Book of the Month

Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion. Sara Miles. 294pp. Ballantine, US. $24.99.

When Sara Miles wandered into church and received communion she was transformed and embraced the Christian faith she had once scorned. A lesbian left-wing journalist who’d covered revolutions around the world, Miles didn’t discover a religion that was about angels or good behaviour or piety; her faith centred on real hunger, real food, and real bodies. Before long, she turned the bread she ate at communion into tons of groceries, piled on the church’s altar to be given away. Within a few years, she and the people she served had started nearly a dozen food pantries in the poorest parts of their city. A rich, engaging memoir.

Other featured titles

Life With God: Reading the Bible for Spiritual Transformation. Richard J Foster. 224pp. Hbk. HarperOne, US. $42.00.

The Bible is all about human life “with God.” As we read Scripture, we should consider how exactly God is with us in each story and allow ourselves to be spiritually transformed. By opening our whole selves to the page before us, we begin to grasp all the Bible has to teach about prayer, obedience, compassion, virtue, and grace and apply it to our everyday lives to achieve a deeper relationship with God.

Also by Foster:

·         Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible: NRSV, With Deuterocanonical Books. 2346pp. HarperCollins, US. $79.99. (allow 4-6 weeks for delivery)

·         Devotional Classics: Selected Readings For Individuals And Groups. 388pp HarperSanFranciso, US (2005). $29.99

·         Streams of Living Water: Celebrating Great Traditions. HarperCollins, US (2001). $31.00

·         Prayer: Finding The Heart's True Home. Hodder & Stoughton, UK (2005). $29.99

·         Freedom Of Simplicity: Finding Harmony In A Complex World. HarperSanFrancisco, US (2005). $29.99

Dancing with God: Transformation Through Relationship. Irene Alexander. 144pp. SPCK, UK. $34.99

NZ born, Alexander takes readers inside the gospel stories to explore the idea of true freedom through imagining themselves to be in the presence of Jesus. This book enables readers to dance with the creator: to be transformed, gently and continuously, through the all-encompassing love of Christ.

The Fat Jesus: Feminist Explorations in Boundaries and Transgressions. Lisa Isherwood.  158pp DLT, UK. $45.00.

“For two millennia an ascetic Christianity has been biased toward the thin, even emaciated body, especially for women. Lisa Isherwood makes a lovely case for the redemptive good news of the ample body. Can a Jesus always at table with his friends be other than fat?”  Prof Rosemary Radford Ruether, Berkeley, California.

Also by Isherwood:

·         Introducing Feminist Theology. Continuum,UK (2001). $79.99. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.

·         Patriarchs, Prophets And Other Villains. 226pp. Equinox, UK (2007). $72.00 Allow 8-10 weeks for delivery.

·         Weep Not for your Children: Essays on Religion and Violence. 284pp. Equinox, UK (2008). $72.00. Allow 8-10 weeks for delivery.

Emerging Downunder: Creating New Monastic Villages of God. Ray Simpson & Brent Lyons Lee. 149pp. ATF, Aust. $34.99

Tap into the desire for new forms of church and the rising tide of hope felt by many Christians. First published as Church of the Isles by Ray Simpson, for a British audience, the authors now explore how Celtic wisdom & spirituality can be applied in Australia & NZ.

Also by Simpson (allow 4-6 weeks for delivery):

·         Should I do a Somersault in a Church? Kevin Mayhew, UK (2006). $25.99

·         Celtic Prayers for Life Today. Kevin Mayhew, UK (2006). $30.00

·         Celtic Hymnbook: Full Music $62.99. Melody Line $25.99. Kevin Mayhew, UK (2005).

·         Celtic Prayerbook – 4 volumes. Kevin Mayhew, UK:

·         Prayer Rhythms. Volume 1. $29.99

·         Saints of the Isles. Volume 2. $29.99

·         Healing the Land. Volume 3. $29.99

·         Great Celtic Christians. Volume 4. $29.99

Church of All Ages: Generations Worshipping Together. Howard Vanderwell ed. 225pp Alban, US. $29.99.

Should we try to hold the generations together when we worship? Is it even possible? Led by pastor Howard Vanderwell, nine writers offer their reflections on issues congregational leaders need to address as they design their worship ministry.

The thread that connects these varied contributions is the belief there is no greater privilege for Christians than worshipping God, and there is no better way to do that than as an intergenerational community in which all are important and all encourage and nurture the faith of the others.

How to Plan and Lead All-Age Worship. Chris & John Leach. 28pp Grove, UK. $12.95.

