Benjamin J Stern (45 results)

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Paperback or Softback. Condition: New. Faith Without Permission: The Story and Spirit of the Independent Sacramental Movement. Book.

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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000.

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Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. The Catechism of Seeking and Discipleship is a Scripture-rooted, pastoral guide written for seekers, returners, and formed Christians in the Independent Sacramental and Independent Catholic movements. It is a chapter-based catechism that begins where many people actually live: longing, wounds, doubt, hope, and the desire for a faith that can be trusted-and then leads the reader into the heart of the Gospel and the way of Jesus Christ.Centered on the life of Christ and the call to discipleship, this catechism presents the Christian faith as an invitation into communion: to know, love, and trust Jesus who reveals the Father and goes before us. With an existential and experiential tone, it honors the human search for God while insisting that God has first searched for us-supremely in the Incarnation, Cross, and Resurrection. It also addresses common obstacles to faith with honesty and gentleness, including seasons when God feels distant and the difficult realities many have faced in institutional church life.Designed for personal reading or group formation, every chapter includes suggested Scripture passages and reflection/discussion questions, making it ideal for catechetical classes, adult formation, small groups, and sacramental preparation. Key themes include the mystery of the Trinity and our participation in Trinitarian life through Baptism; the Creed, Commandments, Beatitudes, and the Lord's Prayer as foundations for Christian belief and practice; and a sacramental focus through dedicated chapters on the Sacraments of Initiation, Healing, and Vocation and Service-reflecting the central place of sacramental life in independent communities.Above all, The Catechism of Seeking and Discipleship calls readers to live the Good News in practice: to keep striving for holiness even when we sin, to be formed by Scripture, and to follow Jesus especially among the sick, lonely, vulnerable, and hungry. It offers a credible, compassionate path of formation for those who desire a sacramental, Gospel-shaped Christian life-rooted in the universal Christian confession and expressed in pastoral realism, mercy, and hope. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. Catholic tradition without institutional walls. Sacramental life without exclusion. Apostolic faith lived in small, faithful communities.This is the world of the Independent Sacramental Movement-and this book offers an accessible apologetic for the movement.Defending the Independent Sacramental Movement as a Catholic Way of Life explores why ordinary Christians, committed clergy, and sincere seekers have found a home in the Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM). Far from a fringe curiosity, the ISM stands within the long and complex history of Christian diversity: a place where the sacraments are real, apostolic succession is preserved, and pastoral care remains close to the lives of ordinary people.This book confronts common objections-about validity, continuity, formation, and governance-with clarity and charity. It shows that the ISM's challenges, while real, do not disqualify it from being a genuine expression of catholic Christianity. Instead, they call the movement into deeper maturity, honesty, and communion.With warmth and intellectual seriousness, the author presents the ISM as a living option: a path for those who have encountered obstacles in larger institutions;a refuge for the marginalized and overlooked;a home for clergy whose vocations could not flourish elsewhere;and a witness to the truth that God's grace cannot be confined within a single structure or jurisdiction.This book is written both for outsiders who seek a fair understanding of the ISM and for insiders who need language to articulate why their faith, sacraments, and ministries are real. It reminds readers that the Church has always been larger, more diverse, and more surprising than any one institution-and that the Holy Spirit continues to work in unexpected places.The Independent Sacramental Movement is not a lesser alternative, but a small and sincere sign of Christ's enduring presence. This book invites you to see that presence clearly, honestly, and with renewed hope. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. What's in a name-and why does it matter for the Independent Sacramental Movement?In a landscape filled with overlapping identities, unfamiliar terminology, and communities that vary widely in history and structure, Names and Identity in the Independent Sacramental Movement offers clarity, honesty, and pastoral wisdom. This accessible guide helps newcomers and long-time members alike understand what different names within the ISM actually mean-and why choosing them thoughtfully is essential for healthy ministry.From the terms Old Catholic, Independent Catholic, and Inclusive Catholic, to less familiar descriptors like Ordinariate, Autocephalous, and Sacramental Christian, this book walks readers through the historical roots, theological meanings, and pastoral implications of the labels used across the movement. Rather than policing terminology, the author explores why names matter: they shape expectations, communicate mission, build trust, and help communities grow with integrity.The book addresses common sources of confusion-such as the difference between the European Old Catholic Churches and the American Old Catholic heritage-and explains why clarity is crucial when independent communities present themselves online, welcome newcomers, or engage in ecumenical relationships. It also includes thoughtful appendices on responding to objections about the use of the word Catholic and why ISM communities should develop their own liturgical texts rather than adopting the official worship books of other churches.Grounded in pastoral experience and written in a warm, reflective style, this book offers: A clear introduction to the names and identities found across the ISMA calm, historically informed response to critiques from Roman Catholic and Orthodox perspectivesInsight into how naming shapes mission, governance, and spiritual lifeGuidance for communities seeking integrity and transparencyEncouragement for ISM clergy and laity who sometimes feel unseen, misunderstood, or undervaluedNames and Identity in the Independent Sacramental Movement is an invaluable resource for seekers, clergy, theologians, and anyone who wants to understand this diverse and often misunderstood branch of the Christian family. It invites communities to embrace honesty, humility, and the quiet confidence that God is present wherever truth and sacramental life meet. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. What does it mean to dream faithfully about the Church's future-especially from the margins?A Future Worth Dreaming is a profound, hope-filled reflection on the Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM), a small but passionate stream of Christian life committed to sacramental ministry, pastoral compassion, and the dignity of every person.This book asks a bold question: What if the future of the Church is already taking root in small communities, hidden chapels, borrowed spaces, and the quiet ministries of independent clergy? With gentle honesty and realistic insight, the author explores two central dreams: a shared spiritual home for the ISM-a kind of "Vatican" rooted in prayer rather than power-anda deeper reflection on recognition and intercommunion, not as goals to chase, but as fruits of authentic Gospel living.Along the way, the book reflects on isolation, memory, hope, pastoral calling, and the need for spaces where clergy and laity can breathe, learn, pray, and belong. This is not a book of demands or strategies. It is a contemplative invitation-to dream realistically, to serve faithfully, and to build a future grounded in mercy, justice, and the sacramental presence of Christ. Whether you belong to the ISM, the Old Catholic tradition, an independent community, or simply care about the future of Christian ministry, this book offers clarity, challenge, and deep encouragement.If you believe that small ministries can shine with great light, and that God speaks through unlikely communities, this book is for you.The future of the Church may be smaller, humbler, more relational-and more beautiful-than we ever imagined. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

