A Church of Passion and Hope: The Formation of An Ecclesial Disposition from Ignatius Loyola to Pope Francis and the New Evangelization
Jesuits have contributed to the life and theological development of the Church for many generations – culminating in Pope Francis, the first Jesuit Pope. Ignatius Loyola called his men and all those inspired by the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises to a certain ecclesial disposition a way of thinking, judging and feeling with the Church.
An Indian Church in an Alien Land: The Contribution of the Tinnevelly Mission of CMS towards the Ceylon Tamil Mission
A Book Review
An Indian Church in an Alien Land: The Contribution of the Tinnevelly Mission of CMS towards the Ceylon Tamil Missions, Napoleon Pathmanathan, Kirubai Publication, Madurai. India. 2022.
This book is a doctoral research of Dr. Napoleon Pathmanathan with meticulous accuracy in documenting and applying the findings for missiological, ministerial and historical studies and praxis. This works talks about 19th century Tinnevelly mission of CMS and its missionary expansion in Sri Lanka among Tamil communities. The author’s sincere efforts to reach out to the primary sources of the missionary reports in University of Birmingham, Lambeth palace archives in UK and many other secondary resources related to the subject and careful analysis and evaluation are to be highly appreciated and valued. It is the heritage of the author in both Tinnevelly Christianity and its mission expansion in Sri Lanka lead him to do a thorough research to know about the communities he belongs to. As an experienced theological teacher for decades in Colombo Theological Seminary and a sincere lay minister in Anglican Church in Sri Lanka, through this seminal work, Napoleon Pathmanathan has immensely contributed to the contemporary Tamil Christianity and for the global Church in the following ways:
1. Author’s primary concern in the book is to combat the false propaganda that Christianity is a foreign religion which came along with British colonizers to subjugate native people of the colonized territories. Author highlights the fact that missionaries are to be distinguished from the colonizers because they fought for the cause of the freedom of the people through emancipation and liberation of the oppressed and downtrodden of the colonized societies. And Particularly in the case of Sri Lanka, it was not the foreign missionaries who brought Christian Faith to the Tamil people but it was the same Tamil native community from Tinnevelly who brought their new found life of freedom, dignity and power through Gospel to their own counterpart in Sri Lanka.
2. Another defame made upon Christianity is that it is ‘rice Christianity’. It means that people joined Churches only for their material benefits. Author combats this idea by his careful analysis of mass movement theory and falsification of it. What happened in 19th century in Tinnevelly was not mass movement of conversion of groups by the decisions of leaders of the large communities; rather it was a revival movement which produced enormous amount of individual conversions carefully verified by missionaries with high spiritual values. Therefore, conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit. Today anti Christian fundamentalists in India and Sri Lanka are strongly advocate against conversions to Christianity, but they do not really know the fact that conversion is not coercion, enticed or forced but Holy Spirit brought which they won’t be able to stop.
3. While doing apologetics against the false accusations the author is mercilessly self-critical about the past and present blind spots of Christian Church. With careful attention given to the missionary methods of Tinnelvelly model which was Pietistic German Lutheran one, authors calls for evaluation and correction of the contemporary mission practices of the Church to that of using indigenous people and methods for the expansion of the kingdom of God.
4. As the author proudly announces that this history is a subaltern one. It is written from the perspective of the native people of the Tamil communities from below bringing about the real forces behind the success of great missionaries like Rhenius, all the while without downplaying the importance of the contributions of those missionaries. Thus, the author pays the way for the historians to start writing history from below to bring about unknown and undocumented stories of indigenous missionaries, movements and practices in order to document, learn, educate and transform.
5. There are five chapters in the book which give us the contemporary approaches to historiography, the characteristics of Tinnevelly mission, Tamil Coolie Mission and Colombo Tamil Mission and the final chapter is full of applications of the lesions learned. Author’s extensive knowledge of the materials on the subject and critique of certain author like Pieris are illuminating and challenging.