At its best, all-age worship connects with young people, welcomes newcomers, and makes creative use of flexible liturgy. This practical guide explores the whole process, from gathering a team, through the process of planning, to exploring all the elements.

Archaeology of the Bible. James Hoffmeier. 192pp hbk, colour throughout. Lion, UK. $44.99.

Taking the reader on a fascinating journey around the archaeological remains of the Ancient Near East, Hoffmeier provides a review of Bible history and examines the role of archaeology in understanding the biblical text. The book is interspersed with stories from the author’s own experience as an archaeologist, bringing the thrill of archaeological discovery vividly to life.

Living with the Planet: Making a Difference in a Time of Climate Change. Catherine Von Ruhland. 224pp Colour throughout. Lion, UK. $29.99.

Beginning with an overview of the Earth, its atmosphere and oceans, von Ruhland takes a detailed look at each continent, covering pertinent issues such as global warming, deforestation, resource exploitation and threatened wildlife. A ‘Taking Action’ section at the end of each chapter offers a wealth of suggestions for what we can do to make a positive difference.

Mission-shaped Questions: Defining Issues For Today’s Church. Steven Croft ed. 228pp Church House, UK. $53.99

This book addresses the big theological and practical issues that have arisen from the Fresh Expressions initiative of the UK Anglican and Methodist churches. Questions such as:

·         What exactly is church?

·         Can we develop churches that can transform culture?

·         Can we be mission-shaped and kingdom-focused too?

Other Mission-Shaped titles from Church House, UK (allow 6-8 weeks for delivery):

·         Mission-Shaped Youth: Rethinking Young People and Church. Tim Sudworth, Graham Cray, Chris Russell. 165pp $27.99

·         Mission-shaped Children: Moving towards a child-centred church. Margaret Withers. 152pp. (2006) $27.99

·         Mission-shaped Spirituality: The Transforming Power of Mission. Susan Hope. 160pp (2006) $29.99

·         Mission-shaped Church. 192pp (2004) $39.99

Funeral, Thanksgiving and Memorial Services (Creative Ideas for Pastoral Liturgies series). With CD Rom. Jan Brind & Tessa Wilkinson. 257pp. Canterbury, UK. $45.00.

This very practical resource offers prayers, forms of words and many tried and tested ideas for creating rituals that give support at a time of great need following a death. Particular help is given for that most difficult of pastoral challenges, the death of a child and the care of the bereaved family. CD Rom contains whole book in PDF format.

A Place at the Table: Liturgies and resources for Christ-centred hospitality. Dilly Baker. 130pp Canterbury, UK. $44.99.

A wonderful collection of creative liturgies, prayers, readings, reflections, recipes and programme ideas on the theme of hospitality. The table is a central image in Christianity. Feasts appear frequently in Jesus’ parables, the central act of Christian worship takes place around a table and the Bible describes heaven as a place of banqueting. Building on this inviting imagery, Dilly Baker offers ready-made resources for the whole year.

Creative Ideas For Evening Prayer Jan Brind & Tessa Wilkinson. 188pp. Canterbury, UK. $46.50.

This all-age resources offers dozens of simple, ready-made outlines that are rich with ideas for using visual imagery, music, light and other symbols, with suggestions for getting everyone present actively involved. Every idea in this book has been tried and tested. An imaginative book to inspire worship that is simple, memorable and beautiful.

Gathering: 2008 Summer/Autumn (After Pentecost). A4 copied sheets, 92pp. United Church of Canada $20 + $1.60 p&p single issue. $55 annual subscription for 3 issues.

Resources for worship planners. Includes service outlines, prayers, plays, music and seasonal ideas. This issue covers 18 May to 23 Nov 2008.

Promise of Paradox: A Celebration of Contradictions in the Christian Life. Parker Palmer. Hbk. 145pp. Jossey-Bass, US. $35.00

First published in 1980 and reissued here with a feisty new introductory essay The Promise of Paradox launched Parker J. Palmer's career as an author. In this probing and heartfelt book, the distinguished writer teacher and activist examines some of the challenging questions at the core of Christian spirituality. How do we live with the apparent opposition between good and evil, scarcity and abundance, individuality and community, death and new life? We can hold them as paradoxes, not allowing them to open our minds and hearts to new ways of seeing and being.

