Search results for: 'chang ch'
Books change the way we look at life
Sarah Meyrick shares her thoughts about writing her upcoming novel The Restless ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Feb 2021
Are UK churches doing enough to fight climate change?
Just 1 in 10 young people believe their church is doing enough to respond to the climate crisis. What can the Church do to combat this concern among young ...
- Joanne Poutney
- 3 Aug 2021
Free Webinar Launch Event - Communicate for Change
To celebrate the launch of her new book Communicate for Change, join Genelle Aldred from 7-8pm on Thursday 9th September as she talks to panellists about how to hold power and privilege in balance with one another, and what it really means to be an ...
- Emma Collins
- 22 Sept 2021
Communicate for Change: Singular Narratives
Find out how to attend Communicate for Change: Singular Narratives in the following blog ...
A Revolution in Your Head? How social prescribing could change the world
Emma Drew, author of The Whole Person Recovery Handbook, is on our blog for World Cerebral Palsy Day.
The language we use to talk about diagnoses and conditions has a profound effect on the treatment of it.
How can social prescribing help result in better outcomes, ones that look at health in a way that’s more ...
- Emma Collins
- 5 May 2020
You are not alone, an extract from Baby Change
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is a week-long campaign dedicated to talking about mental illness during and after pregnancy. In the introduction to Baby Change, Anne Calver writes that she '...did not find anything to help parents emotionally, mentally or spiritually as they prepared for and transitioned into life as mums and dads'. In ...
- Emma Collins
- 29 Sept 2020
'... a springboard for future sustainable change' - Black History Month 2020
As we celebrate Black History Month this October, we ask retired superintendent Dr Leroy Logan, MBE what Black History Month means to ...
- Emma Collins
- 4 Mar 2021
'A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change'
#ChoosetoChallenge is this year's theme for International Women's Day. With this mind, we are sharing an extract from Josephine Butler: A Very Brief History. Josephine challenged social attitudes to women and campaigned for women's rights. In this extract, author Jane Robinson tells us about Josephine's far-reaching influence, and how one of her ...
Books that can change your life
Books are an invaluable source of power. They can teach you many things, show you different perspectives and in turn shape who you are along the way.
We have selected a number of books that will shape your thinking and, possibly, change your ...
- Emma Collins
- 21 Sept 2021
Fake News and Clickbait
How many times have you clicked on an online article, only to find it has no relevance to the title it was given? In this extract from Communicate for Change, Genelle Aldred explores the rise of clickbait, and the effect that negative stories can have on our opinions of groups of ...
- Catherine Reynolds
- 30 Apr 2018
Grenfell Hope: Stories from the Community
The Grenfell Tower fire broke out on 14th June 2017 in North Kensington. Over 150 homes were destroyed and there were more than 70 ...
- Catherine Reynolds
- 8 Jun 2018
Long Story Short: Why We're Living
Happiness. Safety. Significance. Three things society tells us we’re living for, but what do they all ...
- Catherine Reynolds
- 11 May 2018
Red Cross Week: Mental Health Visibility
Red Cross Week celebrates the power of kindness. Learn more about mindfulness and how to help people in ...
Use more than just words - take positive action
Words affect us in so many ways. They can hurt us, help us, and alter our perspective. Jessie Faerber writes about the next step beyond words: taking ...
God’s Story – why it’s bigger than our personal narrative
‘So, what’s your story?’ I love asking that question.
We use stories to find meaning and purpose. The way we respond to that question reveals something of the story we are living with our lives. In a moment, we choose where our story begins and quickly edit the headlines into an ...
Independent Bookshop Week - a chat with The Christian Bookshop in Birkenhead
As part of Independent Bookshop Week, we are featuring interviews with, well, independent bookshops!
We chatted with The Christian Bookshop in Birkenhead about reviews, social media, comfy shoes, and – of course – books!
The Christian Bookshop, 14 Grange Road West, Birkenhead, Wirral CH41 4DATel: 0151 647 ...
6 Questions for Alan Mordue
Continuing on with Independent Bookshop Week, we chatted with our sales director Alan Mordue about unexpectedly successful books, sales conferences, and his favourite part of being a sales ...
What story is your life telling?
By Leila Jennings
‘Narrative is the central function … of the human mind. We turn everything into a story in order to make sense of life.’ - James Bryan Smith
Andy Frost’s new book, Long Story Short, provides insight into the narratives that we use to define our path in life. Many of us see life as the pursuit of ...
A chat with Peter Graystone
Our author Peter Graystone is on our blog today as part of our month-long exploration of More Ways To Read The Bible. We’ll be looking at books that consider different ways you can engage with ...
5 Questions For Elaine Storkey
Elaine Storkey, author of Scars Across Humanity, will present at this year’s Keswick Convention. We chatted to her about writing, books, ...
Why do books resonate with us?
‘Books aren’t luxuries. They’re lifelines.’ – Matt Haig
When we read a book, we want to relate it to ourselves. We’d like it to resonate with us. When we’re shy, it’s nice to see a shy character in a story. If we like to make people laugh, we might enjoy characters who are more boisterous and ...
Why does God allow suffering?
Robin Gill is Emeritus Professor of Applied Theology at the University of Kent and Acting Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Gibraltar. Among his many books are A Textbook of Christian Ethics (4th edition 2014) and Moral Passion and Christian Ethics (2018). Here, he chats with us about his book Why Does God Allow Suffering? and his personal ...
5 Questions for Rebecca Parkinson
Rebecca Parkinson is the editor for SPCK’s Assemblies website. This site gives instant access to high-quality school assemblies for teachers and others leading collective worship. It is used by millions of people each year.
Rebecca lives in Lancashire with her husband and their two children. Since graduating from Nottingham and ...
Living a Heroic Life
Summer is often the time we wish for throughout the year and, if especially if you have kids, can’t wait to get away for some rest and relaxation. How do you spend your summers? Do you use it to jet off to the beach? Maybe you spend time at home with family and a barbeque. Maybe you take your children on an adventure. Before the summer comes ...
