experience of being a vicar I'd say it's pretty clearly going to be profoundly helpful to a whole range of people. I've already bought four more to pass on!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Owen Gallacher (Vicar)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving known Paul for many years, we initially bought this book to support him. I'm not a great reader but it was such a delight that I soon finished it. Paul speaks openly of his struggles and sets out the challenges we all face in our lives and how to balance things before it gets too much. I would highly recommend this resource to people in any form of leadership.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Davenport (Computer Programmer)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann trained for ordination in the Anglican Church and served in two growing parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, Paul was forced to retire early and spent four years in the wilderness of total fatigue. Since 2012, Paul has begun to offer a new ministry from this place of weakness. He has served as diocesan adviser on spirituality, offers spiritual direction and leads retreats. The insights of this book are drawn from these experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of Sustaining Leadership - Evangelicals Now, April 2019. Review by\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Underwood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann served in two Anglican parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, he retired early and spent two years existing on what he describes as 'Planet Fragile'.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis his story, but much more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part I, Swann describes the process of his own disintegration as he slipped into that slough of physical, mental and emotional despond we call ME.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part II, he offers us first his personal and theological reflection on reintegration and then, in Part III, a host of practical and life-enhancing measures towards beginning and nurturing that process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting for a broader constituency than mine and drawing on an impressive range of sources and resources, the basic thesis of this short book is that 'broken is best' ... that our human capabilities are often expressions of weakness rather than strength ... that Father-God is more concerned about we are in him than what we do for him. As Paul Swann rightly observes, we are 'human beings' rather than 'human doings'. What we do should flow from who we are, rather than the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remedy for our pervasive passion for proving ourselves is to take a long hard look at the three dials on the dashboard of our humanity - our God-given physical, spiritual and emotional needs. It's time for those of us who are pastors to take control of our self care and our soul care. If we can't care for ourselves, how can we hope to care for those the Lord Jesus has entrusted to us?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe don't have to do this on our own; we need both personal friends and the body of the local church to help and encourage us. Taking\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eto heart will fill us not with optimism, but with hope. As Paul Swann rightly observes: 'What we hope for is secondary to who we hope in'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWho should read this book? Every pastor on sabbatical who has time to think and pray. Every member of a leadership team that has responsibility for caring for its pastoral staff. And every church member who is concerned to encourage their pastors and help them thrive in serving the Lord Jesus for the long haul. Humanly, the health of our churches and the spread of the Lord Jesus' mission depends on the well-being of our pastors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Richard Underwood, Elder, Christchurch, Market Harborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by John Knowles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Jesus' disciples learnt what it meant to follow him through failed fishing trips, under-catered picnics and abortive exorcisms' sets the context for a very frank description of what happened after Paul Swann woke one morning with chronic ME. In his own words: 'I had been smashed to pieces through overwork, stress, damage to health and lack of self-care.' Out of his own experience come very practical and specific self-care strategies that recognise the specific stresses, positive and negative, that often accompany church leadership. Central to the book's thrust is its subtitle - 'You are more important that your ministry' - with the need to keep life and ministry in balance, where being is more important than doing and the rediscovery of Sabbath can be the antidote to 'hurry sickness'. Ministry can be very challenging and my experience as a diocesan Warden of Readers would suggest that it is not just stipendiary clergy who need to take care of themselves, making the advice enormously valuable to all in church leadership long before any warning lights begin to flash. Buy a copy for yourself and one for your incumbent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Knowles\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Kate Wharton. 12.01.19 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\"\u003ehttps:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wildly and hopelessly overdue blog! I read this wonderful book ages ago, and promised to review it here, but never got round to it. And be assured that the irony of not being able to find time to review a book about developing and maintaining healthy patterns of life and work is in no way lost on me...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by Paul Swann, and its subtitle is 'You are more important than your ministry'. A reasonable enough statement, you'd think, except that so many of us seem to forget this at one time or another, as we fall into the trap of believing ourselves to be indispensable, and allow our diaries, our ministries and our pressures define us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann speaks from very personal, and very difficult, experience. In 2005 he experienced a period of illness and fatigue which resulted in 4 years of trying to manage his health and ministry, before he decided completely to step back from his full time role. Out of that experience, and the ways in which he has since sought to rebuild and rebalance his life, he shares much insight and wisdom which every one of us in any sort of 'ministry' role would do well to heed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is really superb, and an absolute must read. It's easy to read in the sense of being clear and well written, with short chapters, but certainly not in the sense of being without substance. I sense that it's a book I will return to time and time again throughout the course of my ministry, when I need to be reminded of the nuggets it contains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the first page of the Introduction comes a quote that I know I need to keep front and centre of my mind (from Parker Palmer): 'Self-care is never a selfish act - it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI know I have found a book enormously helpful when I highlight something on almost every page - and my copy of Sustaining Leadership is already well thumbed and with many yellow highlights! \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 1, entitled 'Disintegration' Paul outlines his own story in 'Arriving on Planet Fragile'. I read it knowing it could easily have been me or any one of us. He is honest about his own personal and painful experiences, and the devastating impact they had upon him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 2, 'Reintegration', Paul describes how he began to recover, and gives a wealth of invaluable advice about self care, what healthy and unhealthy patterns of ministry might look like, and how we can find the right balance of all the competing demands and priorities within our lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI often say that the thing I find most frustrating about my job as a vicar (which I love almost all of the time), is that it is simply never finished. There is always something more which could or should be done. Paul speaks to this when he writes, 'From where will you get your permission to stop? It will not come from completing a job that has no ending, from receiving affirmation that seldom comes or from a hierarchical permission that rarely exists. Instead, it will have to come from the self-love and self-care of which we have spoken, augmented by obedience to the fourth commandment, which is our permission to rest.' I'm seriously considering getting that tattooed on my person, or at the very least stuck on the door of my study!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 is called 'Holding on to Hope'. This reminds us of why we ultimately do what we do, and in whose strength we do it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really enjoyed the way this book is written. It is very practical, and actively encourages the reader to engage with the content rather than just to read the words. Throughout the book there are grey boxes where questions are asked which invite us to pause and reflect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is immensely real and honest, with just the right level of challenge - having gone through such a difficult period in his own life, Paul very much wants to make sure that others don't have to go through the same thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is wonderful and important - a definite must read for anyone involved in any kind of leadership or ministry. The future you will be glad you read this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Paul says in the Introduction: 'Sustaining Leadership is not a book about what to do as a leader. It is a book about how to be as a leader.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Kate Wharton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLead On - CPAS e-newsletter, January 2019 Review by James Lawrence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the start of the year it is good to take stock, to think and pray about the pressure and pace of life and leadership and any adjustments that it might be good to make for the year ahead. If you are planning to do that in any way, may I encourage you to get hold of Sustaining Leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann writes from personal experience of having 'four years in the wilderness of total fatigue'. This is an honest book. It recounts his descent into a place of fragility, and the stripping away of many of the things he relied on to bolster his own sense of identity. He reflects that there are 'no words to describe the density of the darkness and the intensity of the isolation.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen follow chapters that helpfully explore the relationship between self-care and self-sacrifice, ways of identifying 'hurry sickness', symptoms of burn out and stress, the place of boundary keeping and Sabbath disciplines. The insights are well illustrated from a wide variety of sources, and contain short perceptive comments that make you think: for example 'margin is the vital space between your load and your limits.' The final chapters on soul food and holding onto hope introduce practical ways to self-compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership will make a good companion for a Quiet Day or a month of reflecting on yourself through January. Heed its wise insights, and we may find ourselves in a more sustainable place as leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by James Lawrence, Director CPAS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 12 October 2018. Review by Peter Selby, former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee beyond the small size of this book to an offering of generosity and wide-ranging wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts generosity lies in Paul Swann's writing about his experience of illness without holding much back: he invites us into his experience of chronic fatigue. We are given a graphic, though not over-dramatised, account of the terrible toll that ME took on the author.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven more significant is the particular distress that burnout brings to a person of great talent and deep commitment, when he reaches the point when he has to say, 'I can't do this any more.' Fragility - to put it mildly - was what he encountered as he 'hit the buffers'; then fragility was what had gradually to be emerged from, and then, as its meaning became clear, to be embraced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the first third of the book is about that experience, although even as we read it we have the sense that faith, though tested, never totally lost its ability to provide perspective and meaning in his suffering. That perspective is the foundation for the wisdom in the next hundred pages: the practical necessity as well as the spiritual importance of self-care, particularly for the most energetic, creative, and committed, who find self-care hardest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many sermons, the Pauline image of the clay pot - to which Swann refers a great deal - can remain a general comment about ministerial humility rather than pointing to specific vulnerabilities that need specific remedies and responses. It is because this author gets specific that this book is lifted above well-meaning exhortation to be both challenging and of practical use to those who find it hard in practice to accept the subtitle's message that 'You are more important than your ministry.' The many examples of vulnerability and practical self-care are supported by a wide selection of biblical citation and the wider reading that was, no doubt, part of the author's self-care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlongside all that is worth while in the book, there remain some questions. Surely, a more artistic and nourishing front-cover design would have portrayed the book more accurately. And isn't the subtitle rather than the title the real message of this book? It is for everyone, not just, or even mainly, 'leaders'? The book is at least partly a critique of what the designation 'leader' engenders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet, if this is a book for everyone, it especially challenges those who have oversight of others' ministry. I happen to have been the bishop involved in the author's call to undertake the special challenge of growing and enlivening a church in the centre of Worcester. It is hardly a decision that I can regret, given all the good that has flowed from it. But, since the disintegration and the reintegration that this book describes are also what (in part) flowed from that decision, I found the book a particular challenge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at my former ministry, I ask myself, in gladly appointing some of our strongest people to the hardest tasks, are we as aware as we need to be of the particular support and resourcing needs that such colleagues have? Or do we just hope that the talented and the committed will find their own way of avoiding burnout? That goes along with a more searching question: how well are we ourselves modelling self-care?