Music is Where You Find It: Music in the Town of Hawera, 1946: an Historical Ethnography. Allan Thomas. 205pp. Includes music CD. Music Books, NZ (2004). $45.00

Music Is Where You Find It was the name of a radio programme in Hawera in 1946. The recorded performances of choirs and bands, singers and Maori groups, orchestra and school music – together with interviews with musicians, and contemporary newspapers – provide a window onto the music and musicians of this phenomenally successful musical town. The flourishing Empire music here with its martial bands, patriotic songs, popular dances and church choirs represents NZ music in the first century of European settlement.

Allan Thomas was recently interviewed about this project on National Radio.

A Life-Shaping Prayer: 52 Meditations in the Wesleyan Spirit. Paul Wesley Chilcott. 204pp Upper Room, US. $29.99.

"Grant me, gracious Lord, a pure intention of heart and a steadfast regard to your glory in all my actions. Possess my mind continually with your presence…" is how the prayer of 18^th century Methodist Elizabeth Rhodes begins. This prayer reflects many of the central themes, values and goals of vital Christianity. Studying and praying this prayer for a "waking spirit and a diligent soul" will lead to a Christ-filled life. Drawing on the rich resources of the Methodist tradition, A Life-Shaping Prayer is a beautifully written devotional resource. The themes of this book lead to a rediscovery of what it means to practice faith.

A Thousand Tongues: The Wesley Hymns as a Guide to Scriptural Teaching. 208pp. Paternoster, UK (Reprinted 2007). $26.99

In this classic study, first published in 1987, John Lawson provides an entry and introduction to Christian doctrine through Charles Wesley's hymns. The book is organised around 53 short chapters on theological doctrines such as God the Sovereign Creator, Revelation, The Divine Son, Christ our High Priest, The Holy Spirit, Grace, and Holiness. Each chapter provides a succinct introduction to Wesley's thinking on the topic followed by some hymns that focus on it. The hymns are annotated with biblical references. Lawson helps a new generation to appreciate the rich connections between worship and theology.

After Atheism: Science, Religion and the Meaning of Life. Mark Vernon. 198pp Palgrave, UK. $34.95.

Vernon was an Anglican priest who left the church an atheist by conviction, but now finds himself to be a committed and increasingly passionate agnostic. Part personal story, part philosophical search, After Atheism argues that the contemporary lust for certainty is demeaning of our humanity. The key to wisdom - as Socrates, the great theologians and the best scientists know - is understanding the limits of our knowledge.

From the Brown Couch: Martin’s Thoughts on Life and Facing Cancer. Kathy Rosser ed. 235pp Kathy Rosser, NZ (2002). $25.00.

Martin Rosser liked to “chew the fat” with people. You always came away from a chat with Martin feeling encouraged. He had the unique ability of using words like a surgeon, bringing healing. From the Brown Couch share’s Martin’s thoughts on facing cancer and possible death, the lessons he learnt throughout his life and some of his life messages. His wife Kathy also tells her story as she cared for Martin and others share the ways Martin impacted their lives.

Preaching Post-Theism. David Simmers. 94pp. David Simmers, NZ. $14.00

A collection of 30 sermons, spanning the last 25 years, by former Presbyterian minister David Simmers. In these sermons he aims to “open up in an acceptable way how the Gospel might be expressed if one takes seriously the post-theistic approach of a number of contemporary theologians, of whom Lloyd Geering is our most prominent example.” Readable and thought-provoking.

Our Top 20 Sellers - March to May 2008

Order your copies now.

1.       Come and See: Reflections on the Life of Jesus Among Us. Joy Cowley. Pleroma, NZ.$25.00

2.       Hymn for Anzac Day. Sheet Music, Melody + SATB Maori/English. Shirley Erena Murray, Colin Gibson. NZ Hymnbook Trust. $5.00

3.       Good News Bible: Hbk yellow dust jacket. Bible Society. $26.99

4.       Seven Ways to Change the World: Reviving Faith and Politics. Jim Wallis. Lion, UK. $27.99

5.       Neighbours Not Strangers: Methodists Exploring Relationships With People of Other Religions. John Roberts. Methodist Mission & Ecumenical, NZ.  $15.00

6.       Surprised by Hope. Tom Wright. SPCK. $34.99

7.       How to Worship with Data Projection: PowerPoint & Other Tools. Ian Tarrant. Grove, UK. $12.95

8.       Gathered & Scattered: Readings & Meditations Iona Community. Neil Paynter. Wild Goose, UK. $39.99

9.       CEV Bible: Compact Hbk Burgundy. Bible Society, Aust. $19.95

10.   Prayers for a Privileged People. Walter Brueggemann. Abingdon, US. $35.00

11.   Psalms for the road. Joy Cowley. Pleroma, NZ. $22.50

12.   Together in song: Australian hymn book II. Melody line ed. HarperCollins, Aust. $39.99

13.   Faith Club: A Muslim, a Christian, a Jew: Three Women Search for Understanding. Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, Priscilla Warner. Free Press, US. $25.99

