Dictionary of Christian Biography (Reference Works) - Hardcover

Who increasingly thought of himself as the "bearer of Christ" to the New World? Who was involved in negotiations for the release of American hostages during the Khomeini regime? Which saint was called on a mission to save France and later accused of witchcraft and heresy? Who established the Christian Revival Association (later known as the Salvation Army)? The answers to these and thousands of other questions can be found in one book, the Dictionary of Christian Biography, compiled by Michael Walsh, librarian of Heythrop College, London. It is the first one-volume biographical reference for those seeking information about the lives of the world's Church leaders?irrespective of denomination. Until now, no one book in religion existed to serve as a comprehensive reference tool for those who have, over the last two millennia, contributed to the history and study of Christianity. The Dictionary of Christian Biography treats a range of figures prominent in Christianity who are no longer living. Each of the nearly 6,000 entries is relatively short?about one paragraph?yet contains essential information about the significant men and women from the past 2,000 years of Christian history. The Dictionary of Christian Biography covers the whole Church, geographically as well as chronologically, and embraces all Christian denominations: Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and Evangelical. Those who figure large in the New Testament are also included as well as some of the major figures of the Old Testament and Apocrypha. This makes the Dictionary of Christian Biography truly comprehensive. Categories for inclusion are saints, popes, archbishops of Canterbury, and other leaders of major denominations; any theologian, Scripture scholar, or ecclesiastical historian from the earliest times down to the last century who has contributed to the understanding of the Christian faith; founders of important organizations within Christianity such as religious orders, missionary societies, and significant lay movements; and men and women whose work is inspired by their Christian principles. The volume also includes a detailed bibliography of sources to aid readers searching for more information about a particular individual. Entries are arranged alphabetically for ready reference. A comprehensive bibliography is included. Anyone interested in Church history, whether political or devotional, and in the study of the Christian faith will find the Dictionary of Christian Biography an essential tool for learning about the men and women who had significant impact in Christian history.?Besides the obvious saints, popes, bishops, and theologians, they include many ?professional Christians,? including politicians, lawyers, architects, educators, and artists whose lives were fundamentally affected by their Christian life.? Theology Digest?This book reminds us of the wonderful legacy handed down to us by previous generations, and it helps us to know some of these people a little better. Recommended.? Lutheran Libraries?This is the first one-volume biographical reference for those seeking information about the lives of the world?s Church leaders?irrespective of denomination.? Bookviews?Walsh?s work is impressive because of both the quality of its entries (6,500) and its ecumenical and historical range (nearly 50 contributors). Concerted efforts were made to ensure that nobody of substance was omitted and to include lay as well as clerical figures. . . . The Dictionary of Christian Biography will serve as the premier desk reference for many years to come.? ChoiceThe Dictionary of Christian Biography* includes nearly 6,000 entries and 900,000 words containing biographical details about the world?s Church leaders* contains essential information about the significant men and women from 2,000 years of Christian history* includes alphabetically listed entries for easy accessibility* includes entries on the lives of saints with the feast day listed, both according to the traditional and to the reformed calendar, and their iconographic symbol* includes entries of Christian writers and a discussion of the influences upon them, and of their influence upon subsequent scholarship, as well as listing their major works* includes a detailed bibliography of sources to aid readers searching for more information about a particular individual.