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{"id":5785505693848,"title":"The Space Between: The disruptive seasons we want to hide from, and why we need them","handle":"the-space-between","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe disruptive seasons of life – those transition times in which we have left one season of stability but not yet arrived at the next – can be times of great disorientation. Yet, for good or for ill, they are also the most transformative. In \u003cem\u003eThe Space Between\u003c\/em\u003e, Mark Bradford provides the reader with a biblical and theological understanding of such seasons of life, connects them with the resources to live faithfully through them, and offers strength and hope for the journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark Bradford is the vicar of St Cuthbert’s, Fulwood. Previously he taught history and politics and has worked for the Oasis Trust in Leeds training and discipling 18–25-year-olds. He is married with three young children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘A timely book for the pandemic age… A wise companion for the tough seasons of life.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Lawrence, CPAS leadership principal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This is not a book to read all in one go! Gems keep tumbling out of the cupboard and they need to be picked up one at a time before moving to the next… This is hard to beat!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Henderson, bishop of Blackburn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘A wonderfully honest and human book that enables readers to find God in the disturbing experiences of change and disruption… The rich wisdom of this book will offer both a healing balm and a source of courage to all who engage with it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhilip North, bishop of Burnley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This book is important… It tackles difficult times in our lives with honesty and clarity – which will be a relief to those who read it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCanon Dr Christina Baxter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This book draws on the Bible, on the lives of saints old and new, and on the author’s deep experience to invite us afresh to engage in the precious things God is doing when the temptation is to focus elsewhere. This is encouraging, wise, and helpful.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Tanner, bishop of Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘In a highly engaging way, Mark extends our awareness and draws our attention to God’s work of grace in the whole of life – not only the highs and lows, but the rest of life, where we are on a journey, waiting, confused or disoriented. This is a guide for a truly whole-life discipleship.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Harcourt, New Wine national leader and vicar of All Saints Woodford Wells\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘An apt resource and encouragement that we are not alone in experiencing these seasons.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJo McKee, CPAS director of the Arrow Programme and archbishops’ evangelist, vicar of St Andrew’s Radcliffe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Matthew Porter, Vicar of The Belfrey in York. 12.10.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRich and reflective, thoughtful and thorough, this well-written and well-researched book by pastor and teacher Mark Bradford is a great aid to help followers of Jesus navigate the disruptive seasons of life. Most chapters begin by describing two particular \u003cem\u003ehuman emotions\u003c\/em\u003e, followed by careful guidance through \u003cem\u003esacred scripture, sacred time, a sacred practice, \u003c\/em\u003eand \u003cem\u003esacred stories, \u003c\/em\u003eending with \u003cem\u003eprayer\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003equestions for reflection\u003c\/em\u003e. I commend it, and its lovely illustrations by Karen Fowler, to all seeking fresh perspective and renewed hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatthew Porter, Vicar of The Belfrey in York, and author of books including '\u003c\/em\u003eA-Z of Prayer'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.08.21. Review by David Wilbourne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA former physiologist, John Habgood maintained that creation invariably happened at the interface between order and chaos. Something as messy as creation is strictly verboten in an over-regimented system; something as fragile as creation would soon be stamped on by anarchy. In \u003cem\u003eThe Space Between\u003c\/em\u003e, Mark Bradford explores such liminal zones, the heady pauses between one order passing and another emerging — cue Covid-19.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the lenses of waiting (likened to weaving a web to eventually catch God), exile (being where we don’t want to be with people we don’t want to be with), the wildernesses, storm, and pit, he focuses on biblical episodes featuring significant change and concomitant lament. John Holdsworth in his magisterial \u003cem\u003eHonest Sadness\u003c\/em\u003e (Church Times, Books, 30 April 2021) laments lament’s current low profile. So does Bradford, homing in on the seasons of Advent, Epiphany, and Lent, and Good Friday and Holy Saturday, to champion lament as railing against our losses and failures, in order to save us from apathy and despair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnfettered by slavish obedience to excessive biblical criticism, Bradford skilfully re-enacts stories of disturbance, featuring Jacob, Abraham, Jonah, Job, and John the Baptist, juxtaposing them with the Passover, the Exile, the Revelation of St John, and, supremely, Christ. Along the way, he gives a scholarly verse-by-verse commentary on the psalms of lament, 29, 42, 43, 63, 66, 130, and 137, illustrated with vignettes of historical and modern saints, including contemporaries’ life-changing stories, anonymised and somewhat contrived. But when Bradford draws, self-deprecatingly, from his own life, he does so with authenticity, insight, and humour: ‘there is no evidence to suggest anyone asked a prophet home for supper more than once.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe quotes extensively, and I was particularly struck by Walter Wink’s ‘Biblical prayer is impertinent, persistent, shameless, indecorous. It is more like haggling in an outdoor bazaar than the polite monologues of the church.’ Bradford walks Wink’s talk, wrestling with God and ending each chapter with a selection of arresting prayers. It all makes for an engaging book, rooted in everyday parish ministry and a dynamic rather than static personal faith, proving a worthy prequel to his \u003cem\u003eEncountering the Risen Christ\u003c\/em\u003e (Church Times, Books, 24 March 2016).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne is an hon. assistant bishop in York diocese.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices, issue 38, September 2021. Review by Christine King.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are few of us who have not, albeit to varying degrees, experienced what Mark Bradford describes as ‘the space between’. It can describe those times of transition, when we have left a time of peace and order and we are waiting ‘in the wilderness’ for a new phase, whatever it might bring, to begin. The book takes us through such times, which can feel like exile, like being at the heart of a storm or being in what might be described as ‘the pit’; a time of bereavement, loss or despair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe space between is often a place of pain and disorientation but the experience, the author argues, provides a unique opportunity to reimagine our lives. He writes as a committed Christian and aims to explore ways in which God works in and through the lows and the times of change and uncertainty as much as when life goes at a steady or joyful pace. Throughout the thoughtful text exploring the theme, Mark includes a number of prayers, poems, exposition of biblical messages, especially the Psalms and the Gospels, as well as stories from the lives of saints and ‘contemporary saints’ - people of courage and growth. One of his many secular saints is Nelson Mandela whose transformation took place during his own personal ‘space between’ in prison.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese stories add force to his argument that, in his view, God works uniquely in and through these disturbing experiences to bring about transformation. Each chapter ends with a number of questions for reflection which makes this an excellent tool for a study group. The book throughout is a rich resource of Christian thinking and teaching as well as a thoughtful and often moving, journey through difficult terrains for any reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Christine King\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead On e-news June 2021. Review by Jo McKee\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up near London, and having spent a good amount of time travelling on the London Underground, I am very familiar with the tannoyed phrase 'mind the gap'. It's a warning to travellers who are journeying from one place to another as they embark and disembark off the train. Much of the time these journeys are straightforward, but there are occasions when the train comes to a standstill: it is delayed, there is an incident on the line, or an onward station is closed. At this point we find ourselves sitting on the train not knowing what's happening and neither being at the beginning or the end of our journey, but a space between the two.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book honestly explores the various 'between' spaces we can find ourselves in: the waiting, exile, wilderness, the storm and the pit. Within each chapter the different types of spaces are explored through scripture, the experience of individuals and how we can intentionally embrace the space at different times of the year.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAll of us are living through this COVID season and at some point many of us will have felt like we're in the wilderness and that we've been through a violent storm. The positive invitation to reflect on these spaces is not there for us to endure the pain and anguish that we've been through again, but a challenge to honestly dialogue with God about them. In being completely open with God our eyes can be opened to the healing that still needs to take place, but also we can start to recognise the spiritual growth that has comes from these times. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn a year that will be full of these 'space between' times, this book is an apt resource and encouragement that we are not alone in experiencing these seasons. Jesus, the one who has experienced all these spaces, is constantly faithful and present in those times with us. In the knowledge of this we should not live in fear, but hope. In this journey of life we are not able to 'mind the gap', but with God's help we can step into each day knowing that he is there in the midst of them and will lead us on.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Jo McKee\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Richard Frost, May 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiminal places: the place on the threshold of what comes next and, in this book, Mark Bradford claims that most of life is lived in this ‘space between’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark Bradford explains this space as being one which carries grief, consolation, ambiguity and loss of control, to name but a few common characteristics. ‘It’s a hard place to be in,’ he writes, ‘because we each arrange our lives of the sake of predictability and control, comfort and security – and the ‘space between’ offers none of those.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut, fear not, this is not a depressing book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy describing experiences from the life of Jacob and many others in the Bible, interspersed with examples from his own life and people known to him who have made specific contributions, Mark Bradford explores this important but complex area in a readable and accessible way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe explores what he calls the ‘disruptive seasons’ of waiting, exile, wilderness, storm and the pit. This exploration draws on a wide range of other writers (notably Walter Brueggemann and Richard Rohr) and also links in with examples from sacred scriptures, such as the Psalms, and sacred stories of saints, old and modern from St John of the Cross to Terry Waite. The practical suggestions he makes are helpful: especially those in the closing chapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA worthwhile read for anyone stuck in the current space between what was pre-pandemic normality and what is still too come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of\u003c\/em\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cem\u003eand writes a blog at\u003c\/em\u003e \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2020-09-17T15:32:35+01:00","created_at":"2020-09-17T15:32:33+01:00","vendor":"Mark Bradford","type":"Paperback","tags":["Apr-21","Pastoral care","Spirituality"],"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":36354294349976,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468253","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Space Between: The disruptive seasons we want to hide from, and why we need them","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":131,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468253","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253.jpg?v=1611336370","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253-bc.jpg?v=1600353154"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253.jpg?v=1611336370","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":15672842748095,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253.jpg?v=1611336370"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253.jpg?v=1611336370","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":11681064124568,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253-bc.jpg?v=1600353154"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468253-bc.jpg?v=1600353154","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThe disruptive seasons of life – those transition times in which we have left one season of stability but not yet arrived at the next – can be times of great disorientation. Yet, for good or for ill, they are also the most transformative. In \u003cem\u003eThe Space Between\u003c\/em\u003e, Mark Bradford provides the reader with a biblical and theological understanding of such seasons of life, connects them with the resources to live faithfully through them, and offers strength and hope for the journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark Bradford is the vicar of St Cuthbert’s, Fulwood. Previously he taught history and politics and has worked for the Oasis Trust in Leeds training and discipling 18–25-year-olds. He is married with three young children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘A timely book for the pandemic age… A wise companion for the tough seasons of life.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Lawrence, CPAS leadership principal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This is not a book to read all in one go! Gems keep tumbling out of the cupboard and they need to be picked up one at a time before moving to the next… This is hard to beat!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Henderson, bishop of Blackburn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘A wonderfully honest and human book that enables readers to find God in the disturbing experiences of change and disruption… The rich wisdom of this book will offer both a healing balm and a source of courage to all who engage with it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhilip North, bishop of Burnley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This book is important… It tackles difficult times in our lives with honesty and clarity – which will be a relief to those who read it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCanon Dr Christina Baxter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘This book draws on the Bible, on the lives of saints old and new, and on the author’s deep experience to invite us afresh to engage in the precious things God is doing when the temptation is to focus elsewhere. This is encouraging, wise, and helpful.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Tanner, bishop of Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘In a highly engaging way, Mark extends our awareness and draws our attention to God’s work of grace in the whole of life – not only the highs and lows, but the rest of life, where we are on a journey, waiting, confused or disoriented. This is a guide for a truly whole-life discipleship.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Harcourt, New Wine national leader and vicar of All Saints Woodford Wells\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘An apt resource and encouragement that we are not alone in experiencing these seasons.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJo McKee, CPAS director of the Arrow Programme and archbishops’ evangelist, vicar of St Andrew’s Radcliffe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Matthew Porter, Vicar of The Belfrey in York. 12.10.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRich and reflective, thoughtful and thorough, this well-written and well-researched book by pastor and teacher Mark Bradford is a great aid to help followers of Jesus navigate the disruptive seasons of life. Most chapters begin by describing two particular \u003cem\u003ehuman emotions\u003c\/em\u003e, followed by careful guidance through \u003cem\u003esacred scripture, sacred time, a sacred practice, \u003c\/em\u003eand \u003cem\u003esacred stories, \u003c\/em\u003eending with \u003cem\u003eprayer\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003equestions for reflection\u003c\/em\u003e. I commend it, and its lovely illustrations by Karen Fowler, to all seeking fresh perspective and renewed hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatthew Porter, Vicar of The Belfrey in York, and author of books including '\u003c\/em\u003eA-Z of Prayer'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.08.21. Review by David Wilbourne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA former physiologist, John Habgood maintained that creation invariably happened at the interface between order and chaos. Something as messy as creation is strictly verboten in an over-regimented system; something as fragile as creation would soon be stamped on by anarchy. In \u003cem\u003eThe Space Between\u003c\/em\u003e, Mark Bradford explores such liminal zones, the heady pauses between one order passing and another emerging — cue Covid-19.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the lenses of waiting (likened to weaving a web to eventually catch God), exile (being where we don’t want to be with people we don’t want to be with), the wildernesses, storm, and pit, he focuses on biblical episodes featuring significant change and concomitant lament. John Holdsworth in his magisterial \u003cem\u003eHonest Sadness\u003c\/em\u003e (Church Times, Books, 30 April 2021) laments lament’s current low profile. So does Bradford, homing in on the seasons of Advent, Epiphany, and Lent, and Good Friday and Holy Saturday, to champion lament as railing against our losses and failures, in order to save us from apathy and despair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnfettered by slavish obedience to excessive biblical criticism, Bradford skilfully re-enacts stories of disturbance, featuring Jacob, Abraham, Jonah, Job, and John the Baptist, juxtaposing them with the Passover, the Exile, the Revelation of St John, and, supremely, Christ. Along the way, he gives a scholarly verse-by-verse commentary on the psalms of lament, 29, 42, 43, 63, 66, 130, and 137, illustrated with vignettes of historical and modern saints, including contemporaries’ life-changing stories, anonymised and somewhat contrived. But when Bradford draws, self-deprecatingly, from his own life, he does so with authenticity, insight, and humour: ‘there is no evidence to suggest anyone asked a prophet home for supper more than once.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe quotes extensively, and I was particularly struck by Walter Wink’s ‘Biblical prayer is impertinent, persistent, shameless, indecorous. It is more like haggling in an outdoor bazaar than the polite monologues of the church.’ Bradford walks Wink’s talk, wrestling with God and ending each chapter with a selection of arresting prayers. It all makes for an engaging book, rooted in everyday parish ministry and a dynamic rather than static personal faith, proving a worthy prequel to his \u003cem\u003eEncountering the Risen Christ\u003c\/em\u003e (Church Times, Books, 24 March 2016).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Rt Revd David Wilbourne is an hon. assistant bishop in York diocese.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices, issue 38, September 2021. Review by Christine King.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are few of us who have not, albeit to varying degrees, experienced what Mark Bradford describes as ‘the space between’. It can describe those times of transition, when we have left a time of peace and order and we are waiting ‘in the wilderness’ for a new phase, whatever it might bring, to begin. The book takes us through such times, which can feel like exile, like being at the heart of a storm or being in what might be described as ‘the pit’; a time of bereavement, loss or despair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe space between is often a place of pain and disorientation but the experience, the author argues, provides a unique opportunity to reimagine our lives. He writes as a committed Christian and aims to explore ways in which God works in and through the lows and the times of change and uncertainty as much as when life goes at a steady or joyful pace. Throughout the thoughtful text exploring the theme, Mark includes a number of prayers, poems, exposition of biblical messages, especially the Psalms and the Gospels, as well as stories from the lives of saints and ‘contemporary saints’ - people of courage and growth. One of his many secular saints is Nelson Mandela whose transformation took place during his own personal ‘space between’ in prison.