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Aagaard, Anna Marie and Peter Bouteneff. Beyond The East-West Divide: The World Council of Churches and “the Orthodox Problem”. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2001, 130 pp., $8.75 US.

Participation in the World Council of Churches has always been a paradox — enthusiastically committed and yet plagued by complaints. This situation has lately reached crisis proportions: two Orthodox churches have withdrawn their membership; more threaten to follow. In this book, two theologians — one an Orthodox and one a Lutheran — engage in an extended dialogue to illumine some of the issues and possible ways forward. The issues they discuss fall squarely within the agenda of the Special Commission on Orthodox Participation in the WCC, which was created in Harare in 1998. Anna Marie Aagaard teaches theology at the University of Aarhus, Denmark. Peter Bonteneff teaches systematic theology and spirituality at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in New York. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Aram I Catholicos of Cicilia, In Search of Ecumenical Vision. Atelias, Lebanon: Armenian Catholicosate of Cicilia, 2000, 318 pp.

This collection of the reflections of church leader and World Council of Churches moderator, Aram I, is drawn from lectures, reports and articles dating from January 1991 to December 1999. While they highlight the emerging ecumenical trends, challenges and concerns of this period, they represent essentially a continuous and strenuous search vision. This book raises fundamental questions that the ecumenical movement and the churches must address in the coming years. It is the fruit of the author's living encounter with, and existential experiences in the ecumenical movement The views and convictions outlined in these pages emerged out of this intellectual and spiritual interaction with others. In his own words: "It is precisely through creative interaction that mutual understanding is shaped, confidence is built, a common perspective is arrived at, a common vision is articulated and a common action is affirmed." Divided into three parts, the book deals with the ecumenical movement's search for identity, the WCC in the process of self-understanding and emerging ecumenical priorities. His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of Cicilia is an internationally recognized church leader. He was first elected Moderator of the World Council of Churches at the Seventh Assembly (February 1991 Canberra, Australia), and was unanimously re-elected at the Eighth Assembly (December 1998, Harare, Zimbabwe). [Ecumenism, 2002]

Bailey, Betty Jane and J. Martin Bailey, Who Are the Christians in the Middle East? Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003, 215 pp., $20.00 U.S.

Written by two Christian pastors who lived and worked in the Middle East, this volume outlines the varieties and experiences of Christians in the Middle East from Pentecost to the present. Based on personal experience, official church documents, and extensive interviews, the book includes introductory articles on the Middle East and Christianity, a timeline, a section on each Christian denomination, and a series of country-by-country reports on the present situation of the church and the challenges it faces. By looking at the strife and struggles in the Middle East through the eyes of Christians in the region, the authors offer a perspective that has received scant attention in the mainstream media. Betty Jane Bailey is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and a consultant to its Middle East Office. J. Martin Bailey, also an ordained UCC minister, is presently serving as director of development for Worldwide Faith News and as media consultant to the Hartford-based interfaith project Faith Communities Today. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Barnes, Michael Horace, ed. Theology and the Social Sciences. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2001, 317 pp., $20.00 US.

By providing archeological data, sociological theory, demographics and economic data, psychological insights, and new methods of historical interpretation, the social sciences can open the way for a more sophisticated understanding of the social nature of human existence. Theology challenges the social sciences through moral and transcendental questions. The symbiotic nature of this relationship is described in the opening essays of this volume by John Coleman and Gregory Baum. The rich conversation between theologians and sociologists that follows moves from Von Balthasar's use of the social sciences and Rahner's approach to ecumenism to the roles of psychology and neuropsychology in understanding religious events. Michael Horace Barnes is a professor of religious studies at the University of Dayton. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Barton, John. Understanding Old Testament Ethics. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003, 240 pp., $37.00.

This book examines how ethical issues are addressed in the Hebrew Bible and how this understanding may usefully inform modern ethical decision-making. Part one looks at Biblical narratives, collections of laws, oracles and wisdom writings, and Part Two focuses on the moral vision of the Prophets — especially Amos, Isaiah and Daniel. The reader will gain an appreciation of Professor Barton's ground-breaking research in this field and its impact on understanding the ways in which the prophets, sages and story-tellers of Ancient Israel expressed their visions of God's justice and goodness — both for their own time and for generations to come. John Barton is Professor of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture at the University of Oxford, England. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Bauerochse, Lothar. Learning to Live Together: Interchurch Partnerships as Ecumenical Communities of Learning. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2001, 204 pp., $14.90 US.

Since the 1970's, between a local Church group and an overseas partner have become a major feature of European and North American church life. They are an expression of the need to experience concretely what mission or ecumenism means and not leave it to specialized institutions only. In this book Lothar Bauerochse analyses some bilateral partnerships between German and African churches, gives the main results and highlights the opportunities, challenges and problems of such an enterprise. The book deals with fundamental questions linked to missiology, development and ecumenical/intercultural learning. It seeks to formulate guidelines for enhancing true ecumenical partnership in the future. While based mainly on the experiences as seen from the North, it offers some guidelines of interpretation for Christians in the two-thirds world who are involved in such partnerships of who may be so in the future. Lothar Bauerochse has a doctorate in missiology from the University of Heidelberg, and is editor of the Church and Religion desk of Hesse state radio, Germany. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Berry, Carmen Renee. The Unauthorized Guide to Choosing a Church. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Brazos Press, 2003, 368 pp., $31.50.

This detailed guide empowers those seeking a spiritual community to call home, but bewildered by the options, to make an informed decision. Simple, concrete explanations of the history, beliefs, and worship practices of each major denomination (Lutheran to Mennonite, Roman Catholic to Presbyterian) are provided. Statistics, web sites, creeds and an extensive timeline (over 20 pages) and a glossary are included. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Blancy, Alain, Maurice Jourjon and the Groupe des Dombes. Mary in the Plan of God and in the Communion of Saints. Mahwah, N.J.: Paulist Press, 2002, 176 pp., $18.95 US.

