Ally Barrett

Following on from her bestselling books Women of Holy Week and Women of the Nativity, Paula Gooder retells nine Biblical stories of Jesus's encounters with women. Imagining these figures following Jesus to Jerusalem and telling their stories together, Paula introduces us to women who break the rules to be near Jesus, speak to him for longer than any male character recorded, and even stand up to him. Accompanied by paintings by priest-artist Ally Barrett, Women of the Gospels invites you to walk alongside: - Simon's mother-in-law - The Syrophoenician woman - The woman with the haemorrhage - Jairus' daughter - The woman bent double - The widow from Nain - The Samaritan woman - The women who supported Jesus financially Women of the Gospels is an inspiring devotional read for individuals and groups, for use at any time of year.

Reflections for Daily Prayer continues to be one of the most popular and highly valued daily Bible reading companions. Continuing its tradition of excellence, regular favourites and new contributors offer insightful, informed and inspiring reflections on the scripture readings of the day, based on the Common Worship lectionary for Morning Prayer. Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge, is the guest contributor for Holy Week. For every day (excluding Sundays) of the 2026-27 Church year, there are full references and a quotation from the day’s set of Scripture readings, concise and challenging commentary, and a collect. Also included is a simple order for Morning and Night Prayer, and additional helps for nurturing a habit of regular daily prayer.

Reflections for Daily Prayer continues to be one of the most popular and highly valued daily Bible reading companions. Continuing its tradition of excellence, regular favourites and new contributors offer insightful, informed and inspiring reflections on the scripture readings of the day, based on the Common Worship lectionary for Morning Prayer. Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, is the guest contributor for Holy Week. New voices this year include Gregory Cameron, the Bishop of St Asaph and author of the popular An Advent Book of Days and An Easter Book of Days; Chine MacDonald, author, broadcaster and Director of the religious think tank Theos; and Emma Parker, Deputy Warden of Cranmer Hall, Durham. For every day (excluding Sundays) of the 2023-24 church year, there are full references and a quotation from the day’s set of Scripture readings, concise and challenging commentary, and a collect. Also included is a simple order for Morning and Night Rrayer, and additional helps for nurturing a habit of regular daily prayer.

The all-age talk is a task guaranteed to give preachers sleepless nights! Very few people feel they have a gift for it, and most lack confidence. This reflective and practical guide addresses these concerns, and aims to build a sure theological understanding, develop skills and grow confidence. Twelve chapters explore different kinds of engagement - with the senses, with one another, with oneself, with scripture, with liturgy, with the church, with God, with challenging situations, and more – to enable preachers make real connections with their listeners, whatever the age. Each chapter is followed by a practical case study illustrating key principles and providing down-to-earth, tried and tested wisdom for all kinds of contexts and occasions.

Making the Most of Your Child's Baptism is a short full colour guide for parents bringing their child for baptism in the Church of England. In this baptism guide you'll find a full explanation of the baptism service, its meaning and symbolism. Making the Most of Your Child's Baptism is ideal for anglican churches to gift to parents who ask for their children to be baptised. It follows the Common Worship Baptism service and is full colour throughout, making it attractive for parents and godparents as they prepare for their child's baptism. Aimed at those not familiar with church, Making the Most of Your Child's Baptism is structured around the service itself and includes questions to think about and follow up activities for parents, godparents and children.

From author and vicar, Ally Barrett, Making the Most of Your Church Wedding is a short, attractive, full-colour guide to the Anglican wedding service aimed at couples planning a church wedding. This church wedding handbook is an essential title for anyone planning a church wedding, from couples to clergy. It uses the words and the actions of the Anglican marriage service to enable couples to explore the big questions of life, relationships, commitment, God, family and more. Ideal for use in Christian wedding planning, this visual and informative book contains questions and activities to help you achieve the perfect church wedding and its lead up. From information and guidance on choosing readings, making The Vows and the Blessing of the marriage, this helpful guide will help couples plan and prepare for their church wedding.