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this gentle author also knows how to use examples that challenge lightly; so if you ever catch yourself not completing the two minutes that your electric toothbrush allows, remember it's not just your teeth that you're not caring for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by t\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ehe Rt Revd Dr Peter Selby, a former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens when you realise that the work you love is making you sick?\u003cbr\u003eThis gem of a book traces the story of how a capable Christian leader experiences such physical and emotional disintegration that he hears himself saying to his bishop, 'I can't do this any more'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLucid and concise, Paul Swann's book is an essay in practical spirituality, one that is based on grace rather than our own attempts at self-justifying significance. The central argument is that, with a proper understanding of our belovedness as God's children, and a clear view of God's loving character, we can be freed to care for ourselves and live healthy, grateful lives. How many of us, not just Christian leaders, need to learn this lesson?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is the way the writer communicates the reality of grace in the midst his own sense of failure and weakness which distinguishes this book: 'One day, as I was struggling with low self-esteem and the battle to recover... I complained to God, 'This is too hard for me to do!' Swiftly and firmly, but with extreme gentleness, came the response: 'Is it too hard to be my son?'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInsights from films like Wonder Woman, spiritual writers like Margery Kempe, storytellers such as Lewis Carroll and theologians like Walter Breuggemann, combine with Paul Swann's own experience of reintegration to make the book a compelling read. The lesson that every Christian minister - every human being - needs to hear is brought home with elegance and power: you are more important than what you do. Get hold of this book and read it slowly. If I could, I would buy a copy for every church leader I know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by John Pellowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a real challenge to church leaders to take better care of themselves and to more intentionally build up the local church they serve. Paul Swann's story of his descent into illness, burnout, and depression is mercifully short (one chapter) but it is sufficient to help people who have not had a similar experience to understand what it is really like, and how much they are suffering something real. He gave me a real empathy for those who suffered as he did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really thought it helpful how he framed his situation - 'fragility' is such a good word! We are all fragile people and need to accept that fragility is part of our human condition. No one is impervious to what this writer experienced. The two chapters on emerging from fragility and embracing fragility are very practical and inspirational. Paul has redeemed his story of recovery in sharing it with others, and much good will come of it, I'm sure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rest of the book is full of great ideas to build strength into the people of the Church so that we can better serve those in the world around us who are suffering, as well as protecting ourselves from suffering as Paul did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I finished the book, my thought was, 'How much more effective the Church would be if we all caught on to the principles and practices outlined in the book!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Pellowe, CEO Canadian Council of Christian Charities\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Timothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the world in which we live, everyone wants to be seen as perfect. We gloss over the failures, claim insight after the event which wasn't there at the time, even post our best selfies on social media. We long to be seen as successful, and to be liked by all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what happens when it all goes wrong? When you're made redundant? Or you're broken by the expectations placed on you? Especially if you're supposed to be in Christian ministry?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann has helpfully broken this book into small digestible chunks, with loads of practical advice. If you're in pain, or struggling in any way. Even if you're just feeling a little weary or burdened, then you can flick through it and find something which resonates before working out from there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul observes that burnout doesn't suddenly happen. Rather it creeps up on us over time. We all need the advice he gives for maintaining ourselves. Buy this book, read it carefully, then keep it handy so that you can dip into it regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTimothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Steve Chase\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership is written from the reality of Paul Swann's own personal journey through the difficult challenges of leadership and life. He writes with honesty, great vulnerability and deep self-awareness. Sharing lessons hard learnt in the weakness of his humanity, Paul takes the reader gently into some of the places we so often avoid. He offers proven examples from his own faith journey, along with insights from the lives of those who gone before, that our most authentic identity is found in being loved by God. Paul encourages the discovery of that authentic place of 'being', from which all can learn to love well, live well and lead well! I have already brought 3 copies and passed them on!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteve Chase\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T10:21:28+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T10:20:31+00:00","vendor":"Paul Swann","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jul-18","Leadership"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602689483132,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466525","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":186,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466525","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/142.png?v=1730134865","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/143.png?v=1730134952"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/142.png?v=1730134865","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923494130044,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/142.png?v=1730134865"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/142.png?v=1730134865","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923501896060,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/143.png?v=1730134952"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/143.png?v=1730134952","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMany books on leadership and ministry are written from the point of view of success and strength. In Sustaining Leadership Paul Swann writes out of the raw experience of failure, getting to the heart of who we are as leaders rather than what we do. From this, he offers both hope and practical resources for sustaining effective long-term ministry, looking at self-care, balance and healthy ministry, feasting on divine love, and more. As he says, this is the best gift we can offer those we serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a story of a successfully growing ministry plunged suddenly into soul searching physical, mental and emotional depths. At times shockingly raw, these personal experiences, reflected on so honestly, drive home such hard learned spiritual insights, that I needed to re-read some sections to allow the message to sink in. And it's a profound message: learning simply to be still before God; clinging to personal worth even at the expense of ministry; loving self as well as neighbour; enjoying real Sabbath rest. This is not a book for the casual believer or religiously comfortable. Neither is it just for 'leaders'. Rather, it is essential reading for those courageous enough to accept a God given call to active and costly service. Spoiler alert! It does all work out well in the end. But that, after all, is rather down to God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClive Langmead, Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis courageous, raw and inspiring book is a 'must read' for any who long to live in the fullness God intends for us, amidst the realities and challenges of everyday life. A 'how to' walk the Truth of God's strength in our weakness. I wish I had had this treasure twenty years ago!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlina Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is both wonderfully easy to read yet at the same time deeply challenging. Paul Swann's gutsy and honest story made me realise the true importance of self-care in ministry (which is ideal as I prepare for ordination). The 'Pause to Reflect' moments scattered throughout the book really help with not just reading it as someone else's story but as a guide through your own story too. This will be re-read many times in the years to come!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSarah Bardell (Ordinand)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthenticity is perhaps the most important value for any religion in the 21st Century Western world. Paul Swann demonstrates in this vital book how the Christian religion and its leaders can be authentic and life-giving even in the most desperate, dark and dismal of experiences that arise from becoming 'addicted' to ministry. Combining insights from the bible, contemporary film and popular culture with his own deeply vulnerable experience here is a plea for leadership which is rooted way down in the God who simply is and therefore is not trying to be anything it can't be, other than the sharing of our beautiful and flawed humanity. I hope it becomes widely used in our highly anxious and often success oriented church systems.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Dr Nigel Rooms, Leader, Partnership for Missional Church UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul, I wish you had written your book 50 years ago! But at least it was published at the end of a long hot summer, when I'm wondering if I shall ever walk the hills again... but the last chapter (as you say) belongs to hope! Your humbling honesty, coupled with wonderful biblical expositions, have brought both inspiration and clarification. I now know what I want to be when I grow up!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Michael Dunn (Spiritual Director and Retired Priest)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSO refreshing to have this deep wisdom - on being\/doing, self-care\/giving, nature of success etc - served up from the point of view of someone who has got there the hard way. This is not a happy, shiny, just-copy-me sort of read, it's more in the painful\/raw\/honest category, which adds to its value. And although this is a Christian book written out of his experience of being a vicar I'd say it's pretty clearly going to be profoundly helpful to a whole range of people. I've already bought four more to pass on!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Owen Gallacher (Vicar)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving known Paul for many years, we initially bought this book to support him. I'm not a great reader but it was such a delight that I soon finished it. Paul speaks openly of his struggles and sets out the challenges we all face in our lives and how to balance things before it gets too much. I would highly recommend this resource to people in any form of leadership.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Davenport (Computer Programmer)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann trained for ordination in the Anglican Church and served in two growing parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, Paul was forced to retire early and spent four years in the wilderness of total fatigue. Since 2012, Paul has begun to offer a new ministry from this place of weakness. He has served as diocesan adviser on spirituality, offers spiritual direction and leads retreats. The insights of this book are drawn from these experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of Sustaining Leadership - Evangelicals Now, April 2019. Review by\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Underwood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann served in two Anglican parishes in the Diocese of Worcester. In 2008, he retired early and spent two years existing on what he describes as 'Planet Fragile'.