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Autobiography: religious & spiritual, Christianity, Religious social & pastoral thought & activity
An uplifting, intelligent and often amusing meditation on life in a country parish during a curious year
'A delightful book from a gentle, generous spirit.' - SIMON RUSSELL BEALE
'Philosophical speculation, country lore, rock music, spiritual exploration, erudite and beautifully written, this collection of reflections and meditations is a surprise and a delight. The kind of shot in the arm the Church of England badly needs - and is so rarely to be found.' - SALLEY VICKERS
During the unprecedented circumstances of Spring 2020, Colin Heber Percy began writing a daily newsletter of reflections and uplifting stories to stay in touch with his parishioners. Word spread, and soon his bulletins were being eagerly consumed by readers around the country and beyond.
In this thought-provoking and invigorating book, Heber-Percy draws upon a kaleidoscopic knowledge of nature, philosophy, poetry and music, as well as religious writings, and interlaces them with amusing and touching vignettes from his Wiltshire parish.
As he follows the changing seasons, Heber-Percy moves from the seemingly small and mundane to ponder big life questions - can you find heaven in a Londis shop, why is the Bible not like the Highway Code, what on earth we are all doing here - while gently offering up wisdom and sustenance for all, regardless of faith and creed.
Praise for Tales of a Country Parish: From the vicar of Savernake Forest
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'A delightful book from a gentle, generous spirit.' - SIMON RUSSELL BEALE
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'Philosophical speculation, country lore, rock music, spiritual exploration, erudite and beautifully written, this collection of reflections and meditations is a surprise and a delight. The kind of shot in the arm the Church of England badly needs - and is so rarely to be found.' - SALLEY VICKERS
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'Priests can make excellent chroniclers, having privileged access as they do to the minds and lives of others... Tales of a Country Parish is in this brave tradition. Immensely knowledgeable and curious, Colin Heber-Percy wears his deep learning lightly and his reflections are moving, compelling and insightful.' - Iris Murdoch: A Life, At the Bright Hem of God, Going Buddhist.
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'This hymn to a holy land has a Wordsworthian appreciation of nature and is full of humanity and wisdom.' - Sarah Sands, journalist and author of 'The Interior Silence'
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'Self-willed, eccentric, intimate... this book takes you into the mind of a man of intellect, deep tenderness, and above all, a passionate, life-sustaining Christian faith.' - Madeleine Bunting, journalist and author
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'A luminous, lyrical book, brimming with soul and the spirit of place.' - Bishop Andrew Rumsey, author of 'English Grounds'
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'Colin Heber-Percy's prose is flowing and he writes amusingly, perceptively and beautifully, especially about the countryside and human frailty.' - Country Life
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'Best kept on the bedside table for a nightly dose of inspiration. But beware lest these apparently beguiling writings provoke you to sleeplessness.' - The Oldie
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Hachette Australia acknowledges and pays our respects to the past, present and future Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our head office is located on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation.
