This playful yet substantial "dogmatic" book of theology addresses our central human longing to be deeply loved. This is also an incarnational theology, putting us in contact with a God who is willing to roll in the earth with us, dive in to rescue us, and whose tracks can be seen throughout our homes and lives. Illustrated with lovely charcoal drawings, Dogspell challenges readers to believe that God loves, welcomes, and longs to greet us as much as a dog.

A portrait of the Saturday after the crucifixion and before the resurrection of Jesus. Mary Magdalene and the other women followers of Jesus have gathered together to comfort one another. As each woman shares her story, it becomes clear that her experience as a follower of Jesus has changed her life forever.

Combining biblical scholarship, midrash, and an imaginative, fictional approach, Mary Ellen Ashcroft takes a new look at seven biblical women: Mary Magdalene, Maria, Mary the Mother of Jesus, Joanna, The Samaritan Woman, and Martha. In this book Ashcroft views these women in light of Christ's resurrection. What might they have thought, felt, and done, once they knew that Jesus had been raised? How did they influence-even help build-the early Christian movement? Ashcroft maintains that these women have become "lost" in history; that their true identities have been obscured. By seeing them afresh, we can gain insights for our own discipleship. Ashcroft says, "Mentors and foremothers of the faith, have you been lost, or have we? You have sat, watching these many years, waiting to welcome us. Perhaps it is in finding you that we find our place in the faith." Spirited Women includes spiritual exercises for meditation, reflection, prayer, and discussion.