The Dombes Group in south central France, comprised of Roman Catholic and Reformed scholars, has taken a fresh look at the place of Mary in Christian faith and concluded that she has been more the victim than the cause of discord. The participants found themselves “at one” in their acceptance of the virginal conception and motherhood of Mary. At the same time, the group reminded their coreligionists of areas where both sides still need to be “converted” to authentic Christianity. While warning against the excesses of goddess-theology, they nevertheless concluded that Mary exemplifies “the decisive and perfect example of the Yes which Christian faith must utter. This collaborative work looks at Mary in the early church in the Reformation, in the creed, explores disputed questions, and lays out a plan for the conversion of the churches. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Boccaccini, Gabriele. Roots of Rabbinic Judaism: An Intellectual History from Ezekiel to Daniel. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 230 pp., $24.00 US.

The author advances a detailed account of the Zadokites, the first and most successful dynasty of high priests, who claim descent from Zadok, a priest and companion of David. He argues convincingly that a line of thought links Rabbinic Judaism back to Zadokite Judaism through the mediation of the Pharisaic movement and describes the connection between Zadokite and Sapiential Judaism. This work is sure to be widely debated by all interested in the origins and development of modern Judaism. Gabriele Boccaccini is professor of New Testament and Second Temple Judaism at the University of Michigan. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Borrmans, Maurice. Dialogue Islamo-Chrétien à temps et contretemps. Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2002, 256 pages, 32.95$.

Depuis la Déclaration sur les relations de l'Église avec les religions non chrétiennes de Vatican II (Nostra Aetate, 1965), après trente-sept années de louables efforts en faveur d'un dialogue constructif, où en sont les relations de l'Église avec le monde musulman? Qui sont nos partenaires musulmans dans la complexité de leurs cultures et de leurs controverses internes? Quel sont les fondements de l'éthique en Islam? Quel est le rapport de l'Islam avec la paix? Les droits de l'homme en Islam sont-ils compatibles avec la Déclaration universelle de 1948? La notion de la Charia a-t-elle le même sens pour tous les musulmans? Enfin, ceux-ci ont-ils la même approche de la modernité que les Occidentaux? Pessimisme et espérance, tels semblent être les deux pôles entre lesquels hésitent les hommes et les femmes de dialogue, dans un parcours heureusement jalonné d'étapes positives, que cet ouvrage révèle. Maurice Borrmans, Père Blanc, après vingt années en Afrique du Nord, enseigne depuis 1964 le Droit islamique et la Spiritualité musulmane à l'Institut pontifical d'Études arabes et islamiques à Rome (PISAI). [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Bot, Jean-Marc. Le Temps du Purgatoire: La porte au seuil de diamant. Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2002, 170 pages 18.00$.

Bouteneff, Peter and Dagmar Heller, eds. Interpreting Together, Essays in Hermeneutics. Faith and Order Paper no. 89. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2001, 176 pp. $14.50 US

A certain diversity in interpretations is to be expected and celebrated. Could there be guidelines for interpreting texts and symbols ecumenically, in a way that bridges some of our confessional and cultural differences? This book brings together the text of Faith and Order's study process (“A treasure in Earthen Vessels”) as well as several essays contributed along the way by participants from different confessional and regional backgrounds. These essays speak to the complexity and depth of “the hermeneutical problem” in the ecumenical task, offering insights, raising still further questions, and laying the ground for further questions, and laying the ground for further work. Peter Bouteneff is now teaching dogmatic theology and spirituality at St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Crestwood, New York, USA. Dagmar Heller is regional secretary for mission and ecumenism of the Protestant Church in Baden for Northern Baden, Heidelberg, Germany. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Braaten, Carl E. and Rogert W. Jenson, eds. In One Body Through the Cross: The Princeton Proposal for Christian Unity. Sponsored by the Centre for Catholic and Evangelical Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2003, 62 pp.

Bribes de bible: Traducteurs de la Bible Nouvelle Traduction. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2003, 190 p., 19,95$

Bulgakov, Sergius. The Bride of the Lamb. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 531 pp., $40.00 US.

This work, now available for the first time in English, is widely regarded as Bulgakov's magnum opus and one of the most important works ever produced in the modern Orthodox church. It presents a fresh approach to Christian doctrine in that Bulgakov examines issues of ecclesiology and eschatology from a sophiological perspective. Based on the doctrine of Sophia, the wisdom of God, this distinctive Russian approach sees the Creator and creation intimately linked as Divine-humanity. The book examines the themes of creation, creaturely freedom, evil, the role of the Church, resurrection and the afterlife. Sergius Bulgakov (1871-1944), the twentieth century's most profound Orthodox theologian, left the Soviet Union in 1923 and spent the rest of his academic career as dean and professor of dogmatic theology at Saint Sergius Theological Institute in Paris. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Bulgakov, Sergius. The Friend of the Bridegroom: On the Orthodox Veneration of the Forerunner. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003, 190 pp., $28.00 U.S.

Written by the leading Russian theologian of modern times, this book sheds new light on the mission and meaning of John the Baptist. Bulgakov traces the Baptist's life from beginning to end — his birth, his preaching of repentance, his baptism of the Lord, his agony, his death, his glorification, and his veneration in the context of Eastern Orthodoxy. Bulgakov's probing of the Gospel narratives is colored by sacred tradition as embodied in patristic literature in liturgy, and iconography, making of this volume a "work of prayer", in the words of translator Boris Jakim. Sergius Bulgakov (1871-1944) left the Soviet Union in 1923 and spent the rest of his academic career as dean and professor of dogmatic theology at Saint Sergius Theological Institute in Paris. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Called to Full Communion: Study Guide on Lutheran-Anglican Relations, ACC and the ELCIC. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1998, 92 pp., $8.95

Carlson, Joyce Clouston and Alf Dumont, eds. Bridges in Spirituality: First Nations Christian Women Tell Their Stories. Toronto: United Church Publishing House, 1997, 200 pp., $18.95. ISBN: 1551340631

Carlson, Joyce Clouston and Alf Dumont, eds. Bridges in Understanding: Aboriginal Christian Men Tell Their Stories. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 2003, 122 pp., $16.95

