Present in Every Place?

Author Will Foulger
Publisher SCM £25
Format pbk
ISBN 9780334062035

In this important book about our ‘vocation to be present in the places of the nation’, Foulger argues that the parish is ‘credible but needs reimagining, so that its people become those who think, speak and behave in ways that are faithful to the gospel’. An oft-cited theme of ‘certain place over uncertain space’ contrasts modernistic agnostic rootlessness that speaks of dissatisfaction with selfishness, with traditional Christian rootedness that offers satisfaction through selflessness. Vaughan Williams once said, ‘…one’s own community, one’s own language, customs and religion are essential to our spiritual health… without local loyalty there can be nothing for the wider issues to build on.’ A famous novel title also came to mind, encapsulating parochial lay ministry: To Serve Them All My Days. At the heart of this excellent book is the desire of Jeremiah 6:16: ‘Ask for the ancient paths, where the good way lies; and walk in it and find rest for your souls’. Should Readers/LLMs more positively embrace these ancient paths and present them anew through shared story and proven practice?

Reviewed by ANDREW CARR

Future of the Parish