Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light

Review in the 'Church Times' July 1 2011 

This is a book of ‘reflections for troubled times from the book of Revelation’. There are really two journeys here: into the dreams, symbols and strange images of the Revelation of St John, and into the suffering and struggles of life. It is Winter’s assertion that one brings light to the darkness of the other.     

Probably one of the best-known Christian writers in the UK, he takes the reader through the visions and mystery of Revelation with clarity and assurance. He has written a brief but valuable guide, which includes thoughtful questions for group discussion.

Winter’s observations are insightful, and he does indeed shed ‘light in the darkness’ as he seeks to address the big questions to be faced personally and globally: our fears and our suffering. His understanding , experience and pastoral heart are evident. The problem, however, is that not all answers are found in Revelation, and some of the answers raise other big questions: for example, ‘ultimately God is in control’.

Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light is a kind and thoughtful companion to the last book of the Bible; it opens the reader’s eyes not just to the visions and images in Revelation, but also to the fears, pain and questions of life.

John Kiddle 

 

Details of the book and ways of purchasing it are in the 'Books' section.

It is published by BRF (£6.99)

 

 

 

 

 

Book review from Church Times July 1 2011

 

All About me...

David Winter

On this website:

All about me  Profile, current news and offers

Books  All my books: titles, details, prices

Contact Me  How to contact me with comments, requests, etc

Coming Soon Extracts from articles, books and radio scripts

Currently these include  short Diary and syndicated items, and details of speaking and other engagements.

 

You can find details of my latest book (publication in February 2012) under 'Books'. The title is Highway Code for Retirement, a not too serious look at retiring by someone who's done it three times. A video interview is available on http://vimeo.com/37723636

 

After five years teaching (English and Religious Studies), ten years in magazine journalism and twenty years as a BBC producer, ending up as Head of Religious Broadcasting, I got a proper job - I was ordained in the Church of England. Over the last forty years I’ve published over 40 books - one novel, two biographies, an autobiography, an anthology of poetry about Jesus (The Poet’s Christ) and endless books on religious topics. My main interest now is unpacking the Bible for modern readers and applying its message to modern life. I review books and write a regular diary column for the Church Times and a syndicated monthly column for 'Parish Pump'. In 2011 I  was elected a member of the Society of Authors.

As well as writing, I broadcast occasionally on ‘Thought for the Day’ on Radio Four, and lead retreats and study days.  However, I took a break from early morning radio last winter. 

Other Interests

I’m a great cricket fan, and have written for The Cricketer in the past. I support Tottenham Hotspur and Oxford United. I love drama and opera - and watching television, which I occasionally review for the Church Times. I enjoy poetry and belong to a local and thriving Poetry Group - but I don't write it! My favourite poets are Donne, Herbert, Browning, Hopkins, Betjeman, Porter and Alice Meynell.

I share a delightful King Charles cavalier spaniel called ‘Cassia’ but the cat died earlier this year and sadly won’t be replaced.

I have a great family - daughter Becky (an Anglican priest), and two sons, Phil (a professional musician - his band’s called Tunng) and Adrian, who is manager of the Aram Store in Covent Garden. Adrian is married to Fiona. Their mother, Christine, died in 2001. I have two grandchildren - Lydia (16) and Harry (13). My second wife, Ros, lives most of the time in London, but also spends time here with me in Thatcham.

David Winter

 

Video: Facing the Darkness

A video, made for YouTube, about my  book Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light can be seen at  http:www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY2h-J933nM  or at www.youtube.com/brfonline.

The book was published in February 2011 (see the Books section of this site for details of ordering it).

New Daylight

I contribute regularly to 'New Daylight, the daily Bible reading notes published by BRF. They are produced three times a year, with readings for each day by a panel of experienced writers. The Bible reading for the day is printed in full, so that the little book is a handy size for carrying in a pocket or handbag. BRF will gladly send a free set of sample readings, so that you can try before you subscribe!

enquiries@brf.org.uk

www.brf.org.uk

BRF 15 The Chambers, Vineyard, Abingdon OX14 3FE