Lambeth Palace has announced this year’s longlist of potential winners of the Michael Ramsey prize 2023.
Relaunched earlier this year to celebrate the most promising contemporary theological writing, the list includes 13 thought-provoking books that cover a wide range of topics, from gender and race to climate change and disability, offering deep insights for readers on their faith journey.
Selected from over 110 submissions, these books reflect the world's tumultuous recent years and aim to inspire readers worldwide to think deeply about their faith. The winner, to be announced on 14th December at the Lambeth Palace Library, will receive £15,000 and the opportunity to deliver lectures in the UK and USA.
The award, named after Dr. Ramsey and launched by former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams in 2005, aims to promote the most promising contemporary theological writing and introduce it to a wider Christian readership.
Speaking in April, when the award was relaunched, Archbishop Justin said: "It is absolutely vital that Christians engage thoughtfully, in a deep and robust manner, with scripture, doctrine and tradition. Theology isn’t just for a few clever people – thinking about who God is to us is what humans have done for thousands of years. Relaunching the Michael Ramsey Prize in 2023 is a wonderful opportunity to support theological engagement across the Church.
I pray we might be inspired afresh by the Spirit as we read, write and reflect on the boundless hope, mercy, justice and love of God in Jesus Christ. So – spread the word and get thinking, and let’s celebrate those writers who are challenging us in new ways to understand more about the boundless hope, mercy, justice, peace and love of God.”
Previous winners include John Swinton, Luke Bretherton, David Bentley, Richard Bauckham, Timothy Radcliffe, and N.T. Wright.