'No-one but Frances Young could have written a book like this. It combines an immense professional expertise in the literature of early Christianity with intense personal and pastoral reflection, an insightful perspective on contemporary theological concerns and an interweaving of sermons and poetic meditations that remind us of Frances's stature as a spiritual guide. It is a book of exceptional human maturity as well as intellectual challenge. Frances Young has always combined these elements in a rare way, but this book is a summation of all that has been most fruitful and nourishing in both her academic and her pastoral ministry. It is a treasury of real wisdom, authoritative and vulnerable.' Rowan Williams, University of Cambridge, and former Archbishop of Canterbury

'… an incredibly rich treasure trove of biblical and patristic learning, contemporary and practical theological reflection and beautiful writing. This book, as an epitome of many lectures, sermons and smaller pieces of writing, but also of a rich life as a theologian, a pastor and a Christian, will undoubtedly be a cherished companion not only for scholars and theologians, but also for more generally educated readers interested in theology not just as a scholarly but also as an intellectual and artistic endeavour and a spiritual exercise.' Josef Lössl, Journal of Ecclesiastical History

'Frances Young has given us something unusual and valuable: a profoundly patristic, and profoundly personal, one-volume systematic theology.' Andrew Davison, Church Times