Description: This book argues that theology and the church need to engage more seriously with post-modern reality and thought if points of connection are going to be created. Drawing on case studies from Europe and the USA, this book examines examples of Third Space methodologies to ask questions about hybrid identities and methods churches might adopt to effectively connect with post-modern cities and civil society.
Review Quotes: 'Christopher Baker offers a refreshing and authoritative look at the opportunities and challenges facing the urban church. This book is a great blend of cultural analysis, local voices and theological reflection. It marks a new wave of thinking about what it means to live as people of faith amidst the complexities of the contemporary city'. Elaine Graham, University of Manchester, UK 'In this fascinating and prescient study, Christopher Baker argues for a new kind of engagement and connectedness for theology and the churches. By focussing attention on space, urbanisation and marginalisation, new possibilities for practical theology are opened up that invite a fundamental reconsideration of the churches and their location within post-modern society. This book is essential reading for all those who want to understand the Christianity and culture debate in more depth, and tackle it with imagination, flair and thought'. Martyn Percy, Ripon College Cuddesdon, UK '... the book should be read by all engaged in serious thought about the future of the church in post-industrial cities.' Journal of Contemporary Religion 'For those of us who have a passion for expressing a public theology that emerges out of living within blurred boundaries of contemporary urban cultures Christopher Baker's The Hybrid Church in the City is most timely.' International Journal of Public Theology