about Sam
For the past thirty years I have been a member of the British Methodist Church, training and then working as an ordained minister (presbyter). I'm originally from across the Irish Sea and still retain close links with the Methodist Church in Ireland and the Corrymeela Community. I currently work part-time for Southlands College in the University of Roehampton.
At heart, I'm an activist, and much of what you see here reflects my passion for justice, equality, honesty and reconciliation. I believe my faith demands that I get involved in transforming the world into what it is meant to be - a home where all are welcome and given their full dignity.
As a clergyperson, I am committed to remain fully engaged in this struggle with the added responsibility of leading other Christians to roll up their sleeves and come off the fence. In the words of Seamus Heaney:
No such thing
as innocent
bystanding.
I am also a member of the British Labour Party having stood twice before as a candidate for local elections in London. I am an active member of the Community Trade Union and am incredibly proud of Methodism's part in creating both institutions.
More recently, I became a co-founder, with my partner, Mark Rowland, and others, of the campaigning group, Dignity & Worth. This now boasts about 500 members from across the country and further afield, all committed to fighting for the justice, equality and dignity so long denied to LGBTQ+ people in the Methodist Church.
Above all else, I am a preacher, though I try to avoid being 'preachy'! My apologies If I don't always succeed. My blog allows me to give vent to my opinions on a whole range of topics, from equal marriage to US politics, flag design to international development.
PLEASE NOTE: All the views expressed here are my own and do not represent those of my Church or anyone else who employs me.