My only critism about the author is that he lightly passes on the issue of Tamil coolies being brought in an inhumane way by British government for working in tea estates as if it is a cooked up story, whereas there are various authors discussed about this inhumane treatment of Tamil people by British colonizers. For example, we may cite works like that of Mu. Si. Muthaiah’s Chithaikapatta Malayga Tamizharhal, published by Vidiyal Pathipagam, in which we have number of other references to the authenticity of the theory.
Albeit, this work is to be widely read by all pastors, leaders, theologians and lay Christians to understand one of the powerful missionary revival movements in Christian history and apply the lesions for our contemporary Christianity, particularly in anti-Christian fundamentalist context today.
L. Sridharan Kalistas (9677577342)
Seeder Theological Institute
Found Christianities: Remaking the World of the Second Century CE
M. David Litwa tells the stories of the early Christians whose religious identity was either challenged or outright denied. In the second century many different groups and sects claimed to be the only Orthodox or authentic version of Christianity, and Litwa shows how those groups and figures on the side of developing Christian Orthodoxy often dismissed other versions of Christianity by refusing to call them “Christian”. However, the writings and treatises against these groups contain fascinating hints of what they believed, and why they called themselves Christian.
From Head-Hunters to Church Planters: An Amazing Spiritual Awakening in Nagaland
There is a tendency today to associate revival and miracles with charismatic churches, but there were none of those in Nagaland when God first brought revival there. These powerful and life-changing visitations came to orderly, conservative Baptist congregations. As a result, Nagas found their true dignity not in themselves, their ethnic roots, their head-hunting, or the defense of their homeland, but they discovered it in the person and life of Jesus Christ, the living and one true God. This is a moving story of bravery and betrayal, suffering, persecution, supernatural intervention, and subsequent human weakness.
Inculturation through Indo-Saracenic Architecture and its Implication with Special Reference to Brough Memorial Church, Erode
This book intricate interplay between Indo-Saracenic architecture and the mission of the London Mission Society is meticulously explored, with a focal point on Brough Memorial Church in Erode. It delves into the multifaceted concept of inculturation and intricately weaves the history of Erode, the London Mission Society’s mission, and a granular analysis of Indo-Saracenic nuances in Brough Memorial Church. Major discoveries are synthesized into practical implications for Brough Memorial Church, suggesting ways to integrate culture into worship.
Dr. S. AkatoliChishi Associate Professor – Religion Trinity Theological College, Dimapur, Nagaland.
The Author focuses on inculturation through Indo-Saracenic architecture. The research focused on the Brough Memorial Church in Erode which was built in 1929 and is an example of the fusion of Indo-Islam, Indo-Christian, and Indo-Hindu architectural styles. The work revealed that while the respondents liked the church architecture, many were not aware of the meaning of Indo-Saracenic architecture. He emphasizes through this book, the importance of cultural awareness and education in worship, as well as the promotion of traditional attire and cultural activities for inculturation.
Rev. Ashish John Archer Assistant Professor of Missiology & History of Christianity Bishop’s Collge, Kolkatta, West Bengal.
Introduction to the Puritans
Introduction to the Puritans is a wonderful overview of the Puritan movement in the 1600s that has given the English-speaking world its richest depository of theological writings, with practical applications in every area of life.
Jesus and the Early Church – Kingdom Dynamics and Paradigms in Mission Perspectives
Editor: Vinod S Sailus
Mission History of Asian Churches
Edited by Timothy K. Park
Mission History of Asian Churches is a collection of academic essays expounding and exploring the growing Asian missionary movement that began more than a century ago. Presented at the Second International Forum of the Asian Society of Missiology, these essays explore the mission history of Asian nations like China, India, the Indochina region, Indonesia, Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore, as well as the cross-cultural works of Asian missions and missionaries. This book is a springboard to an in-depth discussion and analysis of the genesis and expansion of the cross-cultural missionary movements in Asia. It presents the coming-of-age of the Asian church as demonstrated by its way of participating in the Great Commission of Christ and its significant contributions to world mission amidst struggles and adversities.