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese stories add force to his argument that, in his view, God works uniquely in and through these disturbing experiences to bring about transformation. Each chapter ends with a number of questions for reflection which makes this an excellent tool for a study group. The book throughout is a rich resource of Christian thinking and teaching as well as a thoughtful and often moving, journey through difficult terrains for any reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Christine King\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead On e-news June 2021. Review by Jo McKee\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowing up near London, and having spent a good amount of time travelling on the London Underground, I am very familiar with the tannoyed phrase 'mind the gap'. It's a warning to travellers who are journeying from one place to another as they embark and disembark off the train. Much of the time these journeys are straightforward, but there are occasions when the train comes to a standstill: it is delayed, there is an incident on the line, or an onward station is closed. At this point we find ourselves sitting on the train not knowing what's happening and neither being at the beginning or the end of our journey, but a space between the two.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book honestly explores the various 'between' spaces we can find ourselves in: the waiting, exile, wilderness, the storm and the pit. Within each chapter the different types of spaces are explored through scripture, the experience of individuals and how we can intentionally embrace the space at different times of the year.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAll of us are living through this COVID season and at some point many of us will have felt like we're in the wilderness and that we've been through a violent storm. The positive invitation to reflect on these spaces is not there for us to endure the pain and anguish that we've been through again, but a challenge to honestly dialogue with God about them. In being completely open with God our eyes can be opened to the healing that still needs to take place, but also we can start to recognise the spiritual growth that has comes from these times. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn a year that will be full of these 'space between' times, this book is an apt resource and encouragement that we are not alone in experiencing these seasons. Jesus, the one who has experienced all these spaces, is constantly faithful and present in those times with us. In the knowledge of this we should not live in fear, but hope. In this journey of life we are not able to 'mind the gap', but with God's help we can step into each day knowing that he is there in the midst of them and will lead us on.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Jo McKee\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Richard Frost, May 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiminal places: the place on the threshold of what comes next and, in this book, Mark Bradford claims that most of life is lived in this ‘space between’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark Bradford explains this space as being one which carries grief, consolation, ambiguity and loss of control, to name but a few common characteristics. ‘It’s a hard place to be in,’ he writes, ‘because we each arrange our lives of the sake of predictability and control, comfort and security – and the ‘space between’ offers none of those.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut, fear not, this is not a depressing book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy describing experiences from the life of Jacob and many others in the Bible, interspersed with examples from his own life and people known to him who have made specific contributions, Mark Bradford explores this important but complex area in a readable and accessible way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe explores what he calls the ‘disruptive seasons’ of waiting, exile, wilderness, storm and the pit. This exploration draws on a wide range of other writers (notably Walter Brueggemann and Richard Rohr) and also links in with examples from sacred scriptures, such as the Psalms, and sacred stories of saints, old and modern from St John of the Cross to Terry Waite. The practical suggestions he makes are helpful: especially those in the closing chapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA worthwhile read for anyone stuck in the current space between what was pre-pandemic normality and what is still too come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of\u003c\/em\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cem\u003eand writes a blog at\u003c\/em\u003e \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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{"id":5424661790872,"title":"Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides pack","handle":"anna-chaplaincy-carers-guides-pack","description":"\u003cp\u003eOne of each of our Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides, details below.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePack contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere you’ll find ideas for how to mark the passing of someone you cared for by taking some time to reflect on their memory and say goodbye. It’s something you may wish to do yourself at home, or with residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide offers advice on how you can be a reassuring presence, to give a dying person confidence that they will not suffer undue pain, and that ‘everything is going to be all right’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide explores how stress can affect our body, mind, emotions and spirit, offering ways to combat fatigue and increase resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide shows how even if you’ve never been to church you could still help people to worship and hold your own mini church service with a group of residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide helps you to listen carefully to someone, and honour that individual, and so make them feel special, unique – that’s spiritual care in a nutshell. Much of this you may already be doing instinctively, but it will help you to reflect on your own life as well.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:47:55+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:48:52+01:00","vendor":"BRF","type":"Pack","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":1000,"price_min":1000,"price_max":1000,"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":35051676663960,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"CGPACK","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides pack","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1000,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/AnnaChaplaincyCarersGuidespack.png?v=1594307183"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/AnnaChaplaincyCarersGuidespack.png?v=1594307183","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10061392445592,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":2048,"width":2048,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/AnnaChaplaincyCarersGuidespack.png?v=1594307183"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":2048,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/AnnaChaplaincyCarersGuidespack.png?v=1594307183","width":2048}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eOne of each of our Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides, details below.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePack contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere you’ll find ideas for how to mark the passing of someone you cared for by taking some time to reflect on their memory and say goodbye. It’s something you may wish to do yourself at home, or with residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide offers advice on how you can be a reassuring presence, to give a dying person confidence that they will not suffer undue pain, and that ‘everything is going to be all right’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide explores how stress can affect our body, mind, emotions and spirit, offering ways to combat fatigue and increase resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide shows how even if you’ve never been to church you could still help people to worship and hold your own mini church service with a group of residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 x \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide helps you to listen carefully to someone, and honour that individual, and so make them feel special, unique – that’s spiritual care in a nutshell. Much of this you may already be doing instinctively, but it will help you to reflect on your own life as well.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":5424616931480,"title":"A Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care","handle":"a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care","description":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide helps you to listen carefully to someone, and honour that individual, and so make them feel special, unique – that’s spiritual care in a nutshell. Much of this you may already be doing instinctively, but it will help you to reflect on your own life as well. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:36:22+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:40:01+01:00","vendor":"Sally Rees","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":250,"price_min":250,"price_max":250,"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":35051508859032,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390782","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":250,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390782","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782.jpg?v=1594303548","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782-bc.jpg?v=1594303556"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782.jpg?v=1594303548","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10060336398488,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782.jpg?v=1594303548"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782.jpg?v=1594303548","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":10060341837976,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"width":1748,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782-bc.jpg?v=1594303556"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":2480,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390782-bc.jpg?v=1594303556","width":1748}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide helps you to listen carefully to someone, and honour that individual, and so make them feel special, unique – that’s spiritual care in a nutshell. Much of this you may already be doing instinctively, but it will help you to reflect on your own life as well. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care
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How do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This...
{"id":5424611262616,"title":"A Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents","handle":"a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents","description":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide shows how even if you’ve never been to church you could still help people to worship and hold your own mini church service with a group of residents.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series:\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCatriona Foster has spent the last 13 years working as a pastor for older people, based in a large Anglican church in Birmingham. She spends much of her time visiting older people in their own homes or in residential care homes, as well as running events, faith courses and leading worship services for older adults and people who are living with dementia. She loves to see older people flourishing emotionally and spiritually, even in the face of difficulty and loss.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:36:22+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:38:49+01:00","vendor":"Catriona Foster","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":250,"price_min":250,"price_max":250,"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":35051485266072,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390775","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":250,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390775","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775.jpg?v=1594303681","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775-bc.jpg?v=1594303689"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775.jpg?v=1594303681","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10060376440984,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775.jpg?v=1594303681"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775.jpg?v=1594303681","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":10060377882776,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775-bc.jpg?v=1594303689"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390775-bc.jpg?v=1594303689","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide shows how even if you’ve never been to church you could still help people to worship and hold your own mini church service with a group of residents.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series:\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCatriona Foster has spent the last 13 years working as a pastor for older people, based in a large Anglican church in Birmingham. She spends much of her time visiting older people in their own homes or in residential care homes, as well as running events, faith courses and leading worship services for older adults and people who are living with dementia. She loves to see older people flourishing emotionally and spiritually, even in the face of difficulty and loss.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents
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How do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This...
{"id":5424600678552,"title":"A Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times","handle":"a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times","description":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide explores how stress can affect our body, mind, emotions and spirit, offering ways to combat fatigue and increase resilience.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:36:22+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:36:22+01:00","vendor":"Sally Rees","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":250,"price_min":250,"price_max":250,"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":35051438702744,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390768","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":250,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390768","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768.jpg?v=1594303736","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768-bc.jpg?v=1594303737"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768.jpg?v=1594303736","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10060390432920,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768.jpg?v=1594303736"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768.jpg?v=1594303736","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":10060391088280,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768-bc.jpg?v=1594303737"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390768-bc.jpg?v=1594303737","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide explores how stress can affect our body, mind, emotions and spirit, offering ways to combat fatigue and increase resilience.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times
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{"id":5424573776024,"title":"A Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life","handle":"a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life","description":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide offers advice on how you can be a reassuring presence, to give a dying person confidence that they will not suffer undue pain, and that ‘everything is going to be all right’. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower is the pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy, a Christian initiative from The Bible Reading Fellowship (BRF), which nevertheless offers spiritual care for all – whether they are of strong, little or no faith at all. There are now more than 140 community-based Anna Chaplains and their equivalents across England and Wales.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:26:31+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:30:22+01:00","vendor":"Debbie Thrower","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":250,"price_min":250,"price_max":250,"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":35051325030552,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390751","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":250,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390751","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751.jpg?v=1594303800","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751-bc.jpg?v=1594303800"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751.jpg?v=1594303800","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10060401344664,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751.jpg?v=1594303800"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751.jpg?v=1594303800","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":10060401311896,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751-bc.jpg?v=1594303800"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390751-bc.jpg?v=1594303800","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis guide offers advice on how you can be a reassuring presence, to give a dying person confidence that they will not suffer undue pain, and that ‘everything is going to be all right’. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower is the pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy, a Christian initiative from The Bible Reading Fellowship (BRF), which nevertheless offers spiritual care for all – whether they are of strong, little or no faith at all. There are now more than 140 community-based Anna Chaplains and their equivalents across England and Wales.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life
£2.50
How do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This...
{"id":5424567648408,"title":"A Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral","handle":"a-carers-guide-how-to-have-a-memorial-service-at-home-when-you-are-unable-to-attend-the-funeral","description":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere you’ll find ideas for how to mark the passing of someone you cared for by taking some time to reflect on their memory and say goodbye. It’s something you may wish to do yourself at home, or with residents.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-07-02T09:26:31+01:00","created_at":"2020-07-02T09:28:52+01:00","vendor":"Sally Rees","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Anna Chaplaincy Carer's Guides","Jul-20","Pastoral care"],"price":250,"price_min":250,"price_max":250,"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":35051297341592,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390744","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":250,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390744","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744.jpg?v=1594303832","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744-bc.jpg?v=1594303835"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744.jpg?v=1594303832","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":10060414288024,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744.jpg?v=1594303832"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744.jpg?v=1594303832","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":10060415041688,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744-bc.jpg?v=1594303835"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":1419,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9781800390744-bc.jpg?v=1594303835","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eHow do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This Carer’s Guide series offers practical help and guidance to carers who find themselves needing to provide spiritual support to older people or others in residential care. The aim of these guides is to give you the confidence and skills to enable those in your care not only to cope emotionally and spiritually but even to thrive, despite challenging circumstances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere you’ll find ideas for how to mark the passing of someone you cared for by taking some time to reflect on their memory and say goodbye. It’s something you may wish to do yourself at home, or with residents.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie Thrower, Founder and Pioneer of Anna Chaplaincy for Older People, says: ‘Some of the lessons learned by Anna Chaplains are shared here so that spiritual care – along with medical, practical and emotional care – becomes accessible to all.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAlso available in this series\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-help-someone-spiritually-towards-the-end-of-life\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to help someone spiritually towards the end of life\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-take-care-of-yourself-in-stressful-times\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to take care of yourself in stressful times\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-a-group-of-residents\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with a group of residents\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-carers-guide-how-to-worship-with-individuals-in-your-care\"\u003eA Carer's Guide: How to worship with individuals in your care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Sally Rees has been involved in pastoral ministry for 20 years. In 2014 Sally was ordained as deacon in the Church in Wales, with a responsibility to minister to older people in the community, in the St Catwg’s, Crickhowell, ministry area (ten churches and locations, five care homes and two retirement facilities). In 2018, Sally was appointed as Bishop’s Officer for Older People’s Ministry in the Swansea and Brecon Diocese. In 2020, Sally has taken on the role of Anna Chaplain Lead for Wales. Sally lives and worships in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons. She is married to Gareth and has three grown-up children and seven grandchildren. Her mum, who is 95, has been living with dementia for over a decade.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Carer's Guide: How to have a memorial service at home when you are unable to attend the funeral
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How do we look after ourselves and others better in the wake of a health crisis such as Covid-19? This...