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis his story, but much more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part I, Swann describes the process of his own disintegration as he slipped into that slough of physical, mental and emotional despond we call ME.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part II, he offers us first his personal and theological reflection on reintegration and then, in Part III, a host of practical and life-enhancing measures towards beginning and nurturing that process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting for a broader constituency than mine and drawing on an impressive range of sources and resources, the basic thesis of this short book is that 'broken is best' ... that our human capabilities are often expressions of weakness rather than strength ... that Father-God is more concerned about we are in him than what we do for him. As Paul Swann rightly observes, we are 'human beings' rather than 'human doings'. What we do should flow from who we are, rather than the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remedy for our pervasive passion for proving ourselves is to take a long hard look at the three dials on the dashboard of our humanity - our God-given physical, spiritual and emotional needs. It's time for those of us who are pastors to take control of our self care and our soul care. If we can't care for ourselves, how can we hope to care for those the Lord Jesus has entrusted to us?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe don't have to do this on our own; we need both personal friends and the body of the local church to help and encourage us. Taking\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eSustaining Leadership\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eto heart will fill us not with optimism, but with hope. As Paul Swann rightly observes: 'What we hope for is secondary to who we hope in'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWho should read this book? Every pastor on sabbatical who has time to think and pray. Every member of a leadership team that has responsibility for caring for its pastoral staff. And every church member who is concerned to encourage their pastors and help them thrive in serving the Lord Jesus for the long haul. Humanly, the health of our churches and the spread of the Lord Jesus' mission depends on the well-being of our pastors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Richard Underwood, Elder, Christchurch, Market Harborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by John Knowles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Jesus' disciples learnt what it meant to follow him through failed fishing trips, under-catered picnics and abortive exorcisms' sets the context for a very frank description of what happened after Paul Swann woke one morning with chronic ME. In his own words: 'I had been smashed to pieces through overwork, stress, damage to health and lack of self-care.' Out of his own experience come very practical and specific self-care strategies that recognise the specific stresses, positive and negative, that often accompany church leadership. Central to the book's thrust is its subtitle - 'You are more important that your ministry' - with the need to keep life and ministry in balance, where being is more important than doing and the rediscovery of Sabbath can be the antidote to 'hurry sickness'. Ministry can be very challenging and my experience as a diocesan Warden of Readers would suggest that it is not just stipendiary clergy who need to take care of themselves, making the advice enormously valuable to all in church leadership long before any warning lights begin to flash. Buy a copy for yourself and one for your incumbent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Knowles\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Kate Wharton. 12.01.19 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\"\u003ehttps:\/\/katewharton.blogspot.com\/2019\/01\/book-review-sustaining-leadership.html\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a wildly and hopelessly overdue blog! I read this wonderful book ages ago, and promised to review it here, but never got round to it. And be assured that the irony of not being able to find time to review a book about developing and maintaining healthy patterns of life and work is in no way lost on me...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by Paul Swann, and its subtitle is 'You are more important than your ministry'. A reasonable enough statement, you'd think, except that so many of us seem to forget this at one time or another, as we fall into the trap of believing ourselves to be indispensable, and allow our diaries, our ministries and our pressures define us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann speaks from very personal, and very difficult, experience. In 2005 he experienced a period of illness and fatigue which resulted in 4 years of trying to manage his health and ministry, before he decided completely to step back from his full time role. Out of that experience, and the ways in which he has since sought to rebuild and rebalance his life, he shares much insight and wisdom which every one of us in any sort of 'ministry' role would do well to heed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is really superb, and an absolute must read. It's easy to read in the sense of being clear and well written, with short chapters, but certainly not in the sense of being without substance. I sense that it's a book I will return to time and time again throughout the course of my ministry, when I need to be reminded of the nuggets it contains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the first page of the Introduction comes a quote that I know I need to keep front and centre of my mind (from Parker Palmer): 'Self-care is never a selfish act - it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI know I have found a book enormously helpful when I highlight something on almost every page - and my copy of Sustaining Leadership is already well thumbed and with many yellow highlights! \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 1, entitled 'Disintegration' Paul outlines his own story in 'Arriving on Planet Fragile'. I read it knowing it could easily have been me or any one of us. He is honest about his own personal and painful experiences, and the devastating impact they had upon him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Part 2, 'Reintegration', Paul describes how he began to recover, and gives a wealth of invaluable advice about self care, what healthy and unhealthy patterns of ministry might look like, and how we can find the right balance of all the competing demands and priorities within our lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI often say that the thing I find most frustrating about my job as a vicar (which I love almost all of the time), is that it is simply never finished. There is always something more which could or should be done. Paul speaks to this when he writes, 'From where will you get your permission to stop? It will not come from completing a job that has no ending, from receiving affirmation that seldom comes or from a hierarchical permission that rarely exists. Instead, it will have to come from the self-love and self-care of which we have spoken, augmented by obedience to the fourth commandment, which is our permission to rest.' I'm seriously considering getting that tattooed on my person, or at the very least stuck on the door of my study!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 is called 'Holding on to Hope'. This reminds us of why we ultimately do what we do, and in whose strength we do it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really enjoyed the way this book is written. It is very practical, and actively encourages the reader to engage with the content rather than just to read the words. Throughout the book there are grey boxes where questions are asked which invite us to pause and reflect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is immensely real and honest, with just the right level of challenge - having gone through such a difficult period in his own life, Paul very much wants to make sure that others don't have to go through the same thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is wonderful and important - a definite must read for anyone involved in any kind of leadership or ministry. The future you will be glad you read this book now!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Paul says in the Introduction: 'Sustaining Leadership is not a book about what to do as a leader. It is a book about how to be as a leader.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Kate Wharton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLead On - CPAS e-newsletter, January 2019 Review by James Lawrence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the start of the year it is good to take stock, to think and pray about the pressure and pace of life and leadership and any adjustments that it might be good to make for the year ahead. If you are planning to do that in any way, may I encourage you to get hold of Sustaining Leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann writes from personal experience of having 'four years in the wilderness of total fatigue'. This is an honest book. It recounts his descent into a place of fragility, and the stripping away of many of the things he relied on to bolster his own sense of identity. He reflects that there are 'no words to describe the density of the darkness and the intensity of the isolation.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen follow chapters that helpfully explore the relationship between self-care and self-sacrifice, ways of identifying 'hurry sickness', symptoms of burn out and stress, the place of boundary keeping and Sabbath disciplines. The insights are well illustrated from a wide variety of sources, and contain short perceptive comments that make you think: for example 'margin is the vital space between your load and your limits.' The final chapters on soul food and holding onto hope introduce practical ways to self-compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership will make a good companion for a Quiet Day or a month of reflecting on yourself through January. Heed its wise insights, and we may find ourselves in a more sustainable place as leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by James Lawrence, Director CPAS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 12 October 2018. Review by Peter Selby, former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee beyond the small size of this book to an offering of generosity and wide-ranging wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts generosity lies in Paul Swann's writing about his experience of illness without holding much back: he invites us into his experience of chronic fatigue. We are given a graphic, though not over-dramatised, account of the terrible toll that ME took on the author.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven more significant is the particular distress that burnout brings to a person of great talent and deep commitment, when he reaches the point when he has to say, 'I can't do this any more.' Fragility - to put it mildly - was what he encountered as he 'hit the buffers'; then fragility was what had gradually to be emerged from, and then, as its meaning became clear, to be embraced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the first third of the book is about that experience, although even as we read it we have the sense that faith, though tested, never totally lost its ability to provide perspective and meaning in his suffering. That perspective is the foundation for the wisdom in the next hundred pages: the practical necessity as well as the spiritual importance of self-care, particularly for the most energetic, creative, and committed, who find self-care hardest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many sermons, the Pauline image of the clay pot - to which Swann refers a great deal - can remain a general comment about ministerial humility rather than pointing to specific vulnerabilities that need specific remedies and responses. It is because this author gets specific that this book is lifted above well-meaning exhortation to be both challenging and of practical use to those who find it hard in practice to accept the subtitle's message that 'You are more important than your ministry.' The many examples of vulnerability and practical self-care are supported by a wide selection of biblical citation and the wider reading that was, no doubt, part of the author's self-care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlongside all that is worth while in the book, there remain some questions. Surely, a more artistic and nourishing front-cover design would have portrayed the book more accurately. And isn't the subtitle rather than the title the real message of this book? It is for everyone, not just, or even mainly, 'leaders'? The book is at least partly a critique of what the designation 'leader' engenders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet, if this is a book for everyone, it especially challenges those who have oversight of others' ministry. I happen to have been the bishop involved in the author's call to undertake the special challenge of growing and enlivening a church in the centre of Worcester. It is hardly a decision that I can regret, given all the good that has flowed from it. But, since the disintegration and the reintegration that this book describes are also what (in part) flowed from that decision, I found the book a particular challenge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at my former ministry, I ask myself, in gladly appointing some of our strongest people to the hardest tasks, are we as aware as we need to be of the particular support and resourcing needs that such colleagues have? Or do we just hope that the talented and the committed will find their own way of avoiding burnout? That goes along with a more searching question: how well are we ourselves modelling self-care?