VOX October 2021

ISSUE 52 / OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021

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Ireland in s e h c r u h C e th d rvey xploring Race an Headline findings from

our all-island su

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EDITORIAL

Last Words

rowing up, we had a wellthumbed book of “Famous Last Words” on our bookshelf at home. While some, I’m sure, were edited or exaggerated, as a writer I was always fascinated by the wit and wisdom on display.

When Groucho Marx was dying, he reportedly quipped, “This is no way to live!” And playwright Wilson Mizner had a brilliant comeback when the priest said, “I’m sure you want to talk to me.”

Mizner answered, “Why should I talk to you? I’ve just been talking to your boss.”

My favourite not-quite last words were from General John Sedgwick during the American Civil War. Although he had a few more things to say afterwards, it turned out the enemy’s aim was better than he predicted, “They couldn’t hit an elephant at this distance.”

As apt and interesting as these last words may be, the vast majority of people do not seek to be clever on their deathbed. Instead the most common theme is love.

John 17 may not contain Jesus’ last words but this theme of love was uppermost in His mind as He approached the cross. He prays for His disciples and He prays for us too (“...for those who will believe in me through their message”) that we will be ONE and that we may be brought to complete unity.

In Revelation, John captures this breath-taking vision of the kingdom of heaven, “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and

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language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.’”

(Revelation 7: 9 - 10) This is not an insipid homogeneity but rather a glorious unity in the midst of the beautiful diversity that God has created. Wow, what a vision.

While we are uncertain of what the future will hold for VOX magazine (see Change is in the Air on page 12) I’m delighted that this last-for-now issue can focus on such an important topic exploring the challenges and opportunities facing churches as we seek to live out our unity in Christ on this island.

We have a long way still to go (listen to the experiences of Christians from ethnic minority communities Every Tribe, People and Nation on page 22 and reflect on the Attitudes to Race, Racism and Inclusion on page 34). Yet the wonderful suggestions and comments reflected in our survey findings give me such cause for hope and confidence (See page 44 and page 50). Our overwhelming impression is that Christians in Ireland long to see the fulfilment of Jesus’ final prayer.

Amen - let it be!

Ruth Garvey-Williams Editor (editor@vox.ie)

OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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CONT ENTS

October - December 2021 Issue 52

ISSN: 2009-2253

EDITOR Ruth Garvey-Williams editor@vox.ie LAYOUT, ADVERTISING & DISTRIBUTION Jonny Lindsay jonny@vox.ie Order more copies or a digital version online at www.vox.ie.

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Cover Story

Exploring Race and the Churches in Ireland - headline findings from our all-island survey

Features and Interviews

Change is in the Air - An update from the VOX team One in Christ - what the Bible has to say about issues of race, racism and inclusion.

Every People, Tribe and Nation - What is it like for Christians from minority ethnic communities?

Diversity in Irish and Northern Irish Churches Attitudes to Race, Racism and Inclusion My Story - Meet Trevor and Maggie Ramsey How Can We make Churches More Inclusive?

How The Church Lead The Way In Tackling Racial Injustice?

Make a Child Smile - Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal is Back Building Hope Together - the story of the exciting new church and community centre in Ballincollig Christian Leaders Respond to our Survey A Seeker’s Life - Ana Mullan continues her inspirational series Music for Life - Pilot music programme in Uganda

Regular Features VOX: Shorts VOX: World News Musings with Patrick Mitchell

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Confessions of a Feint Saint VOX Reviews VOX: PS with Seán Mullan

OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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VOX SHORTS

NEW APP PROMOTES MISSION

GoSOW is a brand new platform available on Apple and Android devices which lets you keep connected with Christian mission happening all across Ireland. Under the headings News, Pray, Serve, Give and Grow users will find the latest good news stories, prayer requests and opportunities to volunteer on projects, opportunities to partner financially and a daily devotional.

Other features include the ability to create a personal profile, which allows people to track their giving through the integrated donation system, follow favourite ministries to get personalised updates and the ability to comment and interact with articles.

The name GoSOW comes from two passages of scripture. Go from Matthew 28 where Jesus tells us His followers to make disciples as we go. To make disciples, we first SOW the good seed of the Kingdom of God and this takes us to the parable of the Sower in Mark 4. The GoSow mission is to help connect passionate followers of Jesus so we can use our time, talents and treasure to play our part in the Great Commission of seeing Ireland immersed in the teachings of Jesus. Download the GoSow app in App Stores or visit www.gosow.ie.

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VOX.IE OCT - DEC 2021

VOX MAGAZINE

PROMOTING POSITIVE PREGNANCY REACTIONS

Finding out they are pregnant should be one of the most joyous occasions for women. However this isn’t always the case. Gianna Care has worked in the area of crisis pregnancy for 10 years.

The organisation has insight into the impact negative reactions can have. “Pregnancy in the first trimester can be especially difficult,” Gianna Care’s director Carolyn O’Meara said. “There are huge changes happening, both physically and emotionally, and women need support at this time.

If a woman has found herself pregnant in not so ‘perfect’ circumstances or this news is completely unexpected, this can cause a lot of anxiety.”

Many women have resonated with Gianna Care’s new campaign promoting positive pregnancy reactions. “Women have agreed unanimously that pregnancy seems to be a particular occasion where people feel they can comment in whatever way they want. Crude and unwanted remarks are often made. For some these comments will have little or no effect. For others, who perhaps already feel vulnerable or upset about the news they are pregnant, this can be especially hurtful. Not everyone’s circumstances are perfect; not everyone is ready to become a mother. Support is the key.”

Gianna Care offers services such as counselling, practical support, emotional support, financial assistance and much more.

“We know that even one supportive person in a woman’s life can have a huge impact and enable her to cope,” Carolyn added. “We have met women who have considered or had an abortion because they cannot face the negativity and judgemental attitude of others around them towards their pregnancy. We are passionate about starting this conversation. We need to promote positive pregnancy reactions and make people aware that their reaction matters.”

Find out more at www.giannacare.ie.

OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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VOX SHORTS

MAKING AN IMPACT Ekklesia Everywhere is a global community of believers who are passionate about being the church and impacting society. It encourages groups of twos and threes to prayer walk streets and to come together to bless those around them with the kindness and power of God. Through being the “Ekklesia” whole cities and even nations are being changed.

Clifford Sullivan writes, “Ekklesia Ireland has a heart to see this nation transformed and to see Ekklesia (God’s church) revealed on the island - north, south, east and west and across all denominations and streams.”

Around 40 people in Ireland have completed Ekklesia Excelerator - an online ten week course designed to equip, train and release people to be the Ekklesia and to bring the Kingdom of God into our everyday lives and out into society. The next 10-week course of the Excelerator starts in November.

Ekklesia Ireland meets monthly. For more information or to join contact ekklesiaireland@gmail.com or find the group on Facebook ekklesiaeverywhereireland@ groups.facebook.com. People from all over the island are welcome, and from all Christian streams.

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VOX.IE OCT - DEC 2021

BACK TO SCHOOL CONCERNS

A Barnardos survey conducted over the summer months found that over 60% of primary school parents and almost 70% of secondary school parents were concerned about the educational development of their child following the Covid-19 school closures.

The majority of parents believed their children would need support on returning to school but 49% of parents were not confident that support would be provided. Suzanne Connolly, Barnardos CEO said, “We are calling on the government to publish promised plans to address the additional educational support needs of children. These plans need to be communicated to parents to help ease their concerns and focus on those most impacted by the pandemic and home schooling and those who faced educational disadvantage before lockdown.”

VOX MAGAZINE

NEW SERVICE HELPS CHILDREN REFLECT ON PANDEMIC EXPERIENCES

The Church of Ireland has published a resource to help children to reflect on their experiences of the pandemic. Entitled “A Service of Lamentation and Hope in the Context of a Pandemic Experience” the service centres around the themes of lament and hope.

Prepared as an all-age service in a parish context, the resource can also be used in a school setting, or with a Sunday School or Sunday Club. Through the use of Psalms and a series of short Scripture readings, the service moves through themes of lament and hope, concluding with an act of renewal and commitment.

It is intended to help create space for the whole Church to acknowledge the losses that everyone within our communities, including children, have endured over the past months.

Suggestions for creative and experiential prayer around the themes of lament, hope, and renewal are included, and may be adapted as needed to suit particular local contexts.

Lydia Monds, coordinator of the Children’s Ministry Network, writes: “There can be a perception that the children are fine, they are shielded, they don’t understand much, it’s over their heads. Of course, some children have flourished during lockdown and many have shown incredible resilience but there have been losses, hardships, struggles and grief that have at times defied words.

The strap line from Barnardos speaks volumes when it says: ‘Childhood lasts a lifetime’. This time of dedicated prayer is a recognition that children have been affected and, in some instances, have been the most affected by the pandemic. As people of faith, we recognise their need to lament.

“Taking time to listen to children and their experiences is not to suggest that the experiences of adults are less important; it is a statement that as a worshipping community, we will make space for all voices to be heard and for people of all ages to belong. By listening, we are modelling a God who listens to us and who heals us in our hearts and in community.”

OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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WORLD NEWS

The secret life of North Korean Christians Church in Chains Conference 2021 North Korean Christians place a great value on the Ten Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer and the Apostles’ Creed, Eric Foley (co-founder of Voice of the Martyrs Korea) told attendees at the 2021 Church in Chains online conference.

He said that these elements are used because they are easy to memorise (in a setting where being found with a printed Bible would mean being taken away to labour camp). Speaking about the Ten Commandments, Eric said that the underground North Korean church uses them as a means of self-examination and pointed out how relevant the commandment prohibiting idolatry is in a country where there are 40,000 statues to Kim il-Sung, the founding leader of the country, who is known as the Eternal President. The North Korean church uses the Lord’s Prayer rather like a computer zip file which compresses information, i.e. each petition in the Lord’s Prayer is seen as outlining a different aspect of prayer. The Apostles’ Creed is used as a “diagnostic tool” or theological handbook to check that whatever North Korean Christians are being taught is in line with the teaching of the apostles.

Eric emphasised how different church life is in North Korea to other countries because of the all-pervading restrictions in the country and the widespread surveillance, including the requirement on citizens to report any unusual activity in which neighbours

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VOX.IE OCT - DEC 2021

engage. Churches in North Korea don’t have clergy or buildings but rather meet in family groups at home. He described how North Korean Christian parents often wait until their children have reached teenage years before they share their Christian faith with them. This is because primary school teachers are trained to ask young children questions such as “Does your family have a special book at home?” and “Does your family sing special songs – different to the ones that we sing at school?” in a bid to find out if they belong to a Christian family.

There are thought to be between 60,000 and 100,000 Christians in North Korea – an estimate based on evidence shared by North Korean defectors. Of these, it is thought that around 30,000 Christians are imprisoned in labour camps.

Following Eric’s keynote conference speech and the viewing of a short video dramatising the story of how one North Korean became a Christian, Pamela Coulter (member of the Church in Chains board) prayed for North Korea, the underground persecuted church and the work of Voice of the Martyrs Korea.

Eric answered many questions posed by attendees in a live Q & A session including: “Can Western Christians actually do more harm or perhaps waste our own resources in trying to promote or distribute a Western Christian framework in North Korea?” “What valuable lessons can persecution theology teach us in the west?” “Do Christians in North Korea

VOX MAGAZINE

have access to the internet from their homes?” and “Why did North Korea become so hostile to Christianity?”

Global Updates

Virginia Chipperfield’s presentation began with an update on the situation of Christians in the Middle Belt of Nigeria, where over 2,000 Christians have been killed during the past two years in a relentless campaign of violence and murder by Muslim Fulani militants. She highlighted Church in Chains’ work in channelling aid to Christians displaced in these attacks (through partner

organisation Stefanos Foundation) and the silent vigil held by Church in Chains outside the Nigerian Embassy in Dublin in July.

Virginia updated supporters about Christians facing grave danger in Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover and outlined plans to channel aid to those seeking to flee the country and also to those who plan to stay. She also highlighted the volatile situation for Christians in Eritrea describing recent arrests of Christians that followed a year during which over 200 Christian prisoners had been released.

As the conference concluded, David Turner announced that Church in Chains’ next initiative would be the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, to be held on Sunday 7 November, and encouraged attendees to contact the leaders of their local churches and arrange to take part.

The focus in Ireland will be on praying for the persecuted church in India and resources will be available from mid-October.

More at www.churchinchains.ie.

OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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Change

F

rom Genesis to Revelation we see the wonderful Biblical principles of rest, reflection and renewal.

Words like Sabbath, jubilee and feast demonstrate a rhythm of life that mirrors the Creation story of work and rest, creativity and contemplation.

After 52 issues of VOX magazine, nine Finding Faith Tours and three major research projects, we are taking a break at the start of 2022. This move has been prompted by major changes in our tiny volunteer team combined with the seismic shifts brought about by the pandemic.

But we have a great sense of peace and confidence in God’s faithfulness so we will take hold of the opportunity of a “pause” to seek His leading for our next steps as a ministry. We still believe VOX has a unique role to play as the only allisland, interdenominational Christian magazine reflecting the diversity of the body of Christ in Ireland and Northern Ireland and with a track record of sharing the big picture of God’s work in every county on this island.

We will be back with our Finding Faith Tour 2022 next summer with a determination to track down those stories of faith, life and reality across the widest spectrum of churches and Christian ministries.

In the meantime, please do keep in touch with your news and stories and

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is in the Air.. pray with us. Visit our website www.vox. ie and social media pages or email Ruth on editor@vox.ie.

Thank You Jonny

After 13 years, Jonny Lindsay is leaving VOX magazine to move on to new things. Jonny has been part of the VOX team from the very beginning and has carried the lion’s share of the work. His flare and brilliance with graphic design and photography have enabled us to present articles that are eye-catching and easy-to-read. And his patient work with advertising, promotion and distribution behind the scenes has ensured copies of the magazine make it into your hands as readers. Turning his hand to administration and finance, filming videos, proofreading articles or helping to host VOX events like our series on Suicide Prevention and the Church, Jonny has demonstrated such an amazing heart for God and for the body of Christ in Ireland - using His gifts for the glory of God. At times we’ve agonised over next steps, spent time in prayer and seeking God and supported one another through the challenges of Christian ministry on a shoestring. And there have been wonderful answers to prayer and encouragements along the way.

Here’s what Jonny says, “VOX has truly been a dream come true for me!

It has been such an honour to be part of this exciting project over the past 13 years, from the early stages of dreaming together with Ruth and others right through to seeing it flourish and become such a unique and important platform for people of faith on this island. I’ve personally grown so much through the process, had my horizon widened by many of the topics covered and encountered so many Godly individuals along the way. But I have sensed recently that it’s time for a change and a new chapter for me - a really tough decision to make. But it gives me great comfort to know that God has so much more in store for the next chapter of the VOX project.”

Ruth adds, “I’m struggling to find sufficient words to express my heartfelt gratitude both to you Jonny, as a wonderful colleague and a dear friend and to Sheila who has stood behind you and VOX in so many ways over the years.

