The Love that Moves the Sun

Author Paul Dominiak
Publisher Canterbury £12.99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781786225658

The author focuses his Advent writing on the ‘four last things‘: heaven, hell, death and judgement; his introduction begins with endings and e

xplains that the purpose of the Christian life was, and is, to contemplate on these last things. He sets out a history of Christianity from earliest days which sets the scene for an in-depth look at each in turn. When unveiling the mysteries of heaven to us he draws on the Old and New Testaments, and on the many writers who have considered this subject. He encourages us to fuse the ideas together but also to take these into our present-day world situations reminding us that we should not lose sight of our brokenness and need for our God whose priority is a marriage of heaven and earth, right here and now. When considering hell, the author draws from many sources including ancient Christian and non-Christian beliefs. He explores universalism which gives an alternative version of hope. He also uses a quote to awaken us: ‘hell is other people’ and suggests that hell is of our own making. Next, when writing about judgement, the author suggests we consider substituting the word ‘justice’; and he goes on to unpack this at length. He continues with the theme of death, the one certainty in life, and steers us through many beliefs and teachings regarding this subject. Death is the absence of life and the author widens our viewpoint and guides us through an idea that we should consider – new life which would encompass us all, the rich, poor, all faiths, all colours, all classes, all levels of education – death to all that separates us from God’s beautiful created world – love and respect for each other as equal and made in His image. This is the author’s understanding of death. It is for us, as individuals, to change our world around each of us, bringing love, hope and faith. Finally, this little book ends (paradoxically) with an epilogue entitled ‘Beginnings’ and closes with questions for reflection during Advent, either for the reader or for small groups.

Reviewed by SUE PIPER

Women of the Nativity: an Advent and Christmas journey in nine stories

Author Paula Gooder (Illustrated by Ally Barrett)
Publisher Church House Publishing £10.99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781781404607

We all love a book for the Christmas season, but sometimes our search for something a little different fails to bear much fruit. Not so on this occasion! Paula has presented us with a wealth of biblical knowledge, enhanced by her in-depth research, and retold in a unique way through the eyes of women – some familiar, others we meet for the first time. Ally Barrett’s illustrations bring the text to life in a beautiful and emotional way as she links each picture with the simplicity of a piece of white cloth. The book takes us through Advent to Candlemas addressing each liturgical day between and linking with the appointed biblical passages. Reflective questions and background perspectives make the book appropriate for group or individual study, connecting with familiar women (Sarah, Rachel, Huldah, Elizabeth, Mary, Anna) and some maybe newer to us but typical of women of their day (Mariamne, Abigail, Shiphrah). Paula is a great storyteller. Her combination of biblical and historical characters with material of her own divinely inspired imagination certainly provides a treat for mature Christians who are looking for something fresh and thought-provoking. Maybe this could prove a little confusing for those newer to the faith. Thank you, Paula and Ally, for helping us to ponder anew the mystery of Incarnation, and to enter more deeply into the heart of the Christmas season.

Reviewed by Betty Taylor

A Calendar of Carols

Author Gordon Giles
Publisher BRF 12,99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781800392793

At last – the perfect way to celebrate the season of Advent, no chocolate necessary! This attractive volume takes us through Advent one day and one carol at a time. Each day accompanied by a prayer and the author’s well researched history in his delightful style. This book will be a valuable resource for those planning services both for regular attenders and for those who come for reasons various and sundry. There is plenty of information on the history and spirituality of the carols to make their introduction more interesting and meaningful – and to give us that frisson, that we have learnt something new and perhaps enchanting.

A Calendar of Carols is also for anyone who finds joy in spending time singing the old favourites throughout December (accompanying You Tube if you so wish). We can revisit forgotten carols, and even discover previously unknown ones. An ideal way to spend a daily time of praise and reflection focusing on the reason for the season. It can be hard distancing ourselves from all the commercial pre-Christmas hullabaloo. Even a few minutes a day with this book will be a boon. Who needs chocolate?
Reviewed by Liz Pacey

Follow the Star: Calm and Bright

Author Sammi Tooze
Publisher CHP £0.99*
Format pbk
ISBN 978178404904

The Church of England’s theme booklet for Christmas 2024 has been written by Sammi Tooze, the Discipleship Adviser for the Diocese of York. It follows the usual pattern: over the twelve days of Christmas, we are presented each day with a Bible reading, a reflection, a short challenge and a prayer. The key words are ‘calm’ and ‘bright’, and the reflections help us to recognise these as the textures of the season. God in the form of a vulnerable baby humbly enters our world on a calm and peaceful night, to the witness of poor shepherds; but the news of his birth must be greeted with joy and brightness. The readings include the traditional birth narratives, but also some original choices such as Luke 10:38-42 – the story of Mary and Martha – and verses of cosmic significance from Ps 139. Sammi Tooze has produced an attractive booklet designed to be given to those attending Carol services, Christingles and Crib services. The calm message and the bright joy of the incarnation is here for all to read. Let us hope and pray that many families and friends do indeed ‘Follow the Star.’

Reviewed by Kate Burton

*Multiple copies are available at £8.50 for 10 or £37.50 for 50; a large print version is £2.00.

Sacred Space:
Advent and Christmas 2024

Author The Irish Jesuits
Publisher Messenger €7.95
Format pbk
ISBN 9781788127011

Sacred Space:
The Companion

Author The Irish Jesuits
Publisher Messenger €14.95
Format hbk
ISBN 9781788126816

These two attractive books, from the Irish Jesuits, promote Ignatian spirituality through the practice of daily prayer. The Advent-Christmas material is designed as a spiritual anchor and reassures us of the certainty of faith in a time threatened by widespread global conflict. It includes detailed resources for an Advent retreat. The Companion book, in hardback, is a more substantial resource for the liturgical year from Advent through to Easter and includes further guidance for retreats and many more prayers in the Ignatian tradition. Although written primarily for Catholic congregations, many Anglicans may find these little volumes inspiring and helpful.

Reviewed by Kate Burton