The story you need to tell
“Only a smile, only a word, only a kindness done.A brief exchange, a little light from one to one.”
- John McLeod, Appreciation Poems
As Too Soon, a mother’s journey through miscarriage, is published today, I wanted to share my motivation for writing the book and my hopes for it. When I endured the horror of four consecutive ...
A Chat with Editor Tony Collins
19 August is World Humanitarian Day. Our Editor Tony Collins blogs about our upcoming book They Called Us Love and the inspiration behind ...
National Read A Book Day
6 September is National Read A Book Day.
Richard Harries, author of Haunted by Christ, blogs for us about the importance of reading and the effect that literature can have on our perspective, how we see ourselves and the ...
Replay and Regret? Responding to Shame
Our #SPCKBookClub pick for October is I Thought There Would Be Cake by Katharine Welby-Roberts.
Rachael Newham, author of Learning to Breathe, shares her thoughts on this honest ...
God values who we are
Liz Carter, author of the forthcoming Catching Contentment, shares her thoughts on our book club pick I Thought There Would Be Cake by Katharine ...
The Wisdom of Dr Dawn Harper on Fitness Day
Dr Dawn Harper is on our blog for Fitness Day, sharing her wisdom about the benefits of regular exercise. We all have to find the fitness that works well with us and makes us feel motivated. When we find what we enjoy, we look forward to our ...
Catching up with Andrew Gant
Andrew Gant will be at Southwark Cathedral on 2 October in conversation with Professor Jane Glover. Here, he chats with us about his work as a composer. Is writing music similar to writing a ...
Catching Up With Cole Moreton for Libraries Week
Cole Moreton is on our blog for Libraries Week.
His new book The Light Keeper publishes in May of next ...
A Chat with Alan Mordue for Libraries Week
It’s Libraries Week – our Sales Director Alan Mordue is the perfect person to chat to!
He’s always in the know about books and how to sell them.
We wanted to know how libraries influenced his decision to work in ...
Reflections on the end of the Great War
On Remembrance Sunday, Alan Billings shares his ...
What Not To Say When Someone Has Experienced A Miscarriage
It's World Mental Health Day today.
The loss of a baby can cause unimaginable pain and grief.
We might think we can understand what someone else is going through, but we don’t know.
Jane Clamp considers what to say and what not to say when someone has lost a baby in early ...
How can I help my child to open up?
Dr Sarah Vohra, author of Mental Health in Children and Young People, blogs for us on World Mental Health Day.
It can be a real struggle to open up to others about our concerns and problems, and there’s no worse feeling than not being able to help when you know someone is struggling.
Dr Vohra provides practical advice to help ...
Faith carries us through hardship
We all want to contribute to something that is bigger than ourselves. We all want to make a difference in the lives of the people around us. When we serve people who need our help, we might be putting our own lives at risk.
They Called Us Love is the story of a woman whose call to service was bigger than her own personal struggle. April’s ...
The Importance of Good Mentorship
Christopher Dines is on our blog for Mentoring Day.
Recovery from addiction takes an incredible amount of personal strength and resilience, but it also requires tremendous support from friends, family, and professionals. Having a mentor can make all the difference when healing from an ...
Where do writers get their ideas?
In keeping with our #NaNoWriMo theme, we interviewed Sarah Meyrick, author of The Restless Wave, about her idea for her new novel.
How do you begin with an idea and turn it into a ...
World Quality Day: what makes a good business?
SPCK Fundraising Assistant Catriona Brickel reflects on the values of SPCK as a company. On World Quality Day, she considers the core beliefs and principles of a good ...
Rev Dr Mark Davidson's reflections on Remembrance Sunday
Rev Dr Mark Davidson, author of War Cries, is on our blog today for Remembrance ...
Prayer as a form of self-care
Gemma Simmonds, author of The Way of Ignatius, is on our blog for self care week, discussing how prayer is as essential to self-care as healthy eating, good sleep, regular exercise, and time with friends and ...
How We Use Our Profits
SPCK has been publishing Christian books for over three hundred years – in fact, it’s the third oldest publishing house still operating in the UK! So it won’t be too surprising if you’ve come across our books before, or only know us as a ...
Alexa Tewkesbury's 3 wishes for all children
Alexa Tewkesbury has written several children’s books for us. It seems only fitting that she’d be on our blog for World Children’s Day, sharing her wishes for today’s ...
The expression of faith through art
‘Pictures can reach parts of the theological imagination that words cannot.’ Jane Williams considers the representation of faith through ...
How can we prevent slavery?
Ben Cooley, CEO of anti-trafficking charity Hope for Justice, has a vision to live in a world free from slavery. Since it was founded 10 years ago, Hope for Justice has grown to become one of the world’s leading NGOs in this sector, active across four continent. Thanks to a team of former senior police investigators and detectives, lawyers, ...
#IDPWD2018: how can we make life and church more inclusive for people with disabilities?
3 December is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Roy McCloughry, author of The Enabled Life, blogs for us about how we can be inclusive of people with ...
A Very Brief History of SPCK’s Charitable Work
Our Fundraising Assistant Catriona Brickel reflects on the values that led to the creation of SPCK, and how those values are still what drive us today. ...
Managing MS Naturally
Tessa Buckley grew up near Epsom race course in Surrey. As a child, she spent a lot of time writing and illustrating stories. After leaving school, she studied interior design at Chelsea College of Art and worked in architecture and design in London until 1989, when she was forced to give up her career after developing multiple sclerosis. That was ...
Is my gift enough?
SPCK’s Fundraising Assistant Catriona Brickel blogs about generosity. It benefits everyone ...
Stories and salad bars: catching up with Paul Kerensa
Paul Kerensa is a busy comedian and author. We caught up with him about his plans for ...