Few people will fully appreciate all that you’ve given to the Irish church, Jonny, but I am convinced that God sees and will honour your faithful service.

We will miss you so much but pray God’s richest blessing as you move forward into this new chapter of your life and ministry.”

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

OneinChrist What the Bible has to say about race, racism and inclusion  By Fr. Anish John

A

s a theologian and leader in the Indian Orthodox Church in Ireland, Fr. Anish John explores the Biblical basis for discussions about racism and anti-racism with an overview of the whole of scripture from Genesis to Revelation.

Diversity is a reality and the world we live in is inhabited by human beings divided by race, colour, creed, religion, geography and living conditions. For human beings, anyone who does not look like us, speak like us or dress like us tends to be understood as a stranger or a threat. Identifying unity in diversity is the norm of the world we live in.

The Bible is a resource in discourses against racism, enslavement, colonialism and migrant concerns. Texts from the Bible have been taken up in the service of anti-racist, anti-slavery, and post colonialist discussions.

The Bible draws a clear picture of humanity as an icon [image or reflection] of God, whereby humanity shares in the goodness and divine. God stands by the neglected and oppressed, guiding and empowering them. The biblical narratives highlight not just the powerful kings, and

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rulers but the poor, the downtrodden and weaker in society. Jesus lived and dined amongst the weak and poor. We have narratives that speak to us of human dignity, embracing diversity and social justice.

In the Israelite history as narrated in the Bible, God not only remembers the people who escaped from Egypt but consistently addresses the sojourner and foreigner who will live among them.

In passages like Leviticus 19:33-34, the Israelites are told to treat people from different cultures and backgrounds equally and as “native-born.”

In similar passages, they are asked to extend kindness (Exodus 22:21), generosity (Leviticus 23:22) and love (Deuteronomy 10:19) to those who are foreigners, as ‘‘you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt’’ (Exodus 22:21, Deuteronomy 10:19). They are asked to extend love and justice because they experienced it from God while in Egypt (Deuteronomy 24:17-19 and 27:19). The concern for foreigners, orphans and widows while even gathering the harvest is remarkable (Deuteronomy 24:19).

Furthermore, as they are about to go

into the promised land, God instructs them to assemble everyone devoid of any discrimination of gender, age or creed and publicly read the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 31: 9-13). In the Old Testament God constantly promises to draw strangers to Himself (Isaiah 56) and exhorts people to ‘‘maintain justice and do what is right’’.

Let us have an overview of discourses in the Bible where God speaks for the voiceless.

Humanity as God’s Icon

The book of Genesis as the first book of Bible presents to us the creation story, which forms the basis of Christian anthropology. Human beings, created in ‘‘God’s own image and likeness’’, (Genesis 1:26) remain the touchstone for any discussion on theological anthropology.

Every human being understood as made in the image of God provides fresh insights to human dignity and helps embrace diversity. The image of God guides us to a unity within the diversity.

Also, every human life has a divine impetus within itself, an orientation towards the divine.

The Bible depicts human beings as infused with a divine spirit (God breathes the breath of life into the creation, Genesis 2:7).

Hospitality for strangers

The people of Israel presented as the chosen people of God are continuously commanded to care for strangers and to provide hospitality to other nations.

Yahweh calls them to treat all people not only with fairness but also with protection and care. God calls all people to seek justice for those who are vulnerable and suffer injustice.

Interestingly, today immigrants represent a rapidly growing population of the Christian church in various parts of the world. Even more immigrants engage in healthcare, hospitality and information technology sectors offering services to others with Christian love, compassion and social engagement. The example of Abraham and Sarah shows that this work can be profoundly important as a service to God and humanity. When the three men (who turn out to be divine) journey by Abraham’s tent, he runs out and invites them to stop. When they accept, he prepares a lavish feast for them (Genesis 18).

Instrument of blessings to others

God seeks a greater responsibility from those chosen. To be chosen or be called God’s people isn’t just a privilege, it is a responsibility. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer puts it in the “Cost of Discipleship”.

Genesis 12:1-7 describes God’s election or choosing of Abraham (and his descendants). It is easy to misinterpret God’s choosing of Abraham as an example of partiality, as if God favours one people group over others. However, His election is missional. God chose Abraham and his descendants to bless the nations.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul notes that Christ was the fulfilment of God’s promise to Abraham (Galatians 3:16) and not to descendants in an

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GOD CHOSE ABRAHAM AND HIS DESCENDANTS TO BLESS THE NATIONS.

exclusive sense. The promises in Genesis 12 were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Interestingly, Paul’s interpretation is that the scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ.

Love and Justice

the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor” (Zechariah 7:9 – 10). And Micah rhetorically asks, “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

The Old Testament prophets also foretold the coming of a Davidic king that would fulfil God’s promises not only to Israel but to the nations as well. We see this in Isaiah 42:1–7, where God said this through the prophet: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. … I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles”. The gospel of St. Matthew quotes this prophecy and states that Jesus Christ fulfilled it (Matthew 12:15–21).

God of all nations

St. Paul makes it clear that neither socioeconomic nor biological status can be used to discriminate; “there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

God commands His people to ‘‘love those who are foreigners’’ and reminds that “you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:19). The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 19:34).

God asks to divide inheritance equally among strangers and Israelites.

And to consider a foreigner as nativeborn Israelites. God says, ‘’along with you they are to be allotted an inheritance among the tribes of Israel. In whatever tribe a foreigner resides, there you are to give them their inheritance.’’ (Ezekiel 47: 22-23).

The prophets of the Old Testament severely criticised injustice and vehemently insisted that true worship of God cannot exist without loving justice.

The prophet Amos threatens judgment on “those who oppress the innocent and take bribes and deprive the poor of justice in the courts” (Amos 5:12). Zechariah the prophet exhorts God’s people to “administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress

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One in Christ Jesus

Worshipping the Lamb

Eschatologically, the Book of Revelation presents a multitude worshipping before the throne of God: “…a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and

language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” (Revelation 7:9–10)

The Call to Act Justly

As representatives of God, judges are called to acquit the innocent, condemn the guilty, and expose false accusations and bribery (2 Chronicles 19:5 – 7).

They are asked not to distort justice by favouring either the poor or the rich (Exodus 23:3; Leviticus 19:15). The psalmist prays, “Endow the king with your justice, O God . . . May he judge your people in righteousness, your afflicted ones with justice” (Psalms 72:1 – 2).

Throughout the Old Testament, God’s people are exhorted to “learn to do right and seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17).

God became human

God becoming humankind in the New Testament is the inauguration of our salvation history and exemplifies the possibility of humanity being united with the divine. God takes on our infirmities and unites every race, culture, language and land.

Jesus echoes the Old Testament prophets when He calls out the Pharisees for concentrating on religious observance while neglecting “justice and the love of God” (Luke 11:42). Justice for the needy holds a central place throughout His teaching and ministry.

Throughout human history,

people have used race and ethnicity to differentiate themselves from others.

Quite often, instead of recognising God’s image in one another, people have discriminated and ill-treated each other.

Sadly, even some Christian churches have succumbed to the temptation of racial and ethnic superiority over others.

We have recently heard, “black lives matter” echoing around us, while others have made it clear that, “all lives matter’’.

And thus, the need to understand and embrace diversity becomes important.

Racism manifests itself in many ways and through several structures. It could be based on ethnicity, race or religion and has excruciating effects in the form of discrimination and exclusion of individuals or groups.

Racism could also be part of cultural, religious, or social orientation. And thus, structures of society such as religion could play a decisive role in eradicating and spreading awareness against this social evil.

Karl Rahner famously wrote, “The only way in which human beings achieve self-realization is through encounters with their fellow human beings, persons who are rendered present to their experience in knowledge and love in the course of their personal lives, persons, therefore, who are not things or matter, but human beings.”

Fr. Anish John is a Ph.D. student at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, Ireland.

An ordained clergy of the Malankara (Indian) Orthodox Syrian Church serving the St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church, Dublin.

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

Exploring Race and the Churches in Ireland

By Ruth Garvey-Williams (VOX) and Damian Jackson (IICM)

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

Revelation 7: 9 - 10

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t VOX magazine, we’ve always been passionate about giving voice to Christians in Ireland. That has often involved carrying out highquality and wide-ranging independent research on matters relating to the Church. Our latest study was the most comprehensive we’ve embarked

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on to date. We wanted to deepen our understanding of the experience of and attitudes towards racism and discrimination in churches in Ireland and Northern Ireland. We also look positively at the potential for unity, integration and inclusion and examine how the church can lead the way in tackling racial injustice.

The research was conducted as a partnership with the Irish Interchurch Meeting (representing Catholic, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, Methodist, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Orthodox and Quaker churches) and with active support from the Evangelical Alliance of Ireland, Evangelical Alliance Northern Ireland and Tearfund Ireland.

Our online survey ran in July and August 2021 and collected over 1,000 responses.

Under 18 0.5%

AGE

65+ 24%

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GENDER

18 - 34 13.5% Male 50%

35 - 49 27%

Female 49%

50 - 64 35%

WHERE D O YOU LIVE?

Northern Ireland 30% Cavan / Monaghan / Donegal

3%

Connacht 5% Munster 9%

ETHNICITY White British / Northern Irish 30%

County Dublin 36%

White Irish 44%

Rest of Leinster 24%

Prefer not to say 1%

White Irish Traveller 0.7% Any other White background 8% Black, Black Irish or Black British 9.7%

Other - Mixed background 2.7%

Headline Findings

While we will unpack the findings in greater detail through this edition of VOX magazine (as well as in a more comprehensive report due out in November) in this introduction, we share some of the big picture findings.

The first key message is that there is overwhelming support amongst committed members of Irish and Northern Irish churches for intentional engagement in conversations and dialogue about race and inclusion in our churches. The survey received 1059

Asian, Asian Irish or Asian British 2.8%

Latino / Arabic 0.1% Hispanic 0.9%

responses, and 89% described themselves as committed Christians, with 63% “active and fully using my gifts” and 22% “active but not fully using my gifts” so these are highly engaged and committed people within the churches.

That is why it’s extremely significant that 90% of respondents think it is important for churches in Ireland / Northern Ireland to engage in conversations about race and racism and 82% strongly agree or agree that “Racism and discrimination are real problems in Ireland / Northern Ireland”.

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THERE IS OVERWHELMING SUPPORT AMONGST COMMITTED MEMBERS OF IRISH AND NORTHERN IRISH CHURCHES FOR INTENTIONAL ENGAGEMENT IN CONVERSATIONS AND DIALOGUE ABOUT RACE AND INCLUSION IN OUR CHURCHES. Experiences

An important focus of the research was on listening well to the experiences of ethnic minorities within our churches and these are unpacked more fully on page 22. While a majority of Christians from ethnic minority backgrounds say they have not experienced racism (77.7%) or discrimination (64.5%) in churches, the reality of racism, discrimination, micro-aggressions and inappropriate jokes that are happening regularly or occasionally is a major concern. Stories and examples reveal a range of painful and difficult experiences.

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A significant number of respondents who attend a church that reflects their own ethnicity say they have not experienced racism, with examples including Redeemed Christian Church of God, the Traveller Church in Dublin and the Chinese Church. Other positive comments point to multi-cultural churches as a shining example of unity in Christ overcoming differences between ethnicities.

Attitudes

The survey explored the attitude of the white majority populations of Ireland and Northern Ireland to issues around racism and inclusion and these are unpacked more fully on page 34.

Perhaps surprisingly, 67% of all respondents strongly agree or agree that, “White privilege makes life so much easier for white people in Ireland” and that therefore life is harder if you are not white. This is surprising because there is a common misconception that white privilege can’t be real because many white people have lives that are far from privileged (an opinion that was reflected in some comments). The term “white privilege” simply means that if you are white, your skin colour does not contribute to your disadvantage. It seems that most respondents had a clear understanding of this distinction.

A significant majority indicated that they value diversity as a gift in their church, and that people from ethnic minorities should be included fully in church life: ● 93% of all respondents strongly agree or agree that churches are enriched by ethnic diversity

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● 79% of the majority ethnic community strongly agree or agree that, “members from ethnic minorities add vibrancy to the worship in my church.” ● 81% of people from the ethnic majority strongly agree or agree that “the leadership of a church should reflect the ethnic diversity of its congregation.”

These findings are illuminated in hundreds of thoughtful comments, examples and suggestions.

A minority of respondents expressed strong disagreement to some of the concepts explored in the survey. This is particularly the case when the systemic and structural nature of racism is articulated, rather than focussing on overt racist incidents by individuals.

60 people (7%) strongly disagree or disagree that “Racism and discrimination are real problems in Ireland / Northern Ireland”. 17% of all respondents and over 20% of Northern Irish respondents disagree or strongly disagree with the statement “White privilege makes life so much easier for white people in Ireland.”

And 31% of people from the majority ethnic community (white Irish or Northern Irish) strongly agree or agree with the statement “the Black Lives Matter movement has gone too far” with many pointing to the BLM organisation in America as reason for shunning the movement as a whole.

While these opinions are in the minority they are nonetheless vocal. In the survey we gave ample opportunity for people to expand in comments on their thoughts and two concepts, in particular - white privilege and Black Lives Matter - stimulated a strong and assertive (sometimes aggressive) backlash.

Respondents made accusations that the survey itself was biased, intent on stirring

division, promoting critical race theory, “culturally Marxist” and other tropes reflective of social media discourse from the United States.

The key learning is that when church leaders address racism, they will likely experience pushback and aggressive opposition. However, this comes from a small vocal minority, as the empirical data demonstrates.

Church leaders should be encouraged that most people are (probably silently) supportive, and recognise that churches must act to address racial discrimination and injustice within and outside their own communities. Respondents don’t want (fear of) this vocal and assertive backlash to stifle necessary and loving selfexamination, seeking to make our churches places of inclusion for all.

It is interesting therefore that there is an apparent lack of confidence amongst church leaders in the support for having these conversations and for working to make churches places of inclusion for all ethnicities. This is perhaps understandable given the opposition that is often forcefully voiced by the minority.

While only 3% of clergy said that race and ethnicity are “taboo” subjects in their churches, 55% said they are not taboo but “we don’t talk about it much.”

There is still much work to do to progress from welcome to inclusion but we can be encouraged that, despite vocal objections from a small minority, the overwhelming majority of committed Christians are supportive of this work and recognise it as part of our responsibility as Christians to foster and model a countercultural community of grace in which all can flourish.

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

Every People, Tribe and Nation What is it like for Christians from minority ethnic communities in Irish and Northern Irish churches?

Let no foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, ‘The Lord will surely exclude me from His people.’ ... For this is what the Lord says, “...and foreigners who bind themselves to the Lord to minister to Him, to love the name of the Lord, and to be His servants, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant—these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56: 3, 6, 7

O

ver 200 people who responded to our survey were from minority ethnic communities in Ireland or Northern Ireland. Of these 2.5% were Irish Travellers, 39.5% were Black or Black Irish, 32.5% Any Other White

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Background (including American and European), 11% Asian or Asian Irish, 3.5% Latin or Hispanic, 0.5% Arabic and 10.5% Mixed.

