The Change of Conversion and the Origin of Christendom

First-class insight into the life and mission of the Christian church in the first four centuries, based on solid scholarship and a clear sense of mission.--Samuel Escobar, Palmer Theological SeminaryWritten in a lively and clear manner, this small volume makes many connections between different aspects of early Christian history and practice. I have learned from reading it and recommend it to both scholars and beginners.--Paul Bradshaw, University of Notre DameKreider traces the changing nature of the process of conversion across some four centuries. I know of no better treatment of religious initiation undergone by the most seriously committed Christians of this period.--Ramsay MacMullen, Yale University I recommend this book highly to anyone interested not only in the history and theology of Christian initiation, but in the relationship of Christianity and culture throughout the ages. - Maxwell E. Johnson, University of Notre Dame, in ''Worship'' Alan Kreider is Associate Professor of Church History and Mission at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana.