Back to the Bulletin's homepage
SELECTED ACQUISITIONS
Annotations are listed alphabetically and divided into the following categories:
Ashton, John, editor. The Interpretation of John, 2nd edition. Edinburgh, Scotland: T&T Clark, 1997. 329 pp.
Part of the "Studies in New Testament Interpretation" series, this collection of essays explores the Gospel of John from modern perspectives such as historical, exegetical, feminist, and structuralist. pto.
Carter, Philippa. The Servant-Ethic in the New Testament. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, 1997. 155 pp.
The idea of the servant ethic persists throughout early Christian writings, beginning with the paradigm of Christ and continuing in the actions of his followers. The author explores this concept in each section of the New Testament and identifies the fundamental themes—placing one’s own interests behind those of others, loving unconditionally, and helping those in need—as well as the logical limits of this behavioral model. pto.
Ferlo, Roger. Opening the Bible. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1997. 135 pp.
Volume two of the Anglican "Church’s Teaching Series," this work offers a general overview of Biblical history, interpretations, and translations. While the perspective is Anglican, the book makes a suitable introduction to the topic for those of other denominations as well. pto.
Klassen, Walter. Armageddon and the Peaceable Kingdom: Prophecy and Mystery True to the Gospel. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1999. 288 pp.
In response to those who would use selective biblical citations to claim that the end is near, the author offers this deeper look at the prophetic words of the New Testament. In particular, he reveals the shortcomings of fire-and-brimstone theories and instead shows how books such Revelation actually suggest that God’s ultimate promise is one of peace. pto.
Schwartz, Howard. Reimagining the Bible: The Storytelling of the Rabbis. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998. 289 pp.
This guide through the worlds of midrash, myth, and modernity draws on sources ranging from ancient fairy tales to modern fiction, demonstrating the unifying themes of Jewish storytelling and Old Testament tradition. pto.
Waltner, Erland and J. Daryl Charles. 1-2 Peter, Jude. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1999. 352 pp.
The Mennonite-sponsored "Believers Church Bible Commentary" set continues with this look at these three oft neglected books. While reconstructing the original message of these writings, the authors also seek to demonstrate their enduring relevance to Christians today. pto.
Watson, Elizabeth G. Wisdom’s Daughters: Stories of Women around Jesus. Cleveland: Pilgrim Press, 1997. 167 pp.
This collection contains fourteen hypothetical stories told from the first-person perspectives of New Testament women including Mary Magdalene, the Virgin Mary, and a host of lesser-known characters. pto.
CHURCH HISTORY AND THE HISTORY OF RELIGION
Bergen, Doris L. Twisted Cross: The German Christian Movement in the Third Reich. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North Carolina Press, 1996. 341 pp.
Bergen’s study of German Christianity under National Socialism particularly highlights the role played by women in what was ironically glorified as a masculine church. mas.
Brown, Leo Maxwell, et al. Vision Fulfilling: The Story of the Rural and Small Community Work of the Episcopal Church during the Twentieth Century. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1997. 400 pp.
This celebration of rural ministry traces the history of the Episcopal Church’s "Town and Country" movement, from the vision of its early 20th century leaders to the developments it has faced in recent decades. pto.
Christensen, Max L. Heroes and Saints: More Stories Of People Who Made A Difference. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1997. 124 pp.
This follow-up to Christensen’s widely-read Turning Points brings to life those superlative individuals, past and present, who have challenged and inspired others to reach higher and live more fruitful lives. The book contains brief biographical sketches of nearly 50 such people, from Confucius and Socrates to a group of self-sacrificing WWII chaplains. jmm.
Conkin, Paul K. American Originals: Homemade Varieties of Christianity. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North Carolina Press, 1997. 336 pp.
Upon studying the many distinctly American denominations—such as Adventist, Mormon, Unitarian, Pentecostal, and Christian Scientist—the author has identified six distinct variations. He discusses the historical background of these and explains how they relate to other Christian groups and to American culture as a whole. pto.
Fabre-Vassas, Claudine. The Singular Beast: Jews, Christians and the Pig. New York: Columbia University Press, 1997. 401 pp.
An exploration of the pig in Judeo-Christian culture and European anti-Semitism, this book chronicles the cultural and religious character of a creature that occupies an ambiguous place in the families of those who raise them. The animal is also presented as a demonstration of the continuing power of symbols to sustain or create ethnic identities. jmm.