God’s intention for His people is to be united, loving one another, worshipping and serving together. One of our survey respondents commented, “My church is my family where I feel comfortable and free to share my views and thoughts anytime. We’re one family and one in Christ.”

This positive experience was reflected in many comments and stories throughout our survey and in the finding that 77.7% of ethnic minorities have never experience racism and 64.5% have never experience discrimination within the church. Many described church as safe, loving and open and gave examples of positive ways in which they have been valued and included.

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Many of the church members are wonderful and very gracious. My rector is so people focused and very loving and compassionate.

Racism is not an issue in our church and no one is discriminated against because of race so it’s easy to discuss about it because it’s not there in our church.

Our leadership is multicultural and multi-ethnic.

I appreciate that I have been listened to, even when new in my church. I have been happily surprised by how often leaders ask my opinion on issues - especially related to Covid regulations and what the church can do but also in other areas.

I have seen the church I attend totally open up to brothers and sisters from all corners of the world, be it South Africans, Nigerians, east European or Asian as well as English, Northern Irish and American.

The church I go to is predominantly white but everyone I’ve met has treated me with respect. I have experienced racism in Ireland but never from the church.

I consider myself very fortunate for never having experienced racism within my church, nor in any church I visited in Ireland.

I feel safe and happy to be in the midst of people that see themselves as one through Christ Jesus. I am able to pray in this environment and relax. My mental well being is very positive in church.

CULTURALLY DIVERSE CHURCHES SHOULD BE DISPLAYED AS A ROLE MODEL TO SOCIETY REGARDING HOW TO TACKLE RACISM. My experience is very positive in regards to churches I have attended or visited.

Culturally diverse Churches should be displayed as a role model to society regarding how to tackle racism.

Delighted to be part of a multi-ethnic congregation. The different ethnicities have so enriched our fellowship. When the church began to grow with many from African cultures, the leadership set up a meeting to discover what we were doing badly or inadequately so that peoples from different backgrounds would be welcomed and affirmed in our community.

After the major publicity the BLM movement experienced in 2020, the leaders in my church (some of whom are white Irish, others have African background) made sure to address and condemn racism during following sermons. Myself and another Black friend of mine in the church were given the opportunity to speak about our experiences with racism. While I have been blessed to attend a church where the issue of racism is cared about and dealt with in an open, honest and Godhonouring way, I sadly recognise that not every person of colour attending churches in Ireland has had this experience.

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Racism and Discrimination in Churches

While the positive examples are encouraging, the survey responses demonstrated that even within the church, Christians from minority ethnic backgrounds experience racism, discrimination and treatment that is hurtful and disrespectful.

We asked, “Have you experienced any of the following within the church?

RACISM: Any action, practice, policy, law, speech, or incident which has the effect (whether intentional or not) of undermining anyone’s enjoyment of their human rights, based on their actual or perceived ethnic or national origin or background, including any action, practices, policies or speech, which exclude, disadvantage, harass, bully, humiliate or degrade a person or group of people.

Never 78% Occasionally 20.5% Regularly 1.5% DISCRIMINATION: the unjust or prejudicial treatment of people especially on the grounds of race, age, sex or disability.

Never 64.5% Occasionally 31% Regularly 4.5% MICRO-AGGRESSIONS: the every day slights, indignities, put downs and comments that make people feel uncomfortable. These could be described

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as a “death by a thousand cuts” - while any individual incident seems trivial or too minor to fuss over, taken together these can crush, drain and overwhelm people. They reinforce difference and a sense of isolation or exclusion.

Never 52% Occasionally 41% Regularly 7% “The incidents would be so slight but recurring that it would seem as though I was being dramatic [if I spoke up about them].”

“JOKES” - attempts at humour that disparage, stereotype or humiliate somebody because of their ethnicity, colour, nationality or culture can appear harmless or trivial but erode respect and value for an individual and cause pain.

Avoiding these types of jokes is not about being politically correct but rather about being Christ-like. Note: see Proverbs 26:18-19.

Never 59% Occasionally 36.5% Regularly 4.5%

EVEN THOUGH I HAVE BEEN PART FOR THE CHURCH FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS I STILL FEEL AS AN OUTSIDER.

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People say, “Where are you from?” and you would say a town and then they would say, “No, where are you really from?”

When jokes are said and it is ok in terms of humour but actually offensive.

“A former church would make jokes about the US presidents in a public way. I was offended that this was done in church from the pulpit. There are some bad stereotypes of Americans that can be unfairly assumed.”

Have you ever left or considered leaving a church because of the way you were treated (especially with regard to your ethnicity or culture)?

Raising Concerns about Racism

83% of people would feel comfortable talking to their church leadership about racism. While this is encouraging there is still a significant percentage (17%) that would not feel comfortable. The comments clarified that even those who are able to talk to leadership about these things, often feel nothing will change.

Yes, I left 10% Yes, but I stayed 10%

No 80%

I am doubtful that my voice will be heard.

No one has really listened or really changed after many a conversation.

I have spoken with someone in leadership when my (Black) son walked out of church.

But apart from an apology nothing was done to examine and address racism.

Even though I have been part for the church for a number of years I still feel as an outsider, and wouldn’t be comfortable to raise [the issue of] racism.

I left the church I was attending before due to racism and I couldn’t speak up then but thankfully it has never happened to me in my present church.

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Experiences of Black and Minority Ethnic Christians in Irish and Northern Irish churches

“But God has put the body together, giving greater honour to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it.” 1 Corinthians 12: 24 - 26 One important priority of our research was to listen - here are some of the experiences people shared.

“It breaks my heart that most whites I meet both in everyday life and church assume every black person is on asylum or depending on the state. Most are hardworking, educated, responsible and just love the peace and the safety Ireland provides. I have had white church members not willing to send their young kids to the children’s Sunday School class because a black lady is on duty for that Sunday.”

“Being asked if I had gotten used to domestic appliances when I had come from a well-off position in my home country. Being patronised many times when expressing how things could be done differently in church.

Being repeatedly told, ‘This is Northern Ireland and this is how we do things here in Northern Ireland.’”

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40-60% of the youth group were black youngsters at the time of George Floyd’s murder. The church decided to hold a session to discuss racism and to help the youth group members to see and understand the issues. None of the parents of any of the black youngsters were consulted or invited. Given that these parents have to live in Ireland as committed believers and apply their Christian faith to the challenges of racism, one would think that it would be natural for them to be called upon to “teach” in that circumstance. In addition to that there was at least one who had lived in the US for approximately 15 years and would have been as well-versed as anyone to share on matters of racial dynamics and institutional racism. This is an example of the experience, gifts, authority of foreigners (blacks in this case) being ignored and overlooked. It is all the more glaring as it is in a context in which their wellbeing is primarily affected not to mention their children’s.

Churches seem to be divided ethnically. Everyone is in their own corner and only a few mix with others. Being the only black person in a white church or vice versa isn’t really inviting especially if no effort is made to be multicultural.

This is what I have seen in Irish, African and Brazilian churches.

In leadership meetings when I am the only voice from a different cultural background I have been told, “You’re

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here now and that is how we do things here”, which had the undertone of, “if you don’t like to go back to where you came from”. On a separate occasion when I have challenged the thinking on a particular issue in the life of the church, my opinion was dismissed by another leader with the words, “Well, we’re all in agreement” about the local viewpoint.

A church leader said I couldn’t serve in church, as the people in our community would probably prefer someone who was born in Ireland. Like this leader most people in our Church are not aware of their prejudices. They are lovely to all people but sometimes may say such things like these.

outsiders makes them feel. People need to be aware that well-meaning actions may sometimes hurt the feelings of another person. Your efforts to welcome someone can sometimes do the opposite and make them feel outsiders.

I never felt as if I fit in. I never really noticed until, new members seemed to integrate themselves so quickly into the church… because they were of the same background there was a sense of familiarity that made it easier for them… after years of knowing these people, I don’t have that type of relationship as the new members do…

“IT BREAKS MY HEART THAT MOST WHITES I MEET BOTH IN EVERYDAY LIFE AND CHURCH ASSUME EVERY BLACK PERSON IS ON ASYLUM OR DEPENDING ON THE STATE.

People usually ask me where I am from and often ask the same questions all the time, e.g.: Do I like Ireland?

Is it always hot in my country? While they don’t mean to do any harm, and they are only making an effort to make conversation, it can be annoying when people ask you the same questions. You realise they weren’t listening [to the answers] and that makes you feel like an outsider. Many people are not aware that what they say makes you feel uncomfortable. For me as a person who came to Ireland as an adult, I don’t mind.

For my children who were born and raised here, and know nothing about Africa, I can only assume what any reference to them as

We did a Zoom (during the height of Covid) the week after George Floyd died and invited all our Teens to talk about their experiences of racism here in Ireland. When asked, by a show of hands, who thought racism existed in Ireland most of the white Irish teens said, “No” and all the teens of other ethnicities said, “Yes.” This shows how much white privilege is real. Even in Ireland and even in the Church!

I work with youth [in church] and I overhead a conversation between some of the kids explaining how segregation was good and that “mixing” of races was always bad, that one should keep to their own “kind.”

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Musings...

Living in an Unjust World With Patrick Mitchel

W

atching the images of terrorised people desperate to flee from their own homeland of Afghanistan confronts us with the fact that we live in a grossly unfair world. I couldn’t begin to imagine the desperation that led Zaki Anwari to hang on to the undercarriage of a US plane leaving Kabul. A young man who loved playing football, he clung on literally to the hope of a better life and tragically lost his grip.

With 24/7 news we are more acutely aware of the unfairness of the world than ever before. It’s grotesque that the 22 richest men in the world own more wealth than all the women in Africa and that just 2,152 people have more money than the 4.6 billion people who make up 60% of the world’s population (Oxfam, 2020). It is unjust that climate change, caused primarily by wealthy industrial nations, is impacting the poorest people in the majority world who have the lowest carbon footprint.

In our better moments, seeing such injustice, we cry out ‘It’s not fair!’ The world shouldn’t be this way. But why do we feel this way? What are we to do about it? Is there hope for this unjust world?

WHY DO WE FEEL THIS WAY?

Our human desire for justice comes from our Creator. We’re made in God’s image, and while that image is cracked, it’s not utterly broken. The Bible tells us justice is rooted in the character of God. A wonderful example is Deuteronomy 10:17: “For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.” Bribery is profoundly unjust. It favours the rich at the expense of the poor. The fact that God is incorruptible is good news for the marginalised. He shows no favouritism to the wealthy and powerful.

But this isn’t all. The next verse speaks of how God is actively on the side of the poor. “He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing” (18). These were the most vulnerable and powerless people in the ancient world – and God had their backs. Such impartial love reflects God’s perfect justice.

Justice is rooted in the character of God.

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WHAT ARE WE TO DO ABOUT IT?

The answer is challenging. God’s people are to be a community of justice.

This is a constant theme in Scripture:

“Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24); “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause” (Isaiah 1:17); “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

God justly judges His own people when they practice injustice – which is why Israel ends up in exile.

In Galatians, Paul talks about his agreement with the other apostles on the content of the gospel and his mission to the Gentiles and adds, “all they asked was that we should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I had been eager to do all along” (2:10). Doing justice is integral to the gospel. In Remember the Poor: Paul, Poverty and the Greco-Roman World New Testament scholar Bruce Longenecker says, “... economic assistance of the poor was not sufficient in and of itself, nor was it exhaustive of the good news of Jesus; but neither was it supplemental or peripheral to that good news. Instead, falling within the essentials of the good news, care for the poor was thought by Paul to be a necessary hallmark of the corporate life of Jesus-followers ...”

As we look at our unjust world, let’s ask ourselves how can we act for justice?

What is God calling us to do?

hands. The good news of the Gospels is that Israel’s Messiah has arrived, one who fulfils the Old Testament’s longing for justice. The king is inaugurating a kingdom of justice, open to all. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour”(Luke 4:18-19 quoting Isaiah 61:1-2).

But there’s a dramatic plot twist.

Jesus comes first not as a judge but as a Saviour. He bears the judgement of sin for the whole world. This is why Paul goes to the Gentiles – this good news of forgiveness and new life is for all humanity, rich and poor, Jew and Greek, male and female. So the other ‘side’ of our response to a broken and unfair world is tell the good news of Jesus Christ. And we do so in the hope that the resurrected Lord will return as a just judge to end all injustice and put this world right.

HOPE FOR AN UNJUST WORLD

However much we do we will never fix this world. Its future does not lie in our

Dr. Patrick Mitchel is Senior Lecturer in Theology at the Irish Bible Institute. You can follow his blog at www.faithinireland.wordpress.com.

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

Diversity in Irish and Northern Irish Churches Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations. Isaiah 42:1

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he overwhelming majority of our survey respondents (93%) agree or strongly agree that ethnic diversity enriches our churches in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Interestingly 81% also agree or strongly agree that the leadership of the church should reflect the ethnic diversity of its congregation.

While only a small minority disagreed or strongly disagreed with this suggestion,

“I do believe there are people of different ethnic groups who would like to be formally asked to minister but have been overlooked.”

“There is little to no ethnic diversity in my congregation, which I hope to see change.” “[I long to see] more diversity but not for its own sake. A richer and more vibrant expression of God’s kingdom full of colours, languages, cultures, etc.”

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the issue prompted a strong response in the comment section with many appearing to assume ethnic diversity in leadership would be at the expense of gifting and calling. However, this was not intended or implied by the question. Encouraging ethnic diversity in leadership does not mean appointing people who are not gifted, called or qualified to lead but rather intentionally identifying and encouraging leadership from all backgrounds.

It is noteable that currently the ethnic diversity of leadership does not reflect that of the congregation, even in churches with a significant percentage of ethnic minorities.

“I long to see unified churches, with every tongue, nation, and people worshipping Jesus together. Not only talking about country of origin and mother tongue but even different theological backgrounds bowing at Jesus’ feet together.”

“I would love to see so much diversity because I just think it is beautiful and representative of the kingdom of God.”

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DIVERSITY IN CHURCHES - IRELAND All Church Members are White Irish 8% 10% or less from ethnic minority communities 40% 11 - 35% from ethnic minority communities 22% 36 - 50% from ethnic minority communities 14.5% Majority are from ethnic minority communities 15.5%

DIVERSITY IN LEADERSHIP - IRELAND All White Irish 51.5% Mixed but majority white Irish 29% Mixed (different ethnicities) 10.5% All from ethnic minority communities 9%

DIVERSITY IN CHURCH - NORTHERN IRELAND All Church Members are White Northern Irish 39% 10% or less from ethnic minority communities 55% 11 - 35% from ethnic minority communities 2% 36 - 50% from ethnic minority communities 1% Majority are from ethnic minority communities 3%

DIVERSITY IN LEADERSHIP - NORTHERN IRELAND All White Northern Irish 87% Mixed but majority White Northern Irish 11% Mixed (different ethnicities represented) 2%

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CONFESSIONS OF A FEINT SAINT

Knowing Me, Knowing You

By Annmarie Miles

R

Waffle, waffle

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egular readers will know that I have been making efforts to reduce the square footage that my frame takes up on this earth.

