The problem with advertising is that half your money is wasted - the challenge is working out which half. Pondering what the BUBG might be like ten years from now I’m sure at least half of what follows is rubbish but these five areas will be important.1. Local church size. A number of commentators suggest... Continue Reading →
A fresh non conformist voice
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 →
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 →
Spurgeon’s College new principal
Spurgeon's College interviewed for a successor to Nigel Wright yesterday and have appointed Rev Dr Roger Standing (currently Deputy Principal) to the role. He will start on 1st September 2013. Roger's bio on the college website is here This is an important appointment for several reasons. First, Spurgeon's is responsible for the formation of a... Continue Reading →
Not at Baptist Union Council
Normally I blog about my experiences of BUGB Council which starts today. However, I'm not there this time as I'm teaching in Iquitos; working alongside the Baptist Churches of the Peruvian Baptist Convention here who BMS world mission partner with. I will blog about both when I get the chance. However, internet here is to... Continue Reading →
Summer musings – starting a movement
I’ve largely stopped thinking about the future of BUGB for the moment; right now there is nothing I can constructively do anyway (other than pray). But when the dust has settled how could we encourage a renewed Baptist movement? 1. Movement requires vision: people who can dream and articulate a future that others can affirm.... Continue Reading →
Distinct Reflections 