Fierro, Nancy. Hildegard of Bingen and Her Vision of the Feminine. Kansas City, MO: Sheed & Ward, 1994. 51 pp.
The genius of Hildegard of Bingen is brought to a larger audience with this lively account of the highlights of her life and visions. This author’s focus is the Feminine Divine, or the Divine Wisdom as "a female persona of God." Also included are an annotated bibliography and a selected discography. mbh.
Givens, Terry. The Viper on the Hearth: Mormons, Myths, and the Construction of Heresy. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. 205 pp.
In nineteenth- and twentieth-century America, popular depictions of Mormonism both revealed and exploited the anxieties and contradictions of the general public’s sense of self and of nation. This book forgoes such manipulation and ignorance to tell the story of Mormonism and the reactions to it. jmm.
Griffiss, James E. The Anglican Vision. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1997. 148 pp.
This volume introduces the latest Anglican "Church’s Teaching Series," which follows in the tradition of earlier sets published in the 1950’s and 1970’s. The book focuses on the unique aspects of the denomination and its history. pto.
Hall, Robert L. and Michael M. Harvey, editors. Making a Living: The Work Experience of African-Americans in New England: Selected Readings. Boston: New England Foundation for the Humanities, 1995. 605 pp.
Until comparatively recently, the experiences of African-Americans in New England had not received widespread attention. This anthology pulls together previously published articles from a variety of sources and makes a wonderful introduction to this topic. Divided into five chronological sections covering the colonial period to 1945, the writings describe the roles and experiences of African-Americans in areas such as agriculture, the shipping industry, politics, government, and education. Recommended for both the scholar and the general reader. mas.
Johnston, William M. Recent Reference Books in Religion: A Guide for Students, Scholars, Researchers, Buyers, and Readers. Downers Grove, IL: Intervarsity Press, 1996. 318 pp.
This descriptive guide to over 300 reference books in the field of religious studies is organized topically and covers major world religions, although Christianity is the major focus. Each entry includes sections describing the book’s scope, strengths, weaknesses, and competing or alternative works. Especially worthwhile is an introductory chapter describing the various types of reference materials (commentaries, encyclopedias, lexicons, etc.) This work is particularly recommended for seminary students just beginning their studies. mas.
Ker, Ian, editor. Newman and Conversion. Nortre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press, 1997. 153 pp.
John Henry Newman’s 1845 defection from the Church of England to the Church of Rome was a momentous occasion, due to his prominence in Anglican leadership and theology at the time. This book celebrates his significance through eight papers first presented at a 1995 conference. pto.
Lee, Raymond L.M. and Susan E. Ackerman. Sacred Tensions: Modernity and Religious Transformation in Malaysia. Columbia, SC: University of South Carolina Press, 1997. 172 pp.
By examining the confluence of faiths in Malaysia, the authors present a microcosm of religion’s vitality and variety in the modern world. The book discusses Malaysian practices of Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as the rise of charismatic movements, in the context of the nation’s social and economic developments. pto.
McGuckin, John A., translator. At the Lighting of the Lamps: Hymns of the Ancient Church. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1997. 102 pp.
The 31 texts collected in this book are taken from Greek and Latin hymns—in both the original language and English translations—ranging from the 1st to the 10th centuries. Also included are introductory remarks and annotations by the translator. pto.
Shah, Natubhai. Jainism: The World of Conquerors, 2 vol. Portland, OR: Sussex Academic Press, 1998. 330 and 322 pp.
One of the world’s oldest religions and a pervasive force throughout India’s history and culture, Jainism teaches the "conquering" of the self through non-attachment, non-violence, and a pluralistic worldview. This exhaustive study addresses Jain history, literature, philosophy, science, and more. pto.
Shibley, Mark A. Resurgent Evangelicalism in the United States: Mapping Cultural Change since 1970. Columbia, SC: University of South Carolina Press, 1996. 156 pp.
This sociological study of the resurgence of born-again Christianity is based on hard statistics as well as observation and interviews. Shibley makes the case that the growth of evangelicalism is more the result of increased privatization of religion rather than a shift toward conservatism by the public at large. mas.
Slocum, Robert Boak. Prophet of Justice, Prophet of Life: Essays on William Stringfellow. New York: Church Publications, 1997. 177 pp.
These essays discuss the life of William Stringfellow and his work as a theologian, a lawyer, an Episcopal layman, and a committed Christian. jmm.