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Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. Ancient faith is not a museum piece-it is living grace.Ancient Faith, Present Grace is a catechism written for people exploring Independent Old Catholic churches in the United States-whether you are newly baptized, returning to Christian faith, recovering from a difficult church experience, or simply hungry for a catholic Christianity that is spiritually grounded, intellectually serious, and pastorally gentle.This catechism introduces the heart of the Christian faith as Independent Old Catholics receive it: Scripture, the Creeds, the early Church, the sacraments, prayer, moral formation, healing, and mission. It is written in full chapters inviting readers to slow down, reflect, and pray their way into the faith jouney. Each chapter includes Scripture references for deeper study and closes with invitations to prayer and self-examination-because Christian belief engages the whole person and must lead to worship.Independent Old Catholic life in America is a diverse landscape. This book speaks clearly about what is essential-while intentionally avoiding internal disputes where jurisdictions differ in theology or pastoral practice. The aim is unity in the Gospel: a shared catholic center rooted in the undivided Church, shaped by sacramental worship, and committed to accountable, Christlike ministry.Inside you'll find accessible chapters on: The Gospel and the human longing for GodRevelation, Holy Scripture, Tradition, Creeds, and CouncilsThe Trinity, Jesus Christ, and the Holy SpiritThe Church-one, holy, catholic, and apostolic-and authority as serviceThe sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation/Chrismation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, Matrimony)Prayer as communion with God and the spiritual life as a "rule of life"The moral life: dignity, Beatitudes, commandments, virtue, and life in the SpiritSuffering, healing, and Christian hope; the communion of saints and the last thingsMission: the Church for the life of the worldWhether used for personal reading, parish formation, or catechesis with a priest or mentor, Ancient Faith, Present Grace is an invitation to a catholic life that is reverent, hopeful, and deeply human-a life nourished by the sacraments and formed by the love of the Triune God. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