In recounting the stories of four elders this book demonstrates how the spiritual infuses and informs social relationships and how the elders serve as a bridge between indigenous and non-indigenous traditions and provide wisdom in churches and cross-cultural understanding in communities. The second part of the book, in relating the life story of Cree Elder Stanley McKay, portrays the tensions between Aboriginal and Euro-Canadian based cultures, and the integration of Christian and Traditional teachings. Joyce Clouston Carlson, a Winnipeg social worker, has worked in child welfare, adolescent treatment, and school social work. Alf Dumont was the first director of the Dr. Jessie Saulteaux Resource Centre in Winnipeg and speaker of the All Native Circle Conference. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Carlson, Joyce, ed. Dancing the Dream: The First Nations and the Church in Partnership. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1995, 128 pp., $11.99

Carlson, Joyce, ed. The Journey: Stories and Prayers for the Christian Year from People of the First Nations. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1991, 200 pp., $11.99

Cejka, Mary Ann and Thomas Bamat, eds. Artisans of Peace: Grassroots Peacemaking Among Christian Communities. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 288 pp., $25.00 U.S.

Clifford, Anne M. and Anthony J. Godzieba, eds. Christology: Memory, Inquiry, Practice. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 286 pp., $28.00 U.S.

DeSiano, Frank P. The Seven Commandments of Discipleship: What God Asks of Us. Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press, 2003, 128 pp., $12.95 U. S.

For those who want to follow Jesus this book outlines the basic framework and values required by such a discipleship. These attitudes and behaviours "simply cannot be surmounted or dismissed", the author tells us in the introduction, "because they expose the inner nature of what it means to walk down Christ's path." He expands on this idea in seven cogent and succinct chapters that emphasize, for example, the commandments of fidelity and worship, bearing witness and sharing burdens, at the heart of which lies the commandment of evangelization — the joyous proclamation of God's Good News in Jesus. Frank P. DeSiano, C.S.P., served as president of the Paulist Fathers from 1994-2002. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Dickson, Athol. The Gospel According to Moses: What My Jewish Friends Taught Me About Jesus. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Brazos Press, 2003, 256 pp., $27.99.

After spending five years attending a Hebrew Scripture study group, evangelical Christian Athol Dickson decided to write a book that might create a genuine encounter between Christian and Jewish interpretations of Scripture. This work investigates some of the primary theological differences between Christianity and Judaism — as well as the common ground. Passionately tied to scriptural narrative and text, each chapter looks at Christian and Jewish perspectives on topics such as monotheism, doubting God, scriptural paradox, suffering, grace vs. works and the place of Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures. As the author attests in the introduction: "After years of Bible study among them, I have learned to think about important things like faith and obedience, justice and mercy, and rebellion and redemption in Jewish ways, and in so doing have found deeper meanings within every word uttered by Jesus and his apostles." [Ecumenism, September 2003]

The Dictionary of Historical Theology. Edited by Trevor A. E. Hart. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2000, 599 pp., $ 50.00 US.

While there is an abundance of material published in the field of historical theology, up until now there has been no concise yet comprehensive manual available to readers in the English language. Written by 173 leading experts in the field, this volume draws together the best of contemporary scholarship on the key figures, movements, and texts in the story of Christian theology from the early church to the present day. Trevor A. Hart is professor of divinity at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Egerton, George, ed. Anglican Essentials: Reclaiming Faith Within the Anglican Church of Canada. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1995, 320 p.p., $14.95

The twenty-five Anglican contributors to this volume are united in the conviction that the greatest need of the Canadian Anglican Church is a rediscovery and reaffirmation of the essentials of the Christian faith. Most of the essays included here were presented to a national conference — Essentials 94 — which drew over 700 Anglicans to Montreal in June 1994 to examine and renew the foundations of their faith in face of the cultural challenges of a postmodern, post-Christian Canada. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

The Encyclopedia of Christianity, vol. II. Erwin Fahlbusch, Jan Milic Lochman, John Mbiti, Jaroslav Pelikan, and Lukas Vischer, eds. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2001, 787 pp., $100.00 US.

Ensemble, Recueil oecuménique de chants et de prières, sous les auspices du Conseil d'Églises chrétiennes en France. Montréal: Novalis, 2002, 576 pages, 33.95$.

Ensemble a été composé pour être utilisé: lors de célébrations oecuméniques, de rencontres interconfessionelles, par des aumôneries, à l'occasion de mariages, de baptêmes et de funérailles réunissant des membres de plusieurs Églises, par des chorales oecuméniques aussi bien que par des chorales paroissiales qui pourront découvrir les richesses d'autres traditions. Ce recueil contient plus de trois cents cantiques traditionnels et comtemporains, dont l'origines est pour plus de 40% catholique, 30% protestante et près de 10% orthodoxe, le reste étant “oecuménique”, soit que le compositeur et le parolier n'appartiennent pas à la même confession, ou bien qu'un chant vient du répertoire d'une communauté oecuménique. Quant aux prières, près de 140, elles comprennent des textes bibliques, ainsi que des écrits confessionnels, anciens ou contemporains. L'ensemble des chants et prières a été rassemblé par une équipe d'une douzaine de personnes comprenant des res-ponsables du dialogue oecuménique, des spécialistes de la liturgie et des musiciens appartenant aux différentes Églises. [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Erickson, Victoria Lee and Michelle Lim Jones, eds. Surviving Terror: Hope and Justice in a World of Violence. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Brazos Press, 2002, 336 pp., $32.99.

Foust, Thomas F., George R. Hunsberger, J. Andrew Kirk, and Werner Ustorf, eds. A Scandalous Prophet: The Way of Mission After Newbigin. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 325 pp., $30.00 US.

Frykenberg, Robert Eric, ed. Christians and Missionaries in India: Cross-Cultural Communication since 1500. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003, 417 pp., $39.00 U.S.