Taylor, John A. British Monarchy, English Church Establishment, and Civil Liberty. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1996. 167 pp.
In this study, which places the current scandal-sparked debate over the British monarchy within the context of the historical factors of the established church, Taylor makes a case that changes to the British constitution are needed to make the monarchy and the church compatible with popular government. mas.
Tylenda, Joseph N. Jesuit Saints and Martyrs: Short Biographies of the Saints, Blessed, Venerables, and Servants of God of the Society of Jesus. Chicago: Loyola Press, 1998. 478 pp.
This second edition appears fourteen years after the first to accommodate the 24 new names, including Superior General Pedro Arrupe and Walter Ciszek, added to the calendar and to account for the changes in status of 22 others as they move through the process from servant of God to canonized Saint. jmm.
van Braght, Thieleman J. The Bloody Theater. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1998. 1158 pp.
The unwieldy subtitle of this reprinted Anabaptist classic says it all: "Martyr’s mirror of the defenseless Christians, who baptized only upon confession of faith, and who suffered and died for the testimony of Jesus, their Saviour, from the time of Christ to the year A.D. 1660." Over 4000 tales of individual sacrifice are included, spanning the centuries from the 1st to the 17th. pto.
Vaughan, Alden T. The Puritan Tradition in America, 1620-1730. Hanover, NH: University Press of New England. 348 pp.
Primarily an anthology of firsthand accounts and documents from the era, this book demonstrates the breadth of the Puritan tradition and its lingering effects on American society. pto.
Vecsey, Christopher. On the Padres’ Trail. Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press, 1996. 440 pp.
Although the Native Americans had long-established religious cultures of their own, the arrival of the Christian Europeans had a profound impact on their lives. Over the following five centuries, millions of American Indians came to identify themselves as Christians. The first form of Christianity they encountered was Roman Catholicism, which remains the dominant Christian denomination. jmm.
Badham, Roger A. Introduction to Christian Theology: Contemporary North American Perspectives. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1998. 278 pp.
This anthology of writings from eighteen noted theologians demonstrates the variety of modern viewpoints. The represented schools of thought include liberationist, feminist, cultural-linguistic, deconstructionist, conservative, and liberal. pto.
Crosby, Donald A., and Charley D. Hardwick, editors. Religious Experience and Ecological Responsibility. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, 1996. 652 pp.
This collection contains conference papers originally presented at the Second International Conference on Philosophical Theology, held in St. Andrews, Scotland in 1993. In addition to discussing the main theme of religion and the environment, individual papers touch on issues such as social ethics, feminism, the Holocaust, postmodern philosophy. mas.
Hall, Douglas John. The End of Christendom and the Future of Christianity. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press, 1997. 69 pp.
The thesis of this book is that the Christian movement can indeed have a meaningful future, but it must allow progressive change to still the stagnant effect that learning has had on sixteen centuries of "official" Christianity. jmm.
Hanson, Bradley. Introduction to Christian Theology. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1997. 376 pp.
Many introductions to systematic theology are too daunting for college students. Drawing on sixteen years of successful teaching, Hanson has written an attractive, accessible alternative for undergraduates. His introduction is rooted in classical theology with strong sensitivities to ecumenical, liberation, and feminist concerns. jmm.
Harned, David Baily. Patience: How We Wait Upon the World. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1997. 191 pp.
In this book, the author sounds a new note in the field of moral theology. In an intricate but always lucid argument he reviews the biblical tradition, early Christian theological tradition, the medieval line of Aquinas and Thomas Kempis, and a variety of modern theologies to demonstrate the consistent portrayal across the centuries of patience as indispensable to the realization of any virtue at all. jmm.
Harris, Mark. The Challenge of Change: The Anglican Communion in the Postmodern Era. New York: Church Publishing, 1998. 187 pp.
By examining the concept of Communion in the Anglican faith, the author reveals the historical and ideological unity of its practitioners. He describes the denomination as a koinonia, or "community of mutuality," that serves as a model for all postmodern Christians. pto.
Lakeland, Paul. Postmodernity: Christian Identity in a Fragmented Age. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1997. 130 pp.
Lakeland identifies the issues in the debate over postmodernity and explains the tests that they present to religion in general and Christian theology in particular. Concentrating on the themes of God, Church, and Christ, the author outlines the church’s mission to the postmodern world, including a constructive theological apologetics. jmm.
