Books by Richard H.

Parsifal, Wagner's final opera, is considered by many to be one of the greatest religious musical works ever composed; but it is also one of the most difficult to understand and many have questioned whether it can be considered a "Christian" work at all. Added to this is the furious debate that has surrounded the composer as an anti-Semite, racist, and inspiration for Hitler. Richard Bell addresses such issues and argues that despite any personal failings Wagner makes a fundamental theological contribution through his many writings and ultimately in Parsifal which, he argues, preaches Christ crucified in a way that can never be captured by words alone. He argues that Wagner offers a vision of the divine and a "theology of Good Friday" that can both function as profound therapy and address current theological controversies.

This book brings together some of the classic spiritual writings from the twentieth century's most inspirational authors. Arranged thematically, this collection is ideal for use in sermon preparation and as a spiritual primer for laity and clergy alike. The nearly twenty subject headings include such topics as "Alienation and Loneliness,"...