Shaping the Church:The Promise of Implicit Theology

Here in this brilliant book, congregational studies meets ecclesiology meets cultural studies, all under the innovative heading `implicit theology'. Percy writes with wit, originality, wisdom, and profound insight. As a result of reading this book, one looks at the relationship of chruch and the world in a deeper and richer way. There is no doubt in my mind that this will be one of the great books of the decade; it will be recognized as a `classic'. A must read. Very Revd Dr lan Markham, Dean and President, Virginia Theological Seminary, USA

Martyn Percy's Shaping the Church, offers readers a fascinating and lively account of ecclesial life from the underside. He shows that the forces that shape the church, its sacramental practices and ministry for the greater part, operate at the implicit level in the `benign and insignificant peripheries and artefacts ecclesial life'. Percy is equally at home in theology, sociology and cultural studies. He has a feel for the church and its life in the world and he communicates it with verve, wit and insight. His work combines sharp analysis and critique with shrewd theological judgements on important issues in contemporary church life. A first-rate theologian and cultural commentator; this book will stimulate, challenge and reward. Rt Revd Associate Professor Stephen Pickard, Assistant Bishop, Diocese of Adelaide, Australia.

Martyn Percy was Principal of Ripon College, Cuddesdon, from 20104-14. He is a Professor of Theological Education at Kinga€?s College London and Professorial Research Fellow at Heythrop College, University of London. He writes on Christianity and contemporary culture, modern ecclesiology and practical theology. His recent books include Thirty-Nine Articles: An Anglican Landscape of Faith (Canterbury Press, 2013) and Anglicanism: Confidence, Commitment and Communion (Ashgate, 2013). He was recently described in the journal Theology as the British Theologian who is closest to being a a€?missionary anthropologista€?. In 2014, he was appointed Dean of Christ Church, Oxford.