Lippy, Charles H. Modern American Popular Religion: A Critical Assessment and Annotated Bibliography. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1996. 250 pp.
This is not an exhaustive work, but is intended to provide a representation of the available body of literature on popular religion. Popular religion is loosely defined as the beliefs and activities related to faith that do not necessarily involve traditional churches. Chapters are organized around such themes as radio and television ministries, popular religion in the arts, self-help movements, and traditional and unconventional approaches toward personal spirituality. There is much material here to interest clergy and laity who wish to consider how people who do not belong to an established church can still be considered "religious." mas.
Moltmann, Jurgen. The Source of Life: The Holy Spirit and the Theology of Life. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1997. 148 pp.
The author reflects on the spirit and the spiritual life, beginning with his experience as a prisoner of war. jmm.
Murphy, Nancey, et al., editors. Virtues and Practices in the Christian Tradition: Christian Ethics after MacIntyre. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press, 1997. 385 pp.
This book examines Christian ethics, as viewed through the lens of Alasdair MacIntyre’s book After Virtue, both in the general sense of MacIntyre’s theories and by discussing specific issues such as racism, pacifism, and abortion. pto.
Ray, Darby Kathleen. Deceiving the Devil: Atonement, Abuse, and Ransom. Cleveland: Pilgrim Press, 1998. 165 pp.
For classical theologians such as Anselm and Abelard, the life and death of Jesus suggested an ideal of passive suffering in the face of oppression. The author of this book rejects such views on liberationist and feminist grounds, saying they implicitly sanction abuse, and she instead offers a model of atonement based on justice and God’s love. pto.
Schimmel, Solomon. The Seven Deadly Sins: Jewish, Christian, and Classical Reflections on Human Psychology. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. 298 pp.
This book traces modern ills such as violence, depression, and anxiety to the persistent sins of lust, greed, envy, anger, pride, gluttony, and sloth. To remedy the situation, a course of ethics from sacred and secular philosophers is suggested for believers and agnostics alike. pto.
Schmitz-Moormann, Karl. Theology of Creation in an Evolutionary World. Cleveland: Pilgrim Press, 1997. 205 pp.
Karl Schmitz covers a wide range of sciences, from physics and cosmology to the human sciences in this sophisticated Teilhardian interpretation of the scientific understanding of the world. jmm.
Stassen, Glen, editor. Just Peacemaking: Ten Practices for Abolishing War. Cleveland: Pilgrim Press, 1998. 209 pp.
These essays outline an ethic of "just peacemaking," grounded in Christian faith and based on a specific plan of non-violent action. Proposals include supporting human rights and economic development, reducing the world’s supply of weapons of war, and encouraging grassroots involvement. pto.
Tschuy, Theo. Ethnic Conflict and Religion: Challenge to the Churches. Geneva, Switzerland: WCC Publications, 1997. 160 pp.
Ethnic conflict, one of the greatest challenges to the church in the new millennium, is explored by this prophetic book. Case studies of the "ethnic cleansing" in Kosovo and numerous other troubled spots are offered, as the author challenges the church to define its role as peacemaker in such situations. jmm.
Webb, Stephen H. On God and Dogs: A Christian Theology of Compassion for Animals. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998. 222 pp.
Animal rights and Christian theology groups are brought together for this book on the issue of animal rights. The author believes that Christian theology falls short in the area of animal rights and leaves many ethical questions unanswered. He suggests guidelines for treating animals with respect and urges expression of our most sincere love, as animals play such an important role in comforting human beings. jmm.
Weithman, Paul J., editor. Religion and Contemporary Liberalism. Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press, 1997. 315 pp.
Bringing together scholars of theology and liberal political theory, this book hosts a debate over the role of religion in society. The goal is to question the current dominance of secular philosophy in a culture with large numbers of religious believers. pto.
THE WORK OF THE CHURCH AND THE MINISTRY
Carlson-Thies, Stanley W., and James W. Skillen, editors. Welfare in America: Christian Perspectives on a Policy in Crisis. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1996. 582 pp.
The authors of these essays move beyond the usual polarized debate over whether people on welfare are users or victims and instead discuss topics such as dysfunctional families, church and government responsibilities, and hypothetical models for reform. mas.
Childers, Jana L. and Lucy A. Rose. The Abingdon Women’s Preaching Annual: Series 1, Year A. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 184 pp.