T&T Clark Handbook of Ecclesiology
Kimlyn J. Bender (Anthology Editor), D. Stephen Long (Anthology Editor)
Description
Divided into 3 parts, this handbook provides a wide-ranging survey and analysis of the Christian Church. The first section addresses the scriptural foundations of ecclesiology; the second section outlines the historical and confessional aspects of the topic; and the final part discusses a variety of contemporary and topical themes in ecclesiology.
Compiled and written by leading scholars in the field, the T&T Clark Handbook of Ecclesiology covers a range of key topics in the context of their development and importance in each stream of historic Christianity and the confessional traditions. The contributors cover traditional matters such as creedal notes, but also tackle questions of ordination, orders of ministry, and sacraments. This handbook is extensive enough to provide a true overview of the field, but the essays are also concise enough to be read as reference selections.
T&T Clark Handbook of the Early Church
Edited by Ilaria L.E. Ramelli (Anthology Editor), J.A. McGuckin (Anthology Editor), Piotr Ashwin-Siejkowski (Anthology Editor)
Exploring the key documents, authors and themes of Early Christian traditions, this volume traces the vital trajectories of emerging distinctive Christian identity in the Graeco-Roman world. Special attention is given to the coherent growth of Christian faith in connection with worship, alongside the crucial transformation of Christian life and doctrine under the Christian Emperors.
As well as offering a chronological development of the Early Church, the book examines the interaction between Christian worship and faith. In addition, readers interested in systematic theology can refer to chapters on the roots of some significant theological notions in Christian Antiquity, also with reference to ancient philosophy. Issues addressed include:
· Distinctiveness of the Christian identity during the first centuries
· Diversity of communities and their theologies
· Connection between faith and worship
· Transition from the persecuted minority to triumphant Church with Creeds
· History of early Christian thought and modern systematic theology
T&T Clark Handbook of the Old Testament: An Introduction to the Literature, Religion and History of the Old Testament
Jan Christian Gertz (Author), Angelika Berlejung (Author), Konrad Schmid (Author), Markus Witte (Author)
Beginning with methods and sources, this Handbook looks at the Biblical text, archaeology, other texts, and iconography. It explores varying exegetical methods, including historical criticism, canonical approach, feminist, social scientific and liberation theology. Methods in archaeology, Hebrew epigraphic and iconography are also covered.
The second section is devoted to the history and religious history of Ancient Israel. Introductory matters, such as fundamental terminology and definitions, ethnic identity, ancestors and the dead, geography and time reckoning are explicated before the book moves on to a historical survey from the Iron Age (c. 1200 BCE) to the early Roman period (ending about 63 CE).
The heart of the book is a detailed survey of the Hebrew canonical books, section by section and book by book. The discussion for each book includes: biblical presentation and content; problems arising from the history of literary analysis and research; the origin and growth of the writing; the theology; and notes on reception history. This book will provide students with everything they need to study the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.
The Reception of Jesus in the First Three Centuries – 3 Volume Set
Explore the diverse interpretations of Jesus and the Jesus tradition in the crucial first centuries of Christianity, with contributions from over 70 scholars worldwide. 🌍
🔍 Volume 1 delves into literary representations of Jesus in the first century, including detailed discussions on core texts like the Gospels and other early Christian writings.
📜 Volume 2 examines literary texts from the second and third centuries, exploring gospel writing and other significant works.
Chris Keith (Anthology Editor) , Helen K. Bond (Anthology Editor) , Christine Jacobi (Anthology Editor) , Jens Schröter (Anthology Editor)
🖼️ Volume 3 explores visual, liturgical, and non-Christian receptions of Jesus, shedding light on iconography, material culture, and liturgical practices.
With meticulous research and a methodologically sophisticated approach, this anthology offers fresh insights into how the Jesus tradition was transmitted and received in its early stages. 🕊️
Don’t miss this invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone intrigued by the historical reception of Jesus Christ! Order your copy today! 📖✨ #EarlyChristianity #JesusReception #NewRelease
25 Years “Adgenetes” In India
In this book the author analyses the mode of evangelization among Protestant and Roman Catholic Missionaries from the beginning of this century.