Connection and Compassion at Christmastime
The holidays can be particularly hard for people who are in recovery from addiction. Christopher Dines considers ways that we can help ourselves and others during the holiday season, especially when we look to prevent ...
Ruth Clemence's thoughts for International Migrants' Day
Blogger Ruth Clemence shares a review of They Called Us ...
Building resilience: boundaries not barriers
How can we become more resilient? Justine Allain Chapman considers the importance of establishing and maintaining healthy ...
Jonathan Sandys: The Man Who Could Call Churchill ‘Great-Grandpapa’
Jonathan Sandys, co-author of God and Churchill, passed away of chronic lung disease on 29 December 2018.
His co-author Wallace Henley had some very kind words to ...
SPCK in Durham for the 1698 Club Dinner
Fundraising Assistant Catriona Brickel blogs about the 1698 Club Dinner that took place on 11 ...
Do love. Don't judge.
We ran a poll on Twitter asking what our readers wanted to see more of on our blog. The overwhelming majority asked for content based around our memoirs and biographies. Sean Stillman, author of God’s Biker, was the perfect person to ask to ...
Believe in the power of prayer
Debra Green OBE is the National Director and Founder of Redeeming Our Communities (ROC), founded in 2004; a registered charity and Limited company. She is frequently asked to speak at events and conferences. She also speaks at conferences organised by statutory authorities and public services.
Debra has 25 years of experience in bringing ...
Ruining the Moment
James Cary, author of The Sacred Art of Joking, blogs for us during Storytelling ...
What Not To Say To Someone Who Has Been Subjected To Abuse
4 – 10 February is Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.
Natalie Collins, author of Out of Control, shares what to not say to someone who has been subjected to ...
Brave New Year
Andrew Adam, author of Thomas Cochrane and the Dragon Throne, blogs for us about the Chinese New ...
#ReclaimSocial – Post Positive in 2019!
Social media has so much potential to be a force for good. We can re-connect with old friends easier than ever before, share important news articles and keep distant family up to date with changes in our lives. Social media has also been central to campaigns and protests, as demonstrated by the viral #metoo campaign.
But it is impossible to deny ...
Struggling to find space? Follow Jesus into the desert.
The desert is a vast and beautiful. The colours of the sky and the sand and the piercing blue against the reds and the yellow, are intense. A few years ago, on an 8 days retreat in the Egyptian desert, three days of which were solitary and fasting, I was struck by the space and sheer beauty of the desert.
It was a struggle to get away, with four ...
Five non-fiction books – International Book Giving Day
With international book giving day taking place today, this entirely volunteer-based initiative is aimed at giving awareness and sharing the love of books. Originating in the UK, volunteers and book lovers alike join in on the yearly celebration worldwide by giving the gift of books to others with the hope of instilling in them an affinity and ...
- authise authise
- 20 Mar 2019
Give the gift of story this Mother's Day
As Mothering Sunday approaches, give Mum a story that will touch her heart in a way no other gift ...
- authise authise
- 22 Mar 2019
How can Christians make a difference?
Today, we're reflecting on an extract from Rowan Williams' Being Disciples: Essentials of the Christian life.
How can Christians make a difference and how can we work together for the 'common good' in society?
...
- authise authise
- 26 Mar 2019
Terry Waite on prison reform and rehabilitation - part 2
Terry Waite is an Anglican humanitarian and author. In the 1980s, he worked as the Archbishop of Canterbury’s special envoy, travelling to the Middle East and negotiating the release of hostages, when he himself was taken as a hostage. Since his release from captivity he has worked extensively with prisoners and is a supporter of SPCK’s ...
- authise authise
- 8 Apr 2019
Who Cares About HIV?
For World Health Day, Who Cares About HIV? author, Paul Kybird, explains the new book, the challenges of those living with HIV, and their engagement with pastoral ...
- authise authise
- 12 Apr 2019
Very Brief Histories Event
The Very Brief History series is a collection of short, accessible introductions on histories, legacies, and movements that have shaped the world written by industry experts. Our event on Saturday features four speakers uncovering the lives of Thomas More, Immanuel Kant, Byzantine Christianity, and Julian of Norwich.
...
- authise authise
- 12 Apr 2019
News from the Independent Publishing Guild Awards
I am delighted to announce that we have been nominated for the Digital Publishing Award, and Specialist Consumer Publisher of the Year (having received this two years in a row)!
Learn more about how our school assemblies website is helping teachers grab the attention and engage young people.
Today, millions of young people are facing pressures ...
- authise authise
- 15 Apr 2019
Spanning the Decades
Sarah Meyrick introduces our new blog series where she takes you through the decades of her new novel, The Restless Wave, as well as inspiring stories from her own family ...
- authise authise
- 26 Apr 2019
Leading - The Millennial Way
Enjoy an excerpt and photos of the book launch from Simon Barrington's and Rachel Luetchford's new book Leading - The Millennial Way! Get your copy ...
- authise authise
- 3 May 2019
Spanning the Decades: 1960s
Sarah Meyrick's fourth Spanning the Decades post for her new book The Restless Wave, available for pre-order ...
- authise authise
- 13 May 2019
Mindfulness, Spirituality & Mental Health Awareness Week
Tim Stead, former Vicar, mindfulness teacher and author of See, Love, Be – Mindfulness and the spiritual life writes for Mental Health Awareness ...
- authise authise
- 21 May 2019
Prayer Experiment - Thank You Jar
With our partner publisher Baker Books, we've paired these two titles to help you find creative ways to pray for your whole family! Like this Thank You Jar activity from Miranda Threlfall-Holmes' The Prayer Experiment ...
- authise authise
- 27 Jun 2019
Working with Richard Rohr
In his decades as a globally recognized teacher and Franciscan priest, Richard Rohr has helped millions understand and engage with matters of faith and spirituality. Alison Barr, Commissioning Editor and Publisher at SPCK tells us what it's like working with such an internationally renowned ...