Following the Revised Common Lectionary, fifteen prominent women from varied denominations contribute reflections and sermon ideas exploring the unique perspectives of women as preachers and parishioners. pto.
Chu, Thomas K. God Works: Youth and Young Adult Ministry Models: Evangelism at Work with Young People. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1997. 98 pp.
This resource shares models of evangelism that have worked with young people in eleven different Episcopal parishes, in settings that range from urban and suburban to small towns and college campuses. jmm.
DeGidio, Sandra. Giving Comfort and Joy: Prayer Services for the Elderly. Mystic, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 1996. 104 pp.
The rituals and services contained in this work are divided into three sections: "Liturgical Seasons," "Minor Church Feasts" and "Celebratory Days and Special Occasions." There are services that might be expected because of their section heading, but some are quite unique, such as a liturgy for the death of an adult child, one for a communal reconciliation, and another for blessing a Christmas tree or creche (nursery school). mbh.
Denham, Joyce. A Child’s Book of Celtic Prayers. Chicago: Loyola Press, 1998. 25 pp.
Adorned with brightly-colored illustrations, this book offers children a collection of simple prayers centered on the ancient Celtic conception of an omnipresent God. pto.
Dingwall, Cindy. Worship Time with Kids: Bible-based Activities for Children’s Church. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 208 pp.
This is an indispensable sourcebook that children’s worship leaders, Sunday school teachers, Christian day care workers, and vacation Bible school and family retreat volunteers will find useful year after year. jmm.
Drescher, John M. Invocations and Benedictions for the Revised Common Lectionary. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 176 pp.
For each Sunday in the three-year lectionary cycle, this book offers an invocation and a benediction tied to that week’s readings, for use in worship services. pto.
Gripe, Alan G. The Interim Pastor’s Manual, revised edition. Louisville, KY: Geneva Press, 1997. 150 pp.
The particular responsibilities of interim pastors are discussed in this guide, from connecting with a new parish and carrying out the requisite duties to moving on and evaluating the experience. Though told from a Presbyterian point of view, the information would be of interest to any minister in a temporary post. pto.
Gundry-Volf, Judith M. and Miroslav Volf. A Spacious Heart: Essays on Identity and Belonging. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press, 1997. 71 pp.
According to the authors, Christian theology must address the imperatives of diversity, especially considering the recurrences of genocide around the globe. The book is part of the Christian Mission and Modern Culture Series, which addresses the modern challenges faced in church work. pto.
Hoedemaker, Bert. Secularization and Mission: A Theological Essay. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press, 1998. 82 pp.
In this essay, the author suggests a global, missionary path through the complexities of rationalism, secularism, and competing faiths. The book is part of the Christian Mission and Modern Culture Series, which addresses the modern challenges faced in church work. pto.
Kujawa, Sheryl A., editor. Disorganized Religion: The Evangelization of Youth and Young Adults. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1998. 247 pp.
This collection of essays addresses the general challenges of youth ministry and offers specific guidance, from an Episcopal perspective, for working with groups of varied ages and from different cultural and economic backgrounds. pto.
Lahman, James Richard. Prayers of the Hours: Morning, Midday, and Evening. Mystic, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 1996. 128 pp.
This book of prayers offers insights for learning to pray differently. As the subtitle suggests, it is less directed at those familiar with the more frequent canonical hours, but more for someone who simply wants to begin or to deepen their prayer life. By inviting the reader to peek at the journal of his prayers as he struggles with his relationship with God and life, the author hopes that the reader will then be better equipped to pray. mbh.
Marshall, Paul V. and Lesley A. Northup. Leaps and Boundaries: The Prayer Book in the 21st Century. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1997. 210 pp.
Arguing that Liturgy should never be dull or static, these authors bring a new awareness to the revision process for liturgical thinking in the coming century. Marshall and Northup challenge the Church as a whole to reach further into the deep social and theological issues of our times. jmm.
Massey, James Earl. The Burdensome Joy of Preaching. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 102 pp.
The author recommends a balance of both the inward and outward sides of preaching, with the twofold purpose of communicating effectively with parishioners and truly influencing their actions. pto.
McCarthy, Timothy G. The Catholic Tradition: The Church in the Twentieth Century, 2nd edition. Chicago: Loyola Press, 1998. 546 pp.
Focusing on the delicate balance between change and tradition, this updated work includes chapters on the Catholic views of social justice, sexual morality, interfaith relations, and women in the church. It also addresses the effects of modernity on the church’s future. pto.
