The streams, Faith Filled Environment and Faith Filled Conversations, are now ready to be trialled, building on the strong foundations already established and offering participants more choice, flexibility, and depth in their learning journey.

In this new, exciting phase, Stepwise is also introducing a one‑session “Introduction to Stepwise” taster. This is designed to help participants – individuals or small groups – explore what Stepwise is all about before committing to a full stream. This short, accessible session can be run locally or online. While Faith‑Filled Life remains recommended as a helpful grounding experience, it is now no longer a requirement to complete it before starting any other stream. Participants can freely choose the stream that best fits their context, need, or curiosity after completing the introduction.

The Revd Jenny Mills, Deputy General Secretary (Faith in Action), said: “It has been good to see how Stepwise has been embraced as a discipleship development tool by so many people around the ��ɫ��Ƶ. We want this valuable resource to be used as widely as possible and so are making minor adjustments to enable this to happen.”

In another significant move to widen access, all cost implications for Stepwise have also been removed, making the resource free. By removing the cost implication and thereby reducing the administration, the programme becomes more inclusive and open to all who wish to deepen their discipleship, develop faith‑based skills, and explore how their learning connects with everyday life.

Linda Harrison, Stepwise Administrator, said: “It is exciting to see increased participation in the Stepwise programme as part of people’s faith journeys, and I look forward to my part in encouraging enrolments into the two new streams through the Synods.

“Interested participants should contact their Synod Stepwise Contact who will discuss their preferred access point with them and ensure they are enrolled into a local in-person or an online group. I will register participants onto the ��ɫ��Ƶ Learning Hub or add their Stepwise resource enrolments to their existing Learning Hub access if they have registered for Safeguarding Foundation training previously.”

Early feedback from Stepwise participants continues to show its transformative impact. Stories from groups across the ��ɫ��Ƶ highlight how Stepwise encourages deep reflection, community building, and growth in confidence and discipleship.

“My take on doing the course was very positive”, says Arbie Mangaring from the East Midlands Synod, in feedback in 2024. “I was able to further my knowledge…one of those things was how to read the Bible…looking deeper into the meaning. When was it written, who wrote it, what perspective and what angle.”

As the programme expands, Stepwise leaders are encouraging local groups to share their experiences to help inspire others.

Gail Yorke, was part of Mersey Synod’s Warrington and Chester group which was the first group to complete Faith-Filled Life in 2019, and then she went on to complete Faith Filled Worship in 2025. She said that she found the Stepwise stream “a really good course in that it gives you that time to sit and explore scripture in a deeper manner, learn about putting services together…at the end of it I took some time to just reflect on everything I’d learnt and to listen to God and to pray about where he wants me to be.”

Lilian Gordon became a Stepwise Mentor in 2024 and had no previous experience of Stepwise. She found the resources “…excellent. They were easy to understand and very well structured…Stepwise, I believe, is truly an incredibly worthwhile programme for spiritual growth.”

Stepwise is administered by the Scottish College, which now supports training officers, Stepwise advocates, and synods with access, to resources, and guidance on enrolment as the programme continues to grow and evolve.

Whether you’re looking for a fresh discipleship opportunity, seeking resources for local leadership development, or exploring new ways to nurture faith within your community, there has never been a better time to begin a Stepwise journey.

To get started or learn more, see the dedicated Stepwise webpage or contact your local Synod Stepwise Contact (details can be found on the Stepwise page under ‘Let us know you are interested’).

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In the lead up to the Jewish Sabbath, the Revd Dr Kevin Snyman, the ��ɫ��Ƶ’s Head of World Justice and Inter Faith, said: “As members of the United Reformed Church, we wish to hold close to our hearts our Jewish family following the attempted arson attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue. We are deeply saddened and angered by this latest act of antisemitic hatred.”

“We stand in solidarity with the synagogue leaders and members, all at Progressive Judaism, the wider Finchley community, and the Jewish community as a whole beyond North London. No community should have to worship under threat, fear, and anxiety.”

Dr Snyman endorsed a statement from the Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ), which noted that although this attack was unsuccessful, it follows attacks on the Hatzola ambulances last month and Heaton Park synagogue in October.

The CCJ said: “Security, tension and anxiety are extremely high. Jewish colleagues, friends and neighbours should not have to worry about attending places of worship, nor should anyone of any faith. Jewish community buildings, schools and synagogues have longstanding security systems that frankly should not be required.”

The Revd Dr Nathan Eddy, Co-Director of the CCJ and a United Reformed minister, added: “An attack on a synagogue or any place of worship is an attack on us all. It strikes right at the heart of something Christians should stand against, arm in arm.”

In a message directed to the members of Finchley Reform Synagogue, Dr Snyman emphasised that “we send our strength, our prayers, and our steadfast support to the synagogue and to all who are shaken by this attack. You are not alone at this time.”

Finchley Reform Synagogue has stood in the area since 1961. A new building was completed in 2022.

Linked statements from

Image: By Ri Butov | Pixabay

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The joint letter, coordinated by Quakers in Britain and signed by Catriona Wheeler, Moderator of the United Reformed Church General Assembly, Bishop Mike Royal, Rabbi Gabriel Kanter-Webber, Lord Indarjit Singh and 15 other faith and belief leaders, warns that the Bill’s new “cumulative disruption” clause is too vague and too broad.

The clause requires police to consider previous and planned protests in the same area when deciding whether to impose conditions on a demonstration.

“It could mean that we are stopped from demonstrating because another protest previously took place in the same area, even if it was on a completely different issue,” signatories wrote.

The letter comes as the on 14 April following its Lords third reading on 25 March.

The Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist leaders say that despite their differences, they share a common commitment to love and justice.

Members of all their communities are led by conscience to protest peacefully on issues that matter to them, they said.

And they point out that peaceful protest has often involved cumulative action. Campaigns that changed the world from the suffragettes to communities standing up against fracking were built on repeated, sustained demonstration.

Their concern is shared widely. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has called the clause too broadly drafted.

The UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly  UK civil society organisations and MPs that she was seriously concerned about these repressive new laws and the clause on cumulative disruption in particular

This Bill is the third piece of anti-protest legislation in recent years.

“Peaceful protest motivated by faith, belief and love should be celebrated, not criminalised. We urge the government and MPs to drop the clause on cumulative disruption,” the letter says.

The full list of signatories .

Image: Asim Rehman/Unsplash.

Linked articles

Faith leaders voice criticism of Public Order Bill – United Reformed Church

Faith and belief leaders urge MPs to approve changes