A scientific interdisciplinary study, for Non-Christians who would be either interested in the Catholic theology of Mission and Missionary Activity or who would be opposed to the conversion of Indian people to Christianity. It will also be a help to students of theology and sciences and for Church personnel to have a reflection on their won commitment as baptized Christians.
A Glorious Institution The Church in History
This book contains The Church history which includes the Reformation and the Church in modern times. Part One: When the Church Was Young, AD 33 – 754. Part Two: The Church in the Middle Ages, AD 754 – 1517. Part Three: The Reformation and Its Aftermath, AD 1517 – 1648. Part Four: The Church in the Modern Age, AD 1648 – 1900
Catholic Contribution to the Indian History, Society and Culture 19th and 20th Centuries
Editors
F. Thonippara, S. Maniakkunnel
Christianity through the Centuries
The third edition of Christianity Through the Centuries brings the reader up-to-date by discussing events and developments in the church into the 1990s. This edition has been redesigned with new typography and greatly improved graphics to increase clarity, accessibility, and usefulness. Over 100 photos in all. Single-column format for greater readability and a contemporary look – Improved maps and charts. Building on the features that have made Christianity Through the Centuries an indispensable text, the author not only explains the development of doctrines, movements, and institutions, but also gives attention to “the impact of Christianity on its times and to the mark of the times on Christianity.”
Christians and the National Movement – The Memoranda of 1919 and the National Movement with special reference to Protestant Christians in Tamil Nadu: 1919 – 1939
There are not sufficient books available on the subject of India Christian involvement in society, in the realms of politics, economics and development. Particularly the area of Christian involvement in the national freedom struggle remained unexplored for long. Books such as Christian Social thought in India (1947-62; 62-77) and Christian Indians history from many angles remained undone for long. CISRS< CHAI and such have begun to repair the damage by enabling researches and publications. An increasing number of these under BTESSC and SATHRI are addressing these neglected areas. More needs to be done to develop a "mind" and 'relevant spirituality' in the Indian Christian public towards their social role. In this regard, this book is a welcome contribution.
CHURCH FATHERS – From Clement of Rome to Augustine
The book presents the important figures of early Christianity in all their evangelical vitality, spiritual profoundity, and uncompromising love of God. It tells the true story of Christianity’s against-all-odds triumph in the face of fierce Roman hostility and persecution. It does this by exploring the lives and the ideas of the early Christian writers, pastors, and martyrs, men so important to the spread of Christianity that history remembers them as “the Fathers of the Church”. This rich and engrossing survey of the early Church includes those churchmen who immediately succeeded the Apostles, the “Apostolic Fathers”: Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Justin Martyrs, and Irenaeus of Lyon. He also discusses such great Christian figures as Tertullin, Origen, Cyprian of Carthage, the Cappadocian Fathers, as well as the giants John Chrysostom, Jerome, and Augustine. This book is a wonderful way to get to know the Church Fathers and the tremendous spirituality rich patrimony they have bequeathed to us.
Church History in Plain Language: Fourth Edition
Church History in Plain Language makes church history clear, memorable, and accessible to every reader.
Dr. Bruce Shelley makes church history come alive in this classic book that has become not only the first choice of many laypeople and church leaders but the standard text in many college classrooms.Church History in Plain Language treats history as the story of people―their motivations, the issues they grapple with, the decisions they make―and the result is that history reads like a story, almost as dramatic and moving as a novel.[koo_icon name="undefined" color="" size=""]
First Voyage Of The Apostle Thomas – Ancient Christianity in Bharuch & Taxila
As a new and bold attempt in the multitude of studies about the Indian mission of the apostle Thomas, the present book can inspire and guide students of history for further studies and research.
Jude: A Mirror of the Early Church
“It is amazing to study The Book of Jude due to its focused nature in presenting a number of theological themes. Although Jude presents only a few theological and ecclesial themes, they seem to be very significant in the life and ministry of the early church.
Muslims: The Real History
From the seventh till the seventeenth century, Muslims dominated the world. Inspired by the Prophet and his emphasis on education,
