Latest Braemor titles look at Pilgrimage and the Eucharist
Two new titles in the Braemor Studies series have been officially launched. The books, written by the Revd Karen Salmon and the Revd Christopher West, were both launched at an in–person gathering in the Church of Ireland Theological Institute at Braemor Park, Dublin.
The Revd Karen Salmon’s book is entitled St Patrick’s Pilgrimages – Journey to Place, Journey to God and was launched by the Dean of Down, the Very Revd Henry Hull. The book explores the relationship between people and pilgrimage in Ireland in the 21st century, incorporating reflections and interviews with pilgrims as well as a detailed look at the scholarship and history of pilgrimage in the Christian Church.
Karen was recently introduced as Bishop’s Curate in Magherally and Annaclone but the book was published last year whilst Covid restrictions were in place.
Dean Hull noted that Down Cathedral is the traditional burial place of St Patrick and two miles down the road in Saul is where he began his ministry in Ireland. Pilgrims come from far and wide to both locations. “Karen has written about the sites and the people who visit them. She has talked to people and reflected on their experiences and the experience of those who welcome pilgrims,” he explained. He added that she also looks at pilgrimage through the lens of the Bible and history and that pilgrimage is something that is very real today.
The Revd Christopher West’s volume is entitled Eucharist and Embodiment – An Invitation to Constructive Theological Thinking. It was launched by the Very Revd Kenny Hall, Dean of Clogher. The book intends to cross boundaries within the disciplines of theology, philosophy and science in the search for an integrated approach to our embodied reception of the Eucharist. Christopher explains that it is an exercise in constructive theology which has contemporary relevance.
Dean Hall commented that Christopher’s study crossed the boundaries of theology, philosophy and science in search of an integrated whole. He said it was rooted in the traditions of the Church but also looked at where the Church was in the world today.
The latest launch brings Volume 12 and 13 of the Braemor Series. The series comprises the final year theses of MTh students which have been selected for publication by the external examiner.
The books are available in the Church of Ireland’s online bookstore at this link.