Sacraments after Christendom

“Sacraments are to be experienced, not just talked about. This excellent book is not about the nature or number of the sacraments; it deals with the ‘why?’ and ‘how best?’ of lively sacramental practice. Christians find their identity and their community through engaging in sacramental practices which reveal who we are, and to whom we belong. The purpose of Francis and Sutton is to enable readers to grapple with these questions and to chart new sacramental ways.”


—Eleanor Kreider, Mennonite author and lecturer on worship, Goshen, Indiana





“Churches around the world are asking how inherited practices might serve to inspire a new future, and this book identifies some of the key questions—drawing on Scripture and history, as well as taking account of people’s actual experience of God. Depending on your starting point, expect to be disturbed, inspired, and frustrated in equal measure: either way, it will expand your perspective to ask new questions.”


—John Drane, author of The McDonaldization of the Church





“Janet Sutton and Andrew Francis’ book Sacraments After Christendom could not be more timely. The COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and social distancing have catapulted dilemmas about sacraments and their place and practice to the center of Christian debate. Francis and Sutton insightfully delve into the distinction between sacraments and what is sacramental, and explore a range of possible practices for individuals and communities. The authors offer an accessible yet scholarly approach that will appeal to both lay and religious readers. This indeed is a book for such a time as this.”


—Sally and Jim Longley, pastors, Avalon Baptist Peace Church, Sydney, Australia