A Guide to the Church of England

by Martin Davie

This is a lively and informative guide to the Church of England, from its Romano-British origins to the central church structures of the twenty-first century. It defines doctrine and how to address a Dean, covers Canon Law and explores the implications of Establishment; looks at mission and maintenance, music and ministry. From the Archbishop of Canterbury to the Thirty-Nine Articles and from Royal Peculiars to inter-faith relations, this invaluable resource brings together in a single volume the diverse threads that make up the Church of England.

Genres: Religion

264 pages, Paperback

First published August 19, 2008

Reviews

[Andy Todd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful trot through several issues relating to the CofE today (or at least, a dozen years ago). Read with the Kuhrt book 'Ministry Issues' it will cover most technical questions on CofE governance.

[Melanie Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a guide book, this is informative and does its job in that sense. However, if you are looking for inspiring extras, you may be disappointed.

[Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a comprehensive overview over the Church of England. It contains all the basic and some of the special knowledge which is definitelly useful for anybody who has some relation to the CofE. The book is written so that the interest generally does not drop. Of course there are some passages where one feels like going through deserted land, but those passages can be taken with the help of the oases in other chapters.
The book is a little to target-oriented in some areas. Over passages a missionary standpoint becomes evident - to the outside as well as to the inside: Guidance on how to become a minister in the CofE is contained next. From time to time one also gasps the apologetical tendency, probably aimed at strengthening the communion (e.g. it is stressed several times that there are no female bishops in the CofE and not going to be [information that is already a little out of date as we know]). But although there are these small minuses the book overall deserves a clear plus and can be recommended for reading.

[Stephen Dufton · Rating 4 out of 5]

useful , if a little dry!