Author Archives: 1urcher

When I was writing about childlessness many years ago now, I said the words to describe those who were involuntarily childless were always entirely negative: childless, infertile, impotent. Such words defined someone by what they are not. Words have in … Continue reading →

When I was a child, even growing up within a bog standard Parish Church in Sheffield (if there is such a thing), I was used to people from time to time confidently (in an Anglican sort of way :-)) asserting … Continue reading →

I sort of had godparents. That is to say I was baptised by a nurse. Anyone can baptise. You do not need to be ordained. I was then welcomed according to my baby book, which was amongst my mum’s things, … Continue reading →

The Bishop of Bangor regularly gathers Ministry Area (MA) Leaders from across the Diocese of Bangor to confer, consult, laugh and learn together. I have just returned (9 June) from one such 24 hour event. They usually take place in Nant … Continue reading →

I could begin by bellyaching about the fact that I think this Referendum should not be called. That it has been because of the need for the leader of the Conservative and Unionist Party to appease his own troops. That … Continue reading →

  I have in the course of my ministry a number of hard conversations. Sometimes they are in surprising places. The best of them are completely unexpected. Yesterday afternoon, I was talking with someone who does not now attend church … Continue reading →

I have run and being involved in running both the ALPHA Course and Start! At their best, they are wonderful places in which to introduce people to basic teachings of the Christian faith, and more importantly to Jesus. At the … Continue reading →

I spent some time in Sheffield with family this week – not enough time. It was a delight to collect my niece and her youngest brother from school. When we got to their home, my niece quickly ran upstairs and … Continue reading →