Gareth Powell – författare

This co-authored volume is the outcome of an ecumenical speaking and listening that  has involved a continuing conversation between four theologians over a period of more than two years. The scholars are active members of the mainline churches in the UK, Anglican, Methodist and Roman Catholic. They propose that the Church will live as it grows in self-understanding, in the light of the claim that her purpose is to focus attention on God, Creator, Redeemer, and Living Presence. In so doing they address key debates in the US and European contexts, as well as dealing with matters of pressing concern in the wider global church. What does it mean to say that the Church in herself and on behalf of the world bears witness to and celebrates the presence of God in contemporary ethics, worship, governance and mission?  The authors have sought to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical theology, and ecclesiology. Key features are accessibility, the highly pertinent nature of the themes it covers, its academic purpose and its awareness of the parish and ministerial contexts.

Ironbridge Gorge is known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. The deep gorge cut by the River Severn in Shropshire allowed access to the raw materials necessary for the early industrialists to manufacture iron and ceramics. The iconic cast-iron bridge that spans the gorge was opened in 1781, connecting the industrial and mining towns of Coalbrookdale, Madeley and Broseley, and today the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as the towns and villages in the area, which also include Coalport and Jackfield, Iron Bridge Gorge is also home to 10 museums.Ironbridge Gorge Reflections features an exciting collection of historic and modern pictures that are individually merged to reveal how the area has changed over the decades. Each of the 180 pictures in this book combines a recent colour view of Ironbridge Gorge with the matching sepia archive scene. Through the split-image effect, readers can see how streets, buildings and everyday life have transformed with the passing of time. This fascinating visual chronicle ingeniously reflects past and present glimpses of Ironbridge Gorge and will be of interest to residents, visitors, local historians and all those with links to the area.