Gallagher, Winifred. Spiritual Genius The Mastery of Life's Meaning. Mississauga, Ontario: Randam House, 2002, 292pp., $37.95.

Gallagher defines “spiritual genius” as “the uniquely human ability to search for and find life's meaning, then express it in our lives.” Whether they are called saints, gurus, tzaddiks, or shamans, there have always been people who possess exceptional insight, altruism, and charisma. This book investigates what ordinary people trying to live decent, meaningful lives can learn from such extraordinary men and women, who are specially attuned to the deepest truths, and who exemplify — and radiate — spiritual genius. In this ecumenical approach, Winifred Gallagher highlights the common wisdom, and down-to-earth good humor, of these religious leaders, revels in their differences, and identifies the capacity for spiritual genius that all of us share with them. Each story testifies to the profound good in the world, even during a troubled time, and to a human capacity for finding life's meaning that is nothing less than genius. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Gauthier, Jacques. Thérèse de Lisieux, une espérance pour les familles. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2003, 144 p., 16,50$

Gerrish, A., ed. Reformed Theology for the Third Christian Millennium. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003, 120 p.p., $30.00

Gilliss, Martha, ed. Let Us Pray: Reformed Prayers for Christian Worship. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2002, 168p.p., $25.00

Goosen, Gideon. Bringing Churches Together: A Popular Introduction to Ecumenism. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2001, 184 pp., $ 14.50 US.

This book is for the average reader or student of theology who would like to be better informed about ecumenism. It deals, in a non-technical way, with the theology and history of ecumenism, explains the origins of the main Christian denominations, gives a brief history of the World Council of Churches and introduces some of the current issues. Ecumenical ethics and inter-religious dialogues form the subjects of the two final chapters. The author concludes each chapter with questions for group discussion, and ends the book with suggestions for practical ways in which the ordinary individual can promote ecumenism. Several appendices give useful background information. Gideon Goosen is associate professor in the school of theology of Australian Catholic University, Sydney, New South Wales. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Gourges, Michel et Michel Talbot, éd. En ce temps-là… Conceptions et expériences bibliques du temps. Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2002, 216 pages, 26.95$.

À l'aube du nouveau millénaire, sept spécialistes de la Bible et du Proche Orient s'atardent à approfondir les dimensions fondamentales du temps, tel qu'il est perçu et expérimenté dans la Bible. Les textes publiés dans cet ouvrage ont fait l'objet de conférences et d'échanges en séance plénière ou en ateliers lors du 58e congrès annuel de l'ACÉBAC (Association Catholique des Études Bibliques au Canada), tenu à Richelieu, Québec, du 27 au 30 mai 2001. Un approfondissement suggéré par l'entrée dans un nouveau millénaire et par le constat qu'il n'existe en définitive que peu d'études, en dehors des synthèses des dictionnaires et lexiques bibliques, sur la thématique du temps dans la Bible. [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Gunn, Angus M. Theodore Austin-Sparks (1889-1971): Reflections on His Life and Work. Toronto: Clements Publishing, 2001, 91 pp.

In this work, the author has paraphrased extracts under eight heads representing the main themes that recur again and again in the writings of the evangelist, Theodore Austin- Sparks. Coming out of the British evangelical community, Sparks was invited to speak in other countries, notably the United States. His preaching made lasting impressions on those who heard him. His emphasis on aspects of historic Christianity brought scripture to life, made it relevant and life — transforming. He preached simple faith in Christ's sacrifice but "defined salvation as an expression of the glory of Christ rather than an emergency rescue mission totally centered on humanity", the author tells us. The reader will be drawn into a greater intimacy with Christ as companion on a common quest. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Grün, Anselm. Le Baptême: Célébration de la vie. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2000, 64 p., 12,95$

Grün, Anselm. La Confirmation: Force et responsabilité. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2000, 64 p., 12,95$

Grün, Anselm. Le Mariage: Bénédiction pour la vie commune. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2001, 64 p., 12,95$

Hawn, C. Michael. Gather Into One: Praying and Singing Globally. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2003, 308 pp., $28.00 US

Hendry, Charles E. Beyond Traplines: Does the Church Really Care? Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1998, 113 pp., $14.95

Koester, Craig R. Revelation and the End of All Things. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2001, 209 pp. $ 16.00 US.

This readable and reliable guide to the book of Revelation thoughtfully engages the questions people most often ask about this difficult book of the Bible. Koester provides sound commentary on each section of the book of Revelation, drawing on the best recent scholarship and contemporizing his discussion with references to events like the siege at Waco, this phenomenal sales of the Left Behind series, and the use of Revelation in hymnody and art. Based on two decades of teaching Revelation to seminary students, pastors, and lay groups, this study both takes the text's first-century context seriously and makes Revelation relevant to twenty-first century readers. Craig R. Koester is professor of the New Testament at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Lawler, Justus George. Popes and Politics, Reform, Resentment and the Holocaust. New York: Continuum, 2002, 252 pp., $24.95 US.

The focus of this book is reform in the Catholic Church. The author is concerned that the angry voices “speaking out on the problems emerging from the period of the first and second Vatican councils, are tardily exploiting those problems primarily as a way to attack the papacy”. The beginning chapters present a detailed analysis of the research and conclusions of various denigrators of the modern papacy. The remaining chapters examine the principles of authentic reform found in authors such as Newman, Congar, de Lubac, Häring, Maritain, etc. The book concludes with practical proposals for the institutional and personal renovation of Catholicism in the present age, treating of church governance, structures of sin, intellectual freedom, gender conflicts, Episcopal synods, sexual vs. social morality, signs of the times, and doctrinal claims. [Ecumenism, September 2002]

Lose, David J. Confessing Jesus Christ: Preaching in a Postmodern World. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2003, 264 pp., $27.00 US

Lucker, Raymond A. and William C. McDonough, eds. Revelation and the Church: Vatican II in the Twenty-First Century. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 224 pp., $24.00 U.S.

Manns, Frédéric. Les enfants de Rébecca, Judaïsme et christianisme aux premiers siècles de notre ère. Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2002, 316 pages, 39.95$.

