‘From its very beginning Christianity not only had the “message” but, in the sacrament, an experience of the “essence”. Christianity lived for some time without the New Testament, which first had to be written. But it never lived without the Eucharist.’ – Rudolf Frieling

Building on his existing works of contemporary Christian research, Living Renewal gathers Rudolf Frieling’s previously-untranslated articles and essays on the nature and practise of Christian worship and the mysteries of John’s Gospel. Harvested from his entire career, the collection begins with an early piece entitled ‘The Destruction of the Temple and the End of the World’ and is followed by dozens of studies listed under the headings of ‘Sacred Playing’, ‘Prayer and the Renewed Sacrament’, ‘Sacred Number in John’s Gospel’, ‘Studies on the Mass’ and ‘Contributions on the Epistles (Seasonal Prayers)’. Frieling’s writings are complemented with essays by Friedrich Rittelmeyer and Hermann Beckh – both close colleagues – and appreciations by fellow theologians.

This original publication – essential reading for anyone interested in modern theology – is a welcome addition to Christian Community literature.

RUDOLF FRIELING (1901-86) was born in Leipzig, Germany. He studied Theology and Philosophy and helped found The Christian Community – a contemporary movement for religious renewal – in 1922. He became the leader of The Christian Community in 1957, serving until his death. He is the author of several books on Christianity and the Bible.