Weight and food and eating have always been difficult subjects for me and it’s only in the last four or five years I have allowed God into those areas of my life. The Lord has been very gracious to me and though I put on weight in lockdown, I’m already back to losing again.

I have written a lot about my journey.

My book on the subject is in a perpetual state of editing. Recently I have felt an urgency to share my story, so I have started a podcast; sharing some of my old writing on the subject, talking about the physical and emotional consequences of being overweight, and seeking to bring God’s wisdom into it. All with (hopefully) a good dose of humour thrown in. I’ve had great feedback, which is encouraging, as I’m just getting going. But here’s one comment that blew me away, which I’ve been given permission to share.

“I know I’m not alone but I’ve never heard anyone say it out loud. I’m worried for you though. What about listeners who have never been obsessed with food, never craved comfort from chocolate and chips,

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never hated their body, never experienced that despair… What if they don’t understand what we’re going through and hate us even more for it? I know people who think I’m just fat and greedy. Maybe that’s true but I’m also desperate to change. So, thank you for saying what I can’t.”

WOW, right?

The most WOW thing about this is the person who wrote it. I never thought of her as overweight, and certainly didn’t realise she was struggling with food. It reminded me again that no one knows what is going on in the heart of anyone else. I made an assumption about this wonderful woman because of the way she looked. What a sharp lesson I’ve learned.

You don’t know what it is like to be me.

I don’t know what it is like to be you. That simple truth should propel us all to mercy, grace and patience.

Oh, Lord! Help us all, we pray, to see each other like you see us, with eyes of love and tenderness.

As I say goodbye, for now, to all you wonderful readers I want to thank you for the encouraging messages I get every so often.

I’m glad you’ve enjoyed my Confessions…

My journey with God is full of my gaffs and grumbles and I am so grateful for His amazing grace; and that He has given me brothers and sisters in Christ to walk with in this broken world.

With love your ever Feint Saint x

(Thanks to Olly Blake, Andrew GarveyWilliams and Donal Casey for their artisic contributions over the years!)

You don’t know what it is like to be me.

I don’t know what it is like to be you. That simple truth should propel us all to mercy, grace and patience.

Annmarie Miles is originally from Tallaght and now lives in her husband Richard’s homeland, Wales. As well as VOX articles, she writes fiction, devotional pieces and has recently launched a podcast called ‘Words, Wobbles and Wisdom.’ You can find out all about it at www.annmariemiles.co.uk On social media she is @amowriting.

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

Attitudes to issues of race, racism and inclusion The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 19:34

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respondents to our survey described themselves as White Irish, White British or White Northern Irish. We explored their views with a range of questions that gave opportunity to express their opinions and attitudes to diversity and inclusion within churches.

The overwhelming majority (91%) of these respondents felt is was, “important for churches in Ireland / Northern Ireland to engage in conversations about race and racism” and 94% strongly agreed or agreed that “churches are enriched by ethnic diversity.”

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There were a large number of comments about the need for and value of ethnic diversity in churches, about our unity in Christ and the desire for greater inclusion and participation of church members from ethnic minority backgrounds. Many expressed appreciation for the survey as a starting point in exploring and understanding the issues.

We seek to model the biblical concept of every tribe, tongue and nation being equal in God’s kingdom. We value the contribution of each group and regard their uniqueness and individuality as adding to the richness and the flavour of the church.

Not so long ago folks had to fight hard to get reasonable facilities for people with disabilities in our towns, cities, i.e., toilet access, lifts, accesses to suit wheelchairs

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getting into buildings, trains, busses, etc.

Problem was none of the people designing/ planning had acute physical disabilities - so it didn’t cross their minds to consider it. Now most people have been educated, a little, regarding this and things are improving for people with disabilities.

It’s the same thing with people who are different from us, different culture, different colour, different accent. We need to put ourselves in the ‘others’ shoes - learn how they’ve had to live their lives, learn what discrimination feels like and how it destroys peace in the lives of others - this is the way to learn ‘a little’ about what’s normal to others.

are given the same opportunity to minister in my denomination. This exclusion is not relegated to the more public ministries such as preaching and teaching but widens to every aspect of church ministry. I believe the denomination’s goal is to treat different ethnic groups the same but I believe this falls short of true acceptance and inclusion. To truly break down the prejudices and racism different ethnic groups should not need to become like white Irish church members. Honest conversations need to occur. Every ethnic group should have equal opportunity to freely bring their diverse culture into the house of God. We have much to learn from one another but without listening to understand and grow we will isolate and become stagnant.

I LOVE THAT YOU ARE ADDRESSING THIS ISSUE BECAUSE IT IS AN ISSUE.

I am committed to making church welcoming to everyone, irrespective of colour or ethnic background. I would be comfortable with changes in style of worship to help others feel welcome. My only reluctance would be if the Bible Teaching were diluted.

I am the pastor of a diverse, Intercultural church. We embrace the various cultures and learn from one another, recognising that each culture has so much to give and teach us.

I love that you are addressing this issue because it is an issue. I do not believe all ethnic groups

I visited the International Meeting Point in Belfast with other ladies from our church to help with food preparation and it really did help me to see the scale of the need for folk from other ethnic groups and encouraged us to do other things to help. The work of the people there from local churches is immense and a fantastic outreach.

This helped me to see this problem in a different light and removed some blind spots I have had. (I say this ashamedly).

I’m very glad you’ve started the conversation with this survey.

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“THE BLACK LIVES MATTER MOVEMENT HAS GONE TOO FAR.”

Strongly Agree / Agree 31%

Disagree or Strongly Disagree 44%

NA 1%

Unsure 24%

Strong Reactions

Several issues sparked strong reactions.

There was a notable divergence of opinion over the Black Lives Matter movement, issues of White Privilege and questions about diversity in leadership.

It is notable that different assumptions were made about the meaning of the terms used.

The statement “The Black Lives Matter Movement has gone too far” revealed a significant polarisation of views and prompted 35 responses in the comment section. Many made the distinction between the statement “black lives matter” and the American political organisation of that name.

Black Lives do matter but I would be concerned about some of the political connections of the BLM movement.

Black Lives Matter has raised a hugely important issue and opened discussion and awareness of white privilege in a way not

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done before, and for that it I am in support.

Where those who supported its rallies and demonstrations turned to violence it went too far and undid some of the good it was doing. I do understand that the suppression felt for years by many would have overflowed, and been hard to contain but I can’t condone violence.

My comment on the Black Lives Matter “going to far” is my concern at the division it is causing. Certain extreme factions use it to incite violence. The focus is too narrow and based on US issues.

I believe that Black Lives Matter and are equal in all respects to every other life and that all human life is sacred and ought to be cherished. I totally disagree with discrimination of any grounds and equally that racism is abhorrent. I believe our emphasis must be on all being equal without exception. Regarding the movement styling itself ‘Black Lives Matter’, I cannot support all of their stated

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aims, objectives and baggage. I believe the issues in Ireland are very different to those in the USA and UK. The Black Lives Matter movement is not something the church should support.

It is a Marxist, political movement that’s ultimate aim is not simply the emancipation of black people, but also dismantling the family unit, removing the place of fathers from the home, pushing a radical LGBT agenda, undermining Christian values, and eroding every institution that refuses to succumb to its agenda. The church universally should condemn racism, actively fight against genuine injustice that dehumanises other people, and promote equality of opportunity (not outcome) for all people.

But it should not lend its support to a political and ultimately destructive movement.

BLM ... holds a variety of views that are wholly incompatible with the Christian faith. It incites violence and stokes racial division.

Similarly, the issue of white privilege provoked some strong or angry responses, even though a significant majority of survey respondents (67%) strongly agreed or agreed with the statement “White privilege makes life so much easier for white people in Ireland”. Of the 18% who disagreed or strongly disagreed with this statement, 20 added comments.

It is interesting to note a similar Barna Survey in America (Beyond Diversity 2021) found that anger is the top emotion when “White Privilege” is mentioned.

These questions are surely a joke are they?

How do Irish people have white privilege when they were the oppressed group since 1196 AD? Do not bring this nonsense into the Irish church.

The term White Privilege is the new racist term that is being used by social justice activists to allow non-white racial groups to direct hatred towards white people.

The fact you have it in your questionnaire shows you are already singing from the hate white people hymn sheet. Most of the non-Irish ethnic groups in my church are much more privileged than I was growing up in Ireland. The term White Privilege doesn’t recognise the poverty many white Irish suffered. So, this term White Privilege is a racist term against white people.

There was also a strong reaction to questions about church leadership. 81% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed with the statement “The leadership of a church should reflect the ethnic diversity of its congregation” with only 7% disagreeing or strongly disagreeing. However there were 50 comments about this issue with many indicating a fear that unqualified leaders would be placed in roles, simply because of their ethnicity. However, there was also thoughtful nuance as others reflected on the potential and impact of a more diverse leadership team.

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Eldership and leadership is not predicated on race but spiritual maturity and ability.

I would suggest that spiritual maturity is ahead of this; nevertheless the church should be proactive in having a diversity of leadership.

I FIND THAT MY CHURCH IS VERY WELCOMING TO A DIVERSE RANGE OF PEOPLE, HOWEVER I DO THINK THAT MY COMMUNITY IS STILL BLIND AT TIMES TO ITS OWN EVEN UNINTENDED RACISM.

I don’t think it should be mandatory for the leadership to reflect the ethnic diversity of its congregation because leadership should ultimately be based on gifts and calling but I think it is a sign of health if it does reflect the ethnic diversity of its congregation.

My home church (not current church) is much more diverse, and so is the leadership because of that.

I am aware that people of ethnic minorities are not represented in our church leadership team, but I would love to see this change.

Self Reflection

One significant finding was the number of respondents who were engaging thoughtfully with the survey to understand the issues and reflect on their own and their church’s attitudes and culture.

In a white majority church, middle class and with only a very small number of nonwhite faces, the issues of racism / BLM seem pretty remote and irrelevant to most

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in the church. It’s a bit of a circle - the lack of non-white people makes the issues remote. But there is little reflection on why the church does not have much ethnic diversity or what can be done about it.

On the question about raising racism in church: It is easy if the racism is about explicit and overt behaviour, it is very difficult if the racism is structural.

Churches in Ireland don’t realise how much they conform to the liberal understanding of racism as overt behaviour. Yet structural racism is very real and present and acknowledging its presence is very much resisted.

I think there should be more discussion about how racism affects the people in our church, and more advocacy by our church for people of colour in society.

I find that my church is very welcoming to a diverse range of people, however I do think that my community is still blind at times to its own even unintended racism, using terms that are objectionable and not noticing that members of ethnic minorities have not been invited to take part in committees. Some of this has to do with the fact that a sizable part of our community is elderly and using terms that were appropriate when they were younger but there is still a lot more room to change all our attitudes.

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MY STORY “My Story” is an opportunity for ordinary people living in Ireland to talk about their journey to faith or the impact God has in their daily lives.

MEET TREVOR AND MAGGIE RAMSEY

“We have a lot of energy and experience. What am I supposed to do with all that? Preach to my roses?” Instead of moving towards retirement, Baptist pastor Trevor Ramsey and his wife Maggie are taking up a new challenge.

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ELL US ABOUT YOURSELVES

Trevor: I’m from North Belfast and became a Christian at the age of 17. I studied economics and accountancy but then the Lord called me into the ministry. I studied at Belfast Bible College. My intention, together with my wife Sheila was to be missionaries somewhere in Western Europe but the Lord changed our minds and brought us to Limerick where I served for nine years at Limerick Baptist Church. In 1994, I returned to Northern Ireland and got involved in establishing the church in Greenisland. It started with just seven people. It was during that time that Sheila was diagnosed with cancer. It was 15

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minutes in a doctor’s surgery that changed our lives forever. It was a tough time. The Lord took her to Himself in 2007.

Maggie: I was brought up in the country as one of six and neither of my parents were Christians. We were sent to Sunday School but I decided to take my own path. I left home at 19, went to London and became homeless. The choices I made took me into some dark places but I was always searching. I knew there was more to life. My brother became a Christian and that really influenced my decision to follow Jesus in 1997 when I was in my mid 30s. I went to various churches and settled in an evangelical church for 10 years.

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HOW DID YOU MEET?

Maggie: After I moved house, I wanted somewhere more local. It was probably a year after Sheila’s death that my friend invited me along to the Greenisland Baptist. I had never met Sheila but I was aware that the pastor’s wife had had cancer. We had been praying for her. I found wonderful fellowship and practical Bible teaching at the church. One of the ladies did Christianity Explored with me.

I think God was preparing my heart and Trevor’s heart. Trevor was in the throes of grief and not noticing anyone but after some time, I had a work issue I wanted to discuss with Trevor. We decided to meet to talk about that.

Trevor: Sheila and I had been married for 27 years. One of the small benefits of cancer is that it gives you time to talk.

When Sheila was dying, she encouraged me to get married again. Maggie and I sensed the Lord was bringing us together.

We were courting for a year and then we got married. When we came back from honeymoon, I was appointed Senior Pastor of Newtownbreda Baptist church [the largest Baptist church in Ireland with a Sunday attendance of 800 people].

Maggie went from being single to being married, the wife of a senior pastor, a stepmother and grandmother. Yet, we have been blessed beyond measure. God has been so gracious to us.

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WHAT BROUGHT ABOUT YOUR CHANGE IN DIRECTION?

Trevor: About two years ago, I sensed my time as Senior Pastor was coming to the end. I told the elders, I would be stepping down in 2021. In February 2020 (just before the pandemic hit) we booked a weekend away in Spain. It was so freezing cold, we decided to jump on a Ryanair plane. We went to Benidorm and on Sunday morning, we found ourselves sitting in this little Englishspeaking church. Benidorm is called “sin city”. It is home to 70,000 people with over a million visitors each year.

At one stage, around a thousand people a week were emigrating there. People go for health reasons or because they running away.

The church was established in the 1980s. The need was for an ex-pat church with solid teaching but that could also reach out into the community. When we found out the pastor was retiring and that the church was looking for a new pastor, I felt I would never be satisfied until we pursued this opening. I sent off an email to enquire about the role. In many ways, we hoped that they would come back and say “no thank you”. But I could not shake it off.

Maggie: At first, when Trevor had this calling for Benidorm, I wasn’t on

the same page. My first thoughts were about my job, my parents and the heat.

I was already in a job and could still be working for quite a few more years. I have two parents in their late 80s and I’m not into beaches. Trevor said we both had to be in agreement. And in a short space of time, it was settled in my heart that we really should go. I realised God created this world, He can look after our children and our parents. That takes a whole weight of concern off my shoulders. I became excited by it.

