The Pattern of God

Name: The Pattern of God
Price: 34.26 AUD
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ISBN: 9781789594119

David Jenkins’ Theology in Church and Public Space

Richard Truss

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Paperback

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English

Sacristy Press
15 February 2026

Biography: religious & spiritual; Christianity; Anglican & Episcopalian Churches, Church of England; Christian theology; Religious & spiritual leaders

In this compelling theological study, Richard Truss offers a long-overdue appreciation of David Jenkins—bishop, academic, public theologian, and provocateur. The Pattern of God explores Jenkins’ dynamic Christology, his unapologetic engagement with politics and social justice, and his enduring belief that theology must speak to the real world.

From the miners’ strike to televised controversy, Jenkins brought theology into the public square with courage and clarity. Truss traces Jenkins’ theological journey from Oxford’s Bampton Lectures to his radical tenure at the World Council of Churches and his outspoken leadership as Bishop of Durham. At the heart of Jenkins’ thought lies a recurring pattern: the personal, incarnate, and transformative presence of God—“transcendence in the midst.”

This book is not a biography but a theological retrieval, showing how Jenkins’ open, questioning faith—rooted in tradition yet radically engaged with contemporary issues—offers a vital methodology for today’s Church and society. Whether confronting power, reimagining providence, or challenging the Church’s tribalism, Jenkins remains a disturber of complacency and a voice for theological courage.

A must-read for theologians, clergy, and anyone seeking a faith that is both intellectually rigorous and socially engaged.

By: Richard Truss
Imprint: Sacristy Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 140mm, Spine: 7mm
Weight: 163g
ISBN: 9781789594119
ISBN 10: 1789594111
Pages: 132
Publication Date: 15 February 2026
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Richard Truss has served as a parish priest in the dioceses of Leicester, London and Southwark. He was also Chaplain to the Royal National Theatre. One of his teachers at Oxford was David Jenkins whose thought has been a continuing inspiration. Like Jenkins, his concern has been the very practical one of bringing the church and the wider community together in a living constructive dialogue.