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Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. Canon Law as Pastoral Care: A Framework for the Independent Sacramental Movement offers a compassionate, practical, and deeply grounded approach to ecclesial order in communities that value both freedom and accountability.The Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM) is marked by apostolic succession, diverse liturgical traditions, micro-jurisdictions, house churches, and extended communities that transcend geography. While this diversity is one of the movement's greatest strengths, it has also left many clergy and communities without shared norms for ministry, governance, discipline, and conflict resolution. This book responds to that need by presenting canon law not as control, but as pastoral care.Written for bishops, priests, deacons, lay leaders, and serious inquirers, this handbook articulates a "middle way" between authoritarianism and disorder. It translates the wisdom of historic Christian canon law into forms that are realistic for small, decentralized jurisdictions, while remaining attentive to the pastoral realities of independent sacramental life.The book addresses governance in micro-jurisdictions, clergy formation and ethics, incardination and mobility, parish and mission life without buildings, sacramental practice and record-keeping, stewardship of temporal goods, and the realities of bi-vocational ministry. It also offers clear, pastoral guidance on dispute resolution, mediation, tribunals, appeals, and administrative acts such as establishing or suppressing parishes, granting or removing faculties, and responding to clergy misconduct-always with an emphasis on transparency, dignity, and reconciliation.At its heart, Canon Law as Pastoral Care is a vision for communion. It presents canonical identity as an invitation rather than an imposition, encouraging interjurisdictional collaboration, shared formation, and mutual recognition without demanding uniformity. For those seeking stability without rigidity and structure without domination, this book provides a hopeful and credible framework for the present and future of the Independent Sacramental Movement. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

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Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. Make Disciples, Not Followers is a biblical guide for Christians who speak online-whether you're a content creator, apologist, catechist, pastor, or simply someone trying to share the Gospel faithfully in the attention economy.Social media rewards what is fast, sharp, and performative: outrage, "quick takes," controversy, and the slow drift from witness to brand. But Jesus did not command us to collect likes. He commanded us to make disciples. This book names the temptations of the platform and offers a path toward online evangelism marked by truthfulness, charity, prayer, and spiritual integrity.Drawing on the RSV throughout, you'll explore how to evaluate success by spiritual fruit rather than virality; how to build a rule of life for digital mission; how to correct without contempt; how to handle conflict without straw men; and how to resist the cult of personality that platforms reward. You'll also find practical, pastoral guidance on topics many Christian creators avoid: misinformation and rumor-sharing, boundaries and privacy, "confession-like" DMs, monetization and donor manipulation, burnout and mental health, and the responsibility that comes when your content influences conversions.This is not a handbook for "winning the internet." It is a call to holiness in public speech-to be the kind of Christian online who would still be recognizable as a disciple offline.Inside you'll find: A framework for faithful online evangelism, catechesis, apologetics, testimony, and pastoral sensitivityA biblical vision for truth, fairness, and reverent speech in hostile digital spacesGuidance for handling authority, correction, and accountability-especially when authority failsA sober look at money, patronage, sponsorships, and the burden placed on the ChurchChapters on embodied Christianity, human dignity, and why no political movement can fully embody the GospelAppendices including a "Should I post this?" discernment worksheet, and a full code of ethics with ready-to-use templatesIf you want your online presence to point beyond yourself-toward Christ, the Church, and the demanding joy of discipleship-this book is for you. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

