Michael Ramsey: A Life

by Owen Chadwick

This authorized biography is a masterly account of the life and works of Michael Ramsey (1904-1988), the former Archbishop of Canterbury. Chadwick describes Ramsey in the unsettled European age in which he lived, discussing in compelling detail the liberalization of sexual mores, the impact
of television on politics and opinions of morality, the arguments over the restatement of religious truth, and the post-colonial period in Africa. Focusing on Ramsey's career in Parliament and Christendom, the book reveals the Archbishop as a person of much prayer and conviction, who in an age of
shaken opinion was an anchor of faith and hope among a pessimistic generation.

Genres: Church History

422 pages, Hardcover

First published April 26, 1990

About the author

William Owen Chadwick, OM, KBE, FBA, FRSE, was a British Anglican clergyman, academic, writer and prominent historian of Christianity. He was also a rugby union player. He was Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, from 1956 to 1983, Dixie Professor of Ecclesiastical History from 1958 to 1968, and Regius Professor of History from 1968 to 1983.

Reviews

[Andy Sheppard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful insight into the life of Michael Ramsey and into life in the 1960s and 1970s and the challenges facing the church in these times.

[Ben Fairchild · Rating 3 out of 5]

This very friendly biography, about a very friendly man, who found himself Archbishop of Canterbury during the great shift towards secular liberalism, after the climax of Western civilisation. I am not sure that he was the best man for the job; perhaps being too much "of the world" - he was criticised for applying the weight of his position to political disputes which lay beneath the compass of his lofty comprehension, and perhaps also being too little "in the world" - he was much attracted to Orthodox mysticism and contemplation.

We might learn from history that the challenge of direct interaction with the crowd is not well met by the ideal politics and the politic ideas of academics fresh plucked from ivory towers. We need such as have the cynicism to express the completion of God's purpose in infinite love as enjoyed with spiritual perfection for all eternity, in terms which speak to those rude and selfish concerns which claim the serious and energetic attention of the public. Just as Jesus appealed to people's avarice, sloth and pride. And the real politik to create political allies as did Jesus in supporting the Roman tax.

[Mike Print · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really easy book to read, Owen Chadwick has the biography down to a fine art. Once you get past the childhood, which is often a slow bit of any biography, it really belts along. Throughout you get a real sympathy for Michael and, even though I don't agree with all of his theology, I found his sense of humility, love for God and people a real challenge and encouragement. Well worth a read for anyone interested in the Anglican church, or the history of C20th England in relation to the church.

[Chris Kan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this - such a wonderful man. I was very sad to finish it as Owen Chadwick’s writing is such a joy to read.