A Special West Cove UK Review of:
Workaday Religion 1937 first edition book by Rev. W. H. Elliott
Date of publication: 1937
Author: Rev W.H Elliottt
Publisher: Ivor Nicholson
Format: Hardcover
Whats this book about?
Workaday Religion, authored by Rev. W. H. Elliott and first published in 1937, serves as a practical guide for integrating Christian principles into daily life. Elliott, known for his accessible approach to theology, emphasizes that true faith is not confined to formal worship but is demonstrated through everyday actions and decisions.
Central to the book is the portrayal of Jesus of Nazareth as a figure who prioritized godliness above all else, urging individuals to act according to their conscience and moral convictions, regardless of personal cost. Elliott challenges readers to evaluate their choices based on righteousness rather than societal approval or material gain.
A significant theme in Workaday Religion is the call for honest and unselfish human fellowship. Elliott advocates for a sense of community that transcends barriers of nationality, class, and denomination, encouraging readers to work collaboratively for the common good. This emphasis on unity and collective well-being reflects his belief that living one’s faith authentically involves active engagement in societal betterment.
Throughout the book, Elliott provides practical advice on how to navigate moral dilemmas and maintain spiritual integrity in various aspects of daily life, from personal relationships to professional conduct. His writing is characterized by clarity and a directness that makes complex theological concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Workaday Religion remains a relevant and thought-provoking read, offering timeless insights into living a life aligned with one’s faith amidst the challenges of the modern world.
About the author...
Rev. Wallace Harold Elliott, commonly known as W. H. Elliott, was a prominent Church of England clergyman renowned for his influential role in religious broadcasting during the early 20th century.
Educated at Brasenose College, Oxford, Elliott earned a second-class BA in Theology in 1906 and later an MA in 1910. He continued his theological training at Ripon College Cuddesdon before being ordained as a deacon in 1907 and as a priest in 1908. He began his ecclesiastical career as a curate in Guisborough, North Yorkshire, later serving in Leeds. In 1918, he was appointed vicar of Holy Trinity in Folkestone, a position he held until 1928. His dedication and service led to his appointment as a prebendary of Canterbury Cathedral from 1924 to 1928.
Beyond the pulpit, Elliott was a pioneer in religious broadcasting for the BBC, earning the nickname “the Radio Chaplain.” His accessible and heartfelt sermons resonated with a broad audience, bringing spiritual guidance to listeners across the nation. In addition to his broadcasting endeavors, he authored several works aimed at providing practical religious advice, including Religion in Plain Clothes and Your Better Self. Workaday Religion (1937) serves as a continuation of these efforts, offering counsel on navigating daily challenges with faith and integrity.
Throughout his career, Elliott held several esteemed positions within the Church of England. He was a canon of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London from 1928 and served as Precentor of the Chapels Royal from 1941 to 1946. His service to the monarchy included roles as Deputy Clerk of the Closet and Sub-Almoner to the King from 1941 to 1948, and as Domestic Chaplain to the King from 1942 to 1948.
Elliott’s personal life saw him married to Edith Plaistow Kilburn, and they had a son, Michael Elliott, who became a notable theatre and television director. Rev. W. H. Elliott’s legacy is marked by his commitment to making religious teachings accessible and relevant, both through traditional ministry and the innovative medium of radio broadcasting.
Our views about the book...
From the moment we opened Workaday Religion, it was clear that this was more than just another theological work—it was a personal challenge. Rev. W. H. Elliott doesn’t just talk about faith in abstract terms; he calls upon the reader to live it, breathe it, and embody it in their daily life. This isn’t a book for the faint of heart or for those looking for a comfortable, watered-down version of Christianity. Instead, it’s a powerful wake-up call—one that resonates just as strongly today as it must have in 1937.
Elliott’s writing is direct, unpretentious, and deeply convicting. He has an almost unsettling way of stripping away the excuses we often make for compromising our principles. The way he describes Jesus—unyielding, unwavering, and unwilling to put worldly gain above godliness—forces the reader to ask hard questions: Am I really living by my faith? Or just talking about it? He makes it clear that faith isn’t about convenience or popularity—it’s about doing what is right, no matter the cost.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is its emphasis on human fellowship—not just within the church, but in everyday life. Elliott insists that true Christianity knows no class, national, or denominational barriers, and that we are called to a fellowship based on service, sacrifice, and love for one another. This idea feels particularly relevant in today’s world, where division and self-interest often take center stage. His call for a faith that is practical, engaged, and deeply connected to the well-being of others feels refreshingly bold.
Reading Workaday Religion, we couldn’t help but feel a deep respect for Elliott’s unwavering moral stance. His message is both inspiring and uncomfortable, in the best possible way. It doesn’t let you sit back and simply admire faith from a distance—you feel compelled to act, to reassess your priorities, and to make sure that your beliefs are reflected in your daily life.
Books like this are rare. They don’t just inform; they transform. We walked away from Workaday Religion feeling challenged, motivated, and, most of all, deeply grateful to have encountered a book that refuses to let faith remain a passive experience. It is, without a doubt, a book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
How rare and collectible is this book?
This edition of Workaday Religion is an exceptionally rare book, with very few copies known to exist. As a first edition from 1937, it holds significant value for collectors of religious and theological literature.
Rarity
- Published in 1937, this book has become increasingly scarce over the decades.
- Few copies have surfaced on the market, making it a sought-after piece for collectors.
- Its rarity is further heightened by the fact that it was not a mass-produced bestseller but rather a thoughtful work aimed at a specific audience of devout readers.
Collectibility & Value
- The book’s first-edition status makes it particularly valuable.
- It appeals to collectors of rare religious texts, theologians, and those with an interest in early 20th-century Christian philosophy.
- Given its scarcity, it represents an excellent investment for collectors of rare and meaningful theological works.
The condition of this book...
This first edition (1937) copy of Workaday Religion is in good condition, considering its age. The pages are well-preserved, with some tanning and minor markings that are consistent with a book of this era. The text remains clear and legible, with no intrusive notes, underlining, or highlighting, ensuring that the original content is fully intact.
The binding remains strong and secure, a crucial factor for a book of this vintage. The cover exhibits only light wear, with minor signs of handling over time. There may be some gentle rubbing to the edges and corners, but nothing that detracts from the overall integrity of the book.
The paper quality has aged well, with no excessive foxing or brittleness, which can often be an issue in books of this period. While there is some natural darkening and some marking to the pages, the book remains structurally sound, making it an excellent copy for collectors who appreciate historical religious texts in well-kept, readable condition.
Given the rarity of this title, finding a copy in such good, complete condition is highly uncommon, making this a valuable acquisition for both collectors and enthusiasts of religious literature.
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- Original price was: £170.00.£98.55Current price is: £98.55.
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