Geoffrey Rowell

MICHAEL RAMSEY (1905-1988) was one of the greatest Anglican archbishops of the twentieth century and a man of spiritual depth who inspired a generation of Christians. Evangelical by origin, catholic by formation, and liberal by instinct, Ramsey learned from many traditions and, as Archbishop of Canterbury, moved ecumenical dialogue into a new and decisive phase. A remarkable spiritual leader, he continues to be remembered as both reverent and visionary. Glory Descending serves both as an introduction to Ramsey's life and as a reader of his key writings. The introductory chapter gives an overview of Ramsey's career and explains why he was such a significant figure in recent church history. The large selection of Ramsey's writings that follows makes readily accessible the essence of his thought. Drawn from all of his works, these powerful passages constitute an exceptionally consistent body of spiritual theology and teaching. Here we have not just a voice from the past but a prophetic call to holiness and faith in our own times. Also included are reflections by leading churchmen and scholars on Ramsey's continuing influence. Four pieces by Rowan Williams probe distinctive themes in Ramsey's thought. John Habgood and Geoffrey Rowell offer lectures prepared for the centenary of Ramsey's birth. Douglas Dales explores the contours of Ramsey's spiritual theology. Finally, the book has been designed as a companion to the Christian liturgical year, making it an invaluable aid to preaching, teaching, and devotions.

Seven essays by Anglican scholars, including an essay by John Milburn on "Maria Restituta," an essay about the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham by Christopher Colven, and an essay by A. M. Allchin on "God's Majesty and Mary." Other contributions are Louis W eil, Harry R. Smythe, Geoffrey Rowell, and Roger T. Greenacre.

Rowan Williams freely admits to the profound influence of Michael Ramsey, one of the greatest Archbishops of the 20th century and a man of great spiritual depth who inspired a generation of Anglicans. Apart from one or two exceptions, his books are out of print, and many will welcome this new selection of his writings. Arranged around the church's year, it explores all the great themes of the Christian faith and is ideal for devotional reading, for study and for sermon preparation.

A moving devotional companion, evoking the sights and sounds that surrounded Jesus in the last days of his life. The dramatic narrative style invites us to participate imaginatively in the unfolding events. Arranged as daily readings throughout Lent.

1983 marked the 150th anniversary of John Keble's Assize Sermon, a sermon which Newman recognized as the beginning of the Oxford Movement. The religious revival which it signalled, though originating in a particular political challenge to the Church of England, was far-reaching in its effect. The continuity and catholic identity of Anglicanism was powerfully affirmed; sacramental worship was restored to a central place in Anglican devotion; religious orders were revived; and both in the mission field and in the slums, devoted priests laboured with new vigour and a new sense of the Church. This study of some of the major themes and personalities of the Catholic revival in Anglicanism highlights some of these aspects, and in particular, points to the close relationship between theology and sacramental spirituality which was at the heart of the movement. To recognize this central characteristic of the revival can contribute much, the author believes, to the renewal of the Catholic tradition in Anglicanism today.

Oxford Scholarly Classics is a new series that makes available again great academic works from the archives of Oxford University Press. Reissued in uniform series design, the reissues will enable libraries, scholars, and students to gain fresh access to some of the finest scholarship of the last century.