{"id":4853444214923,"title":"Mentoring Conversations: 30 key topics to explore together","handle":"mentoring-conversations-30-key-topics-to-explore-together","description":"\u003cp\u003eA core resource for anyone involved in spiritual mentoring, Mentoring Conversations provides a basis for spiritual conversation in a mentoring context through 30 short chapters structured around six key topic areas: Foundations; Steps to growth; Living out your faith; Going deeper; Staying strong; and Living with mystery. Each chapter begins with a Bible passage or text, followed by the author’s comment on the topic, questions for discussion, scriptures for further reflection and suggestions for further reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a well-respected author and retreat leader with a lifetime’s experience in mentoring others, including church leaders and missionaries, in Britain as well as overseas. His book \u003cem\u003eMentoring for Spiritual Growth\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2016) has helped many to understand the importance of mentoring in today’s church, and to take their first steps in mentoring others. For the last ten years he has convened an annual Spiritual Mentoring Forum for those wishing to develop their interest in this vital area of disciple-making.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/212958208834\/user\/1649153580\/?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZUryqrtr80pGc7U2GStVjsrGkaOvlZfWoAccNy3bV7kSCAx9Oog8d4u6Zv0x0HyOktkJP-D-BlUH4gLgw-B9iWVDEdbw7y1gDbdUq-_rYBNTIfiD3PnrY1cIotx9H7AX3rUp7A2oxAs5gwu30z3ifFj-IbIYzGnnFifrtPMitFxxZrCOPZ8K1jC-bKdxiXgGGY\u0026amp;__tn__=-UC%2CP-R\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I want to thank Tony for this amazing resource. A lot of my time now is spent offering Spiritual Direction and in spite of excellent training both for ordination and later for Spiritual Direction, I often feel in need of help! And here it is - thoughtful and thought provoking, easy to use, a wonderful resource and a mine of helpful ideas and questions. Even if you don't mentor others, I can recommend this as a resource for your own spiritual journey and growth; each section has some excellent input based on Scripture and ideas and questions to help you to go deeper with God and think about transformation in your own life.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePenelope Swithinbank, Woman Alive Book Club\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'For anyone involved in spiritual mentoring, this book provides a basis for conversations through 30 short chapters around 6 key themes in the Christian life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a Bible passage, Tony’s comment, then questions to use with someone as starting points for conversation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany pastors\/clergy have been looking for a resource\/framework\/tool for ongoing discussion with church members to help them grow in faith, through mentoring. Well, Tony has given us all a huge gift in this book and, at just £9.99, I can see it being one of the most dipped into books on our shelves for many years to come.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Paul Eddy, Vicar of Stanford in the Vale, Oxfordshire and Researcher into Male Identity, Spirituality and Discipleship.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I thoroughly and wholeheartedly recommend this book by Tony Horsfall. It will be such a blessing for all engaged in such conversations. It is outstanding and will be such a help to all who walk with others in the making of disciples and growing in Christlikeness. Thank you Tony. CHOOSE IT AND USE IT!!!'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBishop Ken Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'A treasury of wisdom and practical help\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTony Horsfall has a gift for effortlessly combining the profound truths of Scripture with grounded, practical application for our everyday lives. His new book, Mentoring Conversations, is a treasury of wisdom and practical help for both the experienced mentor and those who are just beginning to accompany others on their journey of faith. Drawing from his many years of rich experience as a mentor, the thirty topics Tony presents cover the key areas which all of us need to engage with in order to grow more surely into a deeper relationship with God and into a transformed life. I found the section on ‘Staying Strong’ particularly helpful in these Covid riven days; the questions following the topics of ‘building resilience’ and ‘the importance of self-care’ were incisive and relevant ones for me, and I’m looking forward to exploring these topics even more with the women I’m currently mentoring. I so appreciate the real- world wisdom of this book and I have a feeling I’ll be drawing from the depths of resources this book provides for many years to come.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMags Duggan, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/god-among-the-ruins-trust-and-transformation-in-difficult-times?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=8589002da\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eGod Among the Ruins\u003c\/a\u003e and\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-better-song-to-sing-finding-life-again-through-the-invitations-of-jesus?_pos=3\u0026amp;_sid=10b0ff8a8\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There are many books about mentoring but few books for mentoring. Tony Horsfall, after 20 years of practice and reflection, now provides such a book. This is not a book about how mentoring should (or shouldn’t) be done, but a kind of atlas of potential conversation starters, charting the many personal and theological issues that may arise within a journey of faith. Each chapter is short and snappy, as well as being both biblically rooted and pastorally sensitive. The chapters also provide plenty of opportunities for going deeper into specific issues, with insightful discussion questions and recommended reading. This book will be a handy resource for mentors and mentees as they explore the great issues of Christian discipleship together.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAaron Edwards, lecturer and programme lead for the MA Mission and Christian Mentoring pathway at Cliff College, Derbyshire\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘In this insightful book, Tony Horsfall reminds us that conversation is at the heart of a spiritual mentoring relationship. Tony invites us to reflect upon the conversations we enter into with our mentoring practice, asking us to engage in “holy conversation”. Covering topics foundational to Christian formation with clarity, this book is an essential practical resource to draw upon and a must read for all those who are serving as a mentor today.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJennie Fytche, training provider and mentor, Christian Coach and Mentor Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This wonderful book will make an excellent tool, enabling both mentor and mentee to walk together with God. It will provoke conversation, reminding them of what God has already done in their lives, and offer practical teaching to increase a sense of his presence and purpose for the future. Rooted in scripture, it will help answer the heart cry of many for a deeper walk with Jesus. I am delighted to commend this volume to anyone who is serious about following Christ.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Lancaster, pastoral care leader, Bridge Community Church, Leeds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Another gem of a book from Tony. It is written in a conversational style that is easy to read and yet has some deep thoughts on the area of mentoring. I loved the questions at the end of each chapter to help mentor and mentee alike move on in their spiritual journey. Definitely a must for my “holy conversations” in mentoring – I will definitely be using this book with all of my mentees.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSharon Prior, senior lecturer, Moorlands College\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eMentoring Conversations\u003c\/em\u003e will be an invaluable resource for Christian mentors who want to engage their mentees in searching and transformative dialogue. The wide range of topics make it suitable for use with Christians at any stage of faith who have a desire to grow as disciples of Jesus. Although it is written primarily with a one-to-one mentoring relationship in mind, I can also see this book being useful for those engaged in peer mentoring or even small spiritual formation groups. Each topic has the potential to be a catalyst for transformation and growth. I am excited about adding this to my own mentoring resources.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMajor Jane Alton, Salvation Army officer, church leader and Christian mentor\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Tony Horsfall is recognised and respected as an elder statesman in the area of mentoring, and this book is a gift to those of us who have been inspired and encouraged by him. In its down-to-earth and biblically based focus on the growth of the individual, it mirrors Tony’s own approach to any conversation you have with him – you leave feeling encouraged, challenged and that you have had his undivided attention! I shall use this mentoring tool, which is riddled with insights and wisdom, widely in my own mentoring, both formally and informally.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Wilcox, The Christian Coach and Mentor Network and author of Intentional Mentoring\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Another rich yet practical book from Tony Horsfall. As more churches and missions become aware of the value of mentoring relationships, this book is a timely gift with the comprehensive range of topics included. The conversation starters will assist experienced mentors to take interactions to a deeper level and will be a godsend to people new to mentoring.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChristine Perkins, Pioneers UK member care for single women\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Matters. Review by Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMentoring Conversations: 30 Key topics to explore together \u003c\/em\u003eis a great resource by an experienced mentor. The focus of the book is on producing mature disciples. Although it can be used in small groups, the primary intention is for the book to be used in a one-to-one setting where both mentor and mentoree each have a copy. Helpful quotations abound: e.g. 'For optimal spiritual health, conversations on spiritual matters matter. They speak to our desire to know and be known by God and one another, and to do so in community.' Each chapter has a series of ‘conversation starters’ as also a guide to further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Paul Beasley-Murray, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/make-the-most-of-retirement?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=700927f23\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eMake the Most of Retirement \u003c\/a\u003eand editor of \u003ca href=\"www.paulbeasleymurray.com\"\u003eChurch Matters.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-05-01T16:32:57+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-01T17:28:28+01:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Discipleship","For individuals","Group reading","Kindle","Oct-20","Pastoral care","Spirituality"],"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":33575301152907,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469250","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Mentoring Conversations: 30 key topics to explore together","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":241,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469250","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469250.jpg?v=1588350510"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469250.jpg?v=1588350510","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7670340681867,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469250.jpg?v=1588350510"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469250.jpg?v=1588350510","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eA core resource for anyone involved in spiritual mentoring, Mentoring Conversations provides a basis for spiritual conversation in a mentoring context through 30 short chapters structured around six key topic areas: Foundations; Steps to growth; Living out your faith; Going deeper; Staying strong; and Living with mystery. Each chapter begins with a Bible passage or text, followed by the author’s comment on the topic, questions for discussion, scriptures for further reflection and suggestions for further reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a well-respected author and retreat leader with a lifetime’s experience in mentoring others, including church leaders and missionaries, in Britain as well as overseas. His book \u003cem\u003eMentoring for Spiritual Growth\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2016) has helped many to understand the importance of mentoring in today’s church, and to take their first steps in mentoring others. For the last ten years he has convened an annual Spiritual Mentoring Forum for those wishing to develop their interest in this vital area of disciple-making.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/212958208834\/user\/1649153580\/?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZUryqrtr80pGc7U2GStVjsrGkaOvlZfWoAccNy3bV7kSCAx9Oog8d4u6Zv0x0HyOktkJP-D-BlUH4gLgw-B9iWVDEdbw7y1gDbdUq-_rYBNTIfiD3PnrY1cIotx9H7AX3rUp7A2oxAs5gwu30z3ifFj-IbIYzGnnFifrtPMitFxxZrCOPZ8K1jC-bKdxiXgGGY\u0026amp;__tn__=-UC%2CP-R\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I want to thank Tony for this amazing resource. A lot of my time now is spent offering Spiritual Direction and in spite of excellent training both for ordination and later for Spiritual Direction, I often feel in need of help! And here it is - thoughtful and thought provoking, easy to use, a wonderful resource and a mine of helpful ideas and questions. Even if you don't mentor others, I can recommend this as a resource for your own spiritual journey and growth; each section has some excellent input based on Scripture and ideas and questions to help you to go deeper with God and think about transformation in your own life.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePenelope Swithinbank, Woman Alive Book Club\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'For anyone involved in spiritual mentoring, this book provides a basis for conversations through 30 short chapters around 6 key themes in the Christian life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a Bible passage, Tony’s comment, then questions to use with someone as starting points for conversation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany pastors\/clergy have been looking for a resource\/framework\/tool for ongoing discussion with church members to help them grow in faith, through mentoring. Well, Tony has given us all a huge gift in this book and, at just £9.99, I can see it being one of the most dipped into books on our shelves for many years to come.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Paul Eddy, Vicar of Stanford in the Vale, Oxfordshire and Researcher into Male Identity, Spirituality and Discipleship.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I thoroughly and wholeheartedly recommend this book by Tony Horsfall. It will be such a blessing for all engaged in such conversations. It is outstanding and will be such a help to all who walk with others in the making of disciples and growing in Christlikeness. Thank you Tony. CHOOSE IT AND USE IT!!!'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBishop Ken Clarke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'A treasury of wisdom and practical help\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTony Horsfall has a gift for effortlessly combining the profound truths of Scripture with grounded, practical application for our everyday lives. His new book, Mentoring Conversations, is a treasury of wisdom and practical help for both the experienced mentor and those who are just beginning to accompany others on their journey of faith. Drawing from his many years of rich experience as a mentor, the thirty topics Tony presents cover the key areas which all of us need to engage with in order to grow more surely into a deeper relationship with God and into a transformed life. I found the section on ‘Staying Strong’ particularly helpful in these Covid riven days; the questions following the topics of ‘building resilience’ and ‘the importance of self-care’ were incisive and relevant ones for me, and I’m looking forward to exploring these topics even more with the women I’m currently mentoring. I so appreciate the real- world wisdom of this book and I have a feeling I’ll be drawing from the depths of resources this book provides for many years to come.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMags Duggan, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/god-among-the-ruins-trust-and-transformation-in-difficult-times?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=8589002da\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eGod Among the Ruins\u003c\/a\u003e and\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/a-better-song-to-sing-finding-life-again-through-the-invitations-of-jesus?_pos=3\u0026amp;_sid=10b0ff8a8\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There are many books about mentoring but few books for mentoring. Tony Horsfall, after 20 years of practice and reflection, now provides such a book. This is not a book about how mentoring should (or shouldn’t) be done, but a kind of atlas of potential conversation starters, charting the many personal and theological issues that may arise within a journey of faith. Each chapter is short and snappy, as well as being both biblically rooted and pastorally sensitive. The chapters also provide plenty of opportunities for going deeper into specific issues, with insightful discussion questions and recommended reading. This book will be a handy resource for mentors and mentees as they explore the great issues of Christian discipleship together.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAaron Edwards, lecturer and programme lead for the MA Mission and Christian Mentoring pathway at Cliff College, Derbyshire\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘In this insightful book, Tony Horsfall reminds us that conversation is at the heart of a spiritual mentoring relationship. Tony invites us to reflect upon the conversations we enter into with our mentoring practice, asking us to engage in “holy conversation”. Covering topics foundational to Christian formation with clarity, this book is an essential practical resource to draw upon and a must read for all those who are serving as a mentor today.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJennie Fytche, training provider and mentor, Christian Coach and Mentor Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This wonderful book will make an excellent tool, enabling both mentor and mentee to walk together with God. It will provoke conversation, reminding them of what God has already done in their lives, and offer practical teaching to increase a sense of his presence and purpose for the future. Rooted in scripture, it will help answer the heart cry of many for a deeper walk with Jesus. I am delighted to commend this volume to anyone who is serious about following Christ.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Lancaster, pastoral care leader, Bridge Community Church, Leeds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Another gem of a book from Tony. It is written in a conversational style that is easy to read and yet has some deep thoughts on the area of mentoring. I loved the questions at the end of each chapter to help mentor and mentee alike move on in their spiritual journey. Definitely a must for my “holy conversations” in mentoring – I will definitely be using this book with all of my mentees.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSharon Prior, senior lecturer, Moorlands College\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eMentoring Conversations\u003c\/em\u003e will be an invaluable resource for Christian mentors who want to engage their mentees in searching and transformative dialogue. The wide range of topics make it suitable for use with Christians at any stage of faith who have a desire to grow as disciples of Jesus. Although it is written primarily with a one-to-one mentoring relationship in mind, I can also see this book being useful for those engaged in peer mentoring or even small spiritual formation groups. Each topic has the potential to be a catalyst for transformation and growth. I am excited about adding this to my own mentoring resources.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMajor Jane Alton, Salvation Army officer, church leader and Christian mentor\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Tony Horsfall is recognised and respected as an elder statesman in the area of mentoring, and this book is a gift to those of us who have been inspired and encouraged by him. In its down-to-earth and biblically based focus on the growth of the individual, it mirrors Tony’s own approach to any conversation you have with him – you leave feeling encouraged, challenged and that you have had his undivided attention! I shall use this mentoring tool, which is riddled with insights and wisdom, widely in my own mentoring, both formally and informally.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Wilcox, The Christian Coach and Mentor Network and author of Intentional Mentoring\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Another rich yet practical book from Tony Horsfall. As more churches and missions become aware of the value of mentoring relationships, this book is a timely gift with the comprehensive range of topics included. The conversation starters will assist experienced mentors to take interactions to a deeper level and will be a godsend to people new to mentoring.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChristine Perkins, Pioneers UK member care for single women\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Matters. Review by Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMentoring Conversations: 30 Key topics to explore together \u003c\/em\u003eis a great resource by an experienced mentor. The focus of the book is on producing mature disciples. Although it can be used in small groups, the primary intention is for the book to be used in a one-to-one setting where both mentor and mentoree each have a copy. Helpful quotations abound: e.g. 'For optimal spiritual health, conversations on spiritual matters matter. They speak to our desire to know and be known by God and one another, and to do so in community.' Each chapter has a series of ‘conversation starters’ as also a guide to further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Paul Beasley-Murray, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/make-the-most-of-retirement?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=700927f23\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eMake the Most of Retirement \u003c\/a\u003eand editor of \u003ca href=\"www.paulbeasleymurray.com\"\u003eChurch Matters.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Mentoring Conversations: 30 key topics to explore together
