While at University, I was challenged by one of my lecturers, “What I can’t understand is why someone of obvious intellect can believe in this stuff?”. He was talking about my faith, and I have to admit he did not receive a suitable response, as I was somewhat chuffed about being called intellectual (it hadn’t happened before and it hasn’t happened since!)
Reacting with Hope
Never before can I remember a time when the question ‘What is the world coming to?’ seemed more appropriate than the last couple of weeks. Yesterday came the news of the killing of a Catholic priest in Normandy, the latest in a string of attacks. Some of these had been attributed to extremists, but yet […]
It’s Time to Lift the Fog and Describe a Vision for Tomorrow
There was a sober tone to Boris Johnson’s and Michael Gove’s response to David Cameron’s announcement that he would step down after the EU Referendum, as well there should be, after the painful campaign we have had.
The British Response to Refugees – The Better Side of Us
In the midst of a painful week, the tragic death of MP Jo Cox, the senseless loss of life in Orlando, football violence around the Euros and the caustic nature of the referendum debate it is important to think on the good and righteous acts of individuals.
Entering the EU debate with fluster and squeal
I am still very much on the fence about which way to vote in the EU referendum, but this doesn’t stop me having a strong opinion on the nature of the debate.
“What is England?” asked St. George
It’s one of those amusing quirks of history that we have a national patron saint who never visited England, would not have spoken the language of these isles at that time and probably could not even name this little island.
Faith, Care and End of Life – Rubbing Along Together
Since the New Year, both my maternal grandmother and grandfather have passed away. It was not a sudden or unexpected thing and in many ways I believe there was a relief with them passing. I have to commend my mum and uncle for their relentless care and the navigation of our confused and unintegrated health […]
Surprised that faith has been endorsed by a Health Minister?
This blog was originally written by Daniel for the Huffington Post. I was delighted to hear Alistair Burt MP speak during the FaithAction Faith and Health conference last week and also pleasantly surprised that he didn’t shy from some of the thorny issues around faith. In fact, he confirmed my belief that UK society benefits […]
Tell me anything and I’ll show you how it’s health!
Much of the activity of faith-based organisations contributes to health and wellbeing. However, commissioners and health and social care professionals don’t always understand this, and faith-based practitioners often don’t recognise it themselves. I have to admit I do like to watch the odd romantic comedy, and like any firm funny film there is often a […]