Image Bearers
Image Bearers
Author Rachel Atkinson & Michael Lloyd
Publisher Hodder & Stoughton £18.99
Format pbk, 2023
ISBN 9781529318661
Subtitled ‘Restoring our identity and living out our calling’, the book was inspired by the life of the late Ruth Miller, a Christian counsellor skilled in restoring and developing the relationship between her clients and God. This may seem harsh, but to me the first part of the book, written by Michael Lloyd, seemed to be trying to make people feel guilty. It was not a dialogue, but rather a lecture on how sinful and broken we all are. Although challenging, it was too prescriptive for the questioners among us, although it did make me think. The second and subsequent parts, written by Rachel Atkinson, came as a breath of fresh air. There are outstandingly helpful chapters on recovering from childhood with a mother and/or a father who had not been kind, loving parents, people who were probably very mixed up themselves, and may eventually be forgiven. The chapter on dying well, including contributions from Ruth Miller, deals with fear and trust in God during terminal illness. This would be very helpful to any Christian or carer facing this eventuality.
Reviewed by VERONICA BRIGHT
Pastoral
Beyond the Children’s Corner
Beyond the Children’s Corner
Author Margaret Pritchard Houston
Publisher CHP £16.99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781781401644
The author writes about creating a culture of welcome for all ages. Most churches try to welcome people, but few develop the culture. The book examines the changing pastoral needs of modern families and relates them to what it means to belong to a church and worship within it. It offers some ‘quick wins’ such as making a children’s corner truly child-friendly, and addresses deeper challenges with church buildings and leadership. It deals with real issues such as noise, toilets, changing facilities and prams. And there is wise advice regarding consultation, ownership and management of change. It would not be possible to do everything in this book, but there are some strategies which any church could do to improve ministry to children and families. The author writes practically and with empathy for mature church members who remember how things used to be, using case studies and discussion topics. I am lending it to my incumbent and churchwardens so we can pursue what it may mean to my church. I recommend it for yours.
Reviewed by HOWARD ROWE
Pastoral; Worship
How Clergy Thrive
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Preaching at Funerals
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