Review:

Chrysalis

Knobbly, single-plant caterpillars change into graceful, multilocation butterflies in the dark, dissolving structure known as a chrysalis. The big question is whether you have been through a ‘chrysalis’ experience in your Christian faith. Alan Jamieson describes these in many different ways, and draws from both contemporary experience and the  greats of Christian thinking to show that this is both a good and normal  possibility. He then explains how those who have not been through one  or more of these times will probably not understand (or like) what he is teaching, but they still need to face the implications of the fact that many Christians are or will. This is accessible, spiritual, affirming, clear, positive and contains some wonderful practical ideas. It claims to be an easy read, and that is true – as long as you are not stuck in small-minded conservatism or reactionary fear!

High: Strategic ideas for “waystations” for migrating postchrysalis Christians.

Low: ‘The dark night of the soul’ as a phrase puts people off this positive process of transformation and should be avoided.

Reviewed by Hugo Anson, who is involved with Grassroots (grassroots.org.uk).

Paternoster / £9.99 / 9781842275443