Church House Publishing

Something wonderful is about to happen in the old, lonely, empty barn. A very special baby is going to be born. But the grumpy owl who lives there just wants to be left alone. Can any of the other animals help him change his mind? Or will he miss out on the amazing joy of the first Christma? he Grumpy Owl and the Joy of Christmas tells the story of Jesus’ birth through the eyes of an owl who seems determined to miss all the excitement. This charming re-telling of the nativity story by Jonathan Maltz and Christopher Poch has been beautifully illustrated by Jago, award-winning illustrator of The Jesus Storybook Bible which has sold over six million copies. Destined to become a family favourite for many years to come, The Grumpy Owl and the Joy of Christmas will be a major focus for the Church of England’s 2025 Christmas campaign, with a range of digital resources to support schools, churches and households in sharing the joy of Christmas this year.

This beautifully illustrated, full-colour daily Advent companion explores the ancient biblical names and images for the coming Messiah familiar to most people from the hymn, ‘O come, O come Emmanuel’. Well-known writers offer a total of twenty-four reflections, one for each weekday of the four weeks of Advent. The writers each offer three reflections on one of the seven antiphons: O Wisdom, O Adonai, O Root of Jesse, O Key of David, O Morning Star, O King of the Nations, O Emmanuel. Lastly, there are three reflections on the Magnificat – Mary’s Song – which the antiphons have been heard alongside since at least the eighth century. Each day includes the text of the antiphon from Common Worship, a Scripture reading exploring its biblical roots, paintings of the antiphon as a focus for meditation, a reflection, a challenge to ponder and an Advent prayer. The volume also includes an introduction explaining the rich history of the antiphons, recommendations for further resources including musical settings as well as suggestions for how to use the antiphons in local worship and study groups.