Recent Library Acquisitions
God's Undertaker: Has Science Buried God?
by John Lennox --- 215 LEN
Lennox, Reader in Mathematics at the University of Oxford, is
particularly interested in the interface of science, philosophy and theology. In this 2009
edition, he evaluates the evidence of modern science in relation to the debate between the atheistic
and theistic interpretations of the universe, and provides a stimulating, fresh basis for
discussion.
Collins Atlas of Bible History
by James Pritchard --- 220.9 COL
With more than 100 full-colour maps, timelines and expert explanations, this superlative reference
work will enable readers to more fully appreciate and understand the Bible and its stories. Detailed
biblical references accompany each period of biblical history, conveying a tangible sense of
the land, events, and people portrayed in the Bible.
The Archaeology of the Bible
by James Hoffmeier --- 220.9 HOF
Taking the reader on a fascinating journey around the archaeological remains of the Ancient Near
East, Hoffmeier provides a review of Bible history and examines the role of archaeology in
understanding the biblical text.
Strong Was Her Faith: Women of the New Testament
by J Ellsworth Kalas --- 225.92 KAL
Kalas examines the Scriptures to see what we can learn about and from eleven important women, and how
they fitted into and shaped the New Testament story. A study guide is included for group use.
This 2-volume commentary adds to others in this much appreciated series. Wright, in an accessible and anecdotal style, shows how the book of Acts builds on Luke’s gospel, laying out the continuing work and teaching of the good news.
Paul for Everyone: the Pastoral Letters by Tom Wright --- 226 WRI
1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. Writing in an approachable and anecdotal style, Tom Wright helps us to see the pastoral nature of these three letters. He shows how Paul is anxious first that those who profess the faith should allow the gospel to transform the whole of their lives and secondly that teachers of the faith should know how to build up unified communities.
The Jesus Way: a Conversation in Following Jesus by Eugene H Peterson --- 232 PET
This is a fresh and urgent evaluation of contemporary Christian spirituality. Many who understand themselves to be followers of Jesus, nevertheless embrace the ways and means of Western culture as they go about their daily living. Here Peterson explores the ways in which we can and cannot authentically follow Jesus.
Come and See by Joy Cowley --- 242 COW
Cowley’s exciting new book provides 64 reflective meditations. Each includes a scripture verse, thought for the day and photograph. Ideal for use in worship, small group devotions and for personal reflection.
A Rainbow Coloured Cross: Personal Prayers with Easter Supplement
by Ruth Etchells --- 242 ETC
This book will provide comfort and affirmation for those experiencing the pain, struggle, freedom and joy of the Christian life. Richly imaginative, it offers morning and evening prayers for a month and features a wide range of Christian writers.
Fuel for the Soul: A New Zealand Anthology of Poetry and Prose
compiled by the Albury Pleasant Point Presbyterian Parish --- 242 FUE
This book consists of 59 stories and poems contributed by people throughout New Zealand. It is a collection of inspirational writing designed to take the reader on a spiritual journey. One of the contributors is a member of our parish.
Seven Sacred Pauses: Living Mindfully Through the Hours of the Day
by Macrina Wiederkehr --- 242 WIE
Using scripture, poetry, reflections, personal stories, and quotes from a rich array of spiritual teachers, Wiederkehr helps readers become more attuned to living in the present moment.
Chrysalis: The Hidden Transformation in the Journey of Faith
by Alan Jamieson --- 248.2 JAM
Christians often find their faith changing and are troubled by this. Kiwi pastor and sociologist
Jamieson helps readers to see that radical changes need not mean the end of personal faith.
Called for Life: Finding Meaning in Retirement
by Paul Clayton --- 248.2 CLA
Clayton, a United Church of Christ minister, uses examples from his own experience and from others,
laity and clergy, to explore retirement and the three components of our calling: our identity,
our gifts, and our occupation.
Exploring Prayer by Sue Mayfield --- 248.3 MAY
Prayer is a journey: a journey into God and a journey to the deepest, hidden
level of ourselves. This book is divided
into two parts: What is prayer? and How to Pray?
Gift of Years by Joan Chittister --- 248.4 CHI
Chittister calls us to cherish the blessing of aging as a natural part of life that is active,
productive, and deeply rewarding.
Growing Spiritually with the Myers-Briggs® Model by Julia McGuinness --- 248.4 MCG
Though as Christians we share a common faith, we also represent a glorious and diverse range of
personalities. The way we grow spiritually will reflect these differences. Knowing ourselves better
can save us frustration as we seek ways forward in company with those who may be rather different
from ourselves.
Promise of Paradox: a celebration of contradictions in the
Christian life
by Parker Palmer --- 248.4 PAL
In this probing and heartfelt book, the distinguished writer, teacher and activist examines
some of the challenging questions at the core of Christian spirituality.
Tarore and her Book by Joy Cowley --- 248.5092 COW
Here, just published, is the story that was told to the children in church by Pip Ferguson earlier
this year about Tarore and her copy of Luke’s gospel, a taonga which later came into the care of
Pita Kenana. Luke’s gospel was translated into Maori by William Williams and printed at Paihia
in 1835. Only 100 copies were printed and Tarore was given one at them mission school she attended.
The impact of that gospel when it was stolen after Tarore’s tragic death is one of New Zealand’s
great faith stories.
Christianity for the Rest of Us: How the Neighbourhood
Church is Transforming Faith
by Diana Butler Bass --- 261 BAS
Bass’ 3-year study of 50 mainline Protestant congregations found that they are not only growing
in numbers, but also discovering new spiritual vitality.
Space for Grace: Creating Inclusive Churches by Giles Goddard --- 261 GOD
50 years ago Goddard’s church was almost exclusively white, middle class and male-led. As the local
community became more diverse, change was inevitable. This highly readable book examines why
inclusion matters theologically and how it can be put into practice in a parish context.
I Sold my Soul on E-Bay by Hemant Mehta --- 261.2 MEH
Mehta is the "e-Bay atheist", the nonbeliever who auctioned off the opportunity for the winning
bidder to send him to church.
This book tells a 100 year long love story of those who travelled to North India on behalf of the Presbyterian Church.
They Like Jesus but not the Church: Insights from Emerging Generations
by Dan Kimball --- 277.3 KIM
Kimball tackles the six most common objections emerging generations have with church and Christianity.
Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt by Anne Rice --- FIC RIC
In Israel, in the turbulent first century, a baby is born to a humble Jewish family – but to a great destiny.
The Shack by William P Young --- FIC YOU
Number 1 New York Times Bestselling Novel.
To Bless the Space Between Us: Book of Blessings by John O'Donohue
O’Donohue (1956-2008), Irish teacher and poet, draws on Celtic spiritual traditions to create
words of inspiration and wisdom for today.