Café Theology - a book by Michael Lloyd

Why Café Theology?

Cafe Theology front cover image We chose the title Café Theology for two reasons. First, it implies that the book is accessible. The word 'theology' makes people think 'dry, dusty, academic, irrelevant, and incomprehensible', whereas the word 'café' makes people think 'warm, relaxed, fun – like having a chat with a friend'. And we hope that readers will think that that is what the book is like. Secondly, it implies the sort of theology that has a high place for the ordinary pleasures of life, like coffee, food and friendship. People often think that being a Christian involves focusing on religious things, like Bible study, prayer, worship etc., to the exclusion of the things they really enjoy doing. Michael believes that this is radically wrong. And he presents a view of life that opens up more dimensions for us to live in - not fewer.

How did it come to be?

Café Theology emerged out of a 'School of Christian Theology' that Michael ran when he was Director of Training at St. James the Less, Pimlico. He then gave the substance of the book again at a theological college for Cree Indian pastors in Saskatchewan, Canada, and at Home Focus – the HTB holiday/teaching week at which is a regular speaker.

What's it about?

It traces the vast sweep of God's dealings with His world, from start to finish - covering such topics as Creation, Fall, Providence, Incarnation, Atonement, Resurrection and Ascension, Spirit, Trinity, the Final Victory of God, and the Church.

What are its aims?

It aims to take people deeper into their faith than is possible in the average Sunday sermon. It attempts to do that by drawing on the rich diversity of Christian traditions. Anglican, Orthodox, Pentecostal, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, House Church, Coptic, and United Reformed writings are rifled – as are poets, comedians, painters, novelists, cartoonists, philosophers and films. Basically, Michael's a promiscuous purloiner of wisdom, wherever it is to be found!

Who's it for?

It's primarily for Christians who want to go deeper in their faith, but it would also be ideal for any interested observer who wanted to know what Christianity looks like from the inside. Someone who's done Alpha, and is interested but not persuaded, might find this would tackle some of the key issues in greater depth - and without trying to get at them!

What have people said about Café Theology?

Papal Cross The Pope: Nothing.

Crown The Queen: Nothing.

N Gumbel image Nicky Gumbel (Vicar of Holy Trinity, Brompton): ‘This book is ideal for those wishing to explore theology more deeply. Mike’s wit, sense of humour and anecdotes from everyday life make this book both accessible and challenging.’

Tom Wright (New Testament scholar and Professor at St. Andrew’s University): ‘Café Theology is so refreshing and clear and funny and shrewd and on the ball and wholesome and encouraging – I think the last perhaps above all. It makes me think, “Yes! It’s OK! This stuff really does make sense and it’s going to work!”’

M Millar image Sandy Millar (Vicar of St. Mark’s, Tollington Park and Bishop in the London Diocese): 'Whatever your background knowledge or understanding of things theological, if you’d like to know more about theology… then this book is for you! It is great!’

M Percy image Martyn Percy (Principal of Ripon College, Cuddesdon): ‘This is a fresh, incisive, witty and thought-provoking book, and will be of help to many in their Christian discipleship.’

Coffee Starbucks: ‘No, you can’t sell your stupid book in our outlets – GO AWAY!’ (Not really.)