Monthly Archives: October 2019

Foundations of nation-building

Posted on October 27, 2019 by Ian Black

Yesterday our church calendar remembered Alfred the Great, King of the West Saxons in the ninth century. There is so much more to Alfred and his dynasty than burning cakes and raids on Danish occupying forces from the marshes. Alfred … Continue reading →

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Through the Arched Window: People, Prayer and Proclaiming Saving Love

Posted on October 20, 2019 by Ian Black

My return from Sabbatical has been somewhat bumpy. I had hoped for a gentle re-entry but with footballs through stained glass windows at St John’s and then a gargoyle falling from the church tower punching a hole in the roof, … Continue reading →

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RESPECT – Prayer for Good Debate

Posted on October 16, 2019 by Ian Black

A prayer based on the Simple Charter for Good Debate. God of truth and trust, as we pray for parliament* and the agenda before it, pour your grace upon its members to debate with respect, honouring each person, especially where … Continue reading →

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The flourishing of grace

Posted on October 13, 2019 by Ian Black

We have two stories of healing this morning and both involve foreigners – people from nearby countries, viewed at best with suspicion and often with open hostility. Both, though, turn out to play key roles in the unfolding events and … Continue reading →

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RESPECT: A Simple Charter for Good Debate

Posted on October 12, 2019 by Ian Black

When I went on Sabbatical at the beginning of July Theresa May was still Prime Minister. In the past three months a new resident occupies 10 Downing Street and has caused scandal and outrage, leading to a breakdown of trust. … Continue reading →

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