What is Anglicanism? How is it different from other forms of Christianity, and how did it come to have so many different versions throughout the world? Although originally united by location and a common belief, Anglicanism has gradually lost its pre-eminence as the English state church due to increasing pluralisation and secularisation. While there are distinctive themes and emphases which emerge from its early history and theology, there is little sense of unity in Anglicanism today. In Anglicanism: A Very Short Introduction, Mark Chapman highlights the diversity of contemporary Anglicanism by exploring its fascinating history, theology, and structures. Putting the history and development of the religion into context, Chapman reveals what it is that holds Anglicanism together despite the recent crises that threaten to tear it apart. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Based on his consultancy experience with churches and dioceses over the last three years and further research on the causes of church growth, Bob Jackson's new book shows how the Church at parish, diocesan and national level can overturn its old cycle of decline and begin a new cycle of growth. At its heart this book is about how local churches can thrive and grow in the early twenty-first century. Part 1 outlines the current context, offering a sharp analysis behind the reasons for church growth and decline. Part 2 describes churches which are already experiencing growth both in numerical and ministry strength. It looks at lessons learnt and what is at the heart of a resurgent, thriving Church. Parts 3 and 4 set out workable strategies and unpacks ways in which human and financial resources can be deployed to support and sustain the growth of the local church. This is not about glib, short-term solutions promising quick results. The goal of this book is to help transform fragile signs of hope for the Church into a solid road to growth.

This Is A New Release Of The Original 1896 Edition.

William Temple was one of the towering figures in the Church of England in the twentieth century. He was a philosopher, theologian, social reformer, bishop and archbishop. As Archbishop of Canterbury he guided a nation at war and helped pave the way of the new post-war society, coining the term 'the welfare state' and building support in the Church of England for radical social reforms. This comprehensive volume draws on Temple's extensive publications, broadcasts, public speeches, sermons and private letters and reflects the broad range of his concerns: * The case for Christian belief * The interface of theology and philosophy * Spiritual formation of the faithful * Christian social principles and political thought * Guiding a nation at war and envisaging a new society Prefaced by an extensive introduction to Temple's life and times and an overview of the key aspects of his legacy, Stephen Spencer provides students with an authoritative guide to one of Anglicanism's most influential figures.

This report is the result of a study and consultation of the House of Bishops, asking how firmly grounded is the Church of England's inherited tradition that the person who presides at the Eucharist must be an ordained priest. It discusses the ministry of the whole people of God, the distinctive ministry of the ordained, the place of the Eucharist in the life of the Church, and the role of the person who presides at it.

Contains all the advice, guidance and resources a church needs to discuss admitting children to Holy Communion before confirmation Includes a ready-to-use preparation course for the whole family Also includes answers to the most common objections from parishes and an outline admission service Authors have many years' experience of advising and resourcing parishes on this issue

Charles Gore (1853-1932) is a towering figure in Anglicanism. His independence of mind and prophetic spirit model a way of doing theology with rigour of thought, clarity, deep devotion and practical pastoral concern. An influential leader in the Anglo-Catholic movement, his writings and lectures on the incarnation, the doctrine of God, revelation, faith and reason, the nature of the church and sacraments, ecumenism, authority and biblical inspiration, shaped theological discussion for decades. Today, they still offer a comprehensive vision of the Christian faith in dialogue with modern thought, and provide a platform for exploring key contemporary issues in social and economic justice. The first Bishop of Birmingham, he founded the Community of the Resurrection (now at Mirfield) and actively supported the emerging trade union movement. His writings on the responsibilities of employers have a biting relevance today. This collection of his writings draws on his published and unpublished works, letters and archive material held at Mirfield.

This Is A New Release Of The Original 1844 Edition.

Part of One Church offers a classical understanding of the Church of England's identity and its place as part of the 'One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church'. Though not opposed in principle to women's ordination to the priesthood, Roger Greenacre articulates with creative courtesy the ecclesiological reasons why so many cannot accept its implementation in the Church of England when it lacks the consent of the wider Church. In doing so he addresses issues that remain topical and significant. Roger's frame of reference is wide: his thinking and writing are deeply enriched by the Anglican tradition and his hope is that its distinctive heritage might be brought into communion with the Church Catholic.