What impact did Jesus' mother have on his earthly life? Mothers Around the Manger examines the lives of Tamara, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, Elizabeth, Mary and Anna, Jesus' "great-grandmothers", his female forebears and how they influenced Jesus' ministry.

Allen reflects on the significance of these women in the larger story of Jesus and in our changing global needs of today. At a time in history where race, class, national and religious barriers are being reexamined and re-imagined, the lesson Jesus' mothers provide us with are important building blocks for the coming millennium.

J. Timothy Allen is the minister of St. Johns New Mission United Church of Christ, Burlington, NC. He is author of numerous magazine, journal and newspaper articles and two books, Seasons in the Year and When the Season is Dry.