Ce volume présente une mise en relief de la pensée symbolique de l'Église primitive à travers son enracinement dans la Bible et le monde juif. Au fil de cette étude d'une grande érudition, l'auteur nous entraîne dans une traque de cette filiation, à la fois historique, exégétique et symbolique. Les traditions juives et judéo-chrétiennes, les mouvements juifs préexistants, la première lettre de saint Pierre sont longuement analysés, de même que les thèmes et symboles pris d'emblée en compte par le christianisme balbutiant. Passés au crible, ils éclairent les premiers pas de l'Église des origines. Cette démarche s'inscrit dans un retour aux sources qui, allié à la purification des mémoires, ne peut être que bénéfique pour ouvrir un chemin de réconciliation. Le Père Frédéric Manns, franciscain, est professeur à la faculté des Sciences Bibliques de Jérusalem, dont il est également le doyen. [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Mathews, Alice. Preaching That Speaks to Women. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 2003, 192 pp., $24.99.

While women outnumber men in most congregations, masculine anecdotes still dominate many sermons. Drawing on her many years of speaking to women, men and preachers, Alice Mathews explores the differences in the ways women and men listen. She considers the ways women think about themselves, make ethical decisions, handle stress, learn and view leadership and power and applies the results to the task of preaching. This volume invites preachers to consider how gender affects the way sermons are understood and calls them to preaching that relates to the entire congregation. Alice P. Mathews is Associate Professor of Educational Ministries and Women's Ministries at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Massachusetts. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Mathewes-Green, Frederica. The Open Door: Entering the Sanctuary of Icons and Prayer. Orleans, MA: Paraclete Press, 2003, 144 pp., $14.95 U.S.

This book presents a unique opportunity for readers to visit an imaginary church and see icons "in action" throughout the year — to stand alongside worshippers for whom the use of icons is a natural part of their devotional lives. Reproductions of icons allow the reader to view the icons that would be found in a typical contemporary Orthodox Church as the text explains their history and theology. Stories of saints and texts of the prayers appointed for the day enhance the devotional quality of the book. Anyone interested in understanding and "praying with" icons will benefit from this warmhearted, practical guide. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

McGrath, Alister E. A Scientific Theology Volume 2: Reality. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2002, 343 pp., $50.00 US

Reality, the second part of McGrath's systematic theology trilogy: Nature, Reality and Theory, provides a detailed defense of theological realism against radical challenges from Western philosophy. McGrath shows how a true and reliable view of the world finds a solid foundation in natural theology, and he demonstrates the implications of this position for every aspect of Christian thought. Alister E. McGrath is professor of historical theology at Oxford University and principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. He is also director of the John Templeton Oxford Seminars on Science and Christianity. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

McGrath, Alister E. In the Beginning: The Story of the King James Bible and How It Changed a Nation, a Language, and a Culture. Mississauga, Ontario: Random House, 2001, 340 pp., $ 37.95

Surprisingly, the origins of the most widely read Bible translation in the world lie in murder, deceit, bitter political feuds, and religious conflicts so intense they threatened the unity of England. The struggle to translate the Bible into English was a passionate cause, in the name of which crusaders fought, were imprisoned, and sometimes even executed — like William Tyndale, whose efforts to translate the New Testament into English led him a gruesome death. Named for the Scottish king who ascended the English throne in 1603, the King James Bible was not, in fact, the first Bible to be published in English; but its impact has been profound. Its language has been an inspiration for virtually every great writer since the seventeenth century, and has also provided the style and vocabulary for such different forms of expression as Negro spirituals and the Gettysburg Address. Alister McGrath is professor of Historical Theology at Oxford University. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Merkle, John C. Faith Transformed: Christian Encounters with Jews and Judaism. Collegeville, MN: The Liturgical Press, 2003, 216 pp., $23.95 U.S.

Until recently, Christian self-understanding was built in large part upon the notion of Christianity having replaced Judaism as the one valid pathway to God. Over the last four decades, numerous Christian churches have issued formal statements repudiating traditional anti-Jewish teachings and affirming the abiding validity of Judaism. In this book eleven Catholic and Protestant biblical scholars, historians, and theologians who have been involved in Christian-Jewish relations share how their encounters with Jews and Judaism have transformed their understanding and practice of Christianity. Eva Fleischner, Norman A. Beck, John T. Pawlikowski, Eugene J. Fisher, Mary C. Boys and the other essayists included here are all members of the Christian Scholars Group on Christian-Jewish Relations which formulated the 2002 consensus statement: "A Sacred Obligation: Rethinking Christian Faith in Relation to Judaism and the Jewish People," included as an appendix here. The issues raised in "A Sacred Obligation" are explored throughout this book and intermingled with the personal life experiences of the authors to produce a work that will inspire other Christians to reexamine their own views of Judaism and their understanding and practice of Christian faith in relation to Judaism. John C. Merkle is professor of theology at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University in Minnesota. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Merrigan, Terrence and Ian Ker, eds. Newman and the Word. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2001, 265 pp. $30.00 US.

The New Westminster Dictionary of Liturgy and Worship. Edited by Paul Bradshaw. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2002, 498 pp., $68.00.

This new volume retains the best traditions of the Westminster dictionaries while boasting the most contemporary scholarship and practice. Comprising over two hundred completely new entries, Bradshaw's Dictionary incorporates the collective expertise of today's foremost important topics in the field –– from offertories and vestments to ordination and anointing. Systematically organized and alphabetically arranged, the Dictionary also includes comprehensive bibliographies and reading lists encouraging additional reading and research. Paul Bradshaw is Professor of Liturgy at the University of Notre Dame. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Newbigin, Lesslie. Signs Amid the Rubble: The Purposes of God in Human History. Edited and Introduced by Geoffrey Wainwright. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2003, 121 pp., $15.00 US. ISBN: 0802809898

Comprising the texts of three public addresses given between 1941 and 1996, this volume continues the incisive critique of Western culture for which Newbigin is well known. The first part consists of the 1941 Bangalore Lectures, in which Newbigin speaks powerfully of the kingdom of God in relation to the modern idea of "progress". The second group of writings, the Henry Martyn Lectures of 1986, deals mainly with the importance of Christian mission. In his address to the world Council of Churches conference on mission and evangelism in Brazil in 1996, Newbigin predicts that "the three major factors which will compete for the allegiance of the human family are the gospel, the free market and Islam". Lesslie Newbigin (1909-1998), was a prominent leader of the ecumenical movement who served as associate general secretary of the World Council of Churches and as bishop of the Church of South India. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Noll, Mark A. The Old Religion in a New World: The History of North American Christianity. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 340 pp., $24.00 US.

