The Allies of Religion
Autograph Edition — Limited to 300 Copies
By Elwood Worcester
First Edition, 1929
Marshall Jones Company
Signed by the Author | Copy No. 278 of 300
Description
Offered here is a scarce Autograph Edition of The Allies of Religion by Elwood Worcester, founder of the Emmanuel Movement. This is number 278 of a strictly limited printing of only 300 copies, signed by Worcester himself, making it a highly desirable association copy tied to one of the most influential spiritual-psychological movements of the early 20th century.
Published in 1929, The Allies of Religion reflects Worcester’s pioneering belief that religion need not stand apart from science, psychology, or philosophy—but could be strengthened through thoughtful integration with them. The book includes a foreword by Samuel McComb, Associate Director of the Emmanuel Movement, further anchoring it within that important historical context.
Historical & Intellectual Significance
Elwood Worcester was a central figure in the Emmanuel Movement, an early effort to combine spiritual guidance with psychological insight in addressing human suffering—including depression, anxiety, and addiction. This movement directly influenced later developments in pastoral counseling and laid conceptual groundwork that resonated with early recovery thinking.
In The Allies of Religion, Worcester argues that:
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Psychology can enhance spiritual counseling and moral growth
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Science deepens religious awe rather than diminishes it
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Philosophy bridges faith and reason by addressing meaning, ethics, and purpose
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Religion benefits from engaging honestly with modern intellectual disciplines
Rather than positioning religion in opposition to modern thought, Worcester presents science, psychology, and philosophy as partners in understanding the human condition. His ideas were progressive for their time and remain relevant to scholars of religion, psychology, and early recovery history.
Physical Details & Condition
Edition: First Edition, Autograph Edition
Limitation: No. 278 of 300 copies
Signature: Signed by Elwood Worcester
Binding: Hardcover with rough-cut page edges
Condition: Good overall. Minor wear to the boards. Visible wear to the spine and webbing exposed at the binding inside the front cover. Pages clean and intact.
Please review all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.
