English Church History

The intentional deprivation of one's most physical and carnal needs is a concept that has existed since the beginning of time, more commonly known as "mortification". The Bible makes one of the earliest references to "mortification of the flesh", as seen in Colossians 3:5, which reads, "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry."

During the Cultural Revolution, the Chinese state sought to eradicate religious life throughout the country. But by 1978, two years after the death of Mao Zedong, the Communist Party under Deng Xiaoping cautiously embraced the revival of religion. At the same time, the newly elected Pope John Paul II made a point of renewing outreach to China. Paul P. Mariani tracks the fate of Chinese Catholicism in the wake of these transformative leadership changes, focusing on the influential Catholic community in Shanghai.

A new world thats both global and local - glocal - is being born. What does this look like for believers and the church? How can we adapt to this new world? Glocalization offers an intriguing look at the future of Christianity and how individuals and churches can connect to the future.

In this groundbreaking new book, acclaimed researcher and author George Barna identifies, describes, and analyzes seven major "faith tribes" in America - documenting who they are, what they believe, how they vote, and what they are passionate about. Barna provides helpful insight into how these groups influence our economy, politics, and values - and what their potential is to change America.

The stunning popularity of the “New Atheist” movement - whose most famous spokesmen include Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and the late Christopher Hitchens - speaks to both the growing ranks of atheists and the widespread, vehement disdain for religion among many of them. In Faitheist, Chris Stedman tells his own story to challenge the orthodoxies of this movement and make a passionate argument that atheists should engage religious diversity respectfully.

Teaching to Live: Black Religion, Activist-Educators, and Radical Social Change interrogates the stories of African American activist-educators whose faith convictions inspired them to educate in radical and transformative ways. Almeda M. Wright explores the connections between religion, education, and struggles for freedom within twentieth-century African American communities by telling the stories of key African American teachers.

Being Black in America is not an easy task. Black people in America are faced with the task of surviving in a system predicated on the notion that Black people were less than human, policed and enforced by a system that is rooted in slavery and racism. All while trying to succeed in a capitalist society where we are discriminated against.

Explore the life and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, a beloved figure known for his profound humility, love for all creatures, and dedication to a life of poverty and service. This book provides an in-depth look at the life of St. Francis, from his early years and conversion to his establishment of the Franciscan Order and enduring impact on Christianity and the world. St. Francis of Assisi was a man of extraordinary faith, compassion, and simplicity, whose actions and teachings continue to inspire millions. This book delves into his spiritual journey, his relationship with nature, and his...

Ex-British Army Soldier, John Carney, ran a close protection operation in Iraq for oil executives when he was asked by the family of a young Dutch woman to extract her from the collapsing Islamic State in Syria. Hearing first-hand of the shocking living hell of tricked naive young girls, many from the West, trapped, sexually abused and enslaved by ISIS, he knew only one thing - he had to get them out. Armed with AK-47s and 9mm Glocks, he launched a daring, dangerous and deadly operation to free as many as he could.

The United States of America was founded by ordinary citizens who willingly sacrificed their lives and fortunes in order to hand down the precious legacy of freedom we enjoy today. In American Patriots, Rick Santorum shares the true-life accounts of 25 unsung heroic men and women from the Revolutionary War era. These citizen patriots fought valiantly and made significant sacrifices to secure our God-given rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness - not only for themselves, but also for countless future generations.

Among the traditional tenets of the Christian faith is the belief that God chooses or elects people for salvation. For some Christians, such an affirmation is an indication of God's sovereign and perfect will. For others, such a notion is troubling for it seems to downplay the significance of human agency and choice. Throughout the church's history, Christians have sought to understand the meaning of relevant biblical texts and debated this theological conundrum.

Shaw, widely known and read Catholic writer, speaker, and former communications director for the US Bishops, discusses the abuse of secrecy in the Church, the scandals it has caused, and the serious problem of mistrust that exists in the credibility of the Church. Not concerned with the legitimate secrecy that is necessary to protect confidentiality and peoples reputations, Shaw is rather concerned here with the stifling, deadening misuse of secrecy that has done immense harm to communion and community in the Church.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN LARGE PRINT Get ready to immerse yourself in centuries of history! Discover Venice's past and its tremendous legacy of beauty, churches, museums, and stunning mansions. Get to know the lagoon city everybody loves with this comprehensive guidebook for cultured travelers. Learn the story behind such world-famous landmarks as St. Mark's Square St. Mark's Basilica The Bell Tower The Clock Tower The Grand Canal, with its beautiful bridges The historic mansions And many more. Please note that this is a historical guide. It does not include lists of hotels and restaurants, nor ...

England, May 1536. Anne Boleyn is dead, decapitated in the space of a heartbeat by a hired French executioner. As her remains are bundled into oblivion, Thomas Cromwell breakfasts with the victors. The blacksmith’s son from Putney emerges from the spring’s bloodbath to continue his climb to power and wealth, while his formidable master, Henry VIII, settles to short-lived happiness with his third queen, Jane Seymour. Cromwell is a man with only his wits to rely on; he has no great family to back him, no private army.

In this comprehensive biography, David Willey explores the religious and personal background of the inspirational Pope Francis, his stunning impact on the Catholic Church, the hopes he has raised, and the legacy he will leave behind.

In Dialogue on Orators, Tacitus presents a conversation about the art and philosophy of rhetoric. Four characters discuss the merits and pitfalls of oration and poetry, debating one another’s point of view. With this text, Tacitus follows in the tradition and structure of Cicero, the great orator. It marks a distinct change in style from Tacitus’ longform historical works, Germania and Agricola.

The old adage, "never discuss religion and politics", is roundly rejected in this incisive exploration of presidential history and religious faith. This newly updated 2016 edition of The Presidents & Their Faith is a fascinating and informative look at how all US presidents exercised their personal faith, exerted presidential power, and led a religiously diverse nation.

Explore the life and legacy of St. Ignatius of Loyola, a transformative figure known for his profound spiritual insights, educational innovations, and founding of the Society of Jesus. This book provides an in-depth look at the life of St. Ignatius, from his early years as a soldier and his dramatic conversion to his establishment of the Jesuit Order and enduring impact on Christianity and the world. St. Ignatius of Loyola was a man of extraordinary vision, determination, and spiritual depth, whose actions and teachings continue to shape millions. This book takes a deeper look at his ...

Unlock the mysteries of the Trinity with "Subordinationism : A Beginner's Guide," a captivating exploration into one of Christianity's most debated doctrines. Dive into the heart of theological inquiry and uncover the profound dynamics that have shaped centuries of belief and practice. Engage your curiosity as you journey through the historical origins of Subordinationism. This guide meticulously traces its development from early church teachings to contemporary theological discussions. Meet the pivotal figures, understand the key councils, and grasp the controversies that have defined and ...

Early Christians were called "heretics" and "atheists" when they denied the gods of Rome, in particular the divinity of the emperor and the statism he embodied in his personality cult. These Christians knew that Jesus Christ, not the state, was their Lord and that this faith required a different kind of relationship to the state than the state demanded. Because Jesus Christ was their acknowledged sovereign, they consciously denied such esteem to all other claimants. Today, the church must take a similar stand before the modern state.