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this gentle author also knows how to use examples that challenge lightly; so if you ever catch yourself not completing the two minutes that your electric toothbrush allows, remember it's not just your teeth that you're not caring for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by t\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ehe Rt Revd Dr Peter Selby, a former Bishop of Worcester\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Revd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens when you realise that the work you love is making you sick?\u003cbr\u003eThis gem of a book traces the story of how a capable Christian leader experiences such physical and emotional disintegration that he hears himself saying to his bishop, 'I can't do this any more'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLucid and concise, Paul Swann's book is an essay in practical spirituality, one that is based on grace rather than our own attempts at self-justifying significance. The central argument is that, with a proper understanding of our belovedness as God's children, and a clear view of God's loving character, we can be freed to care for ourselves and live healthy, grateful lives. How many of us, not just Christian leaders, need to learn this lesson?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is the way the writer communicates the reality of grace in the midst his own sense of failure and weakness which distinguishes this book: 'One day, as I was struggling with low self-esteem and the battle to recover... I complained to God, 'This is too hard for me to do!' Swiftly and firmly, but with extreme gentleness, came the response: 'Is it too hard to be my son?'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInsights from films like Wonder Woman, spiritual writers like Margery Kempe, storytellers such as Lewis Carroll and theologians like Walter Breuggemann, combine with Paul Swann's own experience of reintegration to make the book a compelling read. The lesson that every Christian minister - every human being - needs to hear is brought home with elegance and power: you are more important than what you do. Get hold of this book and read it slowly. If I could, I would buy a copy for every church leader I know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Canon Steve Coneys, Mission and Growth Advisor, Canterbury Diocese\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by John Pellowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a real challenge to church leaders to take better care of themselves and to more intentionally build up the local church they serve. Paul Swann's story of his descent into illness, burnout, and depression is mercifully short (one chapter) but it is sufficient to help people who have not had a similar experience to understand what it is really like, and how much they are suffering something real. He gave me a real empathy for those who suffered as he did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really thought it helpful how he framed his situation - 'fragility' is such a good word! We are all fragile people and need to accept that fragility is part of our human condition. No one is impervious to what this writer experienced. The two chapters on emerging from fragility and embracing fragility are very practical and inspirational. Paul has redeemed his story of recovery in sharing it with others, and much good will come of it, I'm sure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rest of the book is full of great ideas to build strength into the people of the Church so that we can better serve those in the world around us who are suffering, as well as protecting ourselves from suffering as Paul did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I finished the book, my thought was, 'How much more effective the Church would be if we all caught on to the principles and practices outlined in the book!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by John Pellowe, CEO Canadian Council of Christian Charities\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Timothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the world in which we live, everyone wants to be seen as perfect. We gloss over the failures, claim insight after the event which wasn't there at the time, even post our best selfies on social media. We long to be seen as successful, and to be liked by all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what happens when it all goes wrong? When you're made redundant? Or you're broken by the expectations placed on you? Especially if you're supposed to be in Christian ministry?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Swann has helpfully broken this book into small digestible chunks, with loads of practical advice. If you're in pain, or struggling in any way. Even if you're just feeling a little weary or burdened, then you can flick through it and find something which resonates before working out from there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul observes that burnout doesn't suddenly happen. Rather it creeps up on us over time. We all need the advice he gives for maintaining ourselves. Buy this book, read it carefully, then keep it handy so that you can dip into it regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTimothy Marlow, Business Consultant and IT Director\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Steve Chase\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustaining Leadership is written from the reality of Paul Swann's own personal journey through the difficult challenges of leadership and life. He writes with honesty, great vulnerability and deep self-awareness. Sharing lessons hard learnt in the weakness of his humanity, Paul takes the reader gently into some of the places we so often avoid. He offers proven examples from his own faith journey, along with insights from the lives of those who gone before, that our most authentic identity is found in being loved by God. Paul encourages the discovery of that authentic place of 'being', from which all can learn to love well, live well and lead well! I have already brought 3 copies and passed them on!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteve Chase\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Sustaining Leadership: You are more important than your ministry
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{"id":15246052524412,"title":"The A-Z of Parenting for Faith: Bitesize wisdom from the Parenting for Faith podcast","handle":"the-a-z-of-parenting-for-faith-bitesize-wisdom-from-the-parenting-for-faith-podcast","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow does a Christian parent tackle common parenting issues? What can we bring to the table that will not only help our children to navigate a complex world, but to do it with faith and a growing awareness of God’s presence with them? The Parenting for Faith podcast has been equipping parents since 2018, with over 200 episodes in its back catalogue. This book draws out wisdom from our guests, brought together by the Parenting for Faith team, on 52 relevant topics for parents and carers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecky Sedgwick is the Parenting for Faith Resources Coordinator, and the author of Grandparenting for Faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLucy Rycroft is the founder of The Hope-Filled Family and a part-time music teacher. She previously worked for BRF Ministries in the Parenting for Faith team, and is the author of Be Still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnna Hawken is the Parenting for Faith Ministry Lead and the author of Being God’s Child.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEU Conformity\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brf.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/BRF-Ministries-Declaration-of-Conformity-Books.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.brf.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/BRF-Ministries-Declaration-of-Conformity-Books.pdf\u003c\/a\u003e (Publisher’s website for a specified work)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-05-07T13:25:14+01:00","created_at":"2025-05-07T13:25:14+01:00","vendor":"Editors: Becky Sedgwick, Lucy Rycroft, Anna Hawken","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","New Titles","Parenting","Parenting for Faith books","Parenting for Faith Resources","Upcoming titles"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":55196619473276,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393998","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"The A-Z of Parenting for Faith: Bitesize wisdom from the Parenting for Faith podcast","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1299,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393998","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/AnA-ZofParentingforFaith.jpg?v=1746617902"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/AnA-ZofParentingforFaith.jpg?v=1746617902","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64644274651516,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"width":1748,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/AnA-ZofParentingforFaith.jpg?v=1746617902"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/AnA-ZofParentingforFaith.jpg?v=1746617902","width":1748}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow does a Christian parent tackle common parenting issues? What can we bring to the table that will not only help our children to navigate a complex world, but to do it with faith and a growing awareness of God’s presence with them? The Parenting for Faith podcast has been equipping parents since 2018, with over 200 episodes in its back catalogue. This book draws out wisdom from our guests, brought together by the Parenting for Faith team, on 52 relevant topics for parents and carers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecky Sedgwick is the Parenting for Faith Resources Coordinator, and the author of Grandparenting for Faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLucy Rycroft is the founder of The Hope-Filled Family and a part-time music teacher. She previously worked for BRF Ministries in the Parenting for Faith team, and is the author of Be Still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnna Hawken is the Parenting for Faith Ministry Lead and the author of Being God’s Child.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEU Conformity\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brf.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/BRF-Ministries-Declaration-of-Conformity-Books.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.brf.org.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/BRF-Ministries-Declaration-of-Conformity-Books.pdf\u003c\/a\u003e (Publisher’s website for a specified work)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The A-Z of Parenting for Faith: Bitesize wisdom from the Parenting for Faith podcast
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{"id":2852996513892,"title":"The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan","handle":"the-adventure-cruise-midweek-and-holiday-club-programme-a-ready-to-roll-five-day-holiday-club-or-12-week-midweek-club-plan","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of fun-filled activities for 5-11s. Cruise six 'C's and meet people along the way whose lives changed course when they met Jesus. Discover their stories through the six 'C's of choice, courage, call, change, commitment and challenge, and find out how we too can get on board with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the six themes is unpacked through an exciting mix of songs; up-front talks and theme illustrations; team challenges; daily dramas with the ever-popular Watt family; crafts; games; puppet sketches; dramatised Bible stories; quizzes and funsheets, all provided off-the-peg and ready to roll. There are also hints and tips for setting up your club, suggested programme outlines, creative prayer activities, downloadable MP3s of all the songs; templates for posters, badges, invitations and registration sheets; and ideas for an extra event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for 5-11s in midweek and holiday clubs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFrom the Introduction\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of simple, fun-to-do activities. We'll be cruising the six 'C's, meeting people along the way who have had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. First of all there is the 'C' of Choice, then Courage, Call, Change, Commitment and Challenge. Just like the people we meet in the Bible stories about Jesus, we have choices to make, many of which will involve a great deal of courage. As Christians, we believe that God calls us to meet with Jesus and allow him to change our lives. God is committed to us and, when we choose to follow him, we too must be committed - to God and to one another. Often our choice challenges us to make a change which is well worth making, so don't miss out: step aboard as we sail away on The Adventure Cruise!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e contains all the essential ingredients for a successful, easy-to-run midweek or holiday club programme, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongs: Songs that we learn as children stay with us right through our lives. They are a wonderful way of planting biblical truths in a fun way. Children love helping with actions for songs, so why not ask for volunteers to join those who are leading the actions, to demonstrate them for the rest of the children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpening talks: A short talk to introduce the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTheme illustrations and challenges: A fun way of getting children involved in the upfront times, plus a creative way to illustrate the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Watt family serial drama: The Watt family find themselves battling against pirates on a modern cruise liner. Yes, pirates still exist - but they are not exciting heroes, just a bunch of crooks. The Watt family save the day on the adventure cruise of a lifetime. The daily instalments can be performed by a drama group, listened to on CD (visit www. johnhardwick.org.uk) or read as an adventure story. The Watt family serial drama helps set the scene and leaves the children on a cliff hanger each time, ensuring that they are keen to return to hear the next episode.