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{"id":4853424980107,"title":"The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control","handle":"the-bible-doesn-t-tell-me-so-why-you-don-t-have-to-submit-to-domestic-abuse-and-coercive-control","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral leaders, friends and support organisations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt debunks the myths – perpetuated by some abusers and, unwittingly, by many churches – which prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. It helps them realise that the Bible does not belong to their abuser but is a text of liberation. Written with careful attention to pastoral issues, it closely examines and clearly explains the relevant scriptural texts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence. A Baptist minister and biblical specialist, she has published at popular and scholarly levels, including \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e (2019) for BRF. She speaks nationally and internationally about the interpretation of biblical violence and the abuse of the Bible to promote violence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is important. Helen Paynter’s expertise with scripture, her approachability and her engagement with the reality of abuse ensure The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So is extremely helpful, both for Christians who have been subjected to abuse and for those wanting a strong biblical approach to addressing domestic abuse issues. It is both theological and practical and offers an authoritative and ultimately healing approach to scripture for women who have been abused. I know it will make a positive difference to women’s lives!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatalie Collins, author of Out of Control: Couples, conflict and the capacity for change\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have all too often seen the Bible I love weaponised by men to control and subordinate their wives. The sad truth is that domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world outside. I am deeply grateful for this book and Helen’s detailed study and balanced explanation of the texts that have been used throughout the centuries to “bash” women. It is an academically excellent book, which sheds light on the complex scriptures it covers, yet remains immensely readable. It is thorough and profound and enables the reader to not just wrestle with these verses, but also to consider God's original plan for the relationship between men and women. This book shows the Bible is liberating for women and challenging for some men, and I pray The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So will become a core text for leaders as they learn to recognise and respond to domestic abuse within their churches.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBekah Legg, director of Restored\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire magazine, New Zealand Spring 2021. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed to women experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control within a church setting and people, including church leaders, supporting women who are being abused. Why is such a book needed? Abuse by clergy has been well publicised but domestic abuse and coercive control within church families is wider than is often recognised. I have painful memories of three daughters asking me not to refer to their father as a loving husband at his funeral. They claimed that their mother, who had suffered from his behaviour, had remained within the marriage only because she felt trapped financially. They said their father, who considered himself a man of Christian virtue, emphasised repeatedly it was a wife’s duty to obey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is estimated that around 80% of domestic abuse is never reported. As well as physical or sexual violence, abusive relationships may include various forms of personal or social control, threats, accusations and intimidation. Overwhelmingly abusers are male. Domestic abuse and coercive control will often be denied by men and accepted by their female partners as just the way things are. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter’s book is arranged in three parts. Part 1 deals with what she terms the weaponization of scripture. Passages in Ephesians 5, 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Peter 3 have been used as weapons against women. Using scholarly exegesis Paynter shows how even if one believes that a wife should submit to her husband as head of the household this is intended to be within a mutually loving, supportive and affirming relationship. It is argued that to use biblical texts to discourage a woman from divorcing an abusive husband is to contravene biblical teaching about respect for human dignity. And it is a misuse of scripture to argue that Christian faith requires a wife to keep on forgiving an abusive husband, or that pastoral care for a parishioner can be expressed through a sexual relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2 is titled ‘The truth will set you free.’ Abusive husbands strip their wives of power, but Paynter shows how throughout scripture God is for the powerless and oppressed. Scripture affirms that all people have a God-given dignity. In the gospels women’s dignity is affirmed by Jesus. There is nothing in scripture that justifies the subordination of wives or women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor too long women have not been believed or have been hushed up. But scripture affirms that God is neither indifferent nor concerned to help anyone exercise power over another. In the light of God’s word injustice will always be revealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 includes three personal addresses: to those trapped by an abuser, to church leaders and to the perpetrator. Abused women are urged to have a safety plan and a helpful list is provided. Church leaders are encouraged to listen, to name what is wrong and never to promote gender roles or a theology that creates a sense of male entitlement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDomestic abuse and coercion are a travesty of relationships and the subordination of women is a biblical distortion. As stated on the cover this book debunks myths that prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. By helping clarify how church leaders need to act to protect women from abuse and free them from guilt and fear the book is a valuable pastoral resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/592122\/The_Bible_Doesn.aspx\"\u003eBaptist Times 18.11.20\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Jenni Entrican\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important book, and even more so during this time of COVID pandemic when levels of domestic abuse have significantly increased. As the title suggests, it is clear that specific interpretations of the Bible are used to validate totally unacceptable violations against women by their partners. Helen names this as ‘scripture being weaponised against women’, and her aim is to show that the Bible does not support the abuse of anyone.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is an important book too because of the hidden nature of domestic abuse, particularly within Christian communities who believe that ‘it doesn’t happen here’, or that it is simply a relationship issue where counselling can help, or that it is the fault of the person being abused who needs to deal with low self esteem, or forgive the abuser. If this sounds simplistic, the reality is that these reactions are not uncommon, and thus perpetuate behaviour that is so contrary to God’s intention for humankind.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThus, Helen’s book, addressed primarily to those suffering abuse, but also to those who support them and church leaders, does an excellent job of unpacking, both the whole sweep of the Biblical narrative, as well as specific scripture passages which are used to validate abusive behaviour. She addresses the Genesis account of the creation of men and women and their relationship; Paul’s exhortation to submit to one another, alongside the revolutionary injunction for men to love their wives as Christ loves the church; truths about what forgiveness looks like; how Jesus viewed and treated women and what God’s heart is for those who are abused.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe finishes briefly by addressing those trapped by an abuser, church leaders on how they can support such, and lastly, she addresses someone who is an abuser.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book, standing alongside other important books, has an important place in recognising and helping us to deal with what is a hugely important Kingdom and justice issue. It is time for us to grapple with the reality of violence and coercion of women within society as a whole, and particularly within the Christian church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn one way it is not an easy read as Helen draws on the lived experiences of women who have been in contact with her and we should weep at their stories. However it is carefully crafted to be both deeply theological, yet simple to read. I highly recommend reading this book and offering it to others, as a resource, but also to bind up some very real wounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs I have travelled through the UK and Europe these past five years as Baptists Together and European Baptist Federation Presidents, I have met many fascinating and wonderful women, but I have also been aware of how often women are not given the opportunities to use their gifts freely. The more I hear and read of the way the female gender is treated worldwide, the more my heart cries out for more books like these, and for more people to engage with issues of gender justice. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eJenni Entrican was European Baptist Federation President 2017-19, and is a member of the Baptist World Alliance Commission on Racial, Gender and Economic Justice 2020 -2025\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Kate Lemon, Services Manager One 25: a Bristol based charity supporting women who have experience trauma, helping them to 'heal and thrive'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is crucial in opening up conversations about domestic abuse within the church. For a long time domestic abuse has not been recognised and this has left women who were being abused isolated and totally unsupported. Moreover this system protected perpetrators of abuse. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s book plays a vital role in demonstrating that abuse happens everywhere, including within Christianity, that it is not acceptable and crucially that the bible does not advocate abuse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI also support the audiences that the author has targeted: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Women who are experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control: this is so important. They need to know that their voices are heard and their experiences recognised as part of the church community. They need to see evidence that the bible does not advocate the abuse they are experiencing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Others in the Christian community who accept, allow or ignore instances of domestic abuse, and particularly church leaders. They are the people in power who need to listen to women and acknowledge what is happening in their church, community and the wider world. They are the people who must put in systems to challenge and stop domestic abuse at a local, national and international level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen’s detailed explanation of what the bible states and what this means is essential in challenging the discourse around women’s place and safety in society. Her position as a knowledgeable minister and biblical specialist gives clear authority to this element of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as victims of domestic abuse and church leaders, there are other target audiences for this book: the Christian community as a whole, including volunteers, pastoral assistants and lay leaders. I would also add academics who train ministers and Christian workers, to ensure that this topic is covered in training and staff development. And finally, academics and researchers who study gender politics, women’s rights, sexual violence and abuse, and coercive control. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy key takeaways from this book are these:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the overriding message that God is for all who are oppressed and that includes women experiencing domestic abuse: God is for them and supports them. God does not advocate their abuse nor condone it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd second, the safety plan: practical list of what women should do if they are planning to leave their abusers in order to keep themselves as safe as possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Kate Lemon, Services Manager, One25 \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-05-01T16:32:57+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-01T17:23:36+01:00","vendor":"Helen Paynter","type":"Paperback","tags":["Kindle","Oct-20","Pastoral care","Women"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"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":33575220379787,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469892","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469892","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7670273114251,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857469892.jpg?v=1588350218","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral leaders, friends and support organisations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt debunks the myths – perpetuated by some abusers and, unwittingly, by many churches – which prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. It helps them realise that the Bible does not belong to their abuser but is a text of liberation. Written with careful attention to pastoral issues, it closely examines and clearly explains the relevant scriptural texts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence. A Baptist minister and biblical specialist, she has published at popular and scholarly levels, including \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e (2019) for BRF. She speaks nationally and internationally about the interpretation of biblical violence and the abuse of the Bible to promote violence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is important. Helen Paynter’s expertise with scripture, her approachability and her engagement with the reality of abuse ensure The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So is extremely helpful, both for Christians who have been subjected to abuse and for those wanting a strong biblical approach to addressing domestic abuse issues. It is both theological and practical and offers an authoritative and ultimately healing approach to scripture for women who have been abused. I know it will make a positive difference to women’s lives!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatalie Collins, author of Out of Control: Couples, conflict and the capacity for change\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘I have all too often seen the Bible I love weaponised by men to control and subordinate their wives. The sad truth is that domestic abuse is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world outside. I am deeply grateful for this book and Helen’s detailed study and balanced explanation of the texts that have been used throughout the centuries to “bash” women. It is an academically excellent book, which sheds light on the complex scriptures it covers, yet remains immensely readable. It is thorough and profound and enables the reader to not just wrestle with these verses, but also to consider God's original plan for the relationship between men and women. This book shows the Bible is liberating for women and challenging for some men, and I pray The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So will become a core text for leaders as they learn to recognise and respond to domestic abuse within their churches.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBekah Legg, director of Restored\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire magazine, New Zealand Spring 2021. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is addressed to women experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control within a church setting and people, including church leaders, supporting women who are being abused. Why is such a book needed? Abuse by clergy has been well publicised but domestic abuse and coercive control within church families is wider than is often recognised. I have painful memories of three daughters asking me not to refer to their father as a loving husband at his funeral. They claimed that their mother, who had suffered from his behaviour, had remained within the marriage only because she felt trapped financially. They said their father, who considered himself a man of Christian virtue, emphasised repeatedly it was a wife’s duty to obey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is estimated that around 80% of domestic abuse is never reported. As well as physical or sexual violence, abusive relationships may include various forms of personal or social control, threats, accusations and intimidation. Overwhelmingly abusers are male. Domestic abuse and coercive control will often be denied by men and accepted by their female partners as just the way things are. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter’s book is arranged in three parts. Part 1 deals with what she terms the weaponization of scripture. Passages in Ephesians 5, 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Peter 3 have been used as weapons against women. Using scholarly exegesis Paynter shows how even if one believes that a wife should submit to her husband as head of the household this is intended to be within a mutually loving, supportive and affirming relationship. It is argued that to use biblical texts to discourage a woman from divorcing an abusive husband is to contravene biblical teaching about respect for human dignity. And it is a misuse of scripture to argue that Christian faith requires a wife to keep on forgiving an abusive husband, or that pastoral care for a parishioner can be expressed through a sexual relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2 is titled ‘The truth will set you free.’ Abusive husbands strip their wives of power, but Paynter shows how throughout scripture God is for the powerless and oppressed. Scripture affirms that all people have a God-given dignity. In the gospels women’s dignity is affirmed by Jesus. There is nothing in scripture that justifies the subordination of wives or women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor too long women have not been believed or have been hushed up. But scripture affirms that God is neither indifferent nor concerned to help anyone exercise power over another. In the light of God’s word injustice will always be revealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3 includes three personal addresses: to those trapped by an abuser, to church leaders and to the perpetrator. Abused women are urged to have a safety plan and a helpful list is provided. Church leaders are encouraged to listen, to name what is wrong and never to promote gender roles or a theology that creates a sense of male entitlement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDomestic abuse and coercion are a travesty of relationships and the subordination of women is a biblical distortion. As stated on the cover this book debunks myths that prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. By helping clarify how church leaders need to act to protect women from abuse and free them from guilt and fear the book is a valuable pastoral resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/592122\/The_Bible_Doesn.aspx\"\u003eBaptist Times 18.11.20\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Jenni Entrican\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important book, and even more so during this time of COVID pandemic when levels of domestic abuse have significantly increased. As the title suggests, it is clear that specific interpretations of the Bible are used to validate totally unacceptable violations against women by their partners. Helen names this as ‘scripture being weaponised against women’, and her aim is to show that the Bible does not support the abuse of anyone.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is an important book too because of the hidden nature of domestic abuse, particularly within Christian communities who believe that ‘it doesn’t happen here’, or that it is simply a relationship issue where counselling can help, or that it is the fault of the person being abused who needs to deal with low self esteem, or forgive the abuser. If this sounds simplistic, the reality is that these reactions are not uncommon, and thus perpetuate behaviour that is so contrary to God’s intention for humankind.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThus, Helen’s book, addressed primarily to those suffering abuse, but also to those who support them and church leaders, does an excellent job of unpacking, both the whole sweep of the Biblical narrative, as well as specific scripture passages which are used to validate abusive behaviour. She addresses the Genesis account of the creation of men and women and their relationship; Paul’s exhortation to submit to one another, alongside the revolutionary injunction for men to love their wives as Christ loves the church; truths about what forgiveness looks like; how Jesus viewed and treated women and what God’s heart is for those who are abused.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe finishes briefly by addressing those trapped by an abuser, church leaders on how they can support such, and lastly, she addresses someone who is an abuser.