Ancient Christianity

In this exceptional book, Miller pairs gorgeous color photographs of nature with an unusual collection of texts ranging from the Bible to the early Christian writings of Basil of Caesarea, John Chrystosom, Augustine and John of Damascus to illuminate the deep roots of ecological faith in the Christian tradition. Designed as the first volume in a projected two-volume set, this book is devoted to ancient Christian writings up to the eighth century. Volume two will cover medieval and modern Christianity, with passages from Celtic Christianity, Hildegard of Bingen, St. Francis and other Christian authors from the Renaissance to the present day. Miller, a Cambridge University-educated writer, historian and photographer who has made religious history and eco-theology his special study, has drawn together a set of early Christian texts that are compelling in their theme of humanity's relationship with nature. In addition, his photographs capture extraordinary moments in time, startling sights, peculiar chance images and haunting natural vistas. Miller's photographs and his collected texts make a convincing case that since its earliest days Christianity has taught the coexistence of humanity with the created order. (Apr.)