- authise authise
- 4 Jul 2019
Coffee with Sarah Meyrick
Sarah Meyrick recently published her second novel, The Restless Wave. Set across three generations, the book emcompasses themes such as love, family, faith and history, with some of her inspiration coming from her own family history. We managed to find a quiet few minutes to catch up with Sarah and talk about all things ...
- authise authise
- 10 Jul 2019
World Population Day and Christian Demographics
Our Global Advocacy Manager Dr Angus Crichton reflects on the continuing expansion of humanity and the shift of worldwide ...
- authise authise
- 12 Jul 2019
How literacy reduces reoffending - the impact of Diffusion books
In an evening spent with Olympic rower Debbie Flood we find out how reading in prisons can help reduce reoffending. Debbie Flood experienced this impact first-hand in her role as prison ...
- authise authise
- 30 Jul 2019
What challenges will humanity face? - as explored in The Human Odyssey
Stephen Green's upcoming book The Human Odyssey raises important questions about the future of humanity. Will we all live in cities by the end of the century? Will conflict be unavoidable? Will we be on a journey towards self-centred individualism? In this blog post Stephen gives us an idea of what of to expect in his upcoming ...
- authise authise
- 6 Aug 2019
Who was Miao Zizhong, Cedar of Lebanon?
The Communists earmarked Zhejiang as a 'religion-free zone' in the 1950s and 1960s, yet to the glory of God, Jesus Christ is worshipped today by more than 13 million people throughout the province. The story of Miao Zizhong is one of many personal stories in Zhejiang: The Jerusalem of China that depict the harsh realities of trying to ...
- authise authise
- 19 Aug 2019
The Challenges of Urbanization
From one end of Eurasia to the other, societies are now either already highly urbanized or in the process of becoming so. In The Human Odyssey Stephen Green explores the challenges that are posed by this change. In the following blog post Stephen introduces us to his chapter on 'The forces unleashed by ...
- authise authise
- 12 Aug 2019
Mark Oakley on Greenbelt Festival and the Poet George Herbert
We catch up with Mark Oakley to find out more about his appearance at Greenbelt Festival. We also hear about his admiration for two great poets, one of which he reflects upon in his upcoming book, My Sour-Sweet ...
- authise authise
- 13 Aug 2019
Why life with dementia can be fulfilling and positive
Living with dementia is often accompanied with a negative stigma. Jennifer Bute's story proves that it is still possible to live positively with dementia, and there is much that can be done when living with this ...
- authise authise
- 28 Aug 2019
Augustine’s Confessions, the story of his journey to adult Christian faith
On 28th August we celebrate the feast of St Augustine of Hippo. Saint Augustine of Hippo was a Roman African, early Christian theologian and philosopher from Numidia. Saint Augustine of Hippo is just one of twenty Christians that Rowan Williams reflects upon in his new book Luminaries. In this extract we learn about 'Augustine's Confessions' ...
- authise authise
- 9 Sept 2019
Exploring Patterns of History - an extract from The Human Odyssey
The long human odyssey of self-discovery has reached a crucial stage: everything we do affects everyone and everything else - and we know it. In this extract from Stephen Green's new book The Human Odyssey he explores patterns of history and questions whether these patterns justify the narrative of a human journey - an odyssey which, for ...
- authise authise
- 12 Sept 2019
New for September 2019
6 New books for September 2019. From autobiographies to anthologies there's something for everyone, so grab a hot drink and embrace the benefits of hygge with a new read for Autumn ...
- authise authise
- 5 Sept 2019
Church Communications and the 'four Ms'
What are church communications? and why is it important that churches adapt their communications to their own culture and context? In this extract from Mark Crosby's So Everyone Can Hear he explains the importance of the communication process and why the 'four Ms' provide the basis for the 'what' and 'why' of church ...
- authise authise
- 21 Sept 2019
Busting the Myths of Dementia
Alzheimer's Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness, provide support and demystify dementia. The impact of Alzheimer's Day is increasing but there is still lack of information surrounding dementia. Louise Morse, co-author of Dementia from the Inside writes about the common myths of dementia and explains how the biggest hope is to ...
- authise authise
- 19 Sept 2019
How to write a Communications Strategy
Hear the author of So Everyone Can Hear Mark Crosby speak with Elizabeth Neep on the importance and the simplicity of creating a church communication ...
- Emma Collins
- 30 Sept 2019
National Poetry Day with Janet Morley
In the lead up to National Poetry Day we speak to Janet Morley about her latest anthology Love Set You Going: Poems of the ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Oct 2019
Our first Catholic catalogue!
We're delighted to announce that our first Catholic catalogue has arrived! At SPCK we go beyond denominational labels and divisions, and aim to support all Christians in their exploration of their own faith. For this reason, we have gathered for the first time in one catalogue a substantial number of our titles by, for or about Catholics. We're ...
- Emma Collins
- 9 Oct 2019
Black History Month and Extraordinary Saints
Black History Month allows us to take time to consider the individuals who have been relegated not just to the side-lines of history but forgotten through the ages. Sharon Prentis, Intercultural Mission Enabler and Dean of BAME Affairs for the Church of England in Birmingham tells us that whilst there has been a marked improvement in acknowledging ...
- Emma Collins
- 4 Nov 2019
10 ways to improve your church's physical presence
Have you ever looked at your church's physical presence through the eyes of a visitor? Ensuring that your church is easy to find, has clear signage, and is accessible are just some of the things that need to be considered when mapping your visitor's journey. In this blog post Mark Crosby, author of So Everyone Can Hear lists 10 steps for improving ...
An Inspiring Story of Courage and Strength
As we approach Christmas and the end of 2019 it's the ideal time to reflect and prepare for the new year ahead. Whilst we reflect on our lives, there will be many things we are grateful for, as well as those we take for granted. Putting yourself in someone else's shoes is not always easy to do but when we immerse ourselves in a story, especially a ...