Trevor: I was appointed to be the pastor of the English church starting at the beginning of September 2021. We have been sent out as missionaries. It is strange that, after all those years when I was interested in those countries, we get a chance to go. But it has been a weird year leading up to our move. I had been appointed as president of the Association of Baptist churches in Ireland (with 117 Baptist churches) for 2020 and then one of our associate pastors was offered a role in Dallas Theological Seminary. I never imagined ending up in a pandemic. I found myself on my own being president and leading the church through Covid-19.

THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES FOR WITNESS BY OUR VERY PRESENCE IN “SIN CITY”. WHY SHOULD THE DEVIL HAVE THE RUN OF THESE PLACES?

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TELL US MORE ABOUT THE WORK IN BENIDORM

Trevor: There is a God-shaped void and our hearts are eternally restless until they find their rest in Him. There are opportunities for witness by our very presence in “sin city”. Why should the devil have the run of these places?

We will look after the little Christian congregation but we will also have a springboard for mission. When English speakers emigrate, they are often running away from something. When they get there, they are still not happy.

Often they run into crises; we anticipate phone calls from people looking for help and these often serve as bridges for the gospel.

Maggie: I’ll be working alongside Trevor. He will be the pastor and leader.

My involvement will be pastoral care, drawing alongside people in the church and hopefully forming prayer groups and maybe a woman’s Bible study. I’ll also be involved in outreach into the community. Some people do not make the wisest choices and may end up in trouble. My background is in working with victim support and I’m excited that we will be able to show the love of Jesus to people.

AFTER THE YEAR WE’VE ALL HAD, HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT USING YOUR RETIREMENT TO BEGIN MISSION WORK?

Trevor: We’ve been surprised by the number of people who have asked us about it. We don’t see ourselves as role models. We just know that we are not our own, we have been bought with a price. It is for Him to decide how we spend our retirement and we trust Him

to look after us. It is not in me to sit back. God hasn’t wired me that way.

We’d rather be like Caleb than tending the garden. There is only so much golf you can play. We have a lot of energy and experience. What am I supposed to do with all that? Preach to my roses? In Benidorm you need to have experience.

It is not a job for a novice. At the end of the day, we just want to make a difference.

Maggie: Like Trevor, I could not imagine having an extended holiday for 30 years. We are always on the go. God has done so much for us; we do this out of gratitude for Him. It won’t be easy. We are already anticipating the challenges but God knows all about that.

WHAT DOES JESUS MEAN TO YOU AS YOU BEGIN THIS NEW ADVENTURE?

Maggie: I’m trying to not to use clichés but for me Jesus is the truth. I know my quest before I came to faith was to find truth in an untruthful world. That journey ended when I found Jesus. John 8: 32 says, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” The person I am today is because of Him. We are all failed human beings but through His grace, we are mighty conquerors.

Trevor: He is the lily of the valley, the bright morning star. He provides me with salvation, security, protection and hope. The old hymn says none but Christ can satisfy. He is my all in all.

People have said, “Are you not worried about living with no salary?” Why would I worry? He can provide for us.

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

How Can We make Churches In Ireland and Northern Ireland More Inclusive?

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3: 28

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here was a huge response (554) to the open question about how we can make churches in Ireland and Northern Ireland more inclusive with a wide range of practical and thoughtful comments and suggestions. The overwhelming majority were positive and welcoming of such moves. A handful of comments dismissed the need for inclusivity, with some suggesting that the white, male indigenous population is being discriminated against. However, these views represented a tiny minority of responses.

Ten key themes emerged from the comments.

1) The Gospel And The Bible

Comment after comment emphasised

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the need to focus on Jesus, to preach and teach what the Bible stays about unity in Christ and about racial justice. Some suggested if we preach the Gospel that inclusion will happen naturally. Others emphasised the need for specific and intentional Bible teaching on the topic.

“We need to hear more of what the Bible teaches on racial inclusivity. We have spent so much time, for example, talking about Adam and Eve in terms of evolution or sexuality, that we often forget the utterly radical lesson that their creation teaches us about race. We are all descended from the same forebears. We are all one race.

A more controversial measure might also be to turn away from the dependence / fixation that many churches and church leaders have with the USA. A greater, more international, diversity of role models, mission partners and conference / training speakers would help us to appreciate more the gifts that God has given the world church and not just one, very white dominated nation.”

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“I think if churches teach honestly from the Bible, it will help. The Bible has a lot of great teachings on loving your neighbour.

In churches there should neither be Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free; we are one in Christ.”

“Foster a warm, welcoming environment for all where all individuals are treated equally as image-bearers of our loving Creator. Highlighting race and racism in isolation or as isolated topics can be unhelpful, unless there are instances of people not being welcomed and included.

If brotherly and sisterly love is taught and practised as an outworking of the gospel, specifically highlighting race/racism may not be necessary.”

2) Representation In Leadership

Many expressed a desire to see leaders of all ethnicities, cultures and backgrounds reflected in all levels of church leadership and church body. (Note the topic of leadership was covered elsewhere in the survey and proved controversial.

Here however, we include the comments and suggestions made in terms of inclusivity.) “...By having different ethnicities part of the leadership teams. By not expecting those who are different from us to become like us but rather being willing to set aside our rights and privileges to incorporate aspects of others cultures and liturgies.”

“Allow open access to ministry and leadership positions for anyone, regardless of gender and race. As more people are given a voice in leadership, I believe the church will become more inviting and open. Maybe also, meet and partner with churches that have a greater representation of ethnic minorities. That way we learn from each other and lose that sense of distance and ‘otherness’.”

“I’d love to know what it looks like to be an active church member and church leader in other parts of the world. Perhaps we’re not identifying leadership gifts because they look different elsewhere?”

3) Engage Community

Respondents encouraged churches to become more active in the local community collaborating with other congregations and other organisations, learning about the needs and challenges facing

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ethnic minorities and advocating for justice in our neighbourhoods.

“More active connections with the people who literally live on our doorstep, active involvement in local ethnic minority community group and other such groups.”

“THERE NEEDS TO BE A CONSCIOUS AND INTENTIONAL CHOICE AMONG THOSE LEADING, AS WELL AS THOSE ATTENDING, TO MAKE A CHURCH INCLUSIVE.

Practical suggestions “For churches to be more open to looking at and engaging with the other areas of society, i.e.: schools, community groups, statutory bodies in health and councils etc. Have a church representative to engage and report on the needs and give feedback.”

“By making sure I have a right heart first, then speaking up for immigrants looking for housing, etc. This is very complex in the cities where housing is a shortage. I think it is a sad fact that it is contributing to racism.”

4) Welcoming Vs Inclusivity

Comments highlighted the need to be intentional not in just welcoming, but in purposefully including people in all levels of church and community, and creating a process to keep accountable in achieving this.

“There needs to be a conscious and intentional choice among those leading, as well as those attending, to make a church inclusive. In my experience,

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denominational structures are a hindrance to significant changes (in terms of multiethnic representation in leadership structures).”

“Just persist in offering friendship and encouragement to all who come to our church including strangers who are white/Irish but not part of our circle.

The difference between “welcome” and “inclusion” is a big gap that needs bridging.”

Practical Suggestions “More diversity is needed as leaders in the church. Each church could be mindful of national days of its members from different countries and mention or celebrate it with them. Learn worship songs from diverse cultures present in the church.”

5) Openness

Many highlighted the need for open dialogue, open conversations, open and transparent processes, open channels of communication and openness to exploring areas of difference.

“Having the conversations and raising awareness is a good start. I think most churches are welcoming of the ‘stranger’ and understand we are all equal before God. However, we may not be inclusive and even racist out of ignorance or lack of awareness.”

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“Stop making barriers to protect ‘it’s always been done this way’ attitudes. Be open and willing to listen to others who have a different viewpoint or background.”

6) Education

Comments suggested training and education is needed to help individual Christians and churches to become aware of issues facing ethnic minorities and immigrants. There was a recognition that changing the culture of a church will require a change in attitude.

“Training for people in leadership roles on anti-racism, unconscious bias, etc. The space for conversations about racism (that are facilitated). The churches to critique colonial legacies, how they talk and act about the Global South and the role that plays in reinforcing difference and racism.”

“All White Irish need to get educated on racism especially in our churches and there is a need for an open discussion of mature believers in our churches of all colours.

I feel the key is in a change in attitude, coming through knowledge, and openness.

Ignorance is not an excuse. We must resist being defensive about the reality of our privilege. We need to be welcoming, embracing / celebrating other cultures and learning about each other. Not be ‘afraid’ of those who are different and realise the richness of diversity.”

7) Relationship

Many mentioned that inclusivity starts with relationship and building friendships with others both between individuals and between different

churches and congregations and practical suggestions emerged (often involving food!). “...engage with diverse communities that make up our local areas. It’s true that not everyone enjoys the same style of a church service, and that’s fine. But even if we mostly prefer to stick with our own particular style of a service, there can be opportunities for churches that do have different styles to occasionally gather together, to share in social activities, and to participate together in projects that serve the need of our local communities.

In getting to know people who are different from ourselves we can develop friendships and a basic respect for one another. That way if some racist incidents arise in our local area, we already have a basis of relationship, we are not just watching a news story unfold as if it had no connection to us.”

“Start dialogues with different groups including non-Christians or groups like the Quakers, etc. Find out if African congregations would welcome white visitors. Give people coffee and cake and start talking.”

Practical Suggestions: “Meaningful moments of cultural dialogue, even if outside the liturgy; culture lunches; coffee mornings (for different age groups, and men’s breakfasts). When friendship is built, inclusion in the broad spectrum of faith life is much easier.”

“Have a forum where people of different race can meet informally and get to know each other, e.g.: sports event, table quiz, local history walks, etc.”

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8) Resist Sectarianism / Denominational Tensions

Some mention tensions within denominations or sectarianism as feeding into racial inequality in churches. Many encouraged working with other churches on this issue (and others).

“Begin by accepting the roots of our own bigotry and division. I believe this is necessary in order to have an inclusive attitude, stance and spirit. If we do not want to include each other within our various communities, i.e., Catholics and Protestants welcoming each other into each others’ lives and communities. How can we provide authentic inclusivity for anyone else? We probably aspire to this, but we need to work harder and begin a deeper/ broader dialogue.”

“Teach a Kingdom of God perspective on British/Irish history, understanding, owning and repenting re. racism/sectarianism.”

“The denominations can do a lot more to work together and tackle any local issues with a united voice.”

9) Equality

There were many comments equating racial justice and equality (ethnic minority inclusivity) with gender parity, disability inclusion and LGBT rights.

“Sermons should educate congregations about the importance of diversity and inclusion - of new members, ethnic minorities, people who are different in some way from them (disabilities, marital status, appearance, employment status, financial

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status, sexuality, etc.) - ample material in the NT to make it clear this is the right way.”

“A more enlightened view on diversity and inclusion ... You can’t welcome people from ethnic minorities with one hand while refusing to affirm LGBT people with the other.”

10) Accessibility

Respondents discussed how we can remove barriers to those from other backgrounds/minority groups. Some suggested self-reflection was needed to identify issues that hinder unity such as nationalism as well as underlying racism and sexism or economic inequalities.

“Inviting perspectives from those who are from ethnic minorities on how/what we do in church. Making leadership roles attractive and accessible to them, if necessary, changing how we do things to accommodate them.”

“Remove barriers to those from other backgrounds, e.g. have a mix worship music styles, different preachers. Some churches need more wholesale issues dealt with such as the links between church and nationalism.”

“Have more open conversations about what it means to be white; have better understandings of systemic rather than individual-based racism; connect the dots between colonialism, capitalism, sexism, and racism. Humility, and selfexamination. Giving up on this notion of inclusiveness that is just about attracting more of the “other” into the community, but not changing the community in any way.”

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

How can the church lead the way in tackling racial injustice?

“This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.”

Jeremiah 22:3

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his question prompted 539 responses with many engaging in detailed reflection about the role of the church and the challenges of racial injustice. Two main themes shone through above all others - the need to speak up and the need to show Christ’s love in action with dozens of similar responses from across the island. Other key themes identified are mentioned repeatedly throughout the responses. The overwhelming weight of the comments demonstrated a strong desire to tackle racial injustice and for the church to lead the way in doing so.

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Speak Up And Show Christ-Like Love

Respondents repeatedly mention the need and desire to speak up and speak out, to find and use our voices and the voice of the church, to advocate—both from the pulpit and in the community, to be “a voice to the nation” and preach acceptance. They say it’s important to name things out loud, identify when white supremacy or nationalism takes hold, and to loudly oppose racism.

Comments frequently called for Christians to practice what we preach, speak openly and strongly about value and equality of all people and be a prophetic voice. Many simply state it’s time to “have the conversation” and talk about these issues.

By speaking out and acting when we see discrimination happening. There is no reason why the church shouldn’t use their platform and voice to speak up for justice,

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unity and diversity all of which are biblical values.

Identify minorities and fringe communities in our communities. Reach out to them with love and care. At a human level befriend them and listen respectfully to them to understand their culture, needs and experience; offer and show help and support to them; be a ‘good neighbour’ to them. If they ask about your hope, share with “gentleness and respect” - 1 Peter 3:15. Address and speak out against racism and give support to anti-racist initiatives in the church/denomination and in the community. Regularly review and audit issues of race in our community.

Theologically re-examine the Bible and the Gospel message on the issue of culture, race and inclusion. Address this as denominations and congregations.

We need to speak out on these issues clearly and nationally. Too often the church nationally is seen as only caring about the ethics of the bedroom or the classroom. We have to find our voice on issues of racial justice and show that we have been leading the way in diversity for quite some time.

By speaking out and acting when we see discrimination happening. There is no reason why the church shouldn’t use their platform and voice to speak up for justice, unity and diversity all of which are biblical values.

Preach more about love, acceptance of people who are different. Have days or weeklong activities or awareness sessions on diversity and

inclusion. Jesus loved everyone and as followers of Christ that’s what is expected from us, if we can do this, it will be easy to lead the way to tackle racial injustice. It is time for people to see the church practicing what it preaches.

Repentance

Related to speak is the desire to recognise, admit and repent of our failings. Several mention that there is a biblical model for this. We must admit we have a problem, admit where we’ve been wrong or ignorant, humble ourselves, demonstrate self-examination.

We can acknowledge and atone for historical and current harms, offer transparent accountability when things go wrong. (A few acknowledge we hold a connection to historical injustice and how this ties into current inequalities.)

We also need to develop a more biblical idea of corporate and national repentance for the sins of our people and our ancestors.

The radical individualism of the present age allows us to say, “I’m not personally racist, so everything is fine, and I’m not responsible for whatever privileges I might have accrued in a racist society.”