Oliver, Samuel Lee. What the Dying Teach Us: Lessons on Living. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Pastoral Press, 1998. 127 pp.
This book teaches not only how to cope with loss but also how to remain connected with those who are gone and how to learn from the experience. The 19 lessons are peppered with anecdotes from the author’s pastoral counseling practice. pto.
Roxburgh, Alan J. The Missionary Congregation, Leadership, and Liminality. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press, 1997. 71 pp.
This work examines marginalization of the church in the modern world and offers leadership strategies to remedy the situation. The book is part of the Christian Mission and Modern Culture Series, which addresses the modern challenges faced in church work. pto.
Schlafer, David J. What Makes This Day Different? Preaching Grace on Special Occasions. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1998. 171 pp.
In addition to discussing sacred and secular holidays, the author examines the significance of person-centered days such as weddings, funerals, and baptisms. He proposes dos and don’ts for preaching on each occasion and offers excerpts from sample sermons. pto.
Sheridan, Sybil. Hear Our Voice: Women in the British Rabbinate. Columbia, SC: University of South Carolina Press, 1998. 203 pp.
In this anthology, fifteen female British rabbis discuss the changing role of Jewish clergywomen in the six decades since the private ordination of Regina Jonas, the first woman rabbi. jmm.
Sweet, Leonard. Eleven Genetic Gateways to Spiritual Awakening. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 192 pp.
The author identifies eleven traits, which he describes as "genes," essential to improving the church in general and the United Methodist church in particular. For example, he discusses using new technologies and labels it the "wired gene," suggests a reappraisal of music use in church and labels it the "music gene." pto.
Ucko, Hans, editor. The Jubilee Challenge: Utopia or Possibility? Jewish and Christian Insights. Geneva, Switzerland: WCC Publications, 1997. 197 pp.
While the roots of the term "jubilee" lie in the Old Testament, these recent reflections uphold this model of reconciliation and liberation from the forces that imprison people today. The essays contained in the book grew out of a Jewish-Christian dialogue held at the WCC’s Ecumenical Institute. jmm.
Wainwright, Geoffrey. Worship with One Accord: Where Liturgy and Ecumenism Embrace. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. 276 pp.
Although liturgical reform and ecumenism can be seen simply as parallel movements, this author contends that they are mutually dependent. He notes that the trend toward church unity has been accelerated by the development of new worship practices, while liturgical reform has only succeeded through its ecumenism. pto.
CHRISTIAN LIFE AND SPIRITUALITY
Anderson, Herbert. Living Alone. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1997. 140 pp.
In this much needed book, Herbert Anderson and Freda Gardner provide help for those who face the challenges of living alone, whether due to tribulations such as the death of a spouse or divorce, or by choice. jmm.
Arnold, Johann Christoph. Seventy Times Seven: The Power of Forgiveness. Farmington, PA: Plough Publishing, 1997. 173 pp.
Forgiveness is central to the Christian faith. It holds individuals, families, and churches together. It heals wounds and redeems hopeless situations. Seventy Times Seven reminds us of these fact without preaching to us. Instead it tells stories of people who, through suffering, have earned the right to talk about forgiveness. Arnold breaks trough denominational barriers with his direct and simple gospel message. jmm.
Ebinger, Warren R. Do-It-Yourself Marriage Enrichment: A Workshop on Your Own Time, on Your Own Terms, on Your Own Turf. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998. 172 pp.
Warren and Mary Ebinger provide a "do-it-yourself" marriage enrichment workshop that can easily be used and adapted by any couple to fit their unique situation and needs. The book focuses on common concerns such as communication, priorities, short and long-term goals, keeping the spark alive, responsibilities and activities, children, health and continuing growth. jmm.
Gilmartin, Richard J. Pursuing Wellness, Finding Spirituality. Mystic, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 1996. 196 pp.
A practicing psychotherapist for three decades, this author offers observations on physical, psychological, and spiritual wellness. At the end of each of the chapters are some powerful questions for discussion which are sure to challenge—and possibly change—the reader. mbh.
Keck, David. Forgetting Whose We Are: Alzheimer’s Disease and the Love of God. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1996. 255 pp.
Does God still remember us even if we are unable to remember God? What are the implications for us as persons once we lose the ability to remember? This book, which examines the theological implications and challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease, fills a long-felt need and will be valuable for victims and their families, caregivers and clergy. mas.