A leading historian of religion, Mark Noll looks at the arrival of Christianity in the New World, focusing especially on what was new about the outworking of organized Christian religion on the American continent by comparison with European Christianity. He begins with a broad outline of major events, developments, and occurrences in the history of Christian churches, either transported from Europe or springing up indigenously, that have filled North America with such remarkable vitality and diversity. Secondly, he highlights some of the most important interpretive issues in the transfer of the hereditary religion of Europe to America. Mark A. Noll is Professor of Christian Thought, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois. [Ecumenism, 2002]

L'Orthodoxie dans le monde moderne, l'individu et la personne. Actes du premier colloque de théologie orthodoxe de l'Université de Sherbrooke. Productions G.G.C. ltée, 2002, 113 pages, 17.95$.

Le premier colloque de théologie orthodoxe tenu à Longueuil en avril 2001 portait sur le thème «L'individu et la personne dans le monde moderne». Six auteurs y ont présenté des communications en lien avec ce thème: P. Koumarianos — «L'individu dans le monde et la personne dans l'Église», R. Hutcheon — «Par la mort, il a vaincu la mort: le témoignage du service funéraire orthodoxe», S. Rodger — «La personne et l'individu dans les religions de l'Extrême-Orient», J. Lépine-«La victime dans la société moderne et la personne sauvée en l'Église», J. Hadjinicolaou — «Théologie de la personne et théologie de l'environnement naturel», L. Kamperidis — «La quête de spiritualité dans la société moderne». La réflexion théologique qui y fut partagés a bien démontré que la théologie vivait un réel passage, et qu'elle participait avec audace à l'immense travail d'interpellation de la culture dominante, pour en saisir les articulations, les forces et les fragilités, et pour offrir des pistes de lumière et d'inspiration à un monde désanchanté. Le Colloque a permis de mettre bellement en évidence la contribution d'une riche culture religieuse et d'une pensée théologique originale. Il fut le premier évènement de ce genre au Québec, remarquable par la densité des réflexions partagées et par l'intensité chaleureuse des échanges. Les auteurs participent à l'enseignement de la théologie orthodoxe dans le cadre des programmes de la Faculté de théologie, d'éthique et de philosophie de l'Université de Sherbrooke. [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Pinches, Charles R. Theology and Action: After Theory in Christian Ethics. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 237 pp., $25.00 US.

The author argues here that answers to questions about what constitutes an act are not only of academic interest but also reflect an erosion of moral thought and action in our present age. Pinches lays out current moral theories about action, detailing their deficiencies but also offering the thought of Thomas Aquinas as a corrective. Maintaining that all human acts, are moral acts he summarizes the major theological themes involved in a responsible Christian ethic and points out a fruitful path ahead, enlivening his discussion at every turn with everyday illustrations. Charles R. Pinches is professor of theology at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania where he also serves as director of graduate studies in theology. [Ecumenism, September 2002]

Polkinghorne, John, ed. The Work of Love, Creation as Kenosis. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2001, 210 pp., $22.00 US.

Poudrier, Roger. Prier sans cesse: De la parole à la prière. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2003, 320 p., 19,95$

Les prières de la bible: Traducteurs de la Bible Nouvelle Traduction. Montréal-Nord: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2003, 232p., 29,95$

Raiser, Elisabeth and Barbara Robra. With Love and with Passion: Women's Life and Work in the Worldwide Church. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2001, 194pp., $17.90 US.

At an event to mark the end of the Ecumenical Decade of the Churches in Solidarity with Women, in Harare. Zimbabwe, in December 1998, the first pictorial history of women in the ecumenical movement was inaugurated. The exhibit has since been touring the world and has generated excitement and comment. This book, inspired by the exhibit, picks up its key themes and images to make them available to readers worldwide. Through photos and text it portrays women dealing with HIV AIDS, and violence, racism and refugee situations. There are chapters on women in various regions of the world, women in ecumenical organizations, women doing theology and women's spirituality. The editors are both theologians. Elisabeth Raiser teaches gender studies in the European Women's College in Zurich. Barbara Robra has taught theology at the University of Cologne and worked with the Institute for Values and Structural Change in the Ruhr region of Germany. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Reisner, M. E. Strangers and Pilgrims: A History of the Anglican Diocese of Quebec, 1973-1993. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1995, 432 pp., $29.99

Robinson, Anthony B. Transforming Congregational Culture. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003, 138 pp., $18.00 U.S.

Ryan, Thomas. Four Steps to Spiritual Freedom. Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press, 2003, 281 pp., $16.95 US

This book takes a fresh approach to the four major themes of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ingatus of Loyola, casting them as four steps to spiritual freedom: Know who you are, Live your calling to the full, Let go of results; and Daily rededicate your life to God. Describing spiritual freedom as the ability to think and act without external or internal compulsions, the author makes clear through a variety of intimate stories and illustrations from his own and others' lives what each step looks like when it is lived in concrete terms. For anyone on a spiritual path in the midst of daily life and work Thomas Ryan offers here carefully and lovingly delineated guideposts along the way. Thomas Ryan, C. S. P., leads ecumenical retreats and parish missions in the United States, Canada and Europe. He directs the Paulist North American Office for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations based in New York City. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Shults, F. LeRon and Steven J. Sandage, The Faces of Forgiveness: Searching for Wholeness and Salvation. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 2003, 256 pp., $29.99.