TWO MAIN THEMES SHONE THROUGH ABOVE ALL OTHERS - THE NEED TO SPEAK UP AND THE NEED TO SHOW CHRIST’S LOVE IN ACTION. OCT - DEC 2021 VOX.IE

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Teaching The Gospel

The vast majority of respondents who mention the Gospel say “loving your neighbour” is the place to start. They suggest that truly preaching and living the gospel, teaching the Bible and being the church is a first step towards tackling racial injustice. Many mention a focus on discipleship will lead to living out Christ in our communities. There was also some nuance here with a few comments expressing the church’s focus should be on the preaching and evangelism rather than on tackling injustice in the wider sense.

This shouldn’t even be a question for any follower of Christ. We are called as His church to stand for what is right, to stand against injustice. We should, as followers of Christ be at the forefront of radical love and radical acceptance. We should be living the gospel in loving our neighbour.

Primarily by being the church of Jesus Christ - one body from many different people and places. Discipleship which teaches and forms identity in Christ in a way that then knows how to engage with race, injustice, division, hatred. Being a prophetic voice in speaking out against racial injustice and inequality and providing a vision for peace, justice and human flourishing beyond this. Peacemakers in community.

It really depends on what is meant as racial injustice. If it means leading in terms

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of “social justice”, I think it is the wrong matter to tackle. Rather we should return to biblical justice. All have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. All deserve the punishment of death for our transgressions against God. Jesus made atonement on the cross, satisfied God’s holy wrath, and open a way for all to be reconciled. True racial justice is the new birth available to all people through Jesus. So in short, preach the gospel, evangelise the nations and teach about holy living through the Spirit.

Honouring The Imago Dei

The Imago Dei is often mentioned as a biblical imperative for leading on inclusion and tackling racial justice— to practice the radical love of God. To recognise the image of God in everyone and intentionally show the love of Christ to all – and particularly marginalised – people.

Speak openly and strongly about the value and equality of all people; keep reflecting on the involvement and contributions of our own church community especially those from ethnic minorities. Think through what changes we as leaders and white Irish need to make to stop blocking ethnic minorities from fully participating in the life of church.

To listen as to how we can open up spaces for all people especially ethnic minorities.

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Formal Advocacy

Several respondents brought up specific points of social action within our greater communities. To reach out to community organisers, lobby local councillors and ministers, become educated on refugee and asylum seeker experiences (many mention direct provision in ROI), and to directly engage on a national level as a united Church on this issue. A few mentioned the church has historically been on the right side of justice, and this is a good argument for pressing in public voice and action.

Advocate against unjust legislation, e.g., new Westminster anti asylum Bill.

Integrate asylum seekers and refugees into community not pack them away in remote direct provision centres and detention centres.

Recognise and speak out against racism.

Lobby politicians.

Increase access to employability and better access to alternative routes in education to university for teens.

Church Action / Example

Respondents want to see churches welcome others and ensure they are fully included in the life of the body, listening and reflecting on ethnic minority involvement in church, and making changes as necessary. “BE THE CHURCH” is mentioned over and over again, but also a focus on those outside church walls. Churches should “lead the way” and truly identify and live as a family of God. The church is literally the body of Christ made up of every nation and tribe and skin colour, we must be confident in out identity as brothers and sisters in the family of God and lead the way in showing equality to one another, which is motivated by love and not fear of how we look to the world.

OUR HUMILITY IN ADDRESSING THIS INJUSTICE WILL ENABLE THE CHURCH TO LEAD THE WAY.

We have a strong heritage in this, as well as a past where we have been the perpetrators. In fighting injustice now we need to acknowledge these two aspects honestly and openly. Our humility in addressing this injustice will enable the church to lead the way through the Twitter world, and diplomatic speak, to real KOINONIA, to real welcome.

[We need to] become better listeners, leaders, and risk takers; willing to be uncomfortable for the good of others, focus on core doctrine and let go of anything else blocking the way for others to experience the secure love of God through Jesus.

Collaborate

Respondents want to see collaboration with other churches and ministries, and even with other faith groups or community groups. They suggest listening to and learning from the global

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church and acting in solidarity with persecuted church and other persecuted faiths.

By supporting social efforts in the community to bring communities together.

Linking to the expertise already there in groups that have the skills and expertise and are properly constituted and governed.

We need to engage more with local councillors, etc., to understand the issues in the area, to live out Christ in our communities and to focus more on those outside the walls. Churches in a town could work more together.

Other repeated themes include concern expressed about white nationalism in our churches and the wider media, the need to be peacemakes and those who befriend, listen and reach out. A few gave more practical examples of how these things can take place. Many advocated for more education on the subject.

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Not a Problem

A very small minority of comments reject the focus on racial justice either as not a church problem, or as not a problem at all in Ireland / Northern Ireland. Some felt we already do well and we don’t need to worry about it.

I don’t see much racial injustice in Ireland, unless Social Justice Activists are now going to play the Race Card to give nonIrish entities an unfair advantage over Irish. Then we will have an Anti-Irish bias, which would be racial... I think the church should be aware of who it is bending over backwards to please, and why.

I don’t like the wording of this question.

Churches’ primary goal is to glorify Him and spread the good news of Jesus.

Everything else should follow. Jesus didn’t come into the world to tackle the problem of slavery; He came to save the ungodly.

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REALITY

S m i le !

Make a Child

Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal is Back

BY JONATHAN DOUGLAS, CHRISTMAS SHOEBOX APPEAL MANAGER

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ast year, generous people around Ireland donated online to give 44,749 gifts to needy children in Africa and Eastern Europe. After a year of disruption, Team Hope Shoebox checking centres around the country will be able to accept shoeboxes once more. The Team Hope team and volunteers are hoping thousands more children will benefit. #EveryBoxCounts The Shoebox Appeal is back and it is easier than ever before. You can build a box at home or build a box online.

We are very excited that we are able to re-open our checking centres and this means if you have a box saved or you have been collecting (or knitting) fillers, we will gladly accept them this year.

The Christmas Shoebox appeal is about spreading joy to vulnerable children who may never have received a Christmas present before. And the impact of this simple gift often spreads far beyond the child to their family and their wider community.

God encourages us to show love and

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care to others. When you give a shoebox, it is a box of love that is coming as a result of God’s love to us. It is a way for us to honour Him and to put into action the love we have received. Many of these children are in orphanages or hospitals, they are living in extreme poverty or coping with disabilities. When a child receives a box, they know that someone cares.

The same communities that receive the shoeboxes are supported year round through Team Hope’s project partners with a range of sustainable development initiatives tackling poverty and hunger, providing clean water, better healthcare, education and child protection. Last year, these partners used donations to purchase supplies and make up the boxes. They discovered for themselves the amount of work that goes into creating these gifts and have asked us to express thanks to everyone who makes a shoebox and to our hundreds of volunteers working in checking centres across Ireland.

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MORE THAN A SHOEBOX

Ioan - Romania Iaon is 14 years old and the oldest of five children. When his father left, Ioan felt responsible for the family.

He dropped out of school to get a job.

Recently his 13-year-old brother also left school because they couldn’t afford the school supplies. Their mum said this was the first Christmas that the children had received a present and it made her so happy. Each of the children received copy books and pens, which will help them to continue their education.

Ioan

Robinho - Burundi “When I received my Christmas Gift I cried because of the things I found in the box. There was a car, a robot, a hat, gloves, books, notebooks, sweets of many kinds and pens. I was asking myself, who is this angel that packed this box? It was more than I expected. Thank you!”

Robinho

Andrada - Belarus “I wanted to have shoes like those of a Barbie princess. I’ve only seen that kind of shoes on TV and I really wanted a pair.

When I opened my present, inside were high-heeled shoes like the princesses wear. I feel like a princess now. Thank you so much.”

Andrada

CHRISTMAS SHOEBOX APPEAL 2021 We are looking forward to our annual Shoebox Week from 1 - 7 November as a time to encourage as many people as possible to pack a shoebox. And this week will culminate in Team Hope Sunday (7 November) when churches who want to get involved can encourage church members, Sunday School classes and youth groups to bring in their boxes.

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WE NEED TO LET THESE CHILDREN KNOW THAT THEY HAVEN’T BEEN FORGOTTEN. “IT IS INCREDIBLE TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A CHILD SMILE, TO MAKE THEM HAPPY AND SHARE THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS THAT MOST OF US GET SO ACCUSTOMED TO.” TEAM HOPE AMBASSADOR, INTERNATIONAL RUGBY PLAYER JOSHUA VAN DER FLIER

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Some churches prefer to get involved through their local schools or by supporting the online appeal.

Others support the local checking centres with volunteers and there are currently vacancies for area coordinators in some counties.

There are many opportunities to fundraise for the appeal (see our website www. teamhope.ie.) Last year one 12-year-old boy asked for all his birthday presents to be donations for the shoebox.

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Another boy did a 20-hour readathon.

Samantha in Donegal knitted facemasks and gave donations towards the appeal.

Over the last year, we’ve all been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Many poorer countries are still struggling with the on-going impact of the virus and its knock-on effects. Our support is more important than ever. We need to let these children know that they haven’t been forgotten. Through that box we want children to experience the love of God. The Team Hope team has been kept busy continuing to support our partners on the ground as well as running the online appeal last year.

We’ve all missed family traditions over the last 18 months but now the wonderful tradition of wrapping and filling a shoebox together is back. We know that for some this has been a difficult year financially, so we’re encouraging people to think about teaming up with others. If you can’t afford to fill a box, why not work together with relatives, friends or neighbours?

Our new-look website also features loads of resources for you. There are colouring sheets to download as well as digital copies of the leaflet and poster.

There are plenty of ideas for ways to fill your box and details of all the Drop Off points and checking centres nationwide.

The deadline for returning your filled shoebox is Monday 8 November. This year’s online appeal will continue until the 23 December so there is plenty of time to donate online or personalise your online box.

Enjoy West Cork anytime of the year with our comfortable pods, tent pitches and campervan spaces.

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LIFE

BUILDING HOPE TOGETHER The story of the exciting new church and community centre in Ballincollig

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allincollig lies less than 10km from Cork city. In the last 20 years it has grown from a small village to a bustling town. Where the British Army Barracks once dominated the centre of town, a multi-million euro development transformed the space with a modern shopping centre, residential and office buildings opened in 2005.

Arriving as Rector of the Church of Ireland Carrigrohane Union of Parishes in 2009, the question uppermost for (now retired) Rev. Ian Jonas was, “What are we going to do about Ballincollig?”

His church had no physical presence in the centre of one of the fastest growing parishes in Ireland.

“Our church has always been on the outskirts of Ballincollig,” said church member Bill Lane. “This is the main town in the area and with lots of new young families. We’ve always known that we were not really part of the local community. Although we ran Alpha courses for years, our impact has been very limited. It has been a real burden for us.

“Some years ago, I felt the Lord was saying we should speak the word of the

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Lord into the open courtyard of the town.

We went and prayed around it and we thought about it but nothing seemed to materialise.”

When the Rev Ian began his ministry, he immediately picked up on the concerns of his congregation. “Church [in Ballincollig] felt like a hit and run affair.”

The parish organised a week of activities in the town’s big shopping centre but it didn’t seem effective. “We were not really building bridges into this community,” Bill Lane said.

In 2016, the church formed a steering group to explore for a suitable building in town. Their initial thought was to find a shop in the high street but about that time, the barrack buildings that had once housed the Officer’s Stables came up for sale. It seemed far too big a project to take on but God was at work.

“A call came from an estate agent to come and view the field belonging to the old parish rectory St Stephen’s Day of all days,” Ian said. “Let alone the unseasonal request, I never dreamt that my call to serve God would have me fielding enquires from real estate auctioneers.

I am more at ease with unpacking the meaning of the hope of the “many

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mansions” that Jesus’ promises, than selling fields.”

A re-zoning of the land meant the field had massively increased in value and a sale would now mean the church was in a position to buy and refurbish the old barracks buildings.

Bill Lane, who had taken early retirement, was in the ideal position to take on the task of leading the purchase and re-development of the building.

Jane Moffatt also joined the steering group, “I live in Ballincollig, close to where the building is and it was on my route to and from work every day. As I went past it, I used to pray, ‘Please God if it is your will, let us have the building.’

“In the whole project, God’s hand has been there in the most amazing way. We put in an offer to purchase the building, which they turned down and then went to auction. But on the day of the auction, the only other people who were interested in purchasing the building got the day wrong. We were the only bidders.

How does that kind of thing happen? It must be God’s hand. The finances came at the right time.”

At the time, Rev Robert Ferris was a curate in the parish with the main responsibility for the church in Blarney.

Since Ian’s retirement, he has been appointed as Rector of the whole group of parishes.

“When we put the idea of a centre in Ballincollig to the church, there was one big meeting where the congregation came

together and the vision was shared,” Robert said. “This was a big project but the parish was right behind us. There was a real buy in from everybody. It was really quite exciting for me to see unity in the church. We dreamed big dreams.

This is where I get passionate as Rector, seeing the potential of engaging with the community without the baggage of a traditional church building. It is so exciting to see what church can be and what it can offer the wider community.”

Work began to refurbish the stables into a multipurpose space that would respond to needs within the community.

Overseeing the project, Bill Lane said,

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“For me it has been a journey of always knowing that God was ahead of me. I had a dream and in that dream I saw a bank loan application and the owner of the Carraig Centre was Jesus Christ. Within the limits of my faith, I was convinced that God was in this and we’ve seen that on multiple occasions.”

With two thirds of the refurbishment complete, the centre was ready to open in February 2020 just when the pandemic hit. The Carraig Centre has three functions, as a church, a parish centre and a community centre. The purpose-

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designed space features a Main Hall (which in non-Covid times could seat 250 people), offices, catering kitchen, a playroom, a prayer room, meeting rooms and the mezzanine youth floor.

The child-safe outdoor playground became particularly important during lockdown.

The soft surface play area and climbing frames are the only ones within walking distance of the town centre.

“There is a big block of flats right across the road,” Bill explained. “There were people living in all of these apartments and yet with no green space.

We decided to open up the playground to individual families or a single bubble.

They could ring up and book a time slot.

People used it as an opportunity to meet up with isolated family members in a safe space outside (for example a chance for children to meet their grandparents).”

In this way, the church began to make natural links with the local community even in the midst of a pandemic.

“It’s a year since we opened after the first lockdown,” Bill shared. “In that time, the building has pretty much paid for itself, even in such an unusual year.

There is a big demand for this kind of community space. We have all sorts of groups hoping to use the space including drama and dance classes, the ICA, drug recovery programmes, the local Foróige club, the Garda Divert programme not to mention our anchor tenant - Enable Ireland - that continued to use the space throughout lockdown.

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“So far feedback is positive. It is just a joy to be more part of the community.

Now we’re bang in the centre of town and close to a new housing estate. It is the ideal location.”

Once restrictions were eased, the hall could also be used for church services and the congregation has been excited to explore new ways of worship both in person and online.

“This church community is a pioneering fresh expression of church,” Rev Robert said. “While we do traditional Anglican services in the other churches, this is something fresh and new. There is a freedom of worship and we’ve been given permission to experiment whilst also maintaining the DNA of Anglican worship.

