Paul Avis' masterly book on Anglican Identity has just published in the UK (pub date for the US is March 2008). It has gained the praise of many a scholar already, and rightly so, as far as I am concerned. You can browse the first pages of the book here. (Please ignore the fact that the cover you'll find on our website and on exacteditions is different. The correct cover is the one you see here on the left.)
‘The publication of The Identity of Anglicanism – Essentials of Anglican Ecclesiology occurs at a most propitious moment as the Anglican Communion prepares for the 2008 Lambeth Conference. Avis draws attention to the essentials of Anglican ecclesiology amid the inter-Anglican search for consensus on Anglican identity and integrity, coupled with a growing concern in the ecumenical domain for the future of Anglicanism. Avis provides a confident and robust scholarly presentation of Anglicanism as a family of autonomous and interdependent churches, forming one part of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church, with a rich tradition of theology, spirituality and liturgy. He presents ample evidence to support Anglicanism's self definition as Catholic and reformed, along with a refreshing treatment of traditional elements – for example, Anglican distinctiveness, provisionality, conciliarity and the threefold emphasis on Bible, tradition and reason. The clarity of presentation is supported by a host of sources both Anglican and ecumenical.
This excellent and informative treatment of the essentials of Anglican ecclesiology should quickly establish itself as an authoritative, balanced appraisal of Anglicanism as an integral participant in mainstream Christianity. It should become required reading for theological students and lay persons who seek a reliable guide to the history and development of Anglicanism. I warmly commend Dr Avis for this invaluable production.’
Drexel Gomez, Archbishop of the West Indies, Chair: Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Ecumenical Relations
‘With characteristic clarity and comprehensiveness, Paul Avis provides a welcome study of the nature of contemporary Anglicanism. There is no doubt that if Anglicans today better understood the wealth of our tradition, we would be enriched in the life of faith we now pursue as well as being greatly assisted in navigating our way through our current differences. Avis offers important insights on which we can draw in developing constructive ways forward. This book is also an invaluable resource for engagement between Anglicans and Christians of other traditions, through which, I hope, our ecumenical partners may also find a fuller appreciation of the deep treasures we currently enjoy within our global Communion through our historic heritage.’
David Beetge, Bishop of Highveld, Church of the Province of Southern Africa, Co-Chair: International Anglican – Roman Catholic Commission on Unity and Mission
‘This is a passionate, frank and rigorous book, important reading for all who seek to understand its subject, especially those in ecumenical dialogue with Anglicans. Paul Avis has given us a highly informative and seriously thoughtful study, valuable also for its treatment of some key themes in modern ecclesiology. A much needed and very welcome contribution at a decisive time.’
Paul McPartlan, Carl J. Peter Professor of Systematic Theology and Ecumenism, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC.
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