Frère Silouane, Jonas ou l'Existence Prophétique. Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 2002, 80 pages 6.95$.

Simons, John, ed. The Challenge of Tradition: Discerning the Future of Anglicanism. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1997, 192 pp., $18.95

This volume is a collection of essays offering a response to the Montreal Declaration which came out of the Essentials 1994 Conference. The several authors furnish a thoughtful and tempered critique of some of the specifics of the Declaration which they find severely wanting as an expression of Anglicanism. The authors of the essays collected here have felt that they must decline the invitation to affirm the Declaration. These essays invite the faithful to think about the issues in ways that, while faithful to the same standards of authority, are free of the defensive and rigid postures in which the Declaration would fix Christian orthodoxy. John Simons is principal of Montreal Diocesan Theological College and faculty lecturer in Philosophical Theology at McGill University. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Snyder, T. Richard. The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Punishment. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2001,159 pp. $18.00 US.

In this work, the author asserts that the punitive spirit so prevalent in society's response to crime is significantly rooted in and reinforced by the popular Christian understandings of human nature and God's grace, both of which are distortions of the originating Judeo-Christian traditions. He perceives a different understanding of humanity and God in some of the alternative responses to crime characterized as "restorative justice". These alternatives seek redemption not only for the perpetrator alone but also for the victims and the larger community. While not utilizing the concept of Grace, they nonetheless reveal an approach to all persons as graced, no matter what their actions have been. Snyder invites readers into fresh ways of thinking about the traditional theological concepts of convenant, incarnation, and trinity as foundations for a restorative approach to justice. T. Richard Snyder is Academic Dean and Professor of Theology and Ethics, New York Theological Seminary, New York City. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Soares-Prabhu, George M. The Dharma of Jesus. Edited by Francis Xavier D'Sa. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 300 pp., $30.00 U.S.

The penetrating insights of Jesus of Nazareth from a brillant Indian Jesuit scholar provide a uniquely Asian Jesus. When George M. Soares-Pravhu died in a tragic accident in 1995 the greatness of his achievements had just begun to register internationally. Available for the first time outside of India, these selected writings explore four aspects of the nature of Jesus: Portraits of Jesus and his Community, The Praxis of Jesus, The Teaching of Jesus, and The Mission of Jesus. George M. Soares-Prabhu, S.J. was professor of New Testament at Jana-Deepa Vidyapeeth, the Pontifical Athanaeum, in Pune, India. Francis Xavier D'Sa, S.J. is professor of systematic theology and Indian religions at Jana-Deepa Vidyapeeth in Pune. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Sorsky, Nil. Nil Sorsky: The Complete Writings. Edited and Translated by George Maloney S. J. Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press, 2003, 164 pp., $19.95 US.

Nil Sorsky's (+ 1508) major contribution to Eastern Christianity was bringing the spirituality of the early Fathers and Mothers of the Desert to Russia. This volume contains: The Tradition, The Rule, Nil's letters and his last will and testament. In the Tradition he gives his disciples a simplified rule of skete monasticism, which he practiced on Mt. Athos. The Rule is an extended ascetical treatise on what Nil calls "mental activity" or, in today's terms, perpetual or continuous prayer. This significant contribution to the literature on Eastern Christian spirituality will make important reading for those interested in patristic studies, desert spirituality, Eastern Christianity and asceticism. George Maloney, S. J., ordained a priest of the Russian Byzantine rite, is the founder and director of Contemplative Ministries in Seal Beach, CA. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Stuchbery, Ian. This is Our Faith: A Guide to Faith and Belief for Anglicans. Toronto: Anglican Book Centre, 1990, 192 pp., $12.99

Tataryn, Myroslaw and Jaroslav Skira, eds. Windows to the East: Eastern Christians in a Dialogue of Charity. Illustrated with icons by Marianna Savaryn. Toronto: Novalis, 2001, 276 pp., $24.95

Readers of this work will encounter the complex patterns that underly Orthodox Christian spirituality and will learn about Eastern Christian history, the Orthodox understanding of Communion, the nature of prayer, Mary the Mother of God, iconography, sexuality, Christ in the Divine Liturgy etc. This volume is the result of a "dialogue in charity" between participants of several churches, including Ukrainian Catholic, Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic. Each of the fourteen learned but accessibly-written essays presents both sides of the east-west dialogue between Christianity's two streams. Fr. Myroslaw Tataryn teaches religious studies at St. Thomas More College in Saskatoon. Jaroslav Skira teaches Historical Theology and Eastern Christian Studies at Regis College in Toronto. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Témoins au coeur du monde. Sous la direction de Luc Phaneuf. Montréal: Novalis, 2003, 226 p., 24,95$

Dans une province où les assistances aux célébrations dominicales ne cessent de diminuer et les communautés chrétiennes ne seraient plus constituées que de têtes blanches, le christianisme a-t-il encore quelque chose à dire au monde? Les croyants et les croyantes du Québec: laïcs et consacrés, hommes et femmes, pères et mères de famille, artistes, intellectuels, professionnels des médias ou du monde de la santé, éducateurs, con- templatifs, fondateurs d'oeuvres…par leur témoignage répondent «oui». Ils vivent le christianisme non pas d'abord comme un système, mais avant tout comme une rencontre personnelle avec le Dieu vivant tel que révélé sur terre par Jésus Christ. Parmi ceux qui ont accepté de témoigner ici à coeur ouvert de la joie et la plénitude qui les habitent se trouvent: Irénée Beaubien, Benoit Lacroix, Emmett Johns, Louise Brissette, Bertrand Ouellet, Raymond Beaugrand-Champagne, Jean-Paul Desbiens. Luc Phaneuf est un théologien, marié et père de deux enfants. Maître en études bibliques, il a poursuivi des études doctorales en spiritualité à l'Université pontificale grégorienne et prépare maintenant une maîtrise en histoire de l'Église. [Oecuménisme, juin 2003]

Tennent, Timothy C. Christianity at the Religious Roundtable: Evangelicalism in Conversation with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 2002, 270 pp., $32.99.

