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A journey through the Christian Year
by David Winter
Canterbury Press £8.99
ISBN 978-1-85311-884-5
This book does not follow the usual lectionary, albeit that it follows the Christian year from the 1st Sunday in Advent to the Festival of Christ the King.
There is commentary with appropriate Bible readings for all of the usual Christian festivals and the major saints day. What is unusual about this book is that other people be may consider to be “saintly” are also included in the lectionary.
People such as Cranmer, Wilberforce & Bunyan, these are treated in the same way as the great reformers and teachers of the Christian faith, people like Luther, Clare of Assisi as well as John & Charles Wesley.
The book is well illustrated with stories and comments which will enhance any sermon, by bringing alive the lives of those who have shaped our faith. For example as Methodists are “born in song”, the story of the conversion of Augustine of Hippo in Milan is particularly interesting. Passing Milan Cathedral he heard hymns being sung, and came under the influence of Ambrose – he later became a prolific writer on theological, moral & ethical issues. The church in Milan was the first in the Western world to sing hymns - God works in mysterious ways.
Apart from providing useful material to any preacher, this well-written book will provide ample examples (and encouragement) of how God uses ordinary people for his purposes.
Alan Rashleigh
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