Are you looking for some inspiration on your spiritual journey?
Do you want to explore the rich and diverse traditions of Christianity and faith?
If so, you might want to check out this collection of media resources and recommendations on faith, Christianity and spirituality.
Enjoy!
Podcasts
The Bible for Normal People
Are you tired of feeling like you need a Ph.D. in ancient languages to understand the Bible? Are you looking for a fresh perspective on the good book, but don’t want to get bogged down in theological jargon? Well, fellow church-goers, here is a podcast for you!
Introducing “The Bible For Normal People,” a show hosted by the dynamic duo of Pete Enns and Jared Byas. Each week, they dive into a new topic, from the origins of the Bible to the latest scholarship on the historical Jesus. And
Stachel und Herz
“Stachel und Herz” is a German podcast by the Vereinten Evangelischen Mission. It discusses discrimination within the church and dreams of a community for all, touching on sensitive issues. Sarah Vecera and Thea Hummel provide information on current topics and interview guests about their personal stories or expertise. They sharpen perspectives within an international, ecumenical community and will give lots of enriching (and at times challenging) insights for your own life as a Christian too.
Podcast Episode: Michael Lapsley on racism, apartheid and forgiveness
Inone of his homilies Vinod spoke about Father Michael Lapsley, an Anglican priest, social justice activist and founder of the Institute for Healing of Memories in Cape Town. In 1990 at the height of the apartheid repression, Fr Michael received a letter bomb in the post in which he lost both his hands and one eye. Click here to listen to an interview with Michael Lapsley on the podcast of the Forgiveness Project.
The Crown Uncovered
A new podcast called The Crown Uncovered on the Coronation has been launched.
Each episode explores different aspects of the history, theological background and contemporary significance of the Coronation. The series focuses on the Church of England inheritance of the rite and what that means in a pluralistic society.
It is hosted by William Gulliford, Director of Ordinands in the Diocese in Europe and Vicar of St Mark’s, Regent’s Park and the Vicar of St John’s Wood, the Revd Dr Anders Bergquist.
They interview a range of guests and specialists on aspects of the history and theology behind the Coronation. It’s a great listen for anyone with an interest in finding out more about the Coronation and the church. Find it on Apple, Spotify and wherever you get your usual podcasts. The Crown Uncovered on Apple Podcasts
Videos
Pathways to Peace
Two years after the beginning of the war in Ukraine, justice, peace and reconciliation in Ukraine is the focus of the Conference of European Churches Pathways to Peace Initiative. Video interviews feature reflections from European churches, sharing hope amid a devastating war from Christian perspective. Learn more about Pathways to Peace
Women and Slaves in the Bible
Women and slaves in the bible: Do Christian scriptures encourage discrimination? Have you ever tripped over the household code promoted in Col 3:18-25? Dr Julia Snyder from the Faculty of Divinity at the University in Cambridge addresses this bible text and its implications in a short and relatable video here.
Cheerful Nativity Videos
In the spirit of spreading love and joy in advent, we’ve curated a special playlist here on our youtube channel that is bound to bring a smile to your face! It’s a collection of videos produced by churches in which the kids tell the Christmas story. Expect hilarious commentary, entertaining lay acting and cute baby angels and shepherds. Laughter is the best medicine, and these delightful storytellers are here to sprinkle some holiday magic into your days.
Feel free to spread the laughter by sharing this playlist with your loved ones. We hope it adds a touch of excitement and anticipation to the run-up to Christmas.
The History of St Paul, The Apostle
David Suchet, one of the most beloved UK actors, goes on a journey in the footsteps of Paul, the apostle. Shot in stunning locations in Israel, Turkey, Greece, Italy and Malta, these ground-breaking programmes explore both the ancient archaeological evidence for Paul’s journey and its’ contemporary resonances. On this journey, David’s personal mission is to discover what motivated Paul. His aim is to work out how Paul triumphed over the Roman Empire in a real ‘clash of civilizations’, and succeeded in leaving a legacy that endures to this day.
Watch part one here
Watch part two here
Video Library: St John’s Timeline
Are you interested in deep-dives on all things theology? Then visit St John’s Timeline, an awesome resource with tons of videos from leading Bible experts. You can learn about how Christians have thought about God and the world from ancient times to now; what the different parts of the Old and New Testaments mean; and how philosophy and theology have influenced each other.
This resource comes with recommendations from Church of England colleges training future clergy.
