I found myself having to buy tobacco recently. It was an interesting experience. I had never actually stood at a newsagents counter and asked for tobacco before. I am convinced I perspired profusely as I did so, conscious of everyone looking at the vicar buying the aforementioned substance.

Will that be for a pipe or roll ups? It was an innocent question. but at the moment I was lost in language I did not understand and having to deal with a question that I did not understand.

I am not a smoker.

It was made slightly worse by the fact that the assistant serving me was not a smoker either.

I wonder as I reflect upon my Tobacco Experience whether it would be same for those who come to Church, particularly to a traditional Church service for the first time. There is a language, culture and ritual that is assumed and is unexplained. I am hopeful I can make it more welcoming that my TE. This would not be to demystify everything completely, but to make accessible and clear.

Hey Vicar said another in the shop, don’t you realise smoking is bad for you.

I hope people who come to my churches for the first time don’t leave thinking the same thing.