In today's postmodern, pluralistic context, Christianity is faced with a different apologetic task than in ages past. Rather than being at the head of the table, Christianity now finds itself at a roundtable, dialoguing with competing faiths. This book provides a focused treatment that engages doctrinal challenges to Christianity from Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism. Timothy C. Tennent is associate professor of world missions at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Thompson, J. Milburn. Justice & Peace: A Christian Primer. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 286 pp., $20.00 U.S.

Throughly revised and updated, the new edition of this popular classroom text has added substantial discussions of globalization, ethno-nationalist conflict, terrorism, and conflicts in the Middle East, plus a list of web sites along with study questions for each chapter, maps, tables, figures and sidebars with topics for reflection. J. Milburn Thompson is chair and professor of theology at Bellarmine University in Louisville Kentucky. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Treat, James. Around the Sacred Fire: Native Religious Activism in the Red Power Era. New York: Palgrave Global Publishing, 2003, 376 pp., $35.00 US

This volume presents the cultural history of intertribal activism centered on the Indian Ecumenical Conference, an influential movement among native people in Canada and the United States during the Red Power era. Founded in 1969, the Conference began as an attempt at organizing grassroots spiritual leaders who were concerned about the conflict between tribal and Christian traditions through-out Indian country. By the mid-seventies, thousands of people were gathering each summer in the foothills of the Rockies, where they participated in week-long encampments promoting spiritual revitalization and religious self-determination. The Ecumenical Conference played a central role in stimulating cultural revival among native people, partly because Conference leaders strategized for social change in ways that differed from the militant groups. Drawing on archival records, published accounts, oral histories, and field research, James Treat has written the first comprehensive study of this important but over- looked effort at postcolonial interreligious dialogue. James Treat of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in Eastern Oklahoma is an assistant professor at the University of Oklahoma. [Ecumenism, June 2003]

Tripolitis, Antonía. Religions of the Hellenistic-Roman Age. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 165 pp., $16.00 US.

van Gorder, A. Christian. No God But God: A Path to Muslim-Christian Dialogue on God's Nature. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2003, 208 pp., $25.00 U.S.

This book begins with a discussion of the historical dimensions and relational dynamics of Muslim-Christian encounter. Following chapters explore the concept of God, revelation, worship, Jesus, salvation and covenant. This lucid presentation frees a path for productive dialogue between the two faiths. A. Christian van Gorder is professor of religious and intercultural studies at Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania. [Ecumenism, September 2003]

Vingt ans d'Études Patristiques dans le Monde. Actes du colloque du 8 septembre 2001 «Connaissance des Pères de l'Église», no 85, mars 2002, 128 pages
Montréal: Éditions Médiaspaul, 26.95$.

Les intervenants de ce colloque ont tracé un bilan et montré la diversité et la complémentarité des études patristiques dans les différents pays du monde, au cours des vingt dernières années. Ils ont mis en évidence les intuitions des Pères et leurs retentissements actuels. [Oecuménisme, 2002]

Vischer, Lukas, ed. Christian Worship in Reformed Churches Past and Present. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003, 432 pp., $45.00 U.S.

Vysheslavtsev, Boris P. The Eternal in Russian Philosophy. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 202pp., $26.00 US.

Much of Russian philosophy has been unavailable to or unexplored by Western thinkers. This work reveals the uniqueness of the Russian vision by offering a genuinely philosophical introduction to the themes of Russian religious thought — freedom, the nature and centrality of the person, the nature of grace and law, the role of the irrational in human nature and its sublimation, and conscious credos versus unconscious cultural assumptions. Boris Vysheslavtsev was one of a constellation of Russian thinkers, including Soloviev, Berdyaev, and Florensky, whose voices were lost amid the din of Soviet censorship. It is only now that Vysheslavtsev's thought is becoming available to the West. Melding religious and existential concerns, this is both a book about Russian philosophy and an excellent exemplar of it. Boris P. Vysheslavtsev was born in Moscow in 1877. A teacher of philosophy at the University of Moscow, he was expelled from the Soviet Union in 1922 and settled in France. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Walls, Andrew F. The Cross-Cultural Process in Christian History. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2002, 284 p., $ 22.00 US.

This volume presents essays on recurrent themes of Christian history viewed intercontinentally and followed by studies of the transmission and appropriation of the Christian faith in two specific fields, Africa and the modern missionary movement from the West. The author points out the return of what he calls the “Ephesian Moment”. Members of the early Jesus community at Ephesus came from two contrasting life styles: Jewish and Gentile. “Two races and two cultures historically separated by the meal table now met at table to share the knowledge of Christ . . . . Each was necessary to the other, each was necessary to complete and correct the other; for each was an expression of Christ under certain specific conditions, and Christ is humanity completed.” Walls applies this to the modern conundrum of either identifying one version of Christian faith as the standard and normative one or holding that each expression is equally valid and authentic; able to exist in isolation from the others. He contends that neither of these approaches is the Ephesian way as Christ's completeness comes from all humanity, from the “translation of the life of Jesus into the lifeways of all the world's cultures and subcultures”. The enrichment of theological thinking brought about through dealing with varying cultural situations is demonstrated with clarity and precision. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Weber, Hans-Ruedi. Walking on the Way. Geneva: WCC Publications, 2002, 110pp., $11.00 US.

In this refreshing reflection on key biblical texts, the author employs literary and historical analysis in discussing the great festivals of the ecclesiastical year and the important periods in between. Additionally, he draws on the work of artists, especially painters and weavers, interpreting images and symbols they use. Hans-Ruedi Weber was formerly director for biblical studies at the World Council of Churches and a professor at the Graduate School of Ecumenical Studies at Bossey, near Geneva. [Ecumenism, 2002]

Work, Telford. Living and Active: Scripture in the Economy of Salvation. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2002, 343 pp., $35.00 US.

Wright, Tom. The Meal that Jesus Gave Us. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003, 96 pp., $12.00

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