Book picks similar to
The HarperCollins Encyclopedia of Catholicism by Richard P. McBrien
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theology
religion
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The Essence of Buddhism
David Tuffley - 2010
Much has been written about Buddhism and how to practice it. Readers will have no difficulty finding hundreds of books on the topic. This book simply focuses on the essence of Buddhism, as expressed in the Four Noble Truths and the Eight-fold Path. Buddhism is not a religion as such; it does not propose an external God. It does not seek to replace a person’s existing religious beliefs, only to supplement them. The Buddha, in all likelihood, would rather his followers describe themselves simply as Followers of The Way.
Yiddish: A Nation of Words
Miriam Weinstein - 2001
It included Hebrew, a touch of the Romance and Slavic languages, and a large helping of German. In a world of earthly wandering, this pungent, witty, and infinitely nuanced speech, full of jokes, puns, and ironies, became the linguistic home of the Jews, the bond that held a people together.Here is the remarkable story of how this humble language took vigorous root in Eastern European shtetls and in the Jewish quarters of cities across Europe; how it achieved a rich literary flowering between the wars in Europe and America; how it was rejected by emancipated Jews; and how it fell victim to the Holocaust. And how, in yet another twist of destiny, Yiddish today is becoming the darling of academia. Yiddish is a history as story, a tale of flesh-and-blood people with manic humor, visionary courage, brilliant causes, and glorious flaws. It will delight everyone who cares about language, literature, and culture.
Great Speeches of our Time
Hywel Williams - 2009
From stark warnings against the threat of totalitarianism to celebrations of independence long fought for, & from rallying calls for political change to passionate defences of moral principles, Hywel Williams' choice of speeches is richly eclectic in scope. This is an anthology with many voices: dictators & democrats, liberals & conservaatives, nationalists & internationalists, soldiers & peace-makers, statesmen & entrepreneurs.
The Little Book of Lunch
Caroline Craig - 2014
It is for anyone who has found themselves staring at the shelves in their local sandwich chain or their work canteen with a growling stomach and sinking feeling.The Little Book of Lunch has clever approaches to classics making them easy for transportation; meals that taste delicious at room temperature; quickly assembled dishes for when you barely have five minutes; recipes for when the cupboards are bare. It includes:-Wholesome and Healthy salads like tabouleh-Indulgent and Decadent Dining like grilled halloumi, vegetable and avocado couscous-Sandwiches for when you are chained to your desk like guacamole and tomato salsa on rye -Store-cupboard snacks like spicy lentil and coconut soup-Sweet treats to bribe colleagues like salted caramel brownies
Crossing the Threshold of Hope
Pope John Paul II - 1994
He goes to the heart of his personal beliefs and speaks with passion about the existence of God; about the dignity of man; about pain, suffering, and evil; about eternal life and the meaning of salvation; about hope; about the relationship of Christianity to other faits and that of Catholicism to other branches of the Christian faith.With the humility and generosity of spirit for which he is known, John Paul II speaks directly and forthrightly to all people. His message: Be not afraid!