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrafts: A range of simple crafts ideas that fit with the theme of the programme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames: Team games for the children to enjoy. Also good for spending excess energy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePuppet sketches: A fun way to introduce and reinforce the theme for the day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick quiz questions: An ideal way to recap and reinforce in a fun way what the children have learnt. Also a way of earning points for the teams or tokens to spend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBible story narrations: Many children attending a holiday or midweek club know few stories from the Bible, so this is a wonderful opportunity to teach them. There are profound lessons to be learned from the amazing stories, so please never feel that we have outgrown them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayers: A quiet way to explore the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime fillers: Ideas for expanding the programme as required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemplates: Simple ideas for creating the publicity and administration items for your club.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBadges, invitation cards, registration form and presentation poster.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhotocopy permission is given on all scripts and music notation for the theme songs and memory verses, as well as the templates for the crafts, publicity, and administration forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe songs within The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme are available on a CD directly from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/johnhardwick.org.uk\/\"\u003eJohn Hardwick's website\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn works under the banner of Counties and Children Worldwide to present the Christian message in an exciting way, which will appeal to children of all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is an all-age worship leader at Spring Harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChurch Times\u003c\/em\u003e - 2 August 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e offers resources for a nautically themed holiday club or midweek programme. Unlike the other books reviewed here, it does not cater for all ages, but is entirely for children. Besides giving useful advice for those running a club for the first time, John Hardwick offers a wide range of resources, including dramas, crafts, games, and teaching. There is a good structure, but choices need to be made, demanding a significant degree of engagement with the material. The BRF has a track record of producing good holiday-club resources. \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Revd Dana Delap\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-02-20T11:20:21+00:00","created_at":"2019-02-20T11:22:18+00:00","vendor":"John Hardwick","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Glassboxx"],"price":1199,"price_min":1199,"price_max":1199,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":24423262716004,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800394698","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1199,"weight":306,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800394698","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise.png?v=1742385966","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise_2.png?v=1742385966"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise.png?v=1742385966","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64202062856572,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise.png?v=1742385966"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise.png?v=1742385966","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64202062823804,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise_2.png?v=1742385966"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/adventure_cruise_2.png?v=1742385966","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of fun-filled activities for 5-11s. Cruise six 'C's and meet people along the way whose lives changed course when they met Jesus. Discover their stories through the six 'C's of choice, courage, call, change, commitment and challenge, and find out how we too can get on board with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the six themes is unpacked through an exciting mix of songs; up-front talks and theme illustrations; team challenges; daily dramas with the ever-popular Watt family; crafts; games; puppet sketches; dramatised Bible stories; quizzes and funsheets, all provided off-the-peg and ready to roll. There are also hints and tips for setting up your club, suggested programme outlines, creative prayer activities, downloadable MP3s of all the songs; templates for posters, badges, invitations and registration sheets; and ideas for an extra event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for 5-11s in midweek and holiday clubs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFrom the Introduction\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of simple, fun-to-do activities. We'll be cruising the six 'C's, meeting people along the way who have had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. First of all there is the 'C' of Choice, then Courage, Call, Change, Commitment and Challenge. Just like the people we meet in the Bible stories about Jesus, we have choices to make, many of which will involve a great deal of courage. As Christians, we believe that God calls us to meet with Jesus and allow him to change our lives. God is committed to us and, when we choose to follow him, we too must be committed - to God and to one another. Often our choice challenges us to make a change which is well worth making, so don't miss out: step aboard as we sail away on The Adventure Cruise!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e contains all the essential ingredients for a successful, easy-to-run midweek or holiday club programme, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongs: Songs that we learn as children stay with us right through our lives. They are a wonderful way of planting biblical truths in a fun way. Children love helping with actions for songs, so why not ask for volunteers to join those who are leading the actions, to demonstrate them for the rest of the children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpening talks: A short talk to introduce the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTheme illustrations and challenges: A fun way of getting children involved in the upfront times, plus a creative way to illustrate the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Watt family serial drama: The Watt family find themselves battling against pirates on a modern cruise liner. Yes, pirates still exist - but they are not exciting heroes, just a bunch of crooks. The Watt family save the day on the adventure cruise of a lifetime. The daily instalments can be performed by a drama group, listened to on CD (visit www. johnhardwick.org.uk) or read as an adventure story. The Watt family serial drama helps set the scene and leaves the children on a cliff hanger each time, ensuring that they are keen to return to hear the next episode.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrafts: A range of simple crafts ideas that fit with the theme of the programme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames: Team games for the children to enjoy. Also good for spending excess energy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePuppet sketches: A fun way to introduce and reinforce the theme for the day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick quiz questions: An ideal way to recap and reinforce in a fun way what the children have learnt. Also a way of earning points for the teams or tokens to spend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBible story narrations: Many children attending a holiday or midweek club know few stories from the Bible, so this is a wonderful opportunity to teach them. There are profound lessons to be learned from the amazing stories, so please never feel that we have outgrown them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayers: A quiet way to explore the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime fillers: Ideas for expanding the programme as required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemplates: Simple ideas for creating the publicity and administration items for your club.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBadges, invitation cards, registration form and presentation poster.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhotocopy permission is given on all scripts and music notation for the theme songs and memory verses, as well as the templates for the crafts, publicity, and administration forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe songs within The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme are available on a CD directly from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/johnhardwick.org.uk\/\"\u003eJohn Hardwick's website\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn works under the banner of Counties and Children Worldwide to present the Christian message in an exciting way, which will appeal to children of all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is an all-age worship leader at Spring Harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChurch Times\u003c\/em\u003e - 2 August 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e offers resources for a nautically themed holiday club or midweek programme. Unlike the other books reviewed here, it does not cater for all ages, but is entirely for children. Besides giving useful advice for those running a club for the first time, John Hardwick offers a wide range of resources, including dramas, crafts, games, and teaching. There is a good structure, but choices need to be made, demanding a significant degree of engagement with the material. The BRF has a track record of producing good holiday-club resources. \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Revd Dana Delap\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan
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Digital eBook Only - Exciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and...
{"id":14961567138172,"title":"The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan","handle":"the-adventure-cruise-midweek-and-holiday-club-programme-a-ready-to-roll-five-day-holiday-club-or-12-week-midweek-club-plan-1","description":"\u003cp\u003eExciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of fun-filled activities for 5-11s. Cruise six 'C's and meet people along the way whose lives changed course when they met Jesus. Discover their stories through the six 'C's of choice, courage, call, change, commitment and challenge, and find out how we too can get on board with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the six themes is unpacked through an exciting mix of songs; up-front talks and theme illustrations; team challenges; daily dramas with the ever-popular Watt family; crafts; games; puppet sketches; dramatised Bible stories; quizzes and funsheets, all provided off-the-peg and ready to roll. There are also hints and tips for setting up your club, suggested programme outlines, creative prayer activities, downloadable MP3s of all the songs; templates for posters, badges, invitations and registration sheets; and ideas for an extra event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for 5-11s in midweek and holiday clubs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFrom the Introduction\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of simple, fun-to-do activities. We'll be cruising the six 'C's, meeting people along the way who have had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. First of all there is the 'C' of Choice, then Courage, Call, Change, Commitment and Challenge. Just like the people we meet in the Bible stories about Jesus, we have choices to make, many of which will involve a great deal of courage. As Christians, we believe that God calls us to meet with Jesus and allow him to change our lives. God is committed to us and, when we choose to follow him, we too must be committed - to God and to one another. Often our choice challenges us to make a change which is well worth making, so don't miss out: step aboard as we sail away on The Adventure Cruise!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e contains all the essential ingredients for a successful, easy-to-run midweek or holiday club programme, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongs: Songs that we learn as children stay with us right through our lives. They are a wonderful way of planting biblical truths in a fun way. Children love helping with actions for songs, so why not ask for volunteers to join those who are leading the actions, to demonstrate them for the rest of the children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpening talks: A short talk to introduce the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTheme illustrations and challenges: A fun way of getting children involved in the upfront times, plus a creative way to illustrate the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Watt family serial drama: The Watt family find themselves battling against pirates on a modern cruise liner. Yes, pirates still exist - but they are not exciting heroes, just a bunch of crooks. The Watt family save the day on the adventure cruise of a lifetime. The daily instalments can be performed by a drama group, listened to on CD (visit www. johnhardwick.org.uk) or read as an adventure story. The Watt family serial drama helps set the scene and leaves the children on a cliff hanger each time, ensuring that they are keen to return to hear the next episode.