“Especially during this Covid time, I’ve been able to use the space outside by bringing seats outside for pastoral chats when I wasn’t able to go to people’s homes. It is a neutral space and a safe space.”

Robert is delighted to see the centre open and sees huge possibilities for the future. “As an evangelist, I want mission to be at the heart of what we are doing here and not being afraid of that but doing it in a very contextual way. We are not hiding as church. We are saying this is a place of hope, a place with Christ at the very centre. I’m excited to see how the five marks of mission can come together and show that church has the potential of being an answer to the community’s problems rather than being the problem itself.”

For Ian, there has been a sense of joy to see the project completed and moving forward even after his retirement, “There was a beauty in retiring just as the new

centre was opening. They don’t need me now and there were people to take it on and take it forward. The challenges are huge for the institutional church and yet in this union, people are thrilled to see this creative development.

“I think this is a also a sign of healing. These buildings were the British army barracks. It is a sign of reconciliation, a healing centre which meets the needs in the community. For me it is on the cusp of something special.

“Robert likes to talk about the craziness of life. The story of the purchase of the Carraig Centre in Ballincollig has surprised us all, and could on the surface seem to be crazy when we already had three church buildings and a parish centre to maintain. But the craziness caught the imagination of local people, who were glad to see the old building given a new lease of life. It seems so appropriate that we should be converting an old army barracks it into a place of God’s peace for all.”

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Every Nation, Tribe & People?

Christian Leaders Respond to our Survey NICK PARK - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EVANGELICAL ALLIANCE IRELAND

The issues of race, racism and racial justice are not ones that can be discussed coldly or dispassionately. The pain of those who encounter racism is real and raw. God’s passion for truth and justice burns white-hot. For those who truly love the Church of Jesus Christ, any manifestation of racism in the Church is like a cancer invading the body of a beloved family member. This survey demonstrates that the Church cannot and will not remain silent on this - one of the burning issues of our day. Those of us who are privileged to serve in Church leadership need to listen to the heart-cry of God’s people as captured in this research

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NATHANIEL JENNINGS - AREA REPRESENTATIVE FOR IRELAND, OMF INTERNATIONAL UK

Such helpful and timely research! It has personally given me really helpful insight into the situations, attitudes and opinions across the church in Ireland as I try to speak into and dialogue on these issues myself.

There needs to be a careful consideration, a winsome and clear response to those who will try and undermine addressing these issues by taking the lines coming from some evangelical Americans. It needs to help us on our journey to forming and articulating a sensitive and courageous theology and practice which offers something better than the myriad of solutions ‘the world’

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has whilst being able to find common ground and be gracious when this overlaps with the endeavours of social and political groups who are also working for justice, dignity and equal opportunities for all. I also think an accessible and implementable resource for churches who want to grow and change in this area would be a very good outcome down the line.

REV. DR. TREVOR MORROW MINISTER EMERITUS OF LUCAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AND FORMER MODERATOR OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN IRELAND

This is a first rate piece of work and invaluable to the church in Ireland becoming an authentic ‘sign of the kingdom’. The experiences of some of our Christian brothers and sisters, although a minority, is still alarming.

I am reminded of Michael Jackson’s reflections a few years ago on his Dublin Diocese being sectarian having previously ministered in Clogher.

He was savaged for it, including by previous Archbishops who wrote in dissent to the Irish Times. Sectarianism is the same monster as racism but with a different face.

I am not alarmed or surprised by the minority who are irked by the notion of systemic racism. North American evangelicalism has been fed a diet of the dangers of critical race theory. It has clearly had an influence on the thinking of some of

our Christian family in Ireland. It will be necessary for those who are seeking to present the findings to know how to respond to this. If ‘in Adam we all died’, then that is a recognition that sin is not just an individual choice but is systemic to our fallen humanity.

Racism may not have the same systemic elements in Ireland as in the USA but sectarianism is self-evidently systemic in Ireland, North and South and may be a useful example.

The last two sections on the ‘inclusive church’ and ‘tackling injustice’ were uplifting. The specific and concrete proposals would make for useful resources for congregations to consider.

JOY ENIOLA, INTERCULTURAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR, DUBLIN

Thank you and well done to the team for such incredible and needed research. I am particularly pleased to see that, for the most part, respondents were aware that we have a problem and want to have solution-focused conversations around it. I am keen to see what are the next steps for the Irish Church as we cannot afford to shelve these findings - beyond numbers, they are the experiences of real people who have likely lived, often in silence, with the consequences.

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SEAN COPELAND, ACTING CEO, TEARFUND IRELAND

This is a really important piece of research and will hopefully facilitate healthy, informed discussion within the Church in Ireland. In recent months the issue of racism has, once again, become a debate crossing national, political and, indeed, ethnic and racial boundaries. Tearfund Ireland applaud VOX magazine for embracing this topic and contributing to the conversation in Ireland.

Tearfund Ireland seeks to honour the inherent dignity of all people, recognising that each person has been created in the image of God. The act of creation entails intent, which implies purpose, which, in turn, indicates God had a reason for creating different people groups.

While the bulk of our work is carried out overseas, Tearfund Ireland, as part of the Church, works with and through the Church in Ireland to facilitate our shared mission to help people overcome the injustices that keep them from flourishing. In our development and humanitarian efforts, we have witnessed the devastating impacts of racial discrimination, systemic racism and ethnic violence. Two core activities of our work are to release people from poverty and to speak up for those who are unjustly treated. Racism is an injustice.

In reviewing the headline outcomes of this research on race in Ireland I have been encouraged by the many comments from those who remind us of

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our identity as Christians – that we are followers of Christ, children of God, part of the family of God and members of one Body.

In line with those realities, it is beneficial to remember that our words are powerful. In fact, Scripture tells us that our tongue carries the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21) and James reminds us of the wrong we do when we speak ill of those who have also been made in the image of God (James 3:9).

We live in a world in which our relationships with God, others and creation have been broken by sin.

Racism is one of the many results of this brokenness so it is no surprise that discussions about race are sometimes divisive and have potential to leave people hurt or angry. However, as children of God, we are mandated to be salt and light, to love our neighbours and to be ministers of reconciliation. As we pursue biblical justice for all people, the Church in Ireland has a tremendous opportunity to offer creative, restorative and life-giving solutions. In so doing we will more fully display the multi-faceted wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10). I pray the Church in Ireland can gracefully and humbly engage in this conversation.

REV DR IVAN PATTERSON, IRISH COUNCIL OF CHURCHES PRESIDENT ICC is encouraged by the responses to our survey with VOX, in particular the overwhelming sense that people across our member churches are

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committed to building them up as places of inclusion where all can fruitfully belong. The considered and thoughtful responses will enable us to have a much more in-depth understanding of on-the-ground experiences and feelings.

We are emboldened to honour that commitment by developing this work and seeking to equip churches to live out that vision where all are included in our church communities.

PASTOR TUNDE ADEBAYO-OKE, REGIONAL PASTOR AND COUNTRY COORDINATOR OF THE REDEEMED CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GOD IN IRELAND

The quality of the research survey and the subsequent painstaking analysis and initial report underscore the crucial learnings pivotal to the church leadership in the nation.

Tough questions asked and honest, useful opinions given.

The findings paint a very clear picture of where the church is now and what needs to be done for us to become a united Christian community. Bravo. Very impressive work done.

in Irish churches across the country and how experiences of diversity are impacting all of us. We hope to further develop this work so that our churches will be better equipped to be places where all can belong and be fully included in the body of Christ. We thank all who participated for sharing so thoughtfully and are encouraged at the overwhelming support for a vision of a church that reflects the global body of Christ as it is represented here in Ireland.

REV DR SAHR YAMBASU, PRESIDENT OF THE METHODIST CHURCH OF IRELAND

This data provides important and interesting information, which should help us all not only in cross-cultural but also general ministry in our churches. There is so much in there that needs careful and close study to ascertain how best to allow it to influence praxis in our churches.

BISHOP BRENDAN LEAHY, COCHAIR OF THE IRISH INTERCHURCH MEETING

The Irish Inter-Church Meeting are delighted with the response to our survey, undertaken with VOX, and anticipate that it will enable us to gain a much deeper and more nuanced understanding of what is happening

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LIFE

ASEEKER’SLIFE

BY ANA MULLAN

F

antasy in book form and films is a genre that attracts a lot of people, me among them. Since I was a child, I have had a vivid imagination and it hasn’t gone away even in these more mature days.

Many fantasies have at the heart a hero who is pursuing a quest, who is seeking for something that has been hidden a long time ago, something that can bring healing or closure for a person or a group of people. Of course, in a TV programme this seeking will go on for as long as the show has good ratings.

In everyday life there are also seekers.

Some know that they are seekers and they might even know what they are searching for. Others are not even aware that they are seeking for something.

They do not live life as adventure or as something that can offer far more than they are experiencing but instead more like a destination. There is no exploring to be done.

A couple of days ago, I was listening to a person who is a Jesus follower and in his talk he was inviting us to consider the fact that we are all seekers, even those of us who have chosen Jesus as our master. He was helping us to see that none of us have arrived because there is a lot more that we can seek when we talk about Jesus.

Some years ago it was “fashionable” to have seeker services, for those who hadn’t understood or experienced the

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message of Jesus. The intention in doing something like that was good but it makes the assumption that those who have been following Jesus for many years are not seeking anymore. This presents a problem for me.

I believe in the Trinity, which though many theologians have tried to explain it, is not easily explained. It is a mystery.

A mystery is never exhausted, one has to seek it all the time because there is always something new to discover.

It cannot be controlled; and that is something that we human beings find difficult. The moment we think we have arrived, it is the moment we get stuck.

There is no movement forward, no inner transformation.

In the gospel of John there is scene in which two men, the first disciples, start to follow Jesus as He passes by. They start walking behind Him until Jesus turns around and asks them: “What are you looking for?” (John 1:38 NRSV). The disciples simply answer: “Rabbi (Master, teacher) where are you staying?” and Jesus replies: “Come and see” and they end up staying the rest of the day with Him. We have been living for the last 18 months and more, in difficult, uncertain and strange situations. Whatever we thought we were in control of, suddenly disappeared. We found ourselves on unfamiliar ground. For many people, it raised questions and as Jesus’ followers, we were not the exception. We not only

faced outward chaos but we also found chaos within us. We might have faced fear, anxiety, frustration, anger and loneliness.

Let’s imagine for a moment that we are those two disciples, walking behind Jesus and He turns around and He asks us: “What are you looking for?” (What are you seeking?). How would you respond to that question? What are we seeking in these strange times? Am I willing to be taught by Jesus how to live in this season? What do I need to learn from Him? The more we seek Him, the more we will know Him; we will understand ourselves and our deepest longings. We will be able to see our fears, anxiety, and frustration not as obstacles but as gateways through which to experience His infinite grace over and over again.

For the disciples, that was the beginning of the seeking. Even after three years of being with Jesus, they came to the conclusion that they only knew Him in part. We fool ourselves when we think that we know Him because we know some of the stories in the gospels, that those are the only things we need to know. C.S. Lewis expressed it beautifully at the end of The Chronicles of Narnia when Mr. Beaver tried to explain to the children the nature of Aslan. “…He’ll be coming and going,” he said. “One day you’ll see him and another you won’t. He doesn’t like being tied down – and of course he has other countries to attend to. It’s quite all right.

He’ll often drop in. Only you mustn’t press him. He’s WILD you know. Not like a TAME lion.”

The fantasy programmes do come

THE MOMENT WE THINK WE HAVE ARRIVED, IT IS THE MOMENT WE GET STUCK. to an end and too many series kill the appetite for more. But not when we seek Jesus and His kingdom message; there will always be something more to discover.

DEEPLY HIDDEN, YET EVERYWHERE PRESENT (Augustine – Confessions)

Ana Mullan is from Argentina but has lived in Ireland for 35 years, the last 18 in Dublin. She is an artist, a spiritual director, retreat facilitator and an enthusiastic grandmother.

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REALITY

MusicforLife Pilot music programme for Fields of Life schools in Uganda

A

ward-winning Irish singer and songwriter Victoria Johnston is partnering with Irish charity, Fields of Life to raise funds for the roll out of a pilot programme called ‘Music for Life’. VOX magazine asked Victoria about the project.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SUPPORT FIELDS OF LIFE IN THIS WAY?

Over Christmas, I read Trevor Stephenson’s book ‘From Killing Fields to Fields of Life’ where he shared his journey. It was hugely inspiring to learn more about how one person with one idea can transform so many lives. I’ve followed the education work of Fields of Life for some time and, along with my family, I have been a supporter of their education child sponsorship programme for many years.

During the pandemic lockdowns, I valued my own music skills, being able to spend time writing and composing. I tried to imagine what my life would have turned out like if I hadn’t had the chance to learn instruments and music theory growing up and at school. That’s how the idea for Music for Life came about.

To give students the gift of music, where otherwise they wouldn’t have access to instruments or a music education.

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WHY MUSIC EDUCATION?

As a music educator here in Ireland, I’ve seen the many positive impacts that music education and learning instruments provide both for adults and young people. The benefits of Music Education are vastly recognised and proven to enhance intellectual development, creativity, and personal and social development. Key positive factors in musical training relay a sense of achievement, self-discipline, increased self-esteem, self-expression and selfconfidence and reducing stress levels. I contacted Fields of Life suggesting that a music programme could bring to a positive contribution to their schools.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE SCHOOLS IN UGANDA AND HOW THIS PROGRAMME WILL RUN.

At the moment schools in Uganda are still closed due to the pandemic. I’ve been informed through the Fields of Life team that many students and teachers in these schools have already lost family members due to the virus.

Children in Uganda usually spend 75% of their time studying academically at school. It is hoped Music for Life will provide a creative education outlet for the children.

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What a gift it will be for the children arriving back to school in 2022 following the pandemic to a wide array of music instruments for them to learn, and a music programme.

HOW HAS YOUR FAITH INFLUENCED THE PROGRAMME DEVELOPMENT AND WHAT WILL YOUR ROLE BE?

This was a very important aspect for me in devising Music for Life. [I wanted] Christian music to be at the heart of it but also local Ugandan music and the inclusion of local Ugandan instruments.

The Music for Life pilot programme will look to promote the joy of music, friendship, a sense of belonging, teamwork, commitment, responsibility and mutual respect between all students.

I also feel it’s most important that the local teachers lead this programme, and I am just taking the volunteer position here in Ireland of fundraising to try and make this pilot programme happen for these two Fields of Life schools in Uganda.

Local specialised music teacher Joseph Kakungulu will help Margaret Nakiberu (Head Teacher) to run this programme for students to learn to play music instruments, learn music theory and composition, in addition to arranging opportunities for local community music.

The music taught will be traditional Ugandan music and Christian music.

HOW MUCH ARE YOU HOPING TO

RAISE AND WHAT WILL THAT BUY?

The goal is to raise €11,000 this will be divided as €5,500 per school. This will enable the purchasing of instruments in Uganda to support the local economy.

