Recommended Reads

Muslims, Christians and Jesus

CARL MEDEARIS
Most of the news from the Middle East is depressing, and much of what we hear about Islam in the media is alarming. Carl lived and ministered among Muslims for 12 years, and shows a very different side to Muslims and the Middle East. He reveals how they have the same fear of Christians as we have of them, and tells of inspiring encounters with key political and religious leaders where he discussed Jesus. He also explains what Muslims believe, what the Quran says about Jesus, and how we can reach out to the Muslims who live around us. In short, this book is not only informative and practical but also encouraging and inspiring. Simon Coupland, St Paul’s Church, Kingston Hill

The Challenge of Change

PHIL POTTER
As someone who has been a part of the pioneer network in the Liverpool Diocese under Phil’s guidance for several years, I know that Phil is definitely up for a challenge. He has lived out the reality of that much-repeated statement, ‘Change is here to stay.’ The Challenge of Change awakens us to the state of our current cultural situation and challenges us to address the fact that it is rapidly and constantly changing. This book needs to be read and re-read, especially focusing on the questions set at the end of each chapter. Duncan Petty, Oaks Church, Skelmersdale

The Vicar of Baghdad

ANDREW WHITE
In this book Andrew describes the part he has played in attempting to bring reconciliation in the Middle East, and especially the astonishing story of the growth of St George’s Church in Baghdad to become a church of over 3,500 in one of the most violent places in the world. It is a story about the cost of discipleship, but contains deep insights into a part of the world we know politically but rather superficially through news bulletins. Christians seeking to reach out effectively to Muslims in their communities will benefit from the unusual wisdom Andrew brings to this subject in particular. His message to those who meet him today is: ‘Don’t take care – take risks!’ This is a book which every Christian should read. John Rainer, St Peter’s Church, Shipley

Longing for God: Journeying closer to God

RICHARD FOSTER & GAYLE BEEBE
This is a soul feast providing inspiration, encouragement and challenge for those longing to deepen their awareness of the presence of God, their desire for growth in the character of Christ and to learn to listen more closely to the heartbeat of the Father. It covers the classic seven paths of Christian devotion: The right ordering of our love for God; spiritual life as journey; recovery of the knowledge of God lost in the fall; intimacy with Jesus; the right ordering of our experiences of God; action and contemplation; and divine ascent. The most inspired thoughts of Augustine of Hippo, John Bunyan, Thomas Merton, John Wesley and many others are summarised clearly in each pathway with the author’s own reflections and critical engagement with the original writers. It all provides a great catalyst for deepening prayer life and if you are planning some time away to seek the Lord, this book is ideal. Barry Dugmore, St George & St Paul, Tiverton

Darkest England and the Way Back In

GARY BISHOP
This is a short, powerful and moving book from one of the leaders of the Eden Project in Manchester. Here you will meet characters teetering on the brink of survival and a church community that cares enough to sacrifice comfort and even personal safety in its quest to bring God’s love to some of the neediest people in Britain. There are many stories of hope, but Gary does not hide the frustrations and disappointments which inevitably accompany radical engagement with people who are largely excluded from mainstream society and its aspirations. It’s essential reading for anyone seriously contemplating getting involved in changing the nation. Tim Hurran, St Peter’s Church, Harrogate

All are available to buy from New Wine Direct: www.newwinedirect.co.uk