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Tales of a Country Parish

From the Vicar of Savernake Forest

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Tales of a Country Parish

By: Colin Heber-Percy
Narrated by: Colin Heber-Percy
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About this listen

During the unprecedented circumstances of spring 2020, Colin Heber Percy began writing a daily newsletter of reflections and uplifting stories to stay in touch with his parishioners. Word spread, and soon his bulletins were being eagerly consumed by readers around the country and beyond.

In this thought-provoking and invigorating book, Heber-Percy draws upon a kaleidoscopic knowledge of nature, philosophy, poetry and music, as well as religious writings, and interlaces them with amusing and touching vignettes from his Wiltshire parish.

As he follows the changing seasons, Heber-Percy moves from the seemingly small and mundane to ponder big life questions - can you find heaven in a Londis shop, why is the Bible not like the Highway Code, what on earth we are all doing here - while gently offering up wisdom and sustenance for all, regardless of faith and creed.

©2022 Colin Heber-Percy (P)2022 Octopus Publishing Group Christian Living Christianity Personal Development Philosophy

Critic reviews

"A delightful book from a gentle, generous spirit." (Simon Russell Beale)

"Philosophical speculation, country lore, rock music, spiritual exploration, erudite and beautifully written, this collection of reflections and meditations is a surprise and a delight. The kind of shot in the arm the Church of England badly needs - and is so rarely to be found." (Salley Vickers)
All stars
Most relevant
A wonderful and moving account of a year in lockdown. The music and texts that are used in the reflections fit so well with tales of encounters with people and nature. I found it very uplifting and thought provoking. I will definitely read this again.

A wonderful and moving account of a year in lockdown

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A wonderful personal account made during ‘lockdown’, with insights drawn from people, place and events in and around the country parish. I found it thought provoking and uplifting. Quotes from the Bible,or literature, or modern songs (although you do need a music library to access the songs) followed each section, so placing the experience and thought into a wider context.
So refreshing!

Excellent

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I loved this book. The author, Colin, has created an engaging mix of sophisticated philosophical and theological dialogue, heart-warming stories about the people who inhabit his life, and thoughtful observations on human behaviour. The latter is particularly relevant, given that the book was written against the backdrop of the Covid-19 lockdowns. The writing is meticulously researched and crafted, with lyrical descriptions of the flinty Wiltshire countryside where the author lives and works. I particularly enjoyed the narration by Colin, whose tone is warm and, at times, wryly humorous. A great read for anyone looking for something different and more fulfilling.

Thought provoking read

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Although we are now through the pandemic this book is definitely still very worth listening to. It has reminded me of what life was like in the pandemic. (You soon forget!) The author tells us about life around the church and parish, the villagers and the area and ties it in with christian faith and many stories. This is all told in a wonderful way. An interesting read and so much included. I'm sorry I've got to the end! He has a very listenable voice and clear. This book is a treasure and I will definitely be reading again. Hope another book will follow!

I loved reading this book!

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Dipped into this a few times imagining it would be a comforting listen for my regular insomnia. Knew he'd become famous for his podcasts to parishioners during covid. But finally decided it wasn't to my taste. His southern country parishes, lifestyle, beliefs just bore no relation to anything I knew or understood. Apparently he was a scriptwriter, academic and still a self declared agnostic who writes for Country Life.
Ronald Blythe s Next to Nature (also on Audible) is far more entertaining and listen to David Suchet reading the Gospels and Acts for understanding.

Disturbing theological views?

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