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrafts: A range of simple crafts ideas that fit with the theme of the programme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames: Team games for the children to enjoy. Also good for spending excess energy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePuppet sketches: A fun way to introduce and reinforce the theme for the day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick quiz questions: An ideal way to recap and reinforce in a fun way what the children have learnt. Also a way of earning points for the teams or tokens to spend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBible story narrations: Many children attending a holiday or midweek club know few stories from the Bible, so this is a wonderful opportunity to teach them. There are profound lessons to be learned from the amazing stories, so please never feel that we have outgrown them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayers: A quiet way to explore the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime fillers: Ideas for expanding the programme as required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemplates: Simple ideas for creating the publicity and administration items for your club.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBadges, invitation cards, registration form and presentation poster.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhotocopy permission is given on all scripts and music notation for the theme songs and memory verses, as well as the templates for the crafts, publicity, and administration forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe songs within The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme are available on a CD directly from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/johnhardwick.org.uk\/\"\u003eJohn Hardwick's website\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn works under the banner of Counties and Children Worldwide to present the Christian message in an exciting way, which will appeal to children of all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is an all-age worship leader at Spring Harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChurch Times\u003c\/em\u003e - 2 August 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e offers resources for a nautically themed holiday club or midweek programme. Unlike the other books reviewed here, it does not cater for all ages, but is entirely for children. Besides giving useful advice for those running a club for the first time, John Hardwick offers a wide range of resources, including dramas, crafts, games, and teaching. There is a good structure, but choices need to be made, demanding a significant degree of engagement with the material. The BRF has a track record of producing good holiday-club resources. \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Revd Dana Delap\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T14:45:08+00:00","created_at":"2025-01-14T14:45:09+00:00","vendor":"John Hardwick","type":"Paperback","tags":["Children and family ministry","KCLC"],"price":1199,"price_min":1199,"price_max":1199,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":54875917746556,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781841018409","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":1199,"weight":306,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781841018409","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841018409-l.jpg?v=1589991593"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841018409-l.jpg?v=1589991593","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3259439612043,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.709,"height":676,"width":479,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841018409-l.jpg?v=1589991593"},"aspect_ratio":0.709,"height":676,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841018409-l.jpg?v=1589991593","width":479}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eExciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of fun-filled activities for 5-11s. Cruise six 'C's and meet people along the way whose lives changed course when they met Jesus. Discover their stories through the six 'C's of choice, courage, call, change, commitment and challenge, and find out how we too can get on board with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the six themes is unpacked through an exciting mix of songs; up-front talks and theme illustrations; team challenges; daily dramas with the ever-popular Watt family; crafts; games; puppet sketches; dramatised Bible stories; quizzes and funsheets, all provided off-the-peg and ready to roll. There are also hints and tips for setting up your club, suggested programme outlines, creative prayer activities, downloadable MP3s of all the songs; templates for posters, badges, invitations and registration sheets; and ideas for an extra event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for 5-11s in midweek and holiday clubs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFrom the Introduction\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePull up the anchor and get ready to sail as \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e launches into a programme of simple, fun-to-do activities. We'll be cruising the six 'C's, meeting people along the way who have had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. First of all there is the 'C' of Choice, then Courage, Call, Change, Commitment and Challenge. Just like the people we meet in the Bible stories about Jesus, we have choices to make, many of which will involve a great deal of courage. As Christians, we believe that God calls us to meet with Jesus and allow him to change our lives. God is committed to us and, when we choose to follow him, we too must be committed - to God and to one another. Often our choice challenges us to make a change which is well worth making, so don't miss out: step aboard as we sail away on The Adventure Cruise!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e contains all the essential ingredients for a successful, easy-to-run midweek or holiday club programme, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongs: Songs that we learn as children stay with us right through our lives. They are a wonderful way of planting biblical truths in a fun way. Children love helping with actions for songs, so why not ask for volunteers to join those who are leading the actions, to demonstrate them for the rest of the children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpening talks: A short talk to introduce the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTheme illustrations and challenges: A fun way of getting children involved in the upfront times, plus a creative way to illustrate the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Watt family serial drama: The Watt family find themselves battling against pirates on a modern cruise liner. Yes, pirates still exist - but they are not exciting heroes, just a bunch of crooks. The Watt family save the day on the adventure cruise of a lifetime. The daily instalments can be performed by a drama group, listened to on CD (visit www. johnhardwick.org.uk) or read as an adventure story. The Watt family serial drama helps set the scene and leaves the children on a cliff hanger each time, ensuring that they are keen to return to hear the next episode.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrafts: A range of simple crafts ideas that fit with the theme of the programme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames: Team games for the children to enjoy. Also good for spending excess energy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePuppet sketches: A fun way to introduce and reinforce the theme for the day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick quiz questions: An ideal way to recap and reinforce in a fun way what the children have learnt. Also a way of earning points for the teams or tokens to spend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBible story narrations: Many children attending a holiday or midweek club know few stories from the Bible, so this is a wonderful opportunity to teach them. There are profound lessons to be learned from the amazing stories, so please never feel that we have outgrown them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrayers: A quiet way to explore the theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime fillers: Ideas for expanding the programme as required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemplates: Simple ideas for creating the publicity and administration items for your club.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBadges, invitation cards, registration form and presentation poster.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhotocopy permission is given on all scripts and music notation for the theme songs and memory verses, as well as the templates for the crafts, publicity, and administration forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe songs within The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme are available on a CD directly from \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/johnhardwick.org.uk\/\"\u003eJohn Hardwick's website\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn works under the banner of Counties and Children Worldwide to present the Christian message in an exciting way, which will appeal to children of all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is an all-age worship leader at Spring Harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChurch Times\u003c\/em\u003e - 2 August 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e offers resources for a nautically themed holiday club or midweek programme. Unlike the other books reviewed here, it does not cater for all ages, but is entirely for children. Besides giving useful advice for those running a club for the first time, John Hardwick offers a wide range of resources, including dramas, crafts, games, and teaching. There is a good structure, but choices need to be made, demanding a significant degree of engagement with the material. The BRF has a track record of producing good holiday-club resources. \u003cem\u003eThe Adventure Cruise\u003c\/em\u003e is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Revd Dana Delap\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Adventure Cruise Midweek and Holiday Club Programme: A ready to roll five-day holiday club or 12-week midweek club plan
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Exciting programme suggestions for use with both holiday clubs and midweek clubs. Pull up the anchor and get ready to sail...
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{"id":6317254181055,"title":"The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics","handle":"the-art-of-peace-life-lessons-from-christian-mystics","description":"\u003cp\u003eDeep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how does one attain it? More importantly, how does one maintain it in the midst of everyday life? Moving through sections on Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary, this book draws on the lived experience and learning of the author, as well as the wisdom of Christian contemplatives and mystics from the past, to help people walk the mystic path of peace through life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole (aka Brother Cassian) is an international spiritual teacher and retreat leader and the Deputy Guardian for the Community of Aidan and Hilda. He is the founder of Waymark Ministries, which creates opportunities for people to engage with the Christian message. His books include \u003cem\u003eCeltic Advent\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eCeltic Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018), \u003cem\u003eCeltic Saints\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eThe Celtic Year\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2020).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2022. Review by Janet Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI glanced through this book and felt that perhaps I should be practising contemplative prayer rather than reading about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I did read it and found it comprehensive, deeply thoughtful and very helpful. Cole is a leader and spiritual guide in the Community of Aidan and Hilda, which seeks to apply lessons from the Celtic Church in Britain to the church of today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is arranged in four sections which discuss Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary. Much of David Cole‘s advice is practical. For example, he suggests how the reader might engage in learning to slow down: meditating momentarily ─ small moments in the day when we take a few breaths and re-centre; then creating a small period of time in the day just to sit and Be; planning to withdraw weekly for perhaps half a day; and, if it can be arranged, having a longer time once a month. He also suggests, at various points in the book, that the reader stops reading, puts the book down and is simply still for a little while. In this way it almost becomes a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI particularly valued his pertinent examples from the works of other Christian mystics, including some favourites: Julian, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing and Meister Eckhart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy reading very slowly and including the recommended pauses, this workbook could provide a home-based retreat during these days when travelling is difficult. It could enhance our own sense of peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Janet Robinson\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2021-2022. Review by Margaret Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole, known as Brother Cassian in his order, uses a mix of extracts from Christian mystics and his own experiences to accomplish his aim: ‘to transition the reader from being somebody interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to being a contemplative.’ He does this by considering four different areas: stillness, silence, solitude, sanctuary. He often challenges the reader by giving the instruction to stop reading, leave the book and practise, for example being still for a time. While the book is written in a relaxed, easily comprehensible style, the reader needs to accept the author’s terminology, most notably when he uses the term ‘the Divine’ as he feels the word ‘God’ is too limiting. His biblical quotations come from the Passion Translation, which often gives a fresh understanding of scripture. With his considerable awareness of Christian mystics of all ages and their works and his personal knowledge of the dispersed Community of Aidan and Hilda, David Cole provides material here for a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Margaret Tinsley \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24.09.21. Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole brings together writings, ancient and contemporary, under the themes of Stillness, Silence, Solitude, and Sanctuary. He starts with the need for stillness, drawing on Evelyn Underhill, Thomas Merton, Julian of Norwich, and Brother Lawrence, and inviting readers to slow down and stop intentionally, in order to ‘go and be’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis invitation seems to be particularly for those who have not previously tried stillness, silence, and contemplation. The author’s style is colloquial, and he mostly uses ‘the Divine’, in case ‘God’ carries un - helpful images. Similarly, scriptural quotes are often from contemporary versions such as the Passion Translation, so that scripture can be read with fresh eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCole next describes the pursuit of silence to find the Divine presence, and the part played by listening in ‘the sound of sheer silence’ (like Elijah). He also introduces the practice of wordlessness in God’s presence; the need to move away from the limitations of language to be with the one who is indescribable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the Desert Fathers and Mothers, Cole goes on to focus on solitude in the cell. This is balanced with being ‘alone together’, which he illustrates with the Way of Life in his own (dispersed) community, the Community of Aidan and Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLastly, Cole acknowledges that sometimes we need refuge or sanctuary, and explores reasons for this from Meister Eckhart, the author of The Cloud of Unknowing, St John of the Cross, and Anthony de Mello. He advocates finding sanctuary in the Divine presence within. Cole also recognises that many find closeness to the Divine in the natural world, describing this with writings from the Eastern Orthodox tradition and elsewhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo me, the various writings felt like a patchwork rather than a whole, but there is good material to explore, and references are provided for anyone wishing to follow up on a particular theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs his other books demonstrate, David Cole is a thought-provoking writer and \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is no different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocussing on four key themes of stillness, silence, solitude and sanctuary, Brother Cassian (as he is known in the new monastic Community of Aidan and Hilda) explores how Celtic tradition has influenced many aspects of spirituality. Add in to that material from other strands of thought from a range of writers and this is a very rich book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who are less familiar with contemplative approaches, this book provides a very good introduction. For those of us with some experience, there are helpful reminders of what may have been lost in the passing and rushing of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike much writing on Christian mysticism some sections (some paragraphs even) require reading more than once. ‘You will have picked up that oxymorons and paradoxes are part and parcel of mysticism,’ the author acknowledges. But it is worth the extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, at regularly intervals, the writer encourages the reader to stop, put the book down and reflect on the content of the relevant chapter. Using this book, he writes, ‘the reader will be able to transition from being someone interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to \u003cem\u003ebeing\u003c\/em\u003e a contemplative.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is of course much more to it than that but \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is a very helpful thread in the tapestry of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2021-02-09T14:53:51+00:00","created_at":"2021-02-09T14:52:02+00:00","vendor":"David Cole","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","For individuals","Jun-21","KCLC","Prayer","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":38148387111103,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469922","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":899,"weight":175,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469922","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469922.jpg?v=1612882413"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469922.jpg?v=1612882413","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":15824307585215,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469922.jpg?v=1612882413"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469922.jpg?v=1612882413","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eDeep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how does one attain it? More importantly, how does one maintain it in the midst of everyday life? Moving through sections on Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary, this book draws on the lived experience and learning of the author, as well as the wisdom of Christian contemplatives and mystics from the past, to help people walk the mystic path of peace through life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole (aka Brother Cassian) is an international spiritual teacher and retreat leader and the Deputy Guardian for the Community of Aidan and Hilda. He is the founder of Waymark Ministries, which creates opportunities for people to engage with the Christian message. His books include \u003cem\u003eCeltic Advent\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eCeltic Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018), \u003cem\u003eCeltic Saints\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eThe Celtic Year\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2020).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2022. Review by Janet Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI glanced through this book and felt that perhaps I should be practising contemplative prayer rather than reading about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I did read it and found it comprehensive, deeply thoughtful and very helpful. Cole is a leader and spiritual guide in the Community of Aidan and Hilda, which seeks to apply lessons from the Celtic Church in Britain to the church of today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is arranged in four sections which discuss Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary. Much of David Cole‘s advice is practical. For example, he suggests how the reader might engage in learning to slow down: meditating momentarily ─ small moments in the day when we take a few breaths and re-centre; then creating a small period of time in the day just to sit and Be; planning to withdraw weekly for perhaps half a day; and, if it can be arranged, having a longer time once a month. He also suggests, at various points in the book, that the reader stops reading, puts the book down and is simply still for a little while. In this way it almost becomes a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI particularly valued his pertinent examples from the works of other Christian mystics, including some favourites: Julian, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing and Meister Eckhart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy reading very slowly and including the recommended pauses, this workbook could provide a home-based retreat during these days when travelling is difficult. It could enhance our own sense of peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Janet Robinson\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2021-2022. Review by Margaret Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole, known as Brother Cassian in his order, uses a mix of extracts from Christian mystics and his own experiences to accomplish his aim: ‘to transition the reader from being somebody interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to being a contemplative.’ He does this by considering four different areas: stillness, silence, solitude, sanctuary. He often challenges the reader by giving the instruction to stop reading, leave the book and practise, for example being still for a time. While the book is written in a relaxed, easily comprehensible style, the reader needs to accept the author’s terminology, most notably when he uses the term ‘the Divine’ as he feels the word ‘God’ is too limiting. His biblical quotations come from the Passion Translation, which often gives a fresh understanding of scripture. With his considerable awareness of Christian mystics of all ages and their works and his personal knowledge of the dispersed Community of Aidan and Hilda, David Cole provides material here for a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Margaret Tinsley \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24.09.21. Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole brings together writings, ancient and contemporary, under the themes of Stillness, Silence, Solitude, and Sanctuary. He starts with the need for stillness, drawing on Evelyn Underhill, Thomas Merton, Julian of Norwich, and Brother Lawrence, and inviting readers to slow down and stop intentionally, in order to ‘go and be’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis invitation seems to be particularly for those who have not previously tried stillness, silence, and contemplation. The author’s style is colloquial, and he mostly uses ‘the Divine’, in case ‘God’ carries un - helpful images. Similarly, scriptural quotes are often from contemporary versions such as the Passion Translation, so that scripture can be read with fresh eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCole next describes the pursuit of silence to find the Divine presence, and the part played by listening in ‘the sound of sheer silence’ (like Elijah). He also introduces the practice of wordlessness in God’s presence; the need to move away from the limitations of language to be with the one who is indescribable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the Desert Fathers and Mothers, Cole goes on to focus on solitude in the cell. This is balanced with being ‘alone together’, which he illustrates with the Way of Life in his own (dispersed) community, the Community of Aidan and Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLastly, Cole acknowledges that sometimes we need refuge or sanctuary, and explores reasons for this from Meister Eckhart, the author of The Cloud of Unknowing, St John of the Cross, and Anthony de Mello. He advocates finding sanctuary in the Divine presence within. Cole also recognises that many find closeness to the Divine in the natural world, describing this with writings from the Eastern Orthodox tradition and elsewhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo me, the various writings felt like a patchwork rather than a whole, but there is good material to explore, and references are provided for anyone wishing to follow up on a particular theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs his other books demonstrate, David Cole is a thought-provoking writer and \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is no different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocussing on four key themes of stillness, silence, solitude and sanctuary, Brother Cassian (as he is known in the new monastic Community of Aidan and Hilda) explores how Celtic tradition has influenced many aspects of spirituality. Add in to that material from other strands of thought from a range of writers and this is a very rich book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who are less familiar with contemplative approaches, this book provides a very good introduction. For those of us with some experience, there are helpful reminders of what may have been lost in the passing and rushing of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike much writing on Christian mysticism some sections (some paragraphs even) require reading more than once. ‘You will have picked up that oxymorons and paradoxes are part and parcel of mysticism,’ the author acknowledges. But it is worth the extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, at regularly intervals, the writer encourages the reader to stop, put the book down and reflect on the content of the relevant chapter. Using this book, he writes, ‘the reader will be able to transition from being someone interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to \u003cem\u003ebeing\u003c\/em\u003e a contemplative.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is of course much more to it than that but \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is a very helpful thread in the tapestry of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics
£8.99
Deep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how does one attain it?...
