Lent is traditionally a time of repentance and penitence but it also offers an opportunity to see the world afresh, with a new sense of wonder. These readings, up to Easter and beyond, encourage us not only to regard ourselves with a healthy realism and accept responsibility for our shortcomings, but also to recognise the nature and purposes of God and the never-ending renewal of possibility, both within ourselves and in the world.

For centuries, pilgrims have visited Iona in search of the sacred, inspired by the example of St Columba. Many modern-day travellers are also drawn to the island through work and witness of the Iona Community, an ecumenical Christian community working for peace and social justice.

This is a book of quotes and readings - poems, prayers, short reflections and stories - for each day of the year from writers and thinkers who have inspired the Iona Community and from members of the community themselves. The royalties from this book will go to the Iona Community's Growing Hope appeal to renovate the Camas outdoor centre on the Isle of Mull and to extend the community's day-visitor facilities on Iona.

Gazelles and geckos, bees and bears, whelks and elks, cats and dogs and many more - The Blessing of Animals teems with God's amazing creation. Along with beautiful prayers and poems, there are reflections on feline and canine theology, thoughts on losing an animal friend, a litany for the blessing of animals, and much more.