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book, standing alongside other important books, has an important place in recognising and helping us to deal with what is a hugely important Kingdom and justice issue. It is time for us to grapple with the reality of violence and coercion of women within society as a whole, and particularly within the Christian church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn one way it is not an easy read as Helen draws on the lived experiences of women who have been in contact with her and we should weep at their stories. However it is carefully crafted to be both deeply theological, yet simple to read. I highly recommend reading this book and offering it to others, as a resource, but also to bind up some very real wounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs I have travelled through the UK and Europe these past five years as Baptists Together and European Baptist Federation Presidents, I have met many fascinating and wonderful women, but I have also been aware of how often women are not given the opportunities to use their gifts freely. The more I hear and read of the way the female gender is treated worldwide, the more my heart cries out for more books like these, and for more people to engage with issues of gender justice. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eJenni Entrican was European Baptist Federation President 2017-19, and is a member of the Baptist World Alliance Commission on Racial, Gender and Economic Justice 2020 -2025\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Kate Lemon, Services Manager One 25: a Bristol based charity supporting women who have experience trauma, helping them to 'heal and thrive'.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is crucial in opening up conversations about domestic abuse within the church. For a long time domestic abuse has not been recognised and this has left women who were being abused isolated and totally unsupported. Moreover this system protected perpetrators of abuse. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s book plays a vital role in demonstrating that abuse happens everywhere, including within Christianity, that it is not acceptable and crucially that the bible does not advocate abuse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI also support the audiences that the author has targeted: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Women who are experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control: this is so important. They need to know that their voices are heard and their experiences recognised as part of the church community. They need to see evidence that the bible does not advocate the abuse they are experiencing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Others in the Christian community who accept, allow or ignore instances of domestic abuse, and particularly church leaders. They are the people in power who need to listen to women and acknowledge what is happening in their church, community and the wider world. They are the people who must put in systems to challenge and stop domestic abuse at a local, national and international level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen’s detailed explanation of what the bible states and what this means is essential in challenging the discourse around women’s place and safety in society. Her position as a knowledgeable minister and biblical specialist gives clear authority to this element of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as victims of domestic abuse and church leaders, there are other target audiences for this book: the Christian community as a whole, including volunteers, pastoral assistants and lay leaders. I would also add academics who train ministers and Christian workers, to ensure that this topic is covered in training and staff development. And finally, academics and researchers who study gender politics, women’s rights, sexual violence and abuse, and coercive control. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy key takeaways from this book are these:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the overriding message that God is for all who are oppressed and that includes women experiencing domestic abuse: God is for them and supports them. God does not advocate their abuse nor condone it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd second, the safety plan: practical list of what women should do if they are planning to leave their abusers in order to keep themselves as safe as possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Kate Lemon, Services Manager, One25 \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control
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{"id":4853212348555,"title":"A Better Song to Sing: Finding life again through the invitations of Jesus","handle":"a-better-song-to-sing-finding-life-again-through-the-invitations-of-jesus","description":"\u003cp\u003eMany sincere followers of Jesus are secretly disappointed, dissatisfied and quietly desperate for more than they are currently experiencing. That more is found as we respond to the invitations of Jesus, which hold out to us the hope of dynamic change, of a truly vibrant, transformed life – a better song to sing. Each chapter explores one specific invitation, drawing out its possible implications for our lives, and suggests a spiritual practice or reflection to help us ground that invitation in our present-day reality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags was a missionary in Asia for over 20 years before returning to the UK and joining the faculty at Redcliffe College where she lectured on Spiritual Formation and on Soul Care. A retreat leader and spiritual director, she is passionate about helping others nurture their relationship with God in life-giving, life-sustaining ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer critically acclaimed first book is \u003cem\u003eGod among the Ruins\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Mags' Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/mags-duggan-author-of-the-best-selling-god-among-the-ruins-and-the-soon-to-be-published-a-better-song-to-sing-muses-on-what-shes-achieved-during-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTony Horsfall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonal transformation is at the heart of discipleship yet so many experience only superficial change. Here is a book to take you deeper in the journey to wholeness and Christlikeness and blow away your spiritual blues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan first helps us to understand the call of Jesus to experience the abundant life he offers. Then she asks us to look inwards, gently inviting us to face up to the issues preventing us from real change. Finally, with much grace, and sharing examples from her own life, she gives us practical tools by which we can find freedom, healing and release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book but it packs a big punch. \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e will strike the right note for many who long to find greater fulfilment in their walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not about hymns or worship songs. It is a book for those of us who know, deep down, that there must be more to life as a disciple than we are experiencing right now. Mags Duggan has clearly been there herself, and writes about searching for ‘a better song to sing’ in life through the invitations of Jesus – life in all its fullness, release from the grave, water for the thirsty, fulfilment of our deep desires, trusting and being at home with him. I was especially moved by the last chapter, where the author writes of Jesus inviting me to be at home with him – a place of heartfelt welcome and ease where I may sit down with him, love and be loved. Mags Duggan writes with grace. The theology is winning, thoughtful and intelligent, not academic. There are personal stories of success and failure, and ideas to try. We need more books like this. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I have listened to many sincere followers of Jesus as they’ve shared with me how worn out, bored, disappointed and frustrated they feel about the life they are living – and how ashamed and guilty they are for feeling this way’. We do not always experience life in all its fullness, and Mags Duggan writes to such as us to offer us counsel and pointers in how to follow the nudging of the Holy Spirit that there is indeed much more than many of us are experiencing. ‘Our lives can be full of good and helpful things, our time may be spent well and productively, and yet we can feel like our hearts, our souls, the very core of who we are, are sometimes achingly empty’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuggan offers us four spiritual practices that can assist our journeys. She points us to prayers for release, to praying with and through the gospels, to stopping, and circle or Caim prayers that many of us will be familiar with as part of our Celtic Christian heritage. As I read this book I was reminded of Andrew Roberts’ \u003cem\u003eHoly Habits.\u003c\/em\u003e There are a number of such resources that remind us of the practices or habits that support and enhance our faith. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e Duggan is helping us think specifically about when we have somehow lost the joy of our faith. It's far from a superficial ‘quick fix’ manual, but a text that is challenging as it causes us to look within, and find God’s strength to better emerge out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer comments on ‘stopping’ particularly resonated with me and are based on Mark 6:31-32 where Jesus and the disciples head away to be alone, to find a still point in their day. I have cultivated a daily still point. Part of my fairly minimal contribution to the smooth running of the Skuce household is doing the dishes. There is a dishwasher, but it just sits and stares with reproach at me. I don’t care. When I do the dishes I switch off. I do a simple action that has a start, middle and end. I’ll do it again in the near future, but those particular few dishes are completed. I need to do the dishes on my own but that is likely part of my many personality issues. In the simple task I find stillness, and I know I need to find stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike a lot of recent BRF books, \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e is a fairly quick read, is straightforward but has depth. This is well worth reading for more than just encouragement in our faith, but pointers to what actually nourishes us. In the struggles of life that the pandemic has brought, our wellbeing has come a bit more to the fore. This is just the sort of book to help our faith better help our whole being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Young, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDirector, Global Language and Development Services\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e International Language Services \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSIL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening pages of this book recount a memorable scene from \u003cem\u003e'Educating Rita\u003c\/em\u003e' when Rita’s mother sobs 'There must be better songs to sing than this,' and my heart lurched because that has, on numerous occasions, been the cry of my heart – there must be more to life than what feels mundane and pedestrian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI follow the living God and I crave 'life in all its fullness'. Mags Duggan's book spoke to my heart, my soul and will, I trust, enable me to confidently, enthusiastically, willing and without fear put my trust in the One who has invited me to step to the edge and fly. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe invitations of Jesus, spread through the New Testament, encourage me to draw close to Him and grow in trust of the One who loves me and remind me that I am precious to Him. He yearns for me to respond. Why do I hesitate, I wonder? Each chapter of this book examines a different Biblical invitation and, in a wonderfully accessible style, challenges me to wholeness and new vibrancy in my walk with Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags’ writing – beautifully rich with metaphor - integrates rigorous theological reflection, reflections from her own extensive cross-cultural experience and references to popular culture which emphasises the holistic nature of the call to wholeness. I particularly appreciated the spiritual exercises that are included at the end of each chapter. They caused me to take each chapter and reflect – to consume each chapter carefully in small bites rather than guzzle the complete book hungrily in a few short sittings. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe image of the desert in Chapter 3 was particularly meaningful to me: the unproductive expanse that needs to be watered in order to yield the harvest that was intended. I feel thirsty, I know I am thirsty but I need to intentionally and deliberately drink to experience the 'hydrated soul' through which life and energy can flow to bring refreshment to the parched spirit of others. The final chapter brings the message of the book to a resounding crescendo underscoring that there is risk in commitment – but also joy, hope and freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Young\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-10-15T16:17:00+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-01T16:20:59+01:00","vendor":"Mags Duggan","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","Jul-20","Pastoral care","Prayer","Spirituality","Women"],"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":33574600376459,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468765","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Better Song to Sing: Finding life again through the invitations of Jesus","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468765","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468765.jpg?v=1588346461"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468765.jpg?v=1588346461","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7669477474443,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468765.jpg?v=1588346461"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468765.jpg?v=1588346461","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eMany sincere followers of Jesus are secretly disappointed, dissatisfied and quietly desperate for more than they are currently experiencing. That more is found as we respond to the invitations of Jesus, which hold out to us the hope of dynamic change, of a truly vibrant, transformed life – a better song to sing. Each chapter explores one specific invitation, drawing out its possible implications for our lives, and suggests a spiritual practice or reflection to help us ground that invitation in our present-day reality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags was a missionary in Asia for over 20 years before returning to the UK and joining the faculty at Redcliffe College where she lectured on Spiritual Formation and on Soul Care. A retreat leader and spiritual director, she is passionate about helping others nurture their relationship with God in life-giving, life-sustaining ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer critically acclaimed first book is \u003cem\u003eGod among the Ruins\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Mags' Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/mags-duggan-author-of-the-best-selling-god-among-the-ruins-and-the-soon-to-be-published-a-better-song-to-sing-muses-on-what-shes-achieved-during-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTony Horsfall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonal transformation is at the heart of discipleship yet so many experience only superficial change. Here is a book to take you deeper in the journey to wholeness and Christlikeness and blow away your spiritual blues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan first helps us to understand the call of Jesus to experience the abundant life he offers. Then she asks us to look inwards, gently inviting us to face up to the issues preventing us from real change. Finally, with much grace, and sharing examples from her own life, she gives us practical tools by which we can find freedom, healing and release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book but it packs a big punch. \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e will strike the right note for many who long to find greater fulfilment in their walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not about hymns or worship songs. It is a book for those of us who know, deep down, that there must be more to life as a disciple than we are experiencing right now. Mags Duggan has clearly been there herself, and writes about searching for ‘a better song to sing’ in life through the invitations of Jesus – life in all its fullness, release from the grave, water for the thirsty, fulfilment of our deep desires, trusting and being at home with him. I was especially moved by the last chapter, where the author writes of Jesus inviting me to be at home with him – a place of heartfelt welcome and ease where I may sit down with him, love and be loved. Mags Duggan writes with grace. The theology is winning, thoughtful and intelligent, not academic. There are personal stories of success and failure, and ideas to try. We need more books like this. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I have listened to many sincere followers of Jesus as they’ve shared with me how worn out, bored, disappointed and frustrated they feel about the life they are living – and how ashamed and guilty they are for feeling this way’. We do not always experience life in all its fullness, and Mags Duggan writes to such as us to offer us counsel and pointers in how to follow the nudging of the Holy Spirit that there is indeed much more than many of us are experiencing. ‘Our lives can be full of good and helpful things, our time may be spent well and productively, and yet we can feel like our hearts, our souls, the very core of who we are, are sometimes achingly empty’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuggan offers us four spiritual practices that can assist our journeys. She points us to prayers for release, to praying with and through the gospels, to stopping, and circle or Caim prayers that many of us will be familiar with as part of our Celtic Christian heritage. As I read this book I was reminded of Andrew Roberts’ \u003cem\u003eHoly Habits.\u003c\/em\u003e There are a number of such resources that remind us of the practices or habits that support and enhance our faith. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e Duggan is helping us think specifically about when we have somehow lost the joy of our faith. It's far from a superficial ‘quick fix’ manual, but a text that is challenging as it causes us to look within, and find God’s strength to better emerge out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer comments on ‘stopping’ particularly resonated with me and are based on Mark 6:31-32 where Jesus and the disciples head away to be alone, to find a still point in their day. I have cultivated a daily still point. Part of my fairly minimal contribution to the smooth running of the Skuce household is doing the dishes. There is a dishwasher, but it just sits and stares with reproach at me. I don’t care. When I do the dishes I switch off. I do a simple action that has a start, middle and end. I’ll do it again in the near future, but those particular few dishes are completed. I need to do the dishes on my own but that is likely part of my many personality issues. In the simple task I find stillness, and I know I need to find stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike a lot of recent BRF books, \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e is a fairly quick read, is straightforward but has depth. This is well worth reading for more than just encouragement in our faith, but pointers to what actually nourishes us. In the struggles of life that the pandemic has brought, our wellbeing has come a bit more to the fore. This is just the sort of book to help our faith better help our whole being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Young, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDirector, Global Language and Development Services\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e International Language Services \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSIL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening pages of this book recount a memorable scene from \u003cem\u003e'Educating Rita\u003c\/em\u003e' when Rita’s mother sobs 'There must be better songs to sing than this,' and my heart lurched because that has, on numerous occasions, been the cry of my heart – there must be more to life than what feels mundane and pedestrian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI follow the living God and I crave 'life in all its fullness'. Mags Duggan's book spoke to my heart, my soul and will, I trust, enable me to confidently, enthusiastically, willing and without fear put my trust in the One who has invited me to step to the edge and fly. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe invitations of Jesus, spread through the New Testament, encourage me to draw close to Him and grow in trust of the One who loves me and remind me that I am precious to Him. He yearns for me to respond. Why do I hesitate, I wonder? Each chapter of this book examines a different Biblical invitation and, in a wonderfully accessible style, challenges me to wholeness and new vibrancy in my walk with Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags’ writing – beautifully rich with metaphor - integrates rigorous theological reflection, reflections from her own extensive cross-cultural experience and references to popular culture which emphasises the holistic nature of the call to wholeness. I particularly appreciated the spiritual exercises that are included at the end of each chapter. They caused me to take each chapter and reflect – to consume each chapter carefully in small bites rather than guzzle the complete book hungrily in a few short sittings. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe image of the desert in Chapter 3 was particularly meaningful to me: the unproductive expanse that needs to be watered in order to yield the harvest that was intended. I feel thirsty, I know I am thirsty but I need to intentionally and deliberately drink to experience the 'hydrated soul' through which life and energy can flow to bring refreshment to the parched spirit of others. The final chapter brings the message of the book to a resounding crescendo underscoring that there is risk in commitment – but also joy, hope and freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Young\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":3280107274340,"title":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers","handle":"servant-ministry-a-portrait-of-christ-and-a-pattern-for-his-followers","description":"\u003cp\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-10-19T17:29:01+01:00","created_at":"2019-04-09T12:02:28+01:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Jun-19","Leadership","Pastoral care"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":26454556409956,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468864","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":188,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468864","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3264958300299,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Servanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood...