Maitland, Sara. Angel and Me: Stories. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 1997. 142 pp.
This collection, penned by a self-described "would-be theologian," seeks to fill the gap between spiritual narrative and historical interpretation. The short stories feature women from the Bible and history, including Sarah, Mary, Martha, Lady Godiva, Radegund, Mary Fisher and others. pto.
McBride, J. Lebron. Spiritual Crisis: Surviving Trauma to the Soul. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Pastoral Press, 1998. 207 pp.
Psychotherapist McBride draws on his own experience of religious disillusionment to demonstrate that there can be a significant harvest from the trauma of bitter loss. Both the pitfalls and the survival mechanisms associated with crisis are discussed. jmm.
Muller-Fahrenholz, Geiko. The Art of Forgiveness: Theological Reflections on Healing and Reconciliation. Geneva, Switzerland: WCC Publications, 1997. 106 pp.
This work discusses how the idea of forgiveness has been distorted, abused and largely lost over time. The author also offers insights into the healing that occurs when true forgiveness is given. jmm.
Nouwen, Henri J.M. Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World. New York: Crossroad Publishing, 1996. 119 pp.
Originally copyrighted in 1992, this powerful book was written in response to an appeal by a longtime friend of Nouwen who wanted a book written for people who were not people of faith and didn’t already know God. Although the result of Nouwen’s effort was not what his friend wanted, the book did speak in a deep and tender way to other friends of Nouwen who were "searching Christians." mbh.
Pable, Martin. The Quest for the Male Soul: In Search for Something More. Notre Dame, IN: Ave Maria Press, 1996. 142 pp.
The author, a Capuchin Friar, who serves as Director of the Wellness Program for his order’s province. He has borrowed the six Hebrew words that Robert Hicks used in The Masculine Journey to describe six stages of male spiritual development: adam (created), zakar (phallic), gibbor (warrior), enosh (wounded), ish (ruler), zaken (gray-haired). Interpreting these words in light of the modern world, Pable attempts to reach out to the men who are looking for more sense and meaning in life. mbh.
Penner, Carol, editor. Women and Men: Gender in the Church. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1998. 152 pp.
By discussing numerous aspects of gender—including its connections with parenting, careers, and factors such as race and age—along with relevant biblical verses, this book compares the experiences of men and women in the church. pto.
Romanowski, William D. Pop Culture Wars: Religion and the Role of Entertainment in American Life. Downers Grove, IL: Intervarsity Press, 1996. 379 pp.
Despite of the perceived breakdown of modern civilization, this author calls for an end to the traditional "culture wars" between popular entertainment and religious doctrines and instead urges Christians to become actively involved in popular entertainment. In addition to placing the current controversies in their historical context, the book makes a strong case for refocusing the Christian effort away from acrimonious debate toward constructive involvement in the arts. mas.
Roth, Nancy. A Closer Walk: Meditating on Hymns for Year A. New York: Church Publishing, 1998. 259 pp.
By focusing on the innate poetry of hymns, the author says we can better understand what Christianity has meant to its followers throughout the centuries as well as what it means to us today. The examples, taken from The Hymnal 1982, are discussed both as historical texts and as tools for personal reflection. pto.
Stein, Gordon, editor. The Encyclopedia of the Paranormal. Amherst, NY: Prometheus Books, 1996. 859 pp.
This encyclopedia brings together short essays and selected bibliographical references on such topics as diverse as astrology, Edgar Cayce, crop circles, alchemy, and zombies. The ninety-one entries average 5-7 pages each and are authored by leading authorities. mas.
Suman, Michael. Religion and Prime Time Television. Westport, CT: Praeger Press, 1997. 174 pp.
Stemming from a 1995 conference at UCLA, this work includes essays by religious leaders, academic analysts, media critics, and industry representatives. Their viewpoints are understandably diverse, but all address the ways religion is and should be portrayed on television. pto.
Vest, Douglas C. On Pilgrimage. Cambridge, MA: Cowley Publications, 1998. 139 pp.
The author takes a detailed look into the advantages of taking a "pilgrimage" and discusses how to enter back into ordinary life with new purpose. jmm.
Annotations prepared by:
Jeff McIlwain (jmm)
Tom O’Donnell (pto)
Mark Stoffan (mas)
Mary Beth Hutchinson (mbh)