The collection features twelve plays that explore the divine kingship of Jesus of Nazareth, grounded in the social and political realities of his time. The first half focuses on events leading to Jerusalem, while the latter half emphasizes themes from Passion Week. Sayers utilizes the simplicity and depth of Jesus' words from the Fourth Gospel, giving voice to Jesus and the surrounding characters, including Judas. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in the theme of resurrection, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus' kingship.
Some feminist women search for the roots of feminism in the recent past; others write the past off. Too many assume that religious traditions have nothing to offer feminism, so even when religious belief has been central to the inspiration of some of the most powerful campaigners for the value and worth of women, the significance of that belief has been ignored. Mary Wollstonecraft argued for the 'rights' of women'; Josephine Butler fought against the devaluation of women expressed in the Contagious Diseases Acts; Dorothy L. Sayers had a powerful sense of the way women and men grace one another's lives in their work. They all drew on the Christian tradition of their own times, but this has rarely been given weight. These women have not been considered together, nor as theologians, as here in Ann Loades's new book. In their life time, each of them opened up some painful issues: abortion and its significance in our shared social lives, forms of coercion, especially the sexual abuse of children, and the importance of women's work. Their courage and generosity offer salutary challenges to our own times. Feminist Theology will be of interest to all those concerned with contemporary theological questions as well as to students of feminism and the analysis of gender, in sociology, politics and the humanities.
The narrative explores Constantine's rise to power from AD 305 to 337, highlighting his journey towards embracing Christianity. Central to the plot is the pivotal Council of Nicaea in 325, where Constantine asserts the belief that Christ is 'of one substance with God.' The latter part of the story focuses on his mother, Helena, guiding him toward understanding his need for redemption through Christ, addressing both his political and personal tragedies, including the loss of his son. This interplay of faith and power shapes the historical landscape of the era.
Exploring the themes of guilt, redemption, and the human condition, this play features an airman who, just before his death, encounters citizens of Lichfield, including biblical figures and historical figures like George Fox and Dr. Johnson. These characters share their burdens of shame and fear, illustrating the collective struggles of humanity. The airman learns that the only way to alleviate their shared grief is to join the "Persona Dei," who carries their burdens and ultimately reveals resurrection and glory.
The book offers a collection of studies examining the theological and philosophical contributions of notable figures such as Evelyn Underhill, Dorothy L. Sayers, C. S. Lewis, Austin Farrer, and Simone Weil. Through these analyses, the author, a prominent contemporary theologian, delves into the unique perspectives and insights these thinkers provided during the twentieth century, highlighting their influence on modern thought and spirituality.
Ann Loades, a pioneering figure in contemporary theology, shares a collection of her most impactful sermons delivered in various religious settings across the UK and beyond. As the first female President of the Society for the Study of Theology and a recipient of a CBE, her work reflects deep theological insights. The sermons in "Grace and Glory in One Another's Faces" explore themes of grace, community, and the divine, showcasing her influential voice in modern religious discourse.
Exploring the themes of ambition and redemption, this play reinterprets the Faustus legend as a serious comedy. It portrays Faustus as a tragic figure who, in his quest to alleviate suffering, succumbs to self-serving desires. In a climactic scene in the Court of Heaven, Faustus confronts the consequences of his choices when Azrael claims his soul against Mephistopheles’ opposition. Ultimately, Faustus acknowledges his need for purification, trusting in divine mercy for redemption at the gates of hell.
Reflecting on the particular challenges facing a schoolgirl of the 1950s
attracted to the possibility of going to university to read Theology, and her
path to becoming the first woman to be given a CBE for services to Theology,
Ann Loades introduces some of the key tenets of her theological thinking.
Set against the backdrop of the 1174 fire and the rebuilding of Canterbury Cathedral, the story follows architect William of Sens, whose pride in his work leads to a tragic fall. Surrounded by influential archangels, William's journey from arrogance to repentance highlights the consequences of carelessness among the monks. His suffering ultimately leads him to renounce his role in the cathedral's completion, emphasizing themes of humility and divine grace. This edition includes an English translation of the Latin texts featured in the play.
Set against the backdrop of an occupied territory, this nativity play explores the profound implications of Christ's birth in a troubled world. Through the perspectives of three wise men questioning the significance of the child, the narrative delves into the various conflicts and opinions of those gathered in Bethlehem's inn courtyard. Joseph emerges as a pivotal character, while the shepherds present their gifts, highlighting the humble yet powerful nature of the Holy Family's revelation.