100% of funds raised will enable learning and playing of instruments, learning and performing traditional and Christian music in an orchestral group setting in the two primary schools, and paying the local music specialists to train the students and teachers.

Instruments for each school will include: drums, xylophones, Ugandan tube fiddles, shakers, flutes, guitars, bangles, rattles, Ugandan trumpets, bells and one piano per school.

HOW CAN INDIVIDUALS / CHURCHES GET INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT? If a church or individual would like to donate or raise funds towards this, the way to directly donate to this initiative is www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ fieldsoflifemusicforlife.

Your donation will directly impact 300 boys and 380 girls at Good Shepherd and Nakapinyi Primary School in Central Uganda. It will also help 18 local teachers at the schools.

ABOUT FIELDS OF LIFE

Fields of Life has more than 25 years of development experience working in Uganda through their 120 supported school, impacting over 50,000 children.

Find out more at www.fieldsoflife.org.

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MUSIC REVIEWS

O

ne look at the Christian music charts and you will see how few new albums have been released lately. Most of the albums in the current Billboard top 50 have been up and down in the chart for the past year or so. This is of course due to the pandemic with artists unable to come together in studios, and with record labels slow to produce albums that cannot be promoted with live performances. Christian or not, records have to be economically viable, and so the record companies have been holding back and waiting for the pandemic to end. That said, music that has been produced in the last 18 months has been as a result of massive innovation and inventiveness by artists who have mostly relied on home recording or online collaboration to get their songs out there.

Come Home – Songs for the prodigal LAURA THOMPSON

We are all familiar with the story of the prodigal son, the story of a young man who demanded his inheritance while his father was still alive, and who spent it with reckless abandonment ending up destitute and broken. We know how he decided to beg his father for forgiveness. Of course, his father welcomed him back with open arms. It is a story that shows amazing love and forgiveness and should remind us that

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our heavenly father reserves such love and forgiveness for us no matter how far we have wandered away from Him. With such an important message, it is no wonder that many books have been written, many paintings painted and many songs composed on the parable, but in my opinion, few have come as close to describing the immensity of the father’s love as do the songs of the latest EP from Laura Thompson Come Home, Songs for The Prodigal.

I have been playing Christian music on radio for more years than I care to remember, and I can honestly say that few songs have touched me as deeply as the songs on this EP. Five songs take the listener from the wasteland to the sanctuary of the father’s loving arms.

The production is outstanding, the lyrics say so much, and the melodies will lodge themselves deep within. No matter where you’ve gone, no matter where you’ve been, no matter what mess you’ve made, the Father desires nothing more than for you to return home to the sanctuary of His love. If you have felt isolated, distant and cut off from God during these past two years of restrictions, I suggest this should be your go to album to rekindle your desire.

Come Home – Songs for The Prodigal by Laura Thompson is a truly beautiful piece of work (check out Laura Thompson Songs on Facebook).

No Need to Fear

SYLVIA BURNSIDE AND NEW IRISH CHOIR AND ORCHESTRA As you will be aware by now, this issue of VOX magazine is going to be the last one for a while. With this I mind, I am

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at pains to leave you with some great music recommendations and at the same time continue my quest to promote Irish Christian artists.

In recommending Sylvia Burnside’s and New Irish Choir and Orchestra’s album, No Need to Fear, I am doing just that.

Founded in 1994 by the renowned Irish hymn writer Keith Getty, New Irish Choir and Orchestra have been encouraging worship with appearances on BBC TV’s Song of Praise and RTE’s religious service programmes, as well as their performances throughout Ireland. Singer Sylvia Burnside, originally from Glasgow but now residing in Co. Antrim, takes the lead on the 13 songs that comprise No Need to Fear, an album of rare beauty.

Her crystal-clear vocals and beautiful orchestral arrangements breathe new life into songs that we have heard many times before but never quite like this.

The danger of orchestral collaborations is that sometimes the vocalist and the orchestra are competing to be heard. Here however, the orchestra complements the singer. The result is an album of breath-taking beauty; songs that will inspire you and calm your soul.

A mixture of old and modern songs, for me the standout song is Oceans Where Feet May Fail, the Hillsong composition.

I have always loved this song but regard this as the definitive version. When Sylvia arrived at the line, “Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders” it brought tears to my eyes.

Do yourself a favour and seek out this album without delay and keep an eye on New Irish Art’s website www. newirisharts.com for future concert announcements.

Well, as I always say when signing off on my radio program, that’s about it from me for now. I hope you have enjoyed reading my reviews/recommendations over the years as much as I have enjoyed writing them for you. Of course, you can listen in to my radio programme on UCB Ireland every afternoon on www. ucbireland.ie or by downloading our app from the play store, and of course I look forward to hearing of your music recommendations and suggestions, particularly of new Irish artists that might need some airplay. You can email me vincent@ucbradio.ie Slán agus Beannacht

Vincent

Music reviewed by UCB Ireland Radio producer/presenter Vincent Hughes.

Listen to his programme 12-4pm Monday to Friday and 11am-3pm on Saturdays on Virgin Media Channel 918, on Sky Channel 0214 or via the smartphone app.

You can contact Vincent at vincent@ucbradio.ie | www. ucbireland.com.

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BOOK REVIEWS

Year 0033

By J M Evans

I really love God’s timing. This author is a friend of mine, and she wrote this novel some years ago. But she didn’t feel then that it was the right time to publish it. Then recently that time came. Little did she know that we would soon become more aware of the persecution of Christians, as life in Afghanistan was about to change radically for believers there. She may have originally written this as a fantasy novel but in light of current affairs, it doesn’t seem so fictional now. This novel is suitable for young adults and older.

I couldn’t put it down. There are also discussion questions, and it’s printed in a dyslexia friendly font.

There had been The Great War, which was followed by The Plague. But then with so few people to farm the land, The Famine devastated the earth. Then a World Council took charge. They even set up a new date system, which started at Year 0001, which explains the title of this book. The Council set up Areas all over the world in which the survivors live and work. They say that these are designed for energy efficiency and fairness, in pursuit of world unity. But because religion had caused The War, it is outlawed. Christians regularly disappear. They can only pray together in secret in very small numbers.

Chella remembers her Grandad talking

of special buildings in which Christians met together. There have even been rumours that the Old Church still exists Outside. Chella’s mother disappeared from their Area many years ago, and later her best friend. Now her fiancé has been imprisoned. But then he is released, and it seems like a miracle. They decide that their only option now is to try to escape. But before she can follow him, she herself is taken in and questioned by the Correctioners.

Strangely they release her, and she manages to escape too. But it’s only much later that they discover that trackers had been inserted into their arms. Now they understand the ease of their initial escape.

They were deliberately let get away so that they could be tracked. The Elite were following them, and they were leading them toward the people of the Old Church!

Everything is strange Outside, and they encounter many dangers. At times Chella thinks that it had been safer back in the Area. But then she remembers how, even there, they needed to whisper this prayer: ‘Shine Your light into our darkness, Lord, and by Your grace protect and deliver us from all evil this night, in the name of Your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, we pray.’ She has never needed to pray it as much as she needs to now.

They have to make difficult choices, and to decide whom to trust. But God proves to them that He is faithful.

These book reviews by Julie Carvill of christianbooks.ie (since 2003, and online since 2009), from whom you can order these and other inspiring titles: info@christianbooks.ie or +353 (0)86 839 1870.

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God’s very good idea A true story about God’s delightfully different family

This is an attractive picture book about the very good idea that God had even before the beginning, to make lots of different people who would love Him and love each other. They might look different but they are all made in God’s image, so they are all valuable. But people ruined God’s very good idea. God wasn’t surprised.

He had always had a very good plan to rescue His very good idea. So Jesus came.

He enjoyed loving all the different people that He met, and He showed them how to enjoy loving each other. He died for every sort of person, and He rose again. He gives us His Spirit to help us enjoy loving Him and loving all the different people.

“Jesus welcomes anyone who asks Him to forgive them … He welcomes people who like reading, and people who like riding bikes. He welcomes people with darker skin, and people with lighter skin.

He welcomes people with curly hair, and people with straight hair… This is God’s very good idea: lots of different people enjoying loving Him and loving each other.

God made it. People ruined it. He rescued it. He will finish it.”

The age guideline is 3 to 6 years. The final page is for parents, and it explains the story briefly in more adult language, with some Scripture verses on which the book is based.

Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy

by Nancy DeMoss Wogglemuth

This is a fantastic book exploring God’s call to us as Christians to “give thanks in all circumstances”. Giving thanks to God is a call to obedience to Him and to His Word. It is not the easy path but it is the path of joy. Nancy DeMoss Wogglemuth says that “gratitude is a lifestyle - a hardfought, grace-infused, biblical lifestyle”.

Throughout the book, Nancy DeMoss Wogglemuth faithfully explores what the Bible has to say about giving thanks, and why it is the best path to choose as Christians.

To be honest, this is a hard-hitting topic. It’s natural to complain about annoyances and inconveniences, to wish that our circumstances would change.

But the reality is, when we question circumstances, whine and complain, we question God’s goodness and provision.

When we dwell on disappointments and compare ourselves to others, we miss out on the many blessings in our lives.

Nancy DeMoss Wogglemuth challenges our attitudes and explores the power of gratitude, how we can give thanks in all circumstances, and why we should. She also explores ingratitude, and how it can manifest in our lives. Ingratitude can be subtle, but at its essence is a questioning of God’s goodness. At the end of the book, there is a 30-Day Devotional to help you cultivate a habit of giving thanks.

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BOOK REVIEWS

VOX MAGAZINE

Kid’s Corner The Christmas Promise

By Alison Mitchell

The Christmas Promise tells the story of the King that God promised long, long ago, and how He kept that promise. With colourful illustrations and Bible-centred storytelling, parents and children will discover how God kept his promise by sending Jesus to be the long-awaited king. This is an engaging book which shares the true meaning of Christmas, and will help children understand that Jesus is the true, forever King. Age: 0 - 5 years

Everyone a Child Should Know

by Clare Heath-Whyte

Do you want your child to know about some of the greatest Christians that have ever lived? In Everyone a Child Should Know, Clare Heath-Whyte gives us an insight into the lives of 52 Christian men and women of faith (missionaries, martyrs, writers, reformers, politicians or poets). With such Christians as Brother Andrew, John Calvin, Florence Nightingale and Rosa Parks children will learn how Christians have helped others, impacted society and led their lives for Jesus. Age: 5 - 8 years

Paul, Man on a Mission: The Adventures of an Apostle

by Bob Hartman

Let your child learn about one of the greatest evangelists of the world and his transformation from a hater of Jesus and his followers, to someone who travelled far and wide to spread the good news and build the church. The story is told by the character of Maximus, who details Paul’s dangerous, thrilling, and adventurous journeys. The book in each section also references the books and chapters of the Bible that it is sourcing which will help your child in gaining an interest in the written word.

Age: 9 - 12 years These book reviews by Ireland’s newest online Christian bookshop Teach Solas. To purchase these and other great Christian titles go to www.teachsolas.ie or phone John on 089 454 0427.

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OCT -Bank DEC of 2021 VOX.IE James Garza T/A Trillium Financial Services is regulated by the Central Ireland.

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VOX PS

PNEUMATIC THINKING

BY SEÁN MULLAN

“M

ust be age,” I thought. The hills seemed to be getting a bit steeper and a little longer each week. Gear changes were required sooner. “Another birthday approaching,” I told myself.

“Were you expecting it to get easier?”

The Sunday afternoon I cycled to visit my daughter and watch Cork take a hammering in the hurling final was the worst. The cycle there was all on the flat.

There was only a whisper of a breeze.

But I was struggling. Then the woman, who looked like she only ever cycled on a Sunday afternoon, passed me. Easily. I looked for a sign of a battery on her bike but there was none.

As my head went down, I noticed my front tyre. It looked wider than normal.

When I got to my daughter’s place I gave the tyres a squeeze – marshmallow, both of them. I realised I hadn’t pumped them or even checked them in months. Two minutes with a borrowed a pump and the cycle back, despite Cork’s defeat, was a delight. I was younger and fitter in an instant. Age was just a number after all!

Air in the tyres – it’s so basic you’ll notice it’s missing. Until you don’t.

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Checking the pressure is something you never forget to do. Until you do.

Like the Cork hurlers, churches have taken a bit of a hammering in recent times. The bans or restrictions on gatherings have been a hard hit for a movement that has gathering at the heart of its identity. Like hurling, there’s no way to do church on your own. You need to be with a team.

There was an amount of hard work and creative thinking that went into finding ways to continue the activity without gathering. Even when the restrictions seemed overly cautious most groups worked to follow guidelines and still try to be a community. There were a few “we must obey God rather than Gardaí” moments but not a lot.

Now gatherings are “legal” again and churches can get back to doing what they used to do; liturgy, singing, preaching, praying, scripture study, discussion, supporting one another and serving those in need. Different groupings have had and will have different emphases and priorities. But as the activities resume, all might benefit from the habit of regularly checking the tyres.

VOX MAGAZINE

With such a variety of activities and emphases what is the air in the tyres? Two words; ‘make disciples.’

Those are the words that Jesus of Nazareth spoke as He was handing on responsibility for the movement He had started to those He had trained. “Make disciples.”

‘Disciple’ means ‘learner.’ In those times, learning was not just a classroom or “Zoomroom” experience.

Being a student then was more like being an apprentice today, on-thejob training. Apprentices learn a trade by watching and doing, watching and doing.

They observe and work and make mistakes and get corrected and try again and again and again as they perfect their trade. They learn from the master to master the trade.

Jesus of Nazareth trained His apprentices in the trade of daily living.

They learned from Him how to live ordinary everyday life within the rule of God, which Jesus announced was present and accessible to all. His invitation was to enter that kingdom and learn from Him how life under God’s rule worked.

I once had a conversation with one of the finest preachers I have known.

Week in, week out he preached great sermons to a church full of people who were full of appreciation for his teaching.

I asked him what effect he was seeing in the daily lives of those who were always there to hear. “Very little,” was his reply. The activity did not produce apprentices.

Replace ‘preaching’ with any of the activities that churches can take on and the issue could be the same. The activity can be really well done and much appreciated yet not make disciples. People become customers who consume rather than apprentices who learn.

Whatever church groupings do together now that they restart gathering, this notion of helping one another live as apprentices can be at the heart. The weekend gathering is a chance to look back on a week in the lives of apprentices, lessons learned, mistakes made, skills honed, deficiencies exposed, understanding deepened. It’s also a chance to look forward to the week that lies ahead in the apprentices’ journey towards mastering the trade.

All the usual communal church activities can be part of the process of apprentice-shaping. But it won’t happen automatically. Like air in the tyres it needs regular checking.

LIKE HURLING, THERE’S NO WAY TO DO CHURCH ON YOUR OWN. YOU NEED TO BE WITH A TEAM.

Seán Mullan has been working in church leadership for many years. He has developed a project in Dublin City Centre called “Third Space”.

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