{"id":3178559209572,"title":"Seriously Messy: Making space for families to talk together about death and life","handle":"seriously-messy-making-space-for-families-to-talk-together-about-death-and-life","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen families experience bereavement and loss, it can be hard for the wider church community to know how best to support them. In this book, four experienced authors and practitioners offer inter-generational approaches for engaging with questions of death and life in a safe and supportive setting. The material guides church communities who are dealing with the death of loved ones and other situations of loss in talking together as a church family, in applying the Christian message of the resurrection in challenging situations, and in listening to each other and developing their own insights.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe opening chapters offer an easy-to-read overview of issues of death and dying, and why this is such an important topic for churches. Part 2 consists of a series of five short theological reflections, exploring traditional images and the language that Christians have always used when talking about death. The five Messy Church sessions in Part 3 continue these themes, each offering material for a two-hour all-age Messy Church service followed by a meal together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003euthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRevd Canon Dr Joanna Collicutt is Karl Jaspers Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon. She is also an associate minister in an Oxfordshire parish. Her other books include The Psychology of Christian Character Formation (SCM, 2015) and Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia (BRF, 2017).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2020. Review by Rona Orme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough written for use in Messy Churches, this book is a gift to the whole church. The first half should be essential reading for everyone in ministry. Whether we are involved in children’s ministry or not, we all meet parents and grandparents and teachers who want advice on how to talk to children about death. Death cafés are becoming popular with older folk, but children need to have these conversations too. Most children have experience of death, so they need the vocabulary to reflect on it. A solid theological base underpins this thoughtful book, so it contains hope and wise advice. We are encouraged to face the difficult conversations rather than to avoid an upsetting subject. There are many helpful suggestions for this. The second half includes five full Messy Church sessions. These contain a wealth of ideas for discussing issues of decay, loss, remembering, hope and safe spaces, which could be used in many different settings. This book is a challenge to include discussion of death in our exploration of the fullness of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rona Orme\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 25.10.19.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Review by Martine Oborne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen my son was a teenager, he was in hospital after an accident. A friend sent him a Get Well card, and I opened it for him and read out the message: ‘Get messy soon!’ I asked my son what this meant. Was it anything to do with making dens, water fights, or craft activities? ‘No,’ he replied. ‘It means “Let’s go out and get drunk.”’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, when I saw the title of this book, I thought, at first, that it was about teenage drinking. But it’s not that kind of messy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessy Church, an initiative that has been going for about 15 years in the UK, seeks to provide a church experience for families who have not found other forms of church engaging. It usually involves paint, glue, glitter, and other messy substances, as craft activities are set up to explore a particular Christian theme or message; and this book is \u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy \u003c\/em\u003ebecause it addresses a serious subject: death. Is Messy Church a format that can be used to do that?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into three parts. The first gives an overview of the topic and touches on some of the reasons that we find it so challenging to think and talk about death. Part 2 comprises five short theological reflections on how Christians talk about death: remembering; saying goodbye and hello; sleeping tight; being loved and finding safe spaces. Part 3 sets out five Messy Church sessions with suggestions for activities and ‘celebrations’ that could be used as church services.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two parts I found helpful, and the whole concept of encouraging intergenerational conversation about death seems a good thing. I struggled, however, with Part 3: some of the activities struck me as too much ‘fun’ for the serious nature of the subject. I could not imagine doing them with someone still in the very raw and early stages of a bereavement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNone the less, I recommend the book. It sets out the theological framework that underpins our\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristian hope — that death is not the end, that we do not go into that last goodnight alone, that love triumphs over death. And it encourages us to find ways both to hear people’s doubts and fears and also to bring hope and comfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by the Revd Martine Oborne, Vicar of St Michael’s, Chiswick, in London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 18.10.19. Review by Karen Murphy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Messy Church initiative has been something of a revolution over the past few years with its focus on providing an appropriate and useful space for [people of all ages] to explore spirituality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy\u003c\/em\u003e is a fascinating book, developing the theme of spiritual exploration through practical and creative ideas that should be warmly welcomed by faith communities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTalking about death and our mortality is unfamiliar territory for our society. We are inclined to ignore the inevitable and pretend it ‘doesn’t mean us’. My experience in hospice chaplaincy is that older people, particularly, become anxious and fearful as the prospect of death draws nearer. It’s not unusual for someone in their 80s or 90s to close down a conversation about funeral\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eplanning and wishes for the future with considerable abruptness. I have also observed that younger patients are more willing to engage with the death and dying conversation as a general rule and see it as a practical duty in some respects to get things sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeriously Messy offers an excellent range of ideas, thought-provoking activities and creative ways in which conversations about death and dying can be encouraged. The ideas are presented with clarity and sensitivity, there is recognition of the potential difficulties of engaging in these conversations, but the authors build into the activities thoughtful ways of acknowledging the need for boundaries and safety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonally, I will be using some of these ideas in our hospice reflective sessions with patients and families. These are usually people who are able to face the reality of facing their death. I can certainly commend the value of using this resource in worship, church groups and community projects such as ‘death cafes’ or bereavement support groups. This resource encourages us all to think about our mortality. Although we know it will happen to us all, death remains the taboo subject that raises fears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors of Seriously Messy have created an excellent means of encouraging conversation around this most sensitive of subjects, and I completely commend it to our faith communities as a means of demystifying the one thing we are certain of.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Karen Murphy is a chaplain to Weston Hospicecare Ltd.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-03-26T14:55:47+00:00","created_at":"2019-03-26T14:57:50+00:00","vendor":"Joanna Collicutt","type":"Paperback","tags":["Jun-19","Kindle","Messy Church books","Pastoral care"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":40462176190655,"title":"PDF Download","option1":"PDF Download","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468246","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Seriously Messy: Making space for families to talk together about death and life - PDF Download","public_title":"PDF Download","options":["PDF Download"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391475_Preach","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":40462176223423,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468239","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Seriously Messy: Making space for families to talk together about death and life - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":40462198407359,"title":"ePub eBook","option1":"ePub eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"Seriously_Messy","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Seriously Messy: Making space for families to talk together about death and life - ePub eBook","public_title":"ePub eBook","options":["ePub eBook"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468239-l.jpg?v=1553612308"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468239-l.jpg?v=1553612308","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3264195559563,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468239-l.jpg?v=1553612308"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857468239-l.jpg?v=1553612308","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen families experience bereavement and loss, it can be hard for the wider church community to know how best to support them. In this book, four experienced authors and practitioners offer inter-generational approaches for engaging with questions of death and life in a safe and supportive setting. The material guides church communities who are dealing with the death of loved ones and other situations of loss in talking together as a church family, in applying the Christian message of the resurrection in challenging situations, and in listening to each other and developing their own insights.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe opening chapters offer an easy-to-read overview of issues of death and dying, and why this is such an important topic for churches. Part 2 consists of a series of five short theological reflections, exploring traditional images and the language that Christians have always used when talking about death. The five Messy Church sessions in Part 3 continue these themes, each offering material for a two-hour all-age Messy Church service followed by a meal together.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003euthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRevd Canon Dr Joanna Collicutt is Karl Jaspers Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon. She is also an associate minister in an Oxfordshire parish. Her other books include The Psychology of Christian Character Formation (SCM, 2015) and Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia (BRF, 2017).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2020. Review by Rona Orme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough written for use in Messy Churches, this book is a gift to the whole church. The first half should be essential reading for everyone in ministry. Whether we are involved in children’s ministry or not, we all meet parents and grandparents and teachers who want advice on how to talk to children about death. Death cafés are becoming popular with older folk, but children need to have these conversations too. Most children have experience of death, so they need the vocabulary to reflect on it. A solid theological base underpins this thoughtful book, so it contains hope and wise advice. We are encouraged to face the difficult conversations rather than to avoid an upsetting subject. There are many helpful suggestions for this. The second half includes five full Messy Church sessions. These contain a wealth of ideas for discussing issues of decay, loss, remembering, hope and safe spaces, which could be used in many different settings. This book is a challenge to include discussion of death in our exploration of the fullness of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rona Orme\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 25.10.19.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Review by Martine Oborne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen my son was a teenager, he was in hospital after an accident. A friend sent him a Get Well card, and I opened it for him and read out the message: ‘Get messy soon!’ I asked my son what this meant. Was it anything to do with making dens, water fights, or craft activities? ‘No,’ he replied. ‘It means “Let’s go out and get drunk.”’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, when I saw the title of this book, I thought, at first, that it was about teenage drinking. But it’s not that kind of messy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessy Church, an initiative that has been going for about 15 years in the UK, seeks to provide a church experience for families who have not found other forms of church engaging. It usually involves paint, glue, glitter, and other messy substances, as craft activities are set up to explore a particular Christian theme or message; and this book is \u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy \u003c\/em\u003ebecause it addresses a serious subject: death. Is Messy Church a format that can be used to do that?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into three parts. The first gives an overview of the topic and touches on some of the reasons that we find it so challenging to think and talk about death. Part 2 comprises five short theological reflections on how Christians talk about death: remembering; saying goodbye and hello; sleeping tight; being loved and finding safe spaces. Part 3 sets out five Messy Church sessions with suggestions for activities and ‘celebrations’ that could be used as church services.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two parts I found helpful, and the whole concept of encouraging intergenerational conversation about death seems a good thing. I struggled, however, with Part 3: some of the activities struck me as too much ‘fun’ for the serious nature of the subject. I could not imagine doing them with someone still in the very raw and early stages of a bereavement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNone the less, I recommend the book. It sets out the theological framework that underpins our\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristian hope — that death is not the end, that we do not go into that last goodnight alone, that love triumphs over death. And it encourages us to find ways both to hear people’s doubts and fears and also to bring hope and comfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by the Revd Martine Oborne, Vicar of St Michael’s, Chiswick, in London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 18.10.19. Review by Karen Murphy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Messy Church initiative has been something of a revolution over the past few years with its focus on providing an appropriate and useful space for [people of all ages] to explore spirituality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy\u003c\/em\u003e is a fascinating book, developing the theme of spiritual exploration through practical and creative ideas that should be warmly welcomed by faith communities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTalking about death and our mortality is unfamiliar territory for our society. We are inclined to ignore the inevitable and pretend it ‘doesn’t mean us’. My experience in hospice chaplaincy is that older people, particularly, become anxious and fearful as the prospect of death draws nearer. It’s not unusual for someone in their 80s or 90s to close down a conversation about funeral\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eplanning and wishes for the future with considerable abruptness. I have also observed that younger patients are more willing to engage with the death and dying conversation as a general rule and see it as a practical duty in some respects to get things sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeriously Messy offers an excellent range of ideas, thought-provoking activities and creative ways in which conversations about death and dying can be encouraged. The ideas are presented with clarity and sensitivity, there is recognition of the potential difficulties of engaging in these conversations, but the authors build into the activities thoughtful ways of acknowledging the need for boundaries and safety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonally, I will be using some of these ideas in our hospice reflective sessions with patients and families. These are usually people who are able to face the reality of facing their death. I can certainly commend the value of using this resource in worship, church groups and community projects such as ‘death cafes’ or bereavement support groups. This resource encourages us all to think about our mortality. Although we know it will happen to us all, death remains the taboo subject that raises fears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors of Seriously Messy have created an excellent means of encouraging conversation around this most sensitive of subjects, and I completely commend it to our faith communities as a means of demystifying the one thing we are certain of.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Karen Murphy is a chaplain to Weston Hospicecare Ltd.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Seriously Messy: Making space for families to talk together about death and life
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When families experience bereavement and loss, it can be hard for the wider church community to know how best to...
{"id":2439828045924,"title":"Resilience in Life and Faith: Finding your strength in God","handle":"resilience-in-life-and-faith-finding-your-strength-in-god","description":"\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall and Debbie Hawker encourage us to develop our resilience and to prepare ourselves for the challenges that life throws at us in an increasingly difficult world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough biblical wisdom and psychological insight, they show us how to understand ourselves better, appreciate our areas of strength and strengthen our areas of weakness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead this book if you want a faith that persists to the finishing line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and associate trainer with EQUIP, a missions programme based near Doncaster. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and Quiet Days. His other books include Spiritual Growth in a Time of Change (BRF, 2016). He also contributes to BRF's New Daylight Bible reading notes. Dr Debbie Hawker is a psychologist based in Nottingham with a global reputation as a specialist in debriefing and trauma counselling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr. Laura Mae Gardner,\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e f\u003c\/span\u003eormer International Vice President for Personnel for Wycliffe Bible Translators and SIL International. Author of \u003cem\u003eHealthy, Resilient and Effective in Cross-Cultural Ministry. \u003c\/em\u003eMay 2020\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI just finished reading this wonderful book and am strongly impacted by it. It gives sound practical concepts by two very qualified and experienced mission workers who have worldwide awareness. I know these authors and highly respect them. They have given us an immensely useful tool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book includes spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive, social and systemic aspects of resilience. Resilience is illustrated by the lives of Biblical characters—Nehemiah, Elijah, David, Joseph, Paul, Jesus and women as well as men.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strengths of the book are its Biblical anchoring and its practicality. It is comprehensive and clear. It will be a great resource for pastors, church and organisational leaders as well as individuals in the work force. The book will be a guide for all who have personnel and administrative oversight of workers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Resilience Scale at the end of the book is an excellent self evaluation instrument. It is followed by a faith-based creed, a simple but powerful personal commitment. This book will have a ministry-wide impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dr. Laura Mae Gardner, Former International Vice President for Personnel for Wycliffe Bible Translators and SIL International. Author of 'Healthy, Resilient and Effective in Cross-Cultural Ministry'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe assertion on the back of this book - ‘Read this if you want a faith that persists to the finishing line – develop resilience and prepare for the challenges life throws at us’ sums up the authors’ intention. Does it do what it says on the cover? Debbie Hawker, a clinical psychologist, introduces the subject and contributes chapters on the psychological aspects of resilience using a model of resilience under the following domains: spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive and creative, and finally social and systemic. Tony Horsfall, a trainer and retreat leader, provides studies of biblical characters illustrating each aspect considered. Each of the 15 short chapters concludes with some questions. Finally there are two appendices – a self-assessment ‘Resilience Rating Scale’ using their model, and then a ‘Resilience Creed’, using scriptural truths to strengthen faith during times of hardship. For those of an investigative nature, 145 annotated references are cited. It is a readable book; I found several nuggets amidst the many referenced opinions and conclusions. In summary, the book should interest Readers keen to investigate and develop the psychological aspects of their faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch of England Newspaper, July 2019. Review by Carol Turner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn today’s world where so much is ‘instant’ and it is easy to give up and move onto the next thing, resilience seems to be in short supply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Christians, Tony Horsfall says, we should fix our eyes on Jesus and keep going. Resilience is what this short paperback is all about and I was amazed at how much is contained in it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two authors have collaborated well and the chapters really flow together to form one whole. The combination of the authors’ experience in pastoral work, psychology and mission serve to give the book’s content a real depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book focuses on the spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive \u0026amp; creative and social \u0026amp; systemic aspects of resilience. Of them all as is stated (p167) spiritual resilience is the key and all aspects return to that; the spiritual is not able to be divorced from the rest of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format of the book is excellent; the components of resilience are outlined and then applied to the lives of Biblical characters, and for us as Christians today. Practical suggestions are given as to how we can apply the teaching in today’s world. Of further benefit are the questions at the end of each chapter: these are challenging but do not result in readers being ‘put down, there are no wrong answers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is well written and easy to read and understand, and will benefit the lay reader and those with more theological knowledge. I fully intend to re read this book, there is so much to recommend and it gives much food for thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Carol Turner, midwife with 20 years' experience in Morocco, Sudan, Afghanistan \u0026amp; Burkina Faso. Member of church leadership team in UK.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Tim Herbert, Director, SYZYGY Missions Support Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall and Debbie Hawker have combined their unique talents to produce this new resource. As one would expect from two authors with excellent track records, it does not disappoint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefining resilience not as merely 'bouncing back' (as I so often have done!) but helpfully quoting a variety of authors to demonstrate that the status quo in our lives may not be restored after a trauma, though what we learned in the process changes us for the better, they have come up with their own model for understanding the different facets of life which impact upon our ability. They call it 'SPECS' and I will not explain that here so that I don't have a negative impact on their book sales! Suffice to say it considers all aspects of our human being to ensure we have a complete awareness of how to balance our lives well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapters explore each of these facets in turn, first the psychology (Debbie) and then a character study from the Bible (Tony). This useful pairing means that the theory, presented simply enough for the amateur to understand but deeply enough to be helpful and authoritative, is balanced with lived-out practice, which is thoughtfully and interestingly brought to us. Each chapter closes with helpful questions for reflection, which gives the book the feel more of a devotional rather than a textbook, usefully bringing together two genres. At the end is a quick but effective self-assessment to highlight the reader's current life practice and how it affects each facet of their resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading this book I felt better informed about resilience, and inspired to maintain it. I commend this resource to practitioners of pastoral care for whom it is an invaluable addition to the bookshelf, and to all Christians who will find information to help them thrive in their daily lives'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Tim Herbert, Director, SYZYGY Missions Support Network\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Phil Jolley of ECMI\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a practical and helpful book dealing with different aspects to help develop resilience alongside snapshots of characters from the Bible that illustrates those aspects at work. The material that is presented covers building resilience in the areas of the spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive and creative, social and systemic (SPECS) parts of our lives and then illustrates those through the biblical record of characters like Nehemiah, Elijah, David, Joseph, the early disciples and Jesus himself. A whole chapter is devoted to resilient women in the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rev_body\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuestions at the end of each chapter help to move it on from merely information transfer to active engagement and application for one’s own life and at the end there is a personal resilience rating scale to help the reader assess their own level of resilience, as well as a resilience “creed” that is both challenging and inspirational and could be used in a church or group setting. Overall, the book is pitched at a level that any reader looking for help in dealing with life’s normal as well as extreme challenges will be able to respond to with gratitude for the insights and practical counsel given.