- Emma Collins
- 12 Nov 2019
Meaningful Gifts for Christmas
Our Christmas store has arrived! and it's complete with gift guides to help you find that perfect present. Whether it's the latest children's book from comedian Paul Kerensa or a new journal inspired by the popular listography books, there's something for everyone, all available on our Christmas store ...
- Emma Collins
- 3 Dec 2019
SPCK's AGM and Inaugural Annual Lecture
SPCK supporters ponder the mysteries of the Middle East with Terry Waite and Andrew White at SPCK’s inaugural Annual ...
- Emma Collins
- 4 Dec 2019
New for December 2019
December sees the publication of a great selection of titles for Lent 2020. So if you've started your Lenten preparations early make sure to keep an eye out for these new books. Highlights include Saying Yes to Life: The Archbishop of Canterbury's Lent Book 2020 and The Glory of the Cross by Cardinal Vincent ...
- Emma Collins
- 12 Dec 2019
Top 10 Gifts for Him
Whether he's a fan of sport or an avid reader of suspense novels our ‘Top 10 Gifts for Him’ will inspire you to find that perfect book to gift this Christmas. Make sure you place your order before 19 December 2019 for pre-Christmas ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Dec 2019
What can I buy an Ordinand this Christmas?
Whether it's a book that celebrates the tradition of ordained pastoral ministry or a resource to help them communicate church in our ever-changing digital culture, there's sure to be a thoughtful and meaningful gift in our hand-picked selection of Christmas gifts for those training in ministry. Make sure you place your order before 19th December ...
- Emma Collins
- 27 Dec 2019
The Evangelist as a Companion
Today on the Feast Day of John, Apostle and Evangelist, we are sharing an extract from Anglican Evangelists: Identifying and Training a New Generation. In this extract editor Martyn Snow writes about his own experiences of his vocation to ministry and how to be a 'true evangelist' we must accompany people on their own journey rather than ...
- Emma Collins
- 2 Jan 2020
New Year, New You
Happy New Year! It's the start of a new year and a new decade and many of us will looking at the year ahead with the motivation to become better versions of ourselves. Whether you want to make sure that this year you take more time out to reflect and meditate, or you want to grow your faith in 2020, let us help you on this journey with these ...
- Emma Collins
- 8 Jan 2020
Is there such a thing as ‘women’s spirituality’?
Do women write differently from men? Is there such a thing as ‘women’s spirituality’? Liz Hoare asks these questions and more in her introduction to Twelve Great Spiritual Writers. In this short extract from the introduction Liz reflects on the history of women as writers and explains why she has chosen to write about these twelve ...
- Emma Collins
- 5 Feb 2020
Misconceptions about Ministry Mums and Breaking the Mould
In her upcoming book Breaking the Mould Jules Middleton brings together stories of ministry mums from all different walks of life. From Pentecostal to Methodist, single mums to adopters, RAF chaplains to disability advisors and everything in-between – Jules maps the highs and lows ministry mums may face as they seek to ‘break the ...
- Emma Collins
- 13 Feb 2020
The Real Life of a Ministry Mum
Here's part two of our Q&A with Jules Middleton, a ministry mum whose upcoming book Breaking the Mould seeks to challenge the ‘shoulds’ and stereotypes that surround both roles. In this second part of our Q&A Jules tells us who inspires her and what advice she would give to parents with a call to ...
- Emma Collins
- 27 Mar 2020
Digital Platforms for Churches During Coronavirus
How do you meet and connect with your church in place of gathered environments, small groups and pastoral conversations? Mark Crosby, author of So Everyone Can Hear explains the many digital platforms that are available and when best to use ...
- Emma Collins
- 30 Mar 2020
Words for Worrying Times
Rachael Newham, author of Learning to Breathe has provided some encouraging words to reflect upon during these challenging ...
- Emma Collins
- 14 Apr 2020
Mindful Walking
With many of you going out for daily exercise, how many times would you say that you were mindful of your surroundings? Graham User writes that he has two approaches to walking, one that focuses on the amount of steps and time it takes him, and the other to pay attention to his surroundings such as patterns in the sky, birdsong or sounds of ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Apr 2020
A Significant Milestone for the African Theological Network Press
Dr Angus Crichton, SPCK's Global Advocacy Manager gives us an update on ATNP, the African Theological Network Press. ATNP is one of SPCK's charitable programmes, an ecumenical venture, committed to serving the church in Africa and the ...
- authise authise
- 23 Apr 2020
Social Imagination, African Politics and the African Theological Network Press
This World Book Day we're sharing another ATNP update from Dr Angus Crichton, SPCK's Global Advocacy Manager. The African Theological Network Press (ATNP) is one of SPCK's charitable programmes, an ecumenical venture, committed to serving the church in Africa and the ...
- Emma Collins
- 24 Apr 2020
Oh God, help - an extract from Godbothering
Why bother with God? Do you know what matters in life? What are the limits of kindness? Why doesn’t God intervene? What are you worth? For twenty years, bestselling novelist Rhidian Brook has pondered such questions on Radio 4's Thought for the Day. 100 of his thoughts have been recently published in his book Godbothering. We're sharing ...
- Emma Collins
- 8 May 2020
Part 2 of our Q&A with David Wilbourne, Author of Just John
Here's part 2 of our Q&A with David Wilbourne, author of Just John: The Authorized Biography of John Habgood. Find out in this second part what we can learn from John's life and work, and whether there were any parallels between his life then and the world ...
- Emma Collins
- 7 May 2020
Publishing in a Pandemic - How is Ready to Rise helping to empower readers during this time
Jo Saxton's book Ready to Rise is hitting the shelves and virtual shelves at an unprecedented time of global crisis. Naturally, Jo didn't have a global pandemic in mind when she put pen to paper, but readers have told her that they feel this book is empowering them for this moment. We catch up with Jo in this Q&A and find out her ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Jun 2020
Q&A with Faith in Later Life
We chat to Carl Knightly, CEO of Faith in Later Life about upcoming book Finishing Well: A God's-eye view of ...
