by Rowan Williams
Eerdmans, Grand Rapids, Mich. 96 pages
Rowan Williams is well known for his theological depth and his nimble leadership of the Anglican Communion. Since leaving his role the Archbishop of Canterbury, Williams has continued his theological work at Cambridge. At the same time, he has published beautifully written pastoral essays designed to help Christians grow in faithful discipleship. Most of these were delivered while he was Archbishop. “Being Disciples” is a companion to his earlier “Being Christian.” Both display Williams’ deep love for Jesus Christ and his wise counsel for those seeking to know the essentials of the Christian tradition. Along with “Tokens of Trust,” these three books can be considered the finest introductions to the Christian faith of our time.
“Being Disciples” covers topics such as forgiveness and reconciliation, faith in the public square, life in the Spirit and the role of faith, hope and love at the heart of discipleship. Williams writes so winsomely that one is occasionally startled by the profound challenges he presents to those who seek to grow in Christ. He is a man of prayer, steeped in the wisdom of the early desert fathers, who has also lived a very public life. Both these aspects of being Christian are discussed with honesty and pastoral wisdom. This book – along with the companions – could be well used in a class for those seeking to grow in faith and practice. Williams is a reliable guide whose strength of faith brings confidence to those on the journey toward joy, which he names as our destiny.