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI could do worse than sum up the central message of the book through a quotation that the authors have added from Tim Herbert: “How do we develop these deep roots? To use a sapling as an analogy, trees develop deep roots by going through hardship… We know that we need to stake a young tree to stop it blowing over in the first place, but… if we stake it too tightly, it… will not develop deep roots. Only if it is allowed to wave in the wind will its roots go deeper in the ground to provide more stability. The more it shakes, the further the roots will go seeking rocks to hang on to. For us, those rocks are God and the great truths of our salvation.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"blogpost_authorbio\" class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Phil Jolley\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003ePhil Jolley works for European Christian Mission International. Previously based in Spain, he now works in the International office as Director of Finance and Administration\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA very personal reader review. Name supplied.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is a book suitable for all different types of people: professionals, people with health issues or challenges in any sphere of their lives, and useful to people of other faiths or none. For an understanding of the psychology of resilience beyond its use as a ‘buzzword’ see the first chapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCo-written in alternate chapters by a Christian clinical psychologist and a prolific Christian writer and theologian, it is based on a Biblical perspective of resilience, seeking to show that being resilient in the Bible sense does not mean being unflawed, just being willing to persevere and learn lessons from great hardship instead of becoming ‘hardened’ and not giving up!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing as an approach a model called ‘SPECS’ (standing for Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Cognitive \u0026amp; Creative and Social \u0026amp; Systemic) the book helps identify key areas in each of these fields in which to grow in resilience and give oneself ‘margin’ and time to enable the change to take place and ‘take root’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow to become more personally specific. I was feeling quite low and not at all ‘bouncy’ when I did the questionnaire at the back of the book and to my surprise, given that I was coping with a very recent Autistic Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, I found that in the sphere of spiritual resilience my ‘score’ was surprisingly high. This is down to a very good family, friends and faith (i.e. Church) support network. It cheered me up just to realise I was not at the ‘bottom of the chart’ when taking all five areas into consideration, but ‘fair to middling’. It helped me differentiate between the physical side and the emotional, social etc. and gave me a greater understanding of areas I could work on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is almost like a devotional at times, with in-depth study of the Bible characters. For me, the ‘Resilient Women of the Bible’ chapter was outstanding. I thoroughly recommend it and I will be giving it to friends – Christians and others –- as I have already seen how it could be of help to people who are family\/carers of people on the Spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is also usable as a manual to help with daily life. Debbie Hawker has incorporated a great deal of resilience into her own life through her faith. This for me is the ultimate test of a self-help ‘system’: it works in daily living. Thanks to both authors, great! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThis is a really useful book - readable, practical and with sufficient supportive evidence and further reading to be authoritative and engaging. \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIan Orton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:37+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:38+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","Kindle","Leadership","Mar-19","Pastoral care","PDF","Spirituality"],"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":21770222338148,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467348","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Resilience in Life and Faith: Finding your strength in God - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":213,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467348","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":34809602965656,"title":"PDF","option1":"PDF","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390706","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Resilience in Life and Faith: Finding your strength in God - PDF","public_title":"PDF","options":["PDF"],"price":999,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857467348-l_grande_3a84b95e-4be3-4914-9be2-cf0d5eaf8695.jpg?v=1563183998"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857467348-l_grande_3a84b95e-4be3-4914-9be2-cf0d5eaf8695.jpg?v=1563183998","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3266376990859,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.708,"height":600,"width":425,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857467348-l_grande_3a84b95e-4be3-4914-9be2-cf0d5eaf8695.jpg?v=1563183998"},"aspect_ratio":0.708,"height":600,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857467348-l_grande_3a84b95e-4be3-4914-9be2-cf0d5eaf8695.jpg?v=1563183998","width":425}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall and Debbie Hawker encourage us to develop our resilience and to prepare ourselves for the challenges that life throws at us in an increasingly difficult world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough biblical wisdom and psychological insight, they show us how to understand ourselves better, appreciate our areas of strength and strengthen our areas of weakness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead this book if you want a faith that persists to the finishing line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and associate trainer with EQUIP, a missions programme based near Doncaster. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and Quiet Days. His other books include Spiritual Growth in a Time of Change (BRF, 2016). He also contributes to BRF's New Daylight Bible reading notes. Dr Debbie Hawker is a psychologist based in Nottingham with a global reputation as a specialist in debriefing and trauma counselling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr. Laura Mae Gardner,\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e f\u003c\/span\u003eormer International Vice President for Personnel for Wycliffe Bible Translators and SIL International. Author of \u003cem\u003eHealthy, Resilient and Effective in Cross-Cultural Ministry. \u003c\/em\u003eMay 2020\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI just finished reading this wonderful book and am strongly impacted by it. It gives sound practical concepts by two very qualified and experienced mission workers who have worldwide awareness. I know these authors and highly respect them. They have given us an immensely useful tool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book includes spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive, social and systemic aspects of resilience. Resilience is illustrated by the lives of Biblical characters—Nehemiah, Elijah, David, Joseph, Paul, Jesus and women as well as men.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strengths of the book are its Biblical anchoring and its practicality. It is comprehensive and clear. It will be a great resource for pastors, church and organisational leaders as well as individuals in the work force. The book will be a guide for all who have personnel and administrative oversight of workers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Resilience Scale at the end of the book is an excellent self evaluation instrument. It is followed by a faith-based creed, a simple but powerful personal commitment. This book will have a ministry-wide impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dr. Laura Mae Gardner, Former International Vice President for Personnel for Wycliffe Bible Translators and SIL International. Author of 'Healthy, Resilient and Effective in Cross-Cultural Ministry'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe assertion on the back of this book - ‘Read this if you want a faith that persists to the finishing line – develop resilience and prepare for the challenges life throws at us’ sums up the authors’ intention. Does it do what it says on the cover? Debbie Hawker, a clinical psychologist, introduces the subject and contributes chapters on the psychological aspects of resilience using a model of resilience under the following domains: spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive and creative, and finally social and systemic. Tony Horsfall, a trainer and retreat leader, provides studies of biblical characters illustrating each aspect considered. Each of the 15 short chapters concludes with some questions. Finally there are two appendices – a self-assessment ‘Resilience Rating Scale’ using their model, and then a ‘Resilience Creed’, using scriptural truths to strengthen faith during times of hardship. For those of an investigative nature, 145 annotated references are cited. It is a readable book; I found several nuggets amidst the many referenced opinions and conclusions. In summary, the book should interest Readers keen to investigate and develop the psychological aspects of their faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch of England Newspaper, July 2019. Review by Carol Turner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn today’s world where so much is ‘instant’ and it is easy to give up and move onto the next thing, resilience seems to be in short supply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Christians, Tony Horsfall says, we should fix our eyes on Jesus and keep going. Resilience is what this short paperback is all about and I was amazed at how much is contained in it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two authors have collaborated well and the chapters really flow together to form one whole. The combination of the authors’ experience in pastoral work, psychology and mission serve to give the book’s content a real depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book focuses on the spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive \u0026amp; creative and social \u0026amp; systemic aspects of resilience. Of them all as is stated (p167) spiritual resilience is the key and all aspects return to that; the spiritual is not able to be divorced from the rest of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format of the book is excellent; the components of resilience are outlined and then applied to the lives of Biblical characters, and for us as Christians today. Practical suggestions are given as to how we can apply the teaching in today’s world. Of further benefit are the questions at the end of each chapter: these are challenging but do not result in readers being ‘put down, there are no wrong answers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is well written and easy to read and understand, and will benefit the lay reader and those with more theological knowledge. I fully intend to re read this book, there is so much to recommend and it gives much food for thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Carol Turner, midwife with 20 years' experience in Morocco, Sudan, Afghanistan \u0026amp; Burkina Faso. Member of church leadership team in UK.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Tim Herbert, Director, SYZYGY Missions Support Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall and Debbie Hawker have combined their unique talents to produce this new resource. As one would expect from two authors with excellent track records, it does not disappoint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefining resilience not as merely 'bouncing back' (as I so often have done!) but helpfully quoting a variety of authors to demonstrate that the status quo in our lives may not be restored after a trauma, though what we learned in the process changes us for the better, they have come up with their own model for understanding the different facets of life which impact upon our ability. They call it 'SPECS' and I will not explain that here so that I don't have a negative impact on their book sales! Suffice to say it considers all aspects of our human being to ensure we have a complete awareness of how to balance our lives well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapters explore each of these facets in turn, first the psychology (Debbie) and then a character study from the Bible (Tony). This useful pairing means that the theory, presented simply enough for the amateur to understand but deeply enough to be helpful and authoritative, is balanced with lived-out practice, which is thoughtfully and interestingly brought to us. Each chapter closes with helpful questions for reflection, which gives the book the feel more of a devotional rather than a textbook, usefully bringing together two genres. At the end is a quick but effective self-assessment to highlight the reader's current life practice and how it affects each facet of their resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading this book I felt better informed about resilience, and inspired to maintain it. I commend this resource to practitioners of pastoral care for whom it is an invaluable addition to the bookshelf, and to all Christians who will find information to help them thrive in their daily lives'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Tim Herbert, Director, SYZYGY Missions Support Network\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Phil Jolley of ECMI\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a practical and helpful book dealing with different aspects to help develop resilience alongside snapshots of characters from the Bible that illustrates those aspects at work. The material that is presented covers building resilience in the areas of the spiritual, physical, emotional, cognitive and creative, social and systemic (SPECS) parts of our lives and then illustrates those through the biblical record of characters like Nehemiah, Elijah, David, Joseph, the early disciples and Jesus himself. A whole chapter is devoted to resilient women in the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rev_body\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuestions at the end of each chapter help to move it on from merely information transfer to active engagement and application for one’s own life and at the end there is a personal resilience rating scale to help the reader assess their own level of resilience, as well as a resilience “creed” that is both challenging and inspirational and could be used in a church or group setting. Overall, the book is pitched at a level that any reader looking for help in dealing with life’s normal as well as extreme challenges will be able to respond to with gratitude for the insights and practical counsel given.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI could do worse than sum up the central message of the book through a quotation that the authors have added from Tim Herbert: “How do we develop these deep roots? To use a sapling as an analogy, trees develop deep roots by going through hardship… We know that we need to stake a young tree to stop it blowing over in the first place, but… if we stake it too tightly, it… will not develop deep roots. Only if it is allowed to wave in the wind will its roots go deeper in the ground to provide more stability. The more it shakes, the further the roots will go seeking rocks to hang on to. For us, those rocks are God and the great truths of our salvation.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"blogpost_authorbio\" class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Phil Jolley\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003ePhil Jolley works for European Christian Mission International. Previously based in Spain, he now works in the International office as Director of Finance and Administration\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA very personal reader review. Name supplied.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is a book suitable for all different types of people: professionals, people with health issues or challenges in any sphere of their lives, and useful to people of other faiths or none. For an understanding of the psychology of resilience beyond its use as a ‘buzzword’ see the first chapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCo-written in alternate chapters by a Christian clinical psychologist and a prolific Christian writer and theologian, it is based on a Biblical perspective of resilience, seeking to show that being resilient in the Bible sense does not mean being unflawed, just being willing to persevere and learn lessons from great hardship instead of becoming ‘hardened’ and not giving up!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing as an approach a model called ‘SPECS’ (standing for Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Cognitive \u0026amp; Creative and Social \u0026amp; Systemic) the book helps identify key areas in each of these fields in which to grow in resilience and give oneself ‘margin’ and time to enable the change to take place and ‘take root’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow to become more personally specific. I was feeling quite low and not at all ‘bouncy’ when I did the questionnaire at the back of the book and to my surprise, given that I was coping with a very recent Autistic Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, I found that in the sphere of spiritual resilience my ‘score’ was surprisingly high. This is down to a very good family, friends and faith (i.e. Church) support network. It cheered me up just to realise I was not at the ‘bottom of the chart’ when taking all five areas into consideration, but ‘fair to middling’. It helped me differentiate between the physical side and the emotional, social etc. and gave me a greater understanding of areas I could work on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is almost like a devotional at times, with in-depth study of the Bible characters. For me, the ‘Resilient Women of the Bible’ chapter was outstanding. I thoroughly recommend it and I will be giving it to friends – Christians and others –- as I have already seen how it could be of help to people who are family\/carers of people on the Spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is also usable as a manual to help with daily life. Debbie Hawker has incorporated a great deal of resilience into her own life through her faith. This for me is the ultimate test of a self-help ‘system’: it works in daily living. Thanks to both authors, great! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"clearfix\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThis is a really useful book - readable, practical and with sufficient supportive evidence and further reading to be authoritative and engaging. \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIan Orton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e"}
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Resilience in Life and Faith: Finding your strength in God
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Tony Horsfall and Debbie Hawker encourage us to develop our resilience and to prepare ourselves for the challenges that life...
{"id":2439814676580,"title":"Anxious Times","handle":"anxious-times","description":"\u003cp\u003eA book of 24 undated reflections drawing on a range of relevant Bible passages to offer genuine hope and encouragement in anxious times. Encompassing the very human emotions of fear and anxiety, the reflections encourage us to draw comfort and strength from God's word even in those times when he seems silent to us. This book acknowledges that trust and hope in God's goodness doesn't always come easily, but when embraced we gain the strength to face our fear with courage and confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarmel Thomason is an author, journalist and speaker whose writing explores how we can live out the gospel by focusing on the extraordinary to be found in the everyday. She has written \u003cem\u003eAgainst the Odds\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2014), \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/believe-in-miracles-a-spiritual-journey-of-positive-change\"\u003eBelieve in Miracles\u003c\/a\u003e (BRF, 2016) and \u003cem\u003eEvery Moment Counts\u003c\/em\u003e (DLT, 2011) and has collaborated with the Archbishop of York on Faith Stories and Hope Stories.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWider World: The Bookcase. Autumn 2018\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to DoSomething.org, 40% of adults suffer from anxiety. This book of 24 undated reflections, which draw on a range of relevant Bible passages, offers genuine hope and encouragement in anxious times. The reflections on chosen scripture are both practical and prayerful; grounded in human experience and encouraging focused prayer even in those times when God can seem silent to us. \u003cem\u003eAnxious Times\u003c\/em\u003e acknowledges that trust and hope doesn't always come easy, but when we embrace God's goodness we gain the strength to face our fears with courage and confidence. Archbishop John Sentamu writes: 'This book is to be savoured, not rushed. As an antidote to anxiety, it will repay a measured reading, just one short chapter a day.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader online, May 2019. Reviewed by Margaret Ives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese 24 short reflections on selected Bible passages are designed to help Christians find spiritual support and encouragement in times of stress and anxiety, whether caused by an increasingly fraught international situation or by more personal issues, such as illness, bereavement or money worries. With a foreword by Archbishop John Sentamu urging us not to give in to despair, this book will be a helpful resource both for those struggling to cope and for those who seek to counsel them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Margaret Ives \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:47+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:48+00:00","vendor":"Carmel Thomason","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Devotional","May-18","Pastoral care","PDF","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy"],"price":499,"price_min":499,"price_max":499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769980706916,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466600","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Anxious Times - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":499,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466600","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":33384154398859,"title":"PDF","option1":"PDF","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390270","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":15259036418187,"product_id":2439814676580,"position":2,"created_at":"2020-04-16T12:32:23+01:00","updated_at":"2020-04-16T12:32:23+01:00","alt":null,"width":458,"height":650,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/DOWN0270.jpg?v=1587036743","variant_ids":[33384154398859]},"available":true,"name":"Anxious Times - PDF","public_title":"PDF","options":["PDF"],"price":499,"weight":63,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390270","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":7432425799819,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":650,"width":458,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/DOWN0270.jpg?v=1587036743"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466600-l.jpg?v=1587036743","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/DOWN0270.jpg?v=1587036743"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466600-l.jpg?v=1587036743","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238880903307,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":650,"width":458,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466600-l.jpg?v=1587036743"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466600-l.jpg?v=1587036743","width":458},{"alt":null,"id":7432425799819,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":650,"width":458,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/DOWN0270.jpg?v=1587036743"},"aspect_ratio":0.705,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/DOWN0270.jpg?v=1587036743","width":458}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eA book of 24 undated reflections drawing on a range of relevant Bible passages to offer genuine hope and encouragement in anxious times. Encompassing the very human emotions of fear and anxiety, the reflections encourage us to draw comfort and strength from God's word even in those times when he seems silent to us. This book acknowledges that trust and hope in God's goodness doesn't always come easily, but when embraced we gain the strength to face our fear with courage and confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarmel Thomason is an author, journalist and speaker whose writing explores how we can live out the gospel by focusing on the extraordinary to be found in the everyday. She has written \u003cem\u003eAgainst the Odds\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2014), \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/believe-in-miracles-a-spiritual-journey-of-positive-change\"\u003eBelieve in Miracles\u003c\/a\u003e (BRF, 2016) and \u003cem\u003eEvery Moment Counts\u003c\/em\u003e (DLT, 2011) and has collaborated with the Archbishop of York on Faith Stories and Hope Stories.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWider World: The Bookcase. Autumn 2018\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to DoSomething.org, 40% of adults suffer from anxiety. This book of 24 undated reflections, which draw on a range of relevant Bible passages, offers genuine hope and encouragement in anxious times. The reflections on chosen scripture are both practical and prayerful; grounded in human experience and encouraging focused prayer even in those times when God can seem silent to us. \u003cem\u003eAnxious Times\u003c\/em\u003e acknowledges that trust and hope doesn't always come easy, but when we embrace God's goodness we gain the strength to face our fears with courage and confidence. Archbishop John Sentamu writes: 'This book is to be savoured, not rushed. As an antidote to anxiety, it will repay a measured reading, just one short chapter a day.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader online, May 2019. Reviewed by Margaret Ives\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese 24 short reflections on selected Bible passages are designed to help Christians find spiritual support and encouragement in times of stress and anxiety, whether caused by an increasingly fraught international situation or by more personal issues, such as illness, bereavement or money worries. With a foreword by Archbishop John Sentamu urging us not to give in to despair, this book will be a helpful resource both for those struggling to cope and for those who seek to counsel them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Margaret Ives \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Anxious Times
£4.99
A book of 24 undated reflections drawing on a range of relevant Bible passages to offer genuine hope and encouragement...
