In the UK Parliament debate on ‘gay marriage’ I was struck by the negative perception many MP’s had of the way Christians campaigned against the bill; and in some cases with good reason. Which makes me wonder if we need a fresh non-conformist voice in public life that is nuanced and engaged. What might this... Continue Reading →
Challenges of church culture
Reading a little about business cultures recently makes me suspect that paying more attention to culture might help us understand what is going on in church life.Churches vary in size, but each size transition marks a change in culture. Smaller churches, where everyone knows each other gradually grow into churches centred around the pastoral skills... Continue Reading →
Exit stage left
As BUGB changes take effect, I've joined the ranks of those whose involvement in its committee life has ended. I’ve been a member of BU Council for nine years, was part of the General Purposes and Finance Executive and have had the pleasure of moderating the Finance Committee for the last six. But no more.... Continue Reading →
Gay Marriage
Since Steve Chalke's article last week a number of people have responded to his article. By co-incidence Poynton Baptist Church's Sunday evening gathering last week had previously planned to talk about 'gay marriage'. Following on from this evening conversation I have produced a short booklet that describes some of the issues. You can download it... Continue Reading →
Gay Marriage download
Please click Download Gay Marriage why the debate to open or download file. You are welcome to use it in other settings or to comment on it, but please remember this was designed to be used in the context of one local church and to help the church think about these issues. Some will read... Continue Reading →
Fancy a new challenge – BUGB General Secretary?
As part of the restructuring process BUGB is looking for a new General Secretary. The details are here.It will be an impossible job requiring an impossible range of skills: An experienced Baptist minister Able to articulate vision whilst being a committed team player, Team leader who is good at thinking strategically and helping a staff... Continue Reading →
Steve Chalke hits headlines again
The times reports (here) that Steve Chalke has come out in favour of Gay Marriage. More interestingly, from a Baptist perspective, is the statement that he conducted his first gay blessing a few weeks ago.It has been clear (to me at least) for some while that the BUGB’s ministerial rules were open to challenge by... Continue Reading →
Lessons for 2013
Reflecting on the year past I’ve been struck by the impact a couple of experiences had on me. 1. Middleburg Baptist Church / Baptisten Gemeente de Fontein te Middelburg website. It’s not often I get to be an anonymous visitor to another church., but spending our summer holiday in the Netherlands provided the opportunity to... Continue Reading →
Happy New Year
I normally avoid making resolutions. But for a change, since I spent Hogmanay in Scotland, I thought I would break the habit. So here they are: 1. Take a few risks 2. Have some fun 3. Love more (as in be more loving of God, spouse, family, people... not more stuff) Belated Happy New... Continue Reading →
Putting Christ into Christmas and into us?
Isaiah 42:1-442 Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights;I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations.2 He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street;3 a bruised reed he will not break, and a... Continue Reading →
Distinct Reflections 