Looking for a good book, you saw them first in the Parish news, enjoy those reviews again. The website will now contain a collection of current and past book reviews from our Parish Magazine.

OVERFLOWING

by Myrtle Hall

£6 (or £5 when you buy ten)

A beautifully illustrated book by a local parishioner. The colour pictures, in the style of stained glass, are in themselves meditations, which can enable you to be filled with ‘a peace which transcends understanding’ Ideal to read in the morning, when you are feeling spiritually empty and wish to be filled with God’s love.

Available from the Church bookstall or the Lighthouse Christian Bookshop on Railway Approach.

THE LIVING CHURCH

by John Stott  - £8.99

ISBN: 978-1-84474-183-0

The fiftieth and latest book from John was written as he approached retirement after a lifetime as one of the world’s greatest evangelists. He shares his convictions of what God wants from us, his church in the 21^st century. Wrapped in its pages is the vision he believes God has for his living church and its essential characteristics: a learning church, a caring church, a worshipping church, and an evangelising church.

John offers us clear, biblical and practical guidance on how best to apply principles for us to act upon as individuals, a church family and a fellowship reaching out to our community, which is relevant in today’s world.

An appendix shares in a simple, beautifully worded way the conclusion of a sermon he gave in 1974 looking into the future with his own dream of a church which is biblical, worshipping, caring, serving and expectant.

This is a dream I believe John has personally brought to share with us at St. John’s, the body of Christ in the world today.

The book is very readable, thoughtfully written with great wisdom and insight that is based on the scriptures and is an inspiring, nourishing, challenging yet encouraging read. A word for each of us to read, pray about and act upon. I commend this significant book to you.

PLEASE BUY OR BORROW, AND READ IT.

If you are thinking ‘Christmas presents’- this is the ideal one. Available from our bookstall or contact Rosemary & Phil Tadman.

Peter Thayne.

THE MOTORCYCLE HEARSE

by Ian Morris.   £9.95.

You need to read this book to find where the title comes from, but do any of us know about or appreciate the work of hospital chaplains?

Ian Morris is a hospital chaplain who shares his work and words, from wards to workshops. His anecdotes range from hilariously amusing to tear-producing sadness; from the mundane to the miraculous, but all are informative, inspiring and positively helpful.

Practical advice and theological theory mingle in examples of bereavement counselling, medical emergencies, helping those of different faiths or of none. Hospital staff, patients, relatives, all have benefited from Ian's help, sometimes from just his prayerful presence. Just 'being there' can be a sacrificial act of service.

There is a touch of the Lionel Blue about his examples which produces an endearingly frank and uplifting read.

Peter Bateman

THE HANDS AND FEET OF JESUS - stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things

By Clive Price, BRF and World Vision (celebrating 25 years),  £6.99

Stories from the front line usually produce a guilt-trip. Not this time. The Hands And Feet Of Jesus is a celebration – not a condemnation – of how ordinary people tackle extraordinary challenges. All involved with World Vision, they invite us to join them. They beckon us to take a peek at their work. And rejoice.

Follow Irish nurse Sheila as she travels the world looking for the next trouble spot.

Mark, fundraising from his wheelchair, wanted to see where his money was going. Join him as he overcomes numerous obstacles to visit the projects he is supporting.

Tristan used to stack shelves in a supermarket but now works with World Vision in the area of disaster relief. Read his story as he follows God's call on his life.

These are just three of the stories: ordinary people doing extraordinary things for the sake of the poor.

Clive Price is an award-winning writer, qualified journalist and experienced editor, who works regularly with World Vision.

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