Churchwarden Christopher Jamieson has devoted himself tirelessly to St Benet's Church and its Anglo-Catholic tradition. Single, lonely and prickly, he feels happier in the company of eighteenth century church architecture and beautiful vestments than in that of his colleagues. But the parish is struggling and, when the Church authorities plan a takeover by a hugely successful and popular Evangelical church, Christopher finds himself at odds with his upbringing, his associates, his fellow churchwarden, Caroline, and even his loyal and sympathetic friend, Max. As the takeover becomes more certain, his outlook on life becomes more bleak and desperate, until he takes a step that will change everything.

It has been over 60 years since the last guide to the care of church linens and textiles was published and despite being used to a greater or lesser degree in every parish church, popular knowledge of their proper use and care is diminishing. This welcome and straightforward guide provides practical advice with helpful illustrations on the use and care of all church linen and textiles. Part One explains the use, care and repair of all the main items of linen used at the altar, including textile coverings, frontals, pulpit and lectern falls. Part Two describes the use of vestments and garments, how and when they are worn, and their proper storage and care. Part Three offers a complete guide to cleaning fabrics, natural and synthetic; what to wash and what to dry clean, and how to remove common spills and stains such as candle wax and flower pollen. Part Four offers a directory of sources and advice on the storage and disposal of church textiles.