The History of St Peter
If you are interested in learning more about the life and legacy of St Peter, one of the most influential figures in Christianity, you might want to check out this two-part video series presented by David Suchet. The series follows Suchet as he travels across the Mediterranean, retracing the footsteps of Peter and exploring his role in the early church. Along the way, he meets historians, archaeologists, and experts who shed light on the historical and cultural context of Peter’s time. The series is engaging, informative, and inspiring, and it will give you a deeper appreciation of the faith and courage of this remarkable, yet relatable apostle.
Watch the videos on ITV’s Our History youtube channel:
Books
Acts and Omissions
If you’re looking for an enjoyable and insightful read, you may like Catherine Fox’s “Acts and Omissions”, part one of her Linchester Chronicles. This charming novel takes you on a journey through the quirky and wonderful world of a (fictional) Church of England diocese. The book’s characters are a charming bunch, each with their unique personalities and relatable struggles. Filled with wit and humor, the story offers a behind-the-scenes look at the weird and wonderful inner workings of the church. “Acts and Omissions” is a great way to explore the Church of England’s intriguing culture and dynamics. So, grab a copy, and happy reading!
Alternatives to Populism from a Human Rights Perspective
The Conference of European Churches (CEC) published a new book that explores the phenomenon of populism from various perspectives, exploring links between religion and religious actors in a compilation of essays authored by academics in the field.
“Our faith calls us to serve all people, regardless of whether they share it or not. Our churches are diaconical, not only in social work but also in their public mission,” reads the note from editors. “To speak out for human rights in general and freedom of religion or belief in particular is part of that public mission. By laying before you, our readers, this collection of essays, we do hope to contribute to this common aim of all who share the European ideals.”
Digital copies of Alternatives to Populism from a Human Rights Perspective can be downloaded here from the CEC website. Print copies are available from Amazon.
The Lost Letters of Pergamum
If you would like to learn more about early Christianity at the ancient sites that Vinod visited, you might enjoy reading The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce W. Longenecker. It’s a historical fiction novel that imagines the correspondence between a Roman nobleman and Luke, the author of the Gospel and Acts, written by an professor for Early Christianity. It’s a fascinating and engaging way to learn more about the culture and context of the first-century church.
And if you don’t want to buy it, you can always ask your local library to order it for you. Even here in Germany they can do that for a small fee via Fernleihe. Just ask your librarian!
Plato’s Prisoners
Church member and neuroscientist Silvia Paddock has just published her book “Plato’s Prisoners.” The book, written in collaboration with her brother, a physicist, presents a new view of the world, one that honors both faith and science, with strong connections to Christianity (for example, “you must be born from above”, “the kingdom of God is right in your midst, but you cannot see it”). She would like to get reactions to the book, explore this view of the world, and discuss a possible reunion of world religions, science, and spirituality. You can reach her at silvia.paddock@platosprisoners.com
Buy the book in your local bookstore, here at Thalia, on amazon.de, amazon.com or wherever you get your books.
Apps
Bible App: YouVersion
The YouVersion Bible app has been a game-changer for millions of Christians and their Bible study routine. The app is incredibly user-friendly and offers a huge variety of translations and reading plans. The daily devotionals and audio features make diving into the Word a breeze. If you’re looking to spice up your Bible time, definitely give the YouVersion app a shot—it’s been a real blessing for many!
Download and try it out on your Android or iOS device.
Social Media & Websites
Praying in Colour
Explore Sybil MacBeth’s website with lots of great ideas and resources for a more colourful and creative prayer life. Perhaps you’ll find some a quiet hour during the Easter break to sit down with some crayons and connect with God in a new way: a rewarding spiritual practice, not only for the youngest among us!
At times, it can be difficult to express our deepest thoughts and emotions through words alone. Praying in color offers an alternative way to communicate with God, allowing you to let go of the pressure to find the right words. The act of drawing and coloring engages your body and mind, providing an outlet for your energy and focus and offers a visual and tangible way to interact with God, helping you to better understand and appreciate your spiritual journey.
The Way UK
If you’re looking for thought-provoking and engaging content that explores faith and other meaningful topics, look no further than The Way UK. This social media creator is supported by the Church of England and offers a unique perspective on spirituality and personal growth through their creative videos and podcasts, which are tailored to young people and anyone with a youthful spirit. Whether you’re a devout believer or simply curious about faith and its role in modern life, The Way UK is definitely worth checking out!
Click here to follow them on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and more.
Freiburg Anglican Church 
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