14.   Work of the Chaplain. Naomi Paget. Judson, US. $24.99

15.   How to Write a Good Sermon: A Working Model. Mark Tanner. Grove, UK. $12.95

16.   Acts for Everyone. Volume 1 Tom Wright, SPCK, UK, $39.99

17.   Acts for Everyone. Volume 2 Tom Wright, SPCK, UK, $39.99

18.   Who On Earth Was Jesus?: Modern Quest for Jesus of History. David Boulton. O Books, US. $48.00

19.   God and Empire: Jesus Against Rome, Then and Now. John Dominic Crossan. HarperOne, US. $28.99

20.   LifeGuide Bible Study: John. Douglas Connelly. IVP, US. $9.99

Matariki Titles

The rising of the star group Matariki in June each year signifies the beginning of the Maori New Year. Also known in other cultures as the Pleiades and the Seven Sisters, Matariki is being increasingly celebrated each year, with events held throughout New Zealand in all communities. Buy these Matariki titles.

Matariki Calendar June 2008 - May 2009/ Maramataka Calender Piripiri 2008 - Haratua 2009. 300 x 300 mm, 24pp, 36 full colour illustrations. Te Papa Press. $19.99   

Packed full of proverbs and körero on the traditional Mäori maramataka (yearly calendar) and generously illustrated with as many as four pictures per month. Images include Te Papa’s precious täonga, activities from contemporary Maori life and scenes of our beautiful country through the seasons.  Around New Zealand, Matariki is a time of great festivity, as well as reflection and planning for the year to come. This calendar teaches people of all ages about life for traditional Mäori and their relationship with the natural world – as well as how to connect with Matariki in modern times.

Matariki: The Maori New Year (2^nd edition).Libby Hakaraia. 52pp Reed, NZ. $19.99   

Producer, director and radio presenter Libby Hakaraia has written an interesting and accessible introduction to the star group Matariki and its significance in Maoritanga. The rising of the star group Matariki into the New Zealand sky signifies the beginning of the Maori New Year – a festival which is undergoing a renaissance. All around New Zealand a growing number of events are being held to coincide with Matariki’s appearance in the dawn sky in the middle of the year.

Today more and more people are celebrating the rising of Matariki. For those who wish to join this growing movement, Libby provides suggestions on how to celebrate the Maori New Year – and, most importantly, a guide to finding Matariki in the night sky.

Celebrating Matariki: (book and CD) Libby Hakaraia. 32 pp, colour throughout, includes 10 Matariki-related activities. Reed, NZ. $19.99

Following the enormous success of her first book about Matariki for the Reed adult list, Libby Hakaraia has written this book for children. Celebrating Matariki explains what Matariki is, how, where and when the constellation can be seen, and explains the importance of Matariki in Maori life and culture. Her information is illustrated with historical and contemporary imagery, and the book includes 10 Matariki-related activities for children to try. These include: Matariki quiz, Matariki wordfind, how to make a telescope, how to keep a starchart, making a Matariki mobile, how to make a compass, and recipes for a Matariki feast.

The story of Matariki is included on the CD, along with 5 songs about Matariki that children can learn. Words to the songs are also included in the book.

Matariki. Melanie Drewery. 32pp, colour. Children’s storybook. Reed, NZ (2003). $14.99    

‘Tonight we have to go to bed really early,’ said Mum. ‘Tomorrow morning we have a surprise.’ But what event would be so special to get you up in the middle of a cold winter? Matariki is rising and the new year is on the way. The rising of Matariki into the New Zealand sky signifies the beginning of the Maori new year – coinciding with the shortest day of the year. This delightful story follows one family as they celebrate the coming of Matariki and talk about what it means to different people.  

Celebrating the Southern Seasons: Rituals for Aotearoa. Revised edition. Juliet Batten. 272pp. Random House, NZ. $34.99

In this 10^th anniversary expanded and updated edition, Batten provides fascinating information about the natural world, astronomy and ancient civilisations. She shows how our inherited Christian and other festivals can mean more when linked to the seasons, how we can learn from Maori observances such as Matariki, and how to adapt existing ceremonies and create our own distinctly New Zealand rituals.

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