Michael Hampson

A very interesting book about the Enneagram from a Christian viewpoint. The author looks at how the Enneagram diagram develops from three 'zones' we all have - head, heart and 'gut'- and the strategies we use, leading to nine 'types'.

I've read many books on this topic, but have never previously come across one that explains how the nine Enneagram types develop, and what the relationships are between them. The author goes quite deeply into the security and stress points, and explains why certain relationships are likely to work better than others, although of course a great deal depends on the mental and emotional health level of each individual.

There are examples of Bibical characters who seem to show the characteristics of each of the nine types. There's also a fascinating insight into how the Lord's Prayer can be said, considering each Enneagram type in turn.

At the end is an appendix looking at how the Enneagram pattern fits into such diverse activities as farming, politics, and the church year. I found these sections a little difficult to swallow, I have to admit. But overall I found the book fascinating and will no doubt dip into it again in future.… (mais)

Almost in equal parts optimistic and bitter, this book traces the decline of the Church of England from the pinnacle of unity represented by the publication of the 1980 Alternative Service Book, through the unsettling encounter with the charismatic movement, and the divisions over the ordination of women, to the unravelling of institutional unity precipitated by the making and subsequent pressured withdrawing of the episcopal appointment of Jeffrey John in 2003. There is some background history of the "wings" of the Church of England (evangelical, liberal, catholic), an outline of Anglican responses to homosexuality, and a sketch of the constant tension for clergy in a state institution constantly required to act as Rent-a-Church to a materialistic and unbelieving public.The author recounts his journey from evangelical to liberal/catholic, and his own frustration at having an appointment blocked at the eleventh hour (or slightly after it) because of anonymous challenges to his (long-term, faithful, unconcealed) partnership with a man.

The author sees some hope for the future of the Church of England, but only if it radically overhauls itself. Given his warts-and-all portrayal of the church as institution, I can't quite see how it can manage that.

MB 31-viii-2013… (mais)

A thoughtful perspective from the liberal side of the CofE debate, although understandably partisan in places. Arguments sometimes suffer from omission and inconsistency (applauds Catholics despite their stance on homosexual issues? Biblical exegesis is inconsistent though this is partly due to brevity of format). Interesting commentary on CofE finances and the issue of quota. The overriding conclusion from this book is that the gulf between Liberals and Evangelicals is not one of intellect or compassion, it is one of preconception.… (mais)