Author Archives: 1urcher

Sabbaticals are a courageous act of generosity on the part of the giver, in my case the Diocese of Birmingham, and my bishop. Sabbaticals for the recipient are therefore gracious space to meet with God, others, and to be rediscover … Continue reading →

I made it one of my goals during my sabbatical to spend some time looking at how the Bible is (or could be) used in our urban communities: sites.google.com/site/stmichaelbartleygreen/calendar/what-s-on/revddrkevinellissabbatical I thought it might be good to reflect on what I … Continue reading →

I returned yesterday from New Wine – North and East, where I had a fantastic week with my son. Why was it fantastic? Son had a wonderful time in Boulder Gang, the children’s stream he is in, and the leaders … Continue reading →

When I was in the Scouts, I played the drums in the band. I was good enough to play on the annual whitwalk and for the district St George’s Parade. Good enough, but not brilliant. What myself and another scout … Continue reading →

I spent last week in silence. Silence is uncomfortable, challenging and beautiful. I was at Lee Abbey in Devon. If you do not know it, it is a thin place. It is a place of extraordinary natural beauty. Whilst there … Continue reading →

I posted the first offering of our recent Lent course (co-designed with the Revd Lis Sparrow) a few weeks ago. Some have been kind enough to ask for other power points. They are here. God chooses Israel Jesus Mission and … Continue reading →

I have a sabbatical soon. I want to explore how we use the Bible in urban areas, and as importantly how we teach our story to those who are biblically almost illiterate. I made a start in Lent. I am … Continue reading →

She will always be for me ‘that woman’. That is what my dad always called her. She was, I believe, a devout Christian. Many will recall Margaret Thatcher quoting the Prayer of St Francis, as Margaret Thatcher  came into office … Continue reading →