Historians (and book reviewers) tell us something about their subjects and a lot about themselves. History forms an important part of our self understanding, but the reverse is also true—our perception of history is shaped by our attitudes and theories. This is reflected in the contemporary bicentennial passion for our past, and in the publication of a diocesan history commissioned by the Standing Committee of the Synod of the Anglican Church in Sydney. Two professional historians, both Anglicans, Professor Kenneth Cable and Dr Stephen Judd, have produced a serious contribution to our historical understanding. It does not claim to be an exhaustive or definitive description of the Sydney diocese, but does seek to give a thematic explanation of various events and their long term effects on the diocese. It is an interpretation of the diocese with a major focus on the developing churchmanship of Sydney. (more…)