WHITE HOUSE USHER: Stories from the Inside
Christopher Beauregard Emery - 2017
government—an usher in the White House. For more than 200 years, a small office has operated on the State Floor of the White House Executive Residence. Known as the Usher's Office, whose mission is to accommodate the personal needs of the first family, and to make the White House feel like a home. The Usher's Office is the managing office of the Executive Residence and its staff of 90-plus. The staff consists of butlers, carpenters, grounds personnel, electricians, painters, plumbers, florists, maids, housemen, cooks, chefs, storekeepers, curators, calligraphers, doormen, and administrative support. Ushers work closely with the first family, senior staff, Social Office, Press Office, Secret Service Agency, and military leaders to carry out White House functions: luncheons, dinners, teas, receptions, meetings, conferences, and more. Chris Emery was only the 18th White House Usher since 1891, and had the honor and privilege to serve presidential families for three years during the Reagan administration, four years for President H. W. Bush, and 14 months under President Clinton. His vignettes recreate intimate White House happenings from an insider’s viewpoint. Chris Emery was the only White House Usher to be terminated in the 20th century. Turn the pages to find out which first lady fired him... “With his book, White House Usher: Stories from the Inside, former usher Chris Emery gives his readers a peek inside what happens upstairs at the White House. Chris’ anecdotes tell a rich story of how America’s house really is the First Families’ home. I loved my trip down memory lane.” - Former First Lady Barbara Bush (October 2017)
Ten Universal Principles: A Brief Philosophy of the Life Issues
Robert J. Spitzer - 2011
But not everyone accepts the same religious premises or recognizes the same spiritual authorities. Are there public arguments--reasons that can be given that do not presuppose agreement on religious grounds or common religious commitments--that can guide our thoughts and actions, as well as our laws and public policies?In Ten Universal Principles: A Brief Philosophy of the Life Issues, Jesuit Father Robert Spitzer sets out, in a brief, yet highly-readable and lucid style, ten basic principles that must govern the reasonable person's thinking and acting about life issues. A highly-regarded philosopher, Father Spitzer provides an intelligent outline for thinking and talking about human life. This book is a powerful tool for persuasively articulating and effectively inculturating a prolife philosophy.
When Reasoning No Longer Works: A Practical Guide for Caregivers Dealing with Dementia & Alzheimer's Care
Angel Smits - 2017
They do this with little training, and often only their good intentions guide them. When Reasoning No Longer Works is the training manual these family caregivers have been searching for. Written by a Gerontologist with more than twenty years of experience, this reference gives the reader an easy to understand view of what dementia does to the brain, how it is diagnosed, and most importantly, how to deal with its effects. Bulleted lists clearly explain: • How to avoid a catastrophic reaction • Specific approaches for aggressive behavior • How to deal with disruptive behaviors • Ways to diminish wandering • What to do when a wanderer is missing • When to look for outside help You’ll also follow the story of Lou and Rose, a couple who share their lives with Alzheimer’s disease. Together, they find the answers to questions caregivers and victims are sometimes afraid to ask. (with foreword by Dr. Randall J. Bjork) "Sixteen years ago, my father, Charles, died as the result of AD. For many years to come, I knew that I had failed him. I wish I knew then what I read about now in When Reasoning No Longer Works. The stress of living with an Alzheimer’s patient in the family can be heart-wrenching, but this book provides hope and help.” — Jeanie M, daughter and caregiver
Surprisingly Simple: LLC vs. S-Corp vs. C-Corp Explained in 100 Pages or Less
Mike Piper - 2008
(And more importantly, when it will not!)Which business structures could reduce your Federal income tax or Self-Employment Tax.
The New Testament Made Easier: Part 1: Matthew, Mark, Luke & John
David J. Ridges - 2002
Best-selling author David J. Ridges has incorporated a verse-by-verse reproduction of the scriptures wit in-the-verse insights in this book, making it the most valuable resource you add to your gospel library. In addition, this second version has more insights than ever before! Join the tens of thousands of readers who have experienced spiritual growth from reading and pondering the books in this series!
Islam: A Concise Introduction
Huston Smith - 1958
Dispelling narrow and distorted notions about the nature of Islam and featuring a new introduction by the author, this book compellingly conveys the profound appeal of Islam, while addressing such timely issues as the true meaning of jihad, the role of women in Islamic societies, and the remarkable growth of Islam in America.