- Emma Collins
- 24 Jun 2020
SPCK wins £1,000 Movement for Good award
Thank you to those of you who nominated SPCK for a Movement for Good award. We're delighted to announce that SPCK's Diffusion prison literacy project has won the £1000 Movement for Good award! Find out more in the following press ...
- Emma Collins
- 24 Jun 2020
Vocation isn't just about ordained ministry
What do you think of when you hear the word 'vocation'? Many think of routes into ordination or authorized lay ministry. Vocation is much more than that as John Pritchard explains here in this adapted extract from his new book Handbook of Christian ...
- Emma Collins
- 30 Jun 2020
How Talk Can Transform Us
'The idea of talking to someone for eight hours might have been daunting for some people, but this is what Rowan and I have been doing for more than a decade'. Greg Garrett tells us about the many conversations he had with Rowan Williams, and how these conversations became a book, giving readers the chance to be a 'fly on the ...
- Emma Collins
- 4 Aug 2020
Black theology as a resource for transformative ministry
Is God Colour-Blind? by Anthony G. Reddie has been recently revised and updated for 2020. This new edition contains a new afterword on why Black Lives Matter. In this blog post you will find a extract taken from the introduction of the book. It is here that Anthony explains how this book can be used by Christian ministers and those in lay ...
- Emma Collins
- 25 Aug 2020
Enemies can be our best spiritual friends - a reflection from Fr Laurence Freeman
'The crisis has exposed fundamental flaws in our view of the world, our environment and social structures. We are all in the same storm, rich and poor, north and south. But we are clearly not in the same boat'. Fr Laurence Freeman reflects on the effects of Covid-19. This reflection was originally published in the WCCM newsletter and has been ...
- Emma Collins
- 15 Sept 2020
From the quiet science lab to the macho police college
'Leaving the quiet, sterile environment of science research for the macho, militaristic culture of Hendon was a massive culture shock. You could smell the testosterone in the air the moment you passed through the gates into the campus'. In this extract from Closing Ranks: My Life as a Cop, Leroy Logan tells us about his first night at Hendon Police ...
- Emma Collins
- 5 Nov 2020
Who doesn’t like making top-ten lists?
In this extract from We are Satellites by Martin Saunders, we learn how lists of favourite films, books, music or games all have one thing in common, and that is: the creative arts. With creative arts having the same common root of human creativity, where does that creativity come ...
- Emma Collins
- 2 Nov 2020
The Art of Remembering, an extract for All Souls' Day 2020
With outdoor services, prayer walks, and light displays, All Souls' Day will look very different this year. Commemorating the faithfully departed can be an emotional time for many. Young people in particular can have a difficult time with bereavement. Whether they have lost a family member or friend, there are often little reminders of their lost ...
- Emma Collins
- 17 Nov 2020
What to buy your minister this Christmas
In this blog post you will find a selection of gift ideas for vicars, pastors, and those training in ministry. Whether they are expanding their church’s online presence, are involved with the Living in Love and Faith developments, or looking for ways that their church can be fully inclusive, these books will nourish leaders and help them to ...
- Emma Collins
- 19 Nov 2020
Gifts with Strings Attached
Receiving a generous gift is often much harder than giving. We can feel obligated or humbled, depending on who is doing the giving. It’s a real challenge to daily accept and believe God’s grace as the ultimate loving gift with no strings ...
- Emma Collins
- 24 Nov 2020
Thoughtful Gifts for Her
If you’re unsure what to buy your wife, girlfriend, sister, mother, or daughter, then look no further as we suggest some gift ideas to help you find that perfect ...
- Emma Collins
- 27 Nov 2020
Ed Walker in Conversation with Dianne Tidball
Join Ed Walker, founder of charity Hope into Action and author of A House Built on Love, as he talks to Dianne Tidball about his new book and his charity's work with churches to provide homes for the homeless. This event is taking place via Zoom Webinar on 3rd December at 6:30pm. Register here to avoid ...
- Emma Collins
- 1 Dec 2020
Christmas Gift Ideas for Him
If you're in need of some inspiration for a book to gift him this Christmas, let us help you find that perfect read with our Christmas Gift Ideas for ...
- Emma Collins
- 1 Dec 2020
SPCK’s AGM – An Annual Gathering in Exceptional Times
On 19th November 2020, our AGM took place via Zoom. Find out more about the event in this blog ...
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- 22 Dec 2020
Our Need for Renewal - Reflecting back on SPCK’s 2020 Annual Lecture
SPCK’s well-received AGM and annual lecture on 19 November gave us all, “much to ponder and act on.” as one attendee told us. The virtual event was hosted by broadcast journalist, Genelle Aldred in conversation with four esteemed SPCK authors who shared their understanding of ‘renewal’ and responded to questions from ...
- Emma Collins
- 14 Jan 2021
A Reminder by Sarah Bessey
You don’t have to be productive and you don’t have to change the world. You’re already so loved. You don’t have to be smart. You don’t have to be simple. You don’t have to read all the right books by the right people. You’re already so loved. An extract from A Rhythm of Prayer edited by Sarah ...
- Emma Collins
- 5 Mar 2021
Rage and Hope - two very different and complicated emotions
With the upcoming release of Rage and Hope: 75 prayers for a better world, we asked SPCK staff members what they thought of the book. In this blog post, Business Development Assistant Siân tells us her ...
- Emma Collins
- 24 Mar 2021
Weep with Those Who Weep - Online Conversation 8th April 2021
Join Elaine Storkey, Natalie Collins, Genelle Aldred and Rob Merchant for an online conversation on 8th April on Zoom ...
- Emma Collins
- 13 Apr 2021
Remembering Answered Prayers
Why is it important to remember our answered prayers? How might remembering these prayers help us in a pandemic? Find out in this Q&A with Richard Gamble, author of ...
- Emma Collins
- 21 Apr 2021
Weep with Those Who Weep - audio recording
The audio recording from the Weep With Those Who Weep event is now ...
