areas of work
Whether through preaching appointments, speaking events, guest lecturing, discussion groups, conversations or retreats, I love the chance to engage with congregations and groups of all shapes and hues about the things that make me passionate.
Justice, Dignity and Solidarity
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is one way of describing the vision of a more just and inclusive society. The Methodist Conference has adopted a Strategy for Justice, Dignity and Solidarity that does beyond EDI and seeks to embed gospel values in every part of the Church. As one of the co-Chairs of the new Connexional Committee, I am happy to speak to Methodist gatherings about the new strategy and reflect on the theology that lies behind it.
Reconciliation
& Dialogue
I remain utterly convinced that reconciliation lies at the very heart of the Gospel and that Christians are called to live it out in every aspect of life. I am a disciple of Martin Luther King's theology of non-violence and want to see his vision of the Beloved Community become a reality in the Church and beyond. I believe the insights gleaned from reconciliation are critical to conversations about conflict, fake news, sexuality and cancel culture.
Vocation &
Discernment
The global pandemic forced us to rethink the way we lived our lives and how we engaged with the world as Christians. Our ideas of church were also challenged and, post-lockdown, we are still working out what it means. I have been reflecting a great deal on the notion of vocation, individual and corporate, and on how we discern collectively the future direction of Christianity. I am very interested in sharing with others how thinking about vocation and discernment have developed in recent times.
Bible Christians?
British Methodism is a union of five different Wesleyan denominations, one of which was the Bible Christians. Modern Methodism needs to rediscover the practice of searching the Scriptures as a means of grace. I am keen to explore the Bible with others through preaching, Contextual Bible Study and retreats and study days, looking at complex issues like authority and interpretation, sex and relationships, social justice and the mission of God.
Neurodiversity
& Mental Health
In the midst of the Covid lockdown, I was diagnosed with ADHD, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder. Since then, I have spent a significant amount of time reflecting on how neurodiversity and ministry fit together. I am now looking at ways to engage with neurodivergence theologically and to support ND people in ministry and discipleship. This is part of a wider concern with how mental health/illness is viewed in the Church.
Prophetic Activism
I grew up in the midst of a conflict fuelled by toxic theology and ecclesiastical inertia which left me with a deep desire for a faith that was both reconciliatory and empowering. I have been inspired by the example of many around the world who have resisted the temptation to stay silent in the face of injustice. I want to connect with all those who want an active faith that seeks personal and societal transformation and confronts injustice and exclusion.