Author Archives: 1urcher

The following photograph was taken by my son (with a little help) when he was 5 years old It was one of the first times that I had been walking in the fells with him. I am very much an … Continue reading →

Glen Cox was his name. I was 7, and new to Beck Road Nursery, First and Middle School. Cox was also 7. He ran the inter-class football team. Sides had been selected before I joined the school. I got my … Continue reading →

A number of people have been in touch with me regarding my last post. One person has had the courage to ask what it was it that I regretted doing. I do not think I was referring to a specific … Continue reading →

This week has been quite fascinating, both personally and professionally. In my line of ‘work’, it is difficult to separate the two. Professionally, I have done the usual round of things (taken services: communions, funerals, wedding rehearsal, baptism preparation); asking … Continue reading →

A Story: Ethel and Tom Sometimes what is happening is not immediately clear This is the case in our Gospel reading for the day. Firstly, Jesus in v35 declares that he is the bread of life; the bread that gives … Continue reading →

When still in Sheffield, I first came across the musical talents of Adrian Snell. I was particularly engrossed in his Alpha and Omega album, and the track Messiah mask. The song, from my addled memory banks, talks about evil masquerading … Continue reading →

I am child of an urban estate and a priest on an urban estate. Thus this paper is at one and the same time an attempt to make sense of Christian sacred texts on largely white outer council estates and … Continue reading →

Just beginning Texts of Redemption: using the Scriptures well on urban estates I am child of an urban estate and a priest on an urban estate. Thus this paper at one and the same time is an attempt to make … Continue reading →

It is some time since I mused about bumbling. This in part because I have been a little too busy to bumble; and also because it is frowned upon by some of my colleagues and friends, who like focus and … Continue reading →

In the Name of God, revealed as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Announcement of Good News can be uncomfortable as well as bringing comfort. This is particularly true if the news involves change, and good personal news always has the … Continue reading →