- Emma Collins
- 6 May 2021
Unbelievable? The Conference 2021
This year’s conference is hosted by Justin Brierley & Ruth Jackson. It will bring together world-renowned historians, theologians and communicators, including NT Wright, Tom Holland, Clare Williams and Sean & Josh ...
- Emma Collins
- 12 May 2021
What would the Ascension look like in a sitcom?
It’s a strange thing to consider, but what would the Ascension look like if it was portrayed in a ...
- Emma Collins
- 10 Jun 2021
What makes all-age worship so difficult?
In this adapted extract from Worship for Everyone, Nick and Becky Drake address the challenges of all-age worship, and suggest practical steps to help overcome ...
- Emma Collins
- 7 Jul 2021
Q&A with Ruth Valerio & Paul Kerensa
We chat to Ruth Valerio and Paul Kerensa about their new book Planet Protectors: 52 Ways to Look After God's ...
- Emma Collins
- 8 Jul 2021
SPCK Authors at United Breaks Out 2021
Find out which SPCK authors are taking part in United Breaks Out ...
- Emma Collins
- 22 Jul 2021
Re-imagining how we worship
Now that we can gather together again, Nick and Becky Drake share their thoughts on returning to the church building and how we can re-imagine how we worship ...
- Emma Collins
- 29 Jul 2021
Extraordinary Conversations
You may remember that earlier this year (on International Women’s Day), we announced that we would be running a series of Extraordinary Conversations this Summer.
Well, that time has come, and we’re delighted to announce that our first Extraordinary Conversation is between Sarah Yardley and Cathy Madavan! Their conversation is on ...
- Emma Collins
- 25 Oct 2021
Saying Yes to Life: 2 Years On
Ahead of COP26, we're sharing the impact of Saying Yes to Life in helping people get involved with the climate crisis all around the ...
- Emma Collins
- 3 Nov 2021
Jesus, the Earth, and Environmental Justice (an extract from Justice for Christ's Sake)
Twenty years before Greta Thunberg arrived on the scene, Bishop James Jones asked young people how worried they were about the future of the world. In an assembly of 250 young people, all of them raised their hand to show concern. In this extract from his memoir, Justice for Christ's Sake, James reflects on this time and how it led him explore what ...
- Laura Barry
- 21 Jan 2022
Through the Year with SPCK Group
Explore our wide selection of inspirational and enlightening daily devotionals and 365 Children's Bibles to connect with God each ...
- Laura Barry
- 13 Jan 2022
SPCK Group Press Release 13 January 2022
The Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (SPCK) today announces the appointment of two new Key Account Managers. ...
- Laura Barry
- 14 Apr 2022
Easter Reading For All The Family
Celebrate Easter this weekend with a selection of reflections, meditations, and Bible story books that the whole family can ...
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- 1 Jun 2022
The Queen and SPCK
Over the past 70 years of her reign, Queen Elizabeth’s support for SPCK and its mission has remained steadfast, a continuation of the centuries of royal patronage we have enjoyed since our charity was founded by Thomas Bray in ...
- Emma Collins
- 16 Jun 2022
Loneliness Awareness Week 2022: what can faith teach us about isolation and despair?
For Loneliness Awareness Week 2022, we’re highlighting some of our books that speak profoundly to mental illness, and how to pursue faith amid loneliness and ...
- Laura Barry
- 23 Jun 2022
Guvna B at Brighton Book Festival
Guvna B, author of Unpopular Culture and one of the UK's biggest Christian rap artists, is speaking at the Brighton Book Festival on June 22nd. ...
- Emma Collins
- 25 Aug 2022
SPCK and Lexham Press announce UK partnership
SPCK is pleased to announce that it will become the sole sales and distribution partner for Lexham Press in the UK and the European Union (EU). Lexham Press titles will be available from Wiley Distribution Services from 15th January ...
- Laura Barry
- 6 Sept 2022
Made to Rise Event - Exploring mental health and transformational faith
Register for our Made to Rise free event on September 22nd where we will discuss mental health and transformational faith with SPCK authors Pastor Mick Fleming, John-Paul Flintoff and ...
- Emma Collins
- 15 Nov 2022
Advent Books 2022: Discussion and Readings
Join Church House Bookshop on Wednesday 23 November at 7pm to hear Nicholas Holtam talk about his Advent book Sleepers Wake: Getting serious about climate ...
- Laura Barry
- 16 Jan 2023
Guest Post: Lily-Jo's Blue Monday Tips for Talking to Children About Mental Health
Lily-Jo, a children’s mental health expert and author of Talking to Children About Mental Health, shares with us her top tips for helping you AND your child through the January ...
- Laura Barry
- 24 Apr 2023
Cathy Madavan and Why Less Means More
Cathy Madavan, author of Irrepressible, has a new book out this month - Why Less Means More. Learn how you can leave fear and franticness behind and discover that less can really lead to more. Save £2 OFF this month with our coupon code. ...
- Laura Barry
- 25 Apr 2023
The Promise and Peril of AI: An interview with Stephen N. Williams
Delve into the fascinating and complex world of Artificial Intelligence with Stephen N. Williams, co-editor of The Robot Will See You Now. Learn about the potential benefits and ethical considerations associated with AI, and explore the ongoing debate on whether AI research is moving too fast. Don't miss our 20% OFF Discount Code! ...
- Laura Barry
- 2 May 2023
Coronation Sale: Enjoy 20% OFF the entire website!
Celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King Charles III this Saturday, the 6th of May, with 20% OFF our entire website until May ...
- Laura Barry
- 3 Aug 2023
SPCK Authors at Creation Fest!
Join SPCK Authors Sarah Yardley and Hope Virgo at Creation Fest on the 3rd to the 6th of ...
- Laura Barry
- 4 Aug 2023
SPCK Author Tim Alford at Limitless
Join Tim Alford, author of Leadership 101, at Limitless Festival on August 5th - 6th! ...