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Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. A growing number of Christians are hungry for a faith that is both ancient and alive-rooted in Scripture, shaped by historic liturgy, and expressed with compassion in a fractured world. Many are weary of scandals, polarization, and shallow spirituality. Others have been turned away from the churches that once felt like home. Still others feel their faith flickering, unsure whether it can survive the present moment. This book is written for all of them.Written from within the Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM) and the wider world of Independent Catholicism, this volume offers a clear, pastoral, and theologically serious guide to sacramental life and ministry in small, extended, and often non-traditional communities. It explores what it means to be a sacramental church beyond large institutional structures-one that remains faithful to the apostolic Gospel while learning wisely from the riches of many Christian traditions.Across its chapters, the book addresses the heart of independent sacramental ministry: the theology of the sacraments; liturgical adaptation in small communities; the rhythm of the liturgical year; preaching as the necessary companion to the sacraments; evangelism and catechesis that form disciples rather than consumers; pastoral care for baptism, marriage, confession, anointing, and funerals; building communities that serve the margins; ethics, accountability, and spiritual formation; and an ecumenical posture that seeks truth wherever it is found without borrowing identities or blurring boundaries.More than a manual, this is a vision for renewal. It calls independent sacramental communities to maturity-stable worship, serious formation, credible oversight, and a public witness of mercy and truth. It argues that sacraments without apostolic proclamation can drift into ritualism, but Word and sacrament together can heal the wounded, strengthen the searching, and restore hope.Whether you are clergy, a lay leader, a seeker exploring liturgical Christianity, or someone trying to find your way back to faith, this book invites you onto the Emmaus road: to walk with Christ, to have the Scriptures opened anew, and to rediscover the living grace that still meets the downcast-at the altar, in the Word, and in the shared life of the Church. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Taschenbuch. Condition: Neu. Neuware - What if the saints are not distant figures from another age, but living friends in Christ who still pray for the Church and help lead us to holiness In Our Best Friends: The Saints, Their Intercession, and the Christian Life, Rev. Benjamin J. Stern offers a rich and inviting exploration of the communion of saints for readers who want both theological depth and spiritual encouragement. Drawing from Scripture, the life of the early Church, and the broader Christian tradition, this book shows that devotion to the saints is not a distraction from Jesus Christ, but one of the ways the Church learns to live more fully in him. The saints are not worshiped, nor do they replace Christ. They are the fruits of his grace, the witnesses of his kingdom, and loving companions who strengthen us by their example and intercession.This book explores the biblical foundations of sanctity, the communion of saints, martyrdom, relics, holy memory, the incarnation, and the many different ways the Gospel takes flesh in human lives. It also addresses difficult questions with honesty and care: disputed saints across traditions, canonization, historical uncertainty, and how Christians can honor the saints without superstition or exaggeration. Above all, this is a pastoral book meant not only to inform, but to inspire. It invites readers to see the saints not merely as figures to admire, but as friends who encourage us to follow Christ more faithfully, suffer more hopefully, and become saints ourselves.

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Taschenbuch. Condition: Neu. Neuware - The Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM) stands at a crossroads - rich in compassion and creativity, yet often fragmented and misunderstood. Faith Without Permission is both a prophetic challenge and a practical guide, calling the movement to spiritual depth, theological seriousness, and mature pastoral identity.Rather than defending or dismissing the ISM, this book seeks to understand it: a movement born from love for the sacraments and the conviction that God's grace cannot be confined by institutional boundaries. Drawing from Scripture, Church Fathers, theology, and lived experience, it explores how freedom and order, Spirit and structure, can coexist within authentic Christian community.Each chapter combines reflection with formation - addressing vocation, liturgy, discernment, accountability, and ministry in small communities. The extensive appendices offer concrete resources: rules of life, discernment tools, and an annotated bibliography spanning theology, pastoral care, and spirituality.Faith Without Permission recognizes the ISM's weaknesses - ego, fragmentation, lack of formation - but also its graces: welcome, generosity, courage, and resilience. It calls the movement to rise to the occasion of its vocation: to be not a loose association of independents, but a communion of prayerful, educated, and accountable ministers who embody God's freedom in the world.This is a book for clergy, students, and seekers who believe renewal begins not with permission, but with fidelity - to Christ, to one another, and to the Holy Spirit who still breathes life into the margins of the Church.

Paperback. Condition: new. Paperback. The Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM) stands at a crossroads - rich in compassion and creativity, yet often fragmented and misunderstood. Faith Without Permission is both a prophetic challenge and a practical guide, calling the movement to spiritual depth, theological seriousness, and mature pastoral identity.Rather than defending or dismissing the ISM, this book seeks to understand it: a movement born from love for the sacraments and the conviction that God's grace cannot be confined by institutional boundaries. Drawing from Scripture, Church Fathers, theology, and lived experience, it explores how freedom and order, Spirit and structure, can coexist within authentic Christian community.Each chapter combines reflection with formation - addressing vocation, liturgy, discernment, accountability, and ministry in small communities. The extensive appendices offer concrete resources: rules of life, discernment tools, and an annotated bibliography spanning theology, pastoral care, and spirituality.Faith Without Permission recognizes the ISM's weaknesses - ego, fragmentation, lack of formation - but also its graces: welcome, generosity, courage, and resilience. It calls the movement to rise to the occasion of its vocation: to be not a loose association of independents, but a communion of prayerful, educated, and accountable ministers who embody God's freedom in the world.This is a book for clergy, students, and seekers who believe renewal begins not with permission, but with fidelity - to Christ, to one another, and to the Holy Spirit who still breathes life into the margins of the Church. This item is printed on demand. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.