The Origins of Christianity and the Quest for the Historical Jesus Christ
D.M. Murdock - 2011
In the West particularly, sizable tomes have been composed speculating upon the nature and historical background of one of the main characters of Western religions, Jesus Christ. Many have tried to dig into the precious few clues as to Jesus's identity and come up with a biographical sketch that either bolsters faith or reveals a more human side of this godman to which we can all relate. Obviously, considering the time and energy spent on them, the subjects of Christianity and its legendary founder are very important to the Western mind and culture, and increasingly to the rest of the world as well.Despite all of this literature continuously being cranked out and the significance of the issue, in the public at large there remains a serious lack of formal and broad education regarding religion and mythology, and most individuals are highly uninformed in this area. Concerning the issue of Christianity, for example, the majority of people are taught in most schools and churches that Jesus Christ was an actual historical figure and that the only controversy regarding him is that some people accept him as the Son of God and the Messiah, while others do not. However, whereas this is the raging debate most evident in this field today, it is not the most important. Shocking as it may seem to the general populace, the most enduring and profound controversy in this subject is whether or not a person named Jesus Christ ever really existed.ContentsIntroductionThe ControversyHistory and Positions of the Debate"Pious Fraud"The ProofThe GnosticsBiblical SourcesNon-Biblical SourcesThe CharactersThe Major PlayersBuddhaBuddha's BirthBuddhist CrucifixionHorus of EgyptMithra, Sun God of PersiaMithra's "Virgin" Birth?Mithra and the TwelveKrishna of IndiaKrishna's "Virgin" Birth?The Names of Krishna and ChristKrishna's Solar NaturePrometheus of GreeceThe Creation of a MythThe "Son" of God is the "Sun" of GodEtymology Tells the StoryThe Book of Revelation is Egyptian and ZoroastrianThe "Patriarchs" and "Saints" are the Gods of Other CulturesThe "Disciples" are the Signs of the ZodiacWas Jesus an Essene Master?Qumran is Not an Essene CommunityWas the New Testament Composed by Therapeuts?ConclusionBibliographyEndnotes
30 Days to Understanding the Bible, 30th Anniversary eBook: Unlock the Scriptures in 15 minutes a day
Max Anders - 2018
In just fifteen minutes a day, you'll learn the Bible's key people, events, and doctrines to get more out of God's Word. This simple-to-use, straightforward guide has been recommended by Bible teachers and pastors for thirty years, and now it's available in an expanded thirtieth anniversary edition—with the most requested topics from the original edition restored and updated for today's readers.Features include:
The “Arc of Bible History” to help you visualize the Bible’s overarching themes
The “Story of the Bible” summarizing Genesis through Revelation in just a few pages
The core beliefs of the Christian faith, focusing on the teachings that have united Christians for the last 2,000 years
13-week plan that provides teacher’s every creative and effective tool for teaching the Bible in 30 days
Fan-favorite bonus content, previously removed, now restored from the original edition
Prayer Shield: How To Intercede for Pastors, Christian Leaders and Others On the Spiritual Frontlines
C. Peter Wagner - 1992
It's the person out on the front line, leading God's army into the world to proclaim His good news. Pastors, teachers, and all types of leaders are under severe attack from the enemy. And they're depending on the prayers of those who care to help see them through. The enemy knows where our leaders are vulnerable, and he strikes at their weakest points. But the greater power is on our side. Through intercessory prayer you can reinforce your leaders with God's strength and protection.
Abusing Science: The Case Against Creationism
Philip Kitcher - 1982
It is also a lucid exposition of the nature and methods of genuine science. The book begins with a concise introduction to evolutionary theory for non-scientists and closes with a rebuttal of the charge that this theory undermines religious and moral values. It will astonish many readers that this case must still be made in the 1980s, but since it must, Philip Kitcher makes it irresistibly and forcefully.Not long ago, a federal court struck down an Arkansas law requiring that scientific Creationism be taught in high school science classes. Contemporary Creationists may have lost one legal battle, but their cause continues to thrive. Their efforts are directed not only at state legislatures but at local school boards and textbook publishers. As Kitcher argues in this rigorous but highly readable book, the integrity of science is under attack. The methods of inquiry used in evolutionary biology are those which are used throughout the sciences. Moreover, modern biology is intertwined with other fields of science--physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology. Creationists hope to persuade the public that education in science should be torn apart to make room for a literal reading of Genesis.Abusing Science refutes the popular complaint that the scientific establishment is dogmatic and intolerant, denying academic freedom to the unorthodox. It examines Creationist claims seriously and systematically, one by one, showing clearly just why they are at best misguided, at worst ludicrous.