{"id":2439810515044,"title":"Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles","handle":"is-your-god-too-small-enlarging-our-vision-in-the-face-of-lifes-struggles","description":"\u003cp\u003eJob struggled, as we do, with huge questions - his own and the world's. He and his friends looked for an answer in the past, but discovered that the answer lay elsewhere - in God himself, and in the divine presence in his life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn an accessible way, David Potter opens up fresh insight into the book of Job, with a different perspective on our sufferings and perhaps on God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have loved reading David Potter's book on Job. It reads really well and gives the most accessible introduction to the book that I've ever come across. I will gladly commend it to others. The author's warm evangelical heart and pastoral sensitivity have made it an extremely valuable volume.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonathan Edwards, formerly General Secretary of The Baptist Union\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter has had another book published and while, regrettably, I am not an avid reader ... I have to say this is a great read... Yes, it is about suffering, poor ol' Job and his 'helpful' friends, but it's more about Job's - and our - great God. It is very engaging. I am nearly at the end of the book and can (must) recommend it to you. For those of you who know David, you will be able to 'hear him' as you read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Bentley, formerly Chair of Trustees of Prospects and Trustee of Livability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have greatly enjoyed and profited from reading 'Is your God too small?', and have recommended it to several people. David Potter cuts through some of the detail to get to the heart of what the book is about, and its applicability to our contemporary culture - clearly the fruit of much reflection and prayer. Thank you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePJL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter is a Baptist pastor. He was the co-editor of The Evangelical Times, and one of the founding directors of Evangelicals Now. However, his life's work until early retirement has been as the founder and director of Prospects for people with learning disabilities. David received an MBE in 2002 in recognition of his services in the field of Learning Disabilities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotter takes us through the book of Job, chapter by chapter, trying to answer the question: 'where is wisdom to be found?' This is not a scholarly book, but a practical and accessible one that encourages us to enlarge our view of God and so find God's presence and comfort when our lives get difficult. Potter was a Baptist pastor and became one of the founding directors of 'Evangelicals Now'. He received an MBE for his work with Prospects, a charity that works with people with learning difficulties, and uses stories from his own life to illustrate some of his points. One of his key verses is Ephesians 1:11, ' works out everything in conformity with the purposes of his will'. He encourages us to accept whatever God sends into our lives, continuing to trust in his loving purposes for us and those dear to us, even though they may be inscrutable to us. Wisdom is to be found in the fear of the Lord. But for him the answer to these questions is finally to be found in contemplating the cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'evangelicals now', February 2019. Review by Louise Morse\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs there anyone who hasn't known suffering? Who hasn't asked, like Job, 'where is God in this?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter, retired pastor and founder of Prospects, the charity that cares for people with learning disabilities, studies the book of Job to 'enlarge our view of God and his goodness in difficult times', making it a teaching book with learning topics listed beneath chapter headings, and 'how to use this book' instructions on page six. It's excellent material for house groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot much is known about Job, except that he was a prosperous businessman and eminent civic leader, who excelled in charitable works and, according to God himself, was 'an exceptionally good man'. He says as much to Satan, who responds by accusing Job of acting out of self-interest. God responds by allowing Satan to ruin Job in every sense, to prove that Job cherished him for himself, not merely his blessings. Perhaps Job would have felt the unfairness even more deeply, suggests the author, had he known. Readers may feel that, on the other hand, Job may have felt strengthened in knowing that God could trust him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJob's was a wisdom-based society where there were regular council meetings, suggesting democracy, and with moral values where the elderly were revered (Job 12:12, 32:4). Yet Job's friends' monologues reflect post-truth relativism rather than wisdom, looking for facts to fit their theory of cause and effect, i.e. that Job was suffering because of hidden sin. A question David Potter asks is: 'Should Job have made more effort to show his appreciation for the fact that his friends were ... trying to help him?' The author's reflections and questions reflect discussion throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The loss Job felt most keenly... was the companionship of God.' He longs to see him, to hear from him. Then he has a lightening flash of revelation, in which he sees God as his Redeemer (Job 19:23-27). In that moment, Potter writes, he 'knows that he has a future... he will see God.' Eventually God speaks, revealing his immeasurable vastness by taking Job on a virtual tour of creation. 'Now I see him,' says Job (Job 42:5). 'For Job to find peace he had to see the wisdom and power of God,' writes Potter, 'and by that route he found the grace to trust his covenant-keeping God.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is packed with references, both biblical and literary. It's a pleasing read, though not everyone will agree with everything the author posits. Nevertheless, it will make you think.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Louise Morse, Pilgrims' Friend Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eLyndon Bowring, Chairman, CARE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI confess, that other than dipping into it as part of my regular Bible reading, Job is not a book I've ever sought to study in any depth. But when David asked me to read \u003cem\u003eIs your God too small? \u003c\/em\u003eI found myself quickly captivated by his exposition of this unique part of Scripture. Drawing from his theological studies, pastoral experience and times of testing in his and his wife's personal lives, David examines the question that has been asked for millennia: 'Why does a so-called God of love allow such suffering in the world?' He presents us with inspiring reassurances about the sovereignty of God and His deep desire to have a relationship with each person he has made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning with the intriguing scenes where Satan and God discuss this blameless man's life, and what it would take for him to reject his faith, David takes us through Job's despair and deep suffering and makes some fascinating comments about his friends' long speeches and Job's response. The climax comes with God's majestic declarations of His omnipotence, and wisdom that surpasses human understanding. Every stage of our journey through\u003cem\u003e Is your God too small?\u003c\/em\u003e includes New Testament references that point to Jesus and help us to grasp what it means to 'fear God - which is the beginning of wisdom.' It has certainly helped me to appreciate this ancient story in a whole new way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf, like me, you've rather neglected the Book of Job, do yourself a favour and read this book. Instead of asking that question 'Why?' we can move on in hope to wonder 'For what purpose?' does God allow the dark times of suffering to come into all our lives. God's sovereign greatness is far above our comprehension and His purposes stretch beyond the preoccupations of our times and individual lives. Yet, as David gently points out again and again, He tenderly loves us through it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Lyndon Bowring\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:29+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:30+00:00","vendor":"David Potter","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Jul-18","Kindle","Pastoral care"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769922445412,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466334","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":189,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466334","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238880575627,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eJob struggled, as we do, with huge questions - his own and the world's. He and his friends looked for an answer in the past, but discovered that the answer lay elsewhere - in God himself, and in the divine presence in his life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn an accessible way, David Potter opens up fresh insight into the book of Job, with a different perspective on our sufferings and perhaps on God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have loved reading David Potter's book on Job. It reads really well and gives the most accessible introduction to the book that I've ever come across. I will gladly commend it to others. The author's warm evangelical heart and pastoral sensitivity have made it an extremely valuable volume.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonathan Edwards, formerly General Secretary of The Baptist Union\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter has had another book published and while, regrettably, I am not an avid reader ... I have to say this is a great read... Yes, it is about suffering, poor ol' Job and his 'helpful' friends, but it's more about Job's - and our - great God. It is very engaging. I am nearly at the end of the book and can (must) recommend it to you. For those of you who know David, you will be able to 'hear him' as you read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Bentley, formerly Chair of Trustees of Prospects and Trustee of Livability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have greatly enjoyed and profited from reading 'Is your God too small?', and have recommended it to several people. David Potter cuts through some of the detail to get to the heart of what the book is about, and its applicability to our contemporary culture - clearly the fruit of much reflection and prayer. Thank you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePJL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter is a Baptist pastor. He was the co-editor of The Evangelical Times, and one of the founding directors of Evangelicals Now. However, his life's work until early retirement has been as the founder and director of Prospects for people with learning disabilities. David received an MBE in 2002 in recognition of his services in the field of Learning Disabilities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotter takes us through the book of Job, chapter by chapter, trying to answer the question: 'where is wisdom to be found?' This is not a scholarly book, but a practical and accessible one that encourages us to enlarge our view of God and so find God's presence and comfort when our lives get difficult. Potter was a Baptist pastor and became one of the founding directors of 'Evangelicals Now'. He received an MBE for his work with Prospects, a charity that works with people with learning difficulties, and uses stories from his own life to illustrate some of his points. One of his key verses is Ephesians 1:11, ' works out everything in conformity with the purposes of his will'. He encourages us to accept whatever God sends into our lives, continuing to trust in his loving purposes for us and those dear to us, even though they may be inscrutable to us. Wisdom is to be found in the fear of the Lord. But for him the answer to these questions is finally to be found in contemplating the cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'evangelicals now', February 2019. Review by Louise Morse\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs there anyone who hasn't known suffering? Who hasn't asked, like Job, 'where is God in this?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter, retired pastor and founder of Prospects, the charity that cares for people with learning disabilities, studies the book of Job to 'enlarge our view of God and his goodness in difficult times', making it a teaching book with learning topics listed beneath chapter headings, and 'how to use this book' instructions on page six. It's excellent material for house groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot much is known about Job, except that he was a prosperous businessman and eminent civic leader, who excelled in charitable works and, according to God himself, was 'an exceptionally good man'. He says as much to Satan, who responds by accusing Job of acting out of self-interest. God responds by allowing Satan to ruin Job in every sense, to prove that Job cherished him for himself, not merely his blessings. Perhaps Job would have felt the unfairness even more deeply, suggests the author, had he known. Readers may feel that, on the other hand, Job may have felt strengthened in knowing that God could trust him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJob's was a wisdom-based society where there were regular council meetings, suggesting democracy, and with moral values where the elderly were revered (Job 12:12, 32:4). Yet Job's friends' monologues reflect post-truth relativism rather than wisdom, looking for facts to fit their theory of cause and effect, i.e. that Job was suffering because of hidden sin. A question David Potter asks is: 'Should Job have made more effort to show his appreciation for the fact that his friends were ... trying to help him?' The author's reflections and questions reflect discussion throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The loss Job felt most keenly... was the companionship of God.' He longs to see him, to hear from him. Then he has a lightening flash of revelation, in which he sees God as his Redeemer (Job 19:23-27). In that moment, Potter writes, he 'knows that he has a future... he will see God.' Eventually God speaks, revealing his immeasurable vastness by taking Job on a virtual tour of creation. 'Now I see him,' says Job (Job 42:5). 'For Job to find peace he had to see the wisdom and power of God,' writes Potter, 'and by that route he found the grace to trust his covenant-keeping God.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is packed with references, both biblical and literary. It's a pleasing read, though not everyone will agree with everything the author posits. Nevertheless, it will make you think.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Louise Morse, Pilgrims' Friend Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eLyndon Bowring, Chairman, CARE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI confess, that other than dipping into it as part of my regular Bible reading, Job is not a book I've ever sought to study in any depth. But when David asked me to read \u003cem\u003eIs your God too small? \u003c\/em\u003eI found myself quickly captivated by his exposition of this unique part of Scripture. Drawing from his theological studies, pastoral experience and times of testing in his and his wife's personal lives, David examines the question that has been asked for millennia: 'Why does a so-called God of love allow such suffering in the world?' He presents us with inspiring reassurances about the sovereignty of God and His deep desire to have a relationship with each person he has made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning with the intriguing scenes where Satan and God discuss this blameless man's life, and what it would take for him to reject his faith, David takes us through Job's despair and deep suffering and makes some fascinating comments about his friends' long speeches and Job's response. The climax comes with God's majestic declarations of His omnipotence, and wisdom that surpasses human understanding. Every stage of our journey through\u003cem\u003e Is your God too small?\u003c\/em\u003e includes New Testament references that point to Jesus and help us to grasp what it means to 'fear God - which is the beginning of wisdom.' It has certainly helped me to appreciate this ancient story in a whole new way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf, like me, you've rather neglected the Book of Job, do yourself a favour and read this book. Instead of asking that question 'Why?' we can move on in hope to wonder 'For what purpose?' does God allow the dark times of suffering to come into all our lives. God's sovereign greatness is far above our comprehension and His purposes stretch beyond the preoccupations of our times and individual lives. Yet, as David gently points out again and again, He tenderly loves us through it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Lyndon Bowring\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles
£8.99
Job struggled, as we do, with huge questions - his own and the world's. He and his friends looked for...
{"id":2439810089060,"title":"The Mirror That Speaks Back: Looking at, listening to and reflecting your worth in Jesus","handle":"the-mirror-that-speaks-back-looking-at-listening-to-and-reflecting-your-worth-in-jesus","description":"\u003cp\u003eLearn how to engage with God's word, to trust it, to walk in its truth, to see in Jesus your self-esteem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will transform the way you think and release you to fulfil all you were made to be and do in Jesus Christ. It will help you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto fix your 'mind on things above' despite pressures to focus elsewhere,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto use scripture to empower your discipleship,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto resist conformity to secular norms,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto recognise who you are in Jesus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, reading this book could be a life-changing encounter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: discovering relational accompaniment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart I What's it all about? Addressing the problem\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMirror messages\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Apart from you'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Do the Book. Do it!'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart II The mirror messages\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMirror, mirror, on the wall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestoring my true identity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGod's purpose despite my health\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe endless feed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA subjective subject\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestoring my first love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA twist in the tale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInflated, deflated or Jesus-motivated\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart III Moving on\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA cautionary tale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearning to be content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeyond this book\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnne is the author of several books, a long-standing monthly contributor to Woman Alive and a much appreciated speaker at conferences and events around the UK. She has a passion to disciple Christians in their ongoing walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Anne's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/anne-le-tissier-author-of-the-mirror-that-speaks-back-mulls-over-lockdown-before-and-after\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:27+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:28+00:00","vendor":"Anne Le Tissier","type":"Paperback","tags":["Feb-18","Kindle","Pastoral care","Women"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769907699812,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466358","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Mirror That Speaks Back: Looking at, listening to and reflecting your worth in Jesus - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466358","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466358-l.jpg?v=1549043129"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466358-l.jpg?v=1549043129","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238880542859,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466358-l.jpg?v=1549043129"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/products\/9780857466358-l.jpg?v=1549043129","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eLearn how to engage with God's word, to trust it, to walk in its truth, to see in Jesus your self-esteem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will transform the way you think and release you to fulfil all you were made to be and do in Jesus Christ. It will help you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto fix your 'mind on things above' despite pressures to focus elsewhere,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto use scripture to empower your discipleship,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto resist conformity to secular norms,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eto recognise who you are in Jesus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, reading this book could be a life-changing encounter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: discovering relational accompaniment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart I What's it all about? Addressing the problem\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMirror messages\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Apart from you'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Do the Book. Do it!'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart II The mirror messages\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMirror, mirror, on the wall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestoring my true identity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGod's purpose despite my health\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe endless feed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA subjective subject\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestoring my first love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA twist in the tale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInflated, deflated or Jesus-motivated\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart III Moving on\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA cautionary tale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearning to be content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeyond this book\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnne is the author of several books, a long-standing monthly contributor to Woman Alive and a much appreciated speaker at conferences and events around the UK. She has a passion to disciple Christians in their ongoing walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Anne's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/anne-le-tissier-author-of-the-mirror-that-speaks-back-mulls-over-lockdown-before-and-after\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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The Mirror That Speaks Back: Looking at, listening to and reflecting your worth in Jesus
£7.99
Learn how to engage with God's word, to trust it, to walk in its truth, to see in Jesus your...