{"id":14683945894268,"title":"The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics","handle":"the-art-of-peace-life-lessons-from-christian-mystics-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDeep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how does one attain it? More importantly, how does one maintain it in the midst of everyday life? Moving through sections on Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary, this book draws on the lived experience and learning of the author, as well as the wisdom of Christian contemplatives and mystics from the past, to help people walk the mystic path of peace through life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole (aka Brother Cassian) is an international spiritual teacher and retreat leader and the Deputy Guardian for the Community of Aidan and Hilda. He is the founder of Waymark Ministries, which creates opportunities for people to engage with the Christian message. His books include \u003cem\u003eCeltic Advent\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eCeltic Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018), \u003cem\u003eCeltic Saints\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eThe Celtic Year\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2020).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2022. Review by Janet Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI glanced through this book and felt that perhaps I should be practising contemplative prayer rather than reading about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I did read it and found it comprehensive, deeply thoughtful and very helpful. Cole is a leader and spiritual guide in the Community of Aidan and Hilda, which seeks to apply lessons from the Celtic Church in Britain to the church of today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is arranged in four sections which discuss Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary. Much of David Cole‘s advice is practical. For example, he suggests how the reader might engage in learning to slow down: meditating momentarily ─ small moments in the day when we take a few breaths and re-centre; then creating a small period of time in the day just to sit and Be; planning to withdraw weekly for perhaps half a day; and, if it can be arranged, having a longer time once a month. He also suggests, at various points in the book, that the reader stops reading, puts the book down and is simply still for a little while. In this way it almost becomes a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI particularly valued his pertinent examples from the works of other Christian mystics, including some favourites: Julian, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing and Meister Eckhart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy reading very slowly and including the recommended pauses, this workbook could provide a home-based retreat during these days when travelling is difficult. It could enhance our own sense of peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Janet Robinson\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2021-2022. Review by Margaret Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole, known as Brother Cassian in his order, uses a mix of extracts from Christian mystics and his own experiences to accomplish his aim: ‘to transition the reader from being somebody interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to being a contemplative.’ He does this by considering four different areas: stillness, silence, solitude, sanctuary. He often challenges the reader by giving the instruction to stop reading, leave the book and practise, for example being still for a time. While the book is written in a relaxed, easily comprehensible style, the reader needs to accept the author’s terminology, most notably when he uses the term ‘the Divine’ as he feels the word ‘God’ is too limiting. His biblical quotations come from the Passion Translation, which often gives a fresh understanding of scripture. With his considerable awareness of Christian mystics of all ages and their works and his personal knowledge of the dispersed Community of Aidan and Hilda, David Cole provides material here for a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Margaret Tinsley \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24.09.21. Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole brings together writings, ancient and contemporary, under the themes of Stillness, Silence, Solitude, and Sanctuary. He starts with the need for stillness, drawing on Evelyn Underhill, Thomas Merton, Julian of Norwich, and Brother Lawrence, and inviting readers to slow down and stop intentionally, in order to ‘go and be’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis invitation seems to be particularly for those who have not previously tried stillness, silence, and contemplation. The author’s style is colloquial, and he mostly uses ‘the Divine’, in case ‘God’ carries un - helpful images. Similarly, scriptural quotes are often from contemporary versions such as the Passion Translation, so that scripture can be read with fresh eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCole next describes the pursuit of silence to find the Divine presence, and the part played by listening in ‘the sound of sheer silence’ (like Elijah). He also introduces the practice of wordlessness in God’s presence; the need to move away from the limitations of language to be with the one who is indescribable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the Desert Fathers and Mothers, Cole goes on to focus on solitude in the cell. This is balanced with being ‘alone together’, which he illustrates with the Way of Life in his own (dispersed) community, the Community of Aidan and Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLastly, Cole acknowledges that sometimes we need refuge or sanctuary, and explores reasons for this from Meister Eckhart, the author of The Cloud of Unknowing, St John of the Cross, and Anthony de Mello. He advocates finding sanctuary in the Divine presence within. Cole also recognises that many find closeness to the Divine in the natural world, describing this with writings from the Eastern Orthodox tradition and elsewhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo me, the various writings felt like a patchwork rather than a whole, but there is good material to explore, and references are provided for anyone wishing to follow up on a particular theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs his other books demonstrate, David Cole is a thought-provoking writer and \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is no different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocussing on four key themes of stillness, silence, solitude and sanctuary, Brother Cassian (as he is known in the new monastic Community of Aidan and Hilda) explores how Celtic tradition has influenced many aspects of spirituality. Add in to that material from other strands of thought from a range of writers and this is a very rich book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who are less familiar with contemplative approaches, this book provides a very good introduction. For those of us with some experience, there are helpful reminders of what may have been lost in the passing and rushing of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike much writing on Christian mysticism some sections (some paragraphs even) require reading more than once. ‘You will have picked up that oxymorons and paradoxes are part and parcel of mysticism,’ the author acknowledges. But it is worth the extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, at regularly intervals, the writer encourages the reader to stop, put the book down and reflect on the content of the relevant chapter. Using this book, he writes, ‘the reader will be able to transition from being someone interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to \u003cem\u003ebeing\u003c\/em\u003e a contemplative.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is of course much more to it than that but \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is a very helpful thread in the tapestry of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-21T14:14:44+01:00","created_at":"2024-10-21T14:12:48+01:00","vendor":"David Cole","type":"eBook","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","For individuals","Glassboxx","Jun-21","Prayer","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53597999661436,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469939","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":175,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469939","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/47.png?v=1729787138","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/48.png?v=1729787137"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/47.png?v=1729787138","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62917502828924,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/47.png?v=1729787138"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/47.png?v=1729787138","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62917502796156,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/48.png?v=1729787137"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/48.png?v=1729787137","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDeep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how does one attain it? More importantly, how does one maintain it in the midst of everyday life? Moving through sections on Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary, this book draws on the lived experience and learning of the author, as well as the wisdom of Christian contemplatives and mystics from the past, to help people walk the mystic path of peace through life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole (aka Brother Cassian) is an international spiritual teacher and retreat leader and the Deputy Guardian for the Community of Aidan and Hilda. He is the founder of Waymark Ministries, which creates opportunities for people to engage with the Christian message. His books include \u003cem\u003eCeltic Advent\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eCeltic Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018), \u003cem\u003eCeltic Saints\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eThe Celtic Year\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2020).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine, April 2022. Review by Janet Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI glanced through this book and felt that perhaps I should be practising contemplative prayer rather than reading about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, I did read it and found it comprehensive, deeply thoughtful and very helpful. Cole is a leader and spiritual guide in the Community of Aidan and Hilda, which seeks to apply lessons from the Celtic Church in Britain to the church of today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is arranged in four sections which discuss Stillness, Silence, Solitude and Sanctuary. Much of David Cole‘s advice is practical. For example, he suggests how the reader might engage in learning to slow down: meditating momentarily ─ small moments in the day when we take a few breaths and re-centre; then creating a small period of time in the day just to sit and Be; planning to withdraw weekly for perhaps half a day; and, if it can be arranged, having a longer time once a month. He also suggests, at various points in the book, that the reader stops reading, puts the book down and is simply still for a little while. In this way it almost becomes a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI particularly valued his pertinent examples from the works of other Christian mystics, including some favourites: Julian, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing and Meister Eckhart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy reading very slowly and including the recommended pauses, this workbook could provide a home-based retreat during these days when travelling is difficult. It could enhance our own sense of peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Janet Robinson\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2021-2022. Review by Margaret Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole, known as Brother Cassian in his order, uses a mix of extracts from Christian mystics and his own experiences to accomplish his aim: ‘to transition the reader from being somebody interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to being a contemplative.’ He does this by considering four different areas: stillness, silence, solitude, sanctuary. He often challenges the reader by giving the instruction to stop reading, leave the book and practise, for example being still for a time. While the book is written in a relaxed, easily comprehensible style, the reader needs to accept the author’s terminology, most notably when he uses the term ‘the Divine’ as he feels the word ‘God’ is too limiting. His biblical quotations come from the Passion Translation, which often gives a fresh understanding of scripture. With his considerable awareness of Christian mystics of all ages and their works and his personal knowledge of the dispersed Community of Aidan and Hilda, David Cole provides material here for a retreat in book form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Margaret Tinsley \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 24.09.21. Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Cole brings together writings, ancient and contemporary, under the themes of Stillness, Silence, Solitude, and Sanctuary. He starts with the need for stillness, drawing on Evelyn Underhill, Thomas Merton, Julian of Norwich, and Brother Lawrence, and inviting readers to slow down and stop intentionally, in order to ‘go and be’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis invitation seems to be particularly for those who have not previously tried stillness, silence, and contemplation. The author’s style is colloquial, and he mostly uses ‘the Divine’, in case ‘God’ carries un - helpful images. Similarly, scriptural quotes are often from contemporary versions such as the Passion Translation, so that scripture can be read with fresh eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCole next describes the pursuit of silence to find the Divine presence, and the part played by listening in ‘the sound of sheer silence’ (like Elijah). He also introduces the practice of wordlessness in God’s presence; the need to move away from the limitations of language to be with the one who is indescribable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the Desert Fathers and Mothers, Cole goes on to focus on solitude in the cell. This is balanced with being ‘alone together’, which he illustrates with the Way of Life in his own (dispersed) community, the Community of Aidan and Hilda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLastly, Cole acknowledges that sometimes we need refuge or sanctuary, and explores reasons for this from Meister Eckhart, the author of The Cloud of Unknowing, St John of the Cross, and Anthony de Mello. He advocates finding sanctuary in the Divine presence within. Cole also recognises that many find closeness to the Divine in the natural world, describing this with writings from the Eastern Orthodox tradition and elsewhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo me, the various writings felt like a patchwork rather than a whole, but there is good material to explore, and references are provided for anyone wishing to follow up on a particular theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs his other books demonstrate, David Cole is a thought-provoking writer and \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is no different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocussing on four key themes of stillness, silence, solitude and sanctuary, Brother Cassian (as he is known in the new monastic Community of Aidan and Hilda) explores how Celtic tradition has influenced many aspects of spirituality. Add in to that material from other strands of thought from a range of writers and this is a very rich book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who are less familiar with contemplative approaches, this book provides a very good introduction. For those of us with some experience, there are helpful reminders of what may have been lost in the passing and rushing of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike much writing on Christian mysticism some sections (some paragraphs even) require reading more than once. ‘You will have picked up that oxymorons and paradoxes are part and parcel of mysticism,’ the author acknowledges. But it is worth the extra effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, at regularly intervals, the writer encourages the reader to stop, put the book down and reflect on the content of the relevant chapter. Using this book, he writes, ‘the reader will be able to transition from being someone interested in, or simply practising, contemplation to \u003cem\u003ebeing\u003c\/em\u003e a contemplative.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is of course much more to it than that but \u003cem\u003eThe Art of Peace\u003c\/em\u003e is a very helpful thread in the tapestry of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Art of Peace: Life lessons from Christian mystics
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - Deep inner peace and peace of mind with spiritual balance is something everyone wants, but how...
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The Barnabas 365 Story Bible
£12.99
This is the Bible retold for younger children in 365 much-loved stories. It offers a continuous narrative from Genesis to...