- Laura Barry
- 10 Oct 2023
Patrick Regan OBE Brighter Days Tour
Join Patrick Regan OBE on his Brighter Days tour across the UK! Read on for dates and book launch locations. ...
- Laura Barry
- 29 Jan 2024
The Best Self-Help Books to Brighten Your January
Looking for best self-care books to support your mental health? Here, we round up our top ten books about mental health, anxiety, depression, stress, and personal growth. ...
- Laura Barry
- 30 Jan 2024
Our Bestselling Lent & Easter Books for Children
Explore our bestselling Lent and Easter books for children. Add our favourite Easter books to your basket - perfect for entertaining little ones this Easter! ...
- Laura Barry
- 7 Mar 2024
Share Your Love of Reading this World Book Day!
Share your love of reading this World Book Day! With over half of children saying they don't enjoying reading, it's more important than ever to support children in learning how to love reading. We've compiled some of our bestselling children's books we know children and young readers will ...
- Laura Barry
- 24 May 2024
SPCK Authors Speaking at Big Church Day Out!
SPCK Authors Speaking at The Big Church Festival are Joshua Luke Smith, Paul Kerensa, Dai Woolridge, Sarah Yardley and Cath ...
- Laura Barry
- 30 May 2024
SPCK Authors At St Andrews Literature Festival
St Andrews Bookshop will be hosting their first ever annual Christian literature festival! We're thrilled that several of our authors will be speaking at the ...
- Laura Barry
- 5 Jun 2024
17 Books We Can't Wait To Read This Summer!
Explore seventeen wonderful books that we can't wait to read this ...
- Laura Barry
- 25 Nov 2024
Guest Post: SPCK Author Natalie Collins
SPCK Author Natalie Collins writes about the importance of ending men's violence against women on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against ...
- Laura Barry
- 22 Jan 2025
Trailblazer Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin Launches Inspiring Autobiography at Waterstones Piccadilly
Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin’s autobiography, The Girl from Montego Bay, was launched at Waterstones Piccadilly, celebrating her inspiring journey as Britain’s first black woman ...
- Laura Barry
- 20 Mar 2025
Bible Sales Surge Among Gen Z: SPCK's Role In The Growing Demand
Gen Z is driving a surge in Bible sales, seeking meaning, mental well-being, and faith through Scripture like never ...
- Laura Barry
- 26 Mar 2025
Stories She’ll Love: Meaningful Books to Gift This Mother’s Day
Celebrate Mother’s Day with meaningful, faith-filled books for every woman who’s shaped your story — from mums and mentors to daughters and ...
- Laura Barry
- 19 May 2025
New Christian Books to Inspire Every Generation – May Releases from SPCK
Discover SPCK’s latest Christian reads—from Justin Brierley’s powerful apologetics to inspiring and accessible children’s titles for churches, schools, and ...
- Laura Barry
- 26 Jun 2025
John Lennox: Apologetics and Christ’s Return
Renowned Oxford mathematician and Christian apologist John Lennox will speak at the Cambridge Apologetics Conference 2025 on how Christ’s return and the renewal of creation shape Christian witness ...
- Laura Barry
- 14 Jul 2025
5 Inspiring Books for Your Faith Journey
Explore 5 inspiring books to help you grow in faith, build spiritual habits, and navigate life’s big questions with ...
- Laura Barry
- 29 Jul 2025
A New Editor for Theology Journal
SPCK announces the appointment of George Pattison as the new editor of Theology journal, ushering in a new chapter for one of the world's leading platforms for accessible, peer-reviewed Christian ...
- Laura Barry
- 15 Sept 2025
Witney Book Launch: Rachael Newham & Rachel Bearn Share Their Inspiring New Books
Join SPCK authors Rachael Newham and Rachel Bearn in Witney on 27th September for an evening of inspiration, faith, and the launch of their new books Beloved is Where We Begin and A Year to Slow ...
- Rio Summers
- 23 Oct 2025
SPCK Group Celebrates 50 Years at Frankfurt Book Fair
SPCK Group celebrates 50 years at the Frankfurt Book Fair, honouring our enduring legacy of faith, innovation, and commitment to connecting readers ...
- Laura Barry
- 3 Nov 2025
Who Am I? Rediscovering Our True Identity This Advent
In Who Am I?, Bishop Nick Baines invites us this Advent to pause, reflect, and rediscover our true identity in Christ—the God who seeks us out with love, grace, and surprising ...
- Laura Barry
- 12 Jan 2026
Guest Post: Why Belovedness Matters More Than Resolutions This New Year
In her heartfelt guest post, Rachael Newham, author of Beloved is Where We Begin, invites readers to embrace gentleness and God’s love in the New Year instead of chasing unrealistic ...
- Laura Barry
- 13 Jan 2026
UK Bible Sales Are Up 134% Since 2019
Discover why more people, especially younger readers, are returning to the Bible and how Scripture continues to speak into everyday ...
- Laura Barry
- 2 Mar 2026
Why People Still Come to Church: Voices from Southern Africa
The Most Revd Dr Thabo Makgoba shares reflections from Southern Africa on why people still come to church—highlighting worship, community, resilience and faith in the midst of ...
- Laura Barry
- 20 Apr 2026
The Story Behind You: A Special Gift
Discover You: A Special Gift, a warm and uplifting picture book by Deborah Lock about identity, faith, and the light each child ...
- Laura Barry
- 26 Jan 2023
Joshua Luke Smith Hosts Stories & Psalms - Free Event
Joshua Luke Smith, author of Something You Once Knew, is hosting Stories & Psalms at Kings X Church on January 30th at 7:30 pm. Find out more here. ...
- Laura Barry
- 18 Mar 2025
Discover Our Latest Releases: Inspiring Reads for March 2025
Discover our newest releases, featuring inspiring stories, insightful theology, and fresh Bible editions designed to deepen faith and spark ...








