The Resilient Disciple A Lenten Journey from Adversity to Maturity

An exploration of how to respond to adversity. The art of kintsugi `repairing with gold' not only restores cracked objects but makes them even more beautiful than before.Alone on an 8-day retreat in the Egyptian desert, Justine Allain Chapman experienced first-hand the physical, spiritual and mental struggle many have endured before her. Our own desert experience may involve attending to challenges that come upon us suddenly - such as an illness or bereavement - or to difficult relationships or patterns of thinking that have long been draining us of life and joy. A Lenten pilgrimage is testing. We have to search within ourselves for answers which lie hidden, to draw on each other's strengths, to reflect deeply and to trust that we will be enabled to integrate our many experiences. But there is a `bright flame before us, a guiding star above'. And the God, who always calls us to love beyond ourselves, offers tender healing for our brokenness, longing that we may be consoled and renewed. This vividly written book includes wide ranging prayers and scripture readings, along with guides to using the material with groups and in preaching and worship. The Venerable Dr Justine Allain-Chapman is Archdeacon of Boston, Lincs. She was previously Vice-Principal of the South-East Institute of Theological Education and a vicar in Clapham, South London. She is a regular conference and retreat speaker on the topic of reslience and Christian discipleship. Her first book, Resilient Pastors, was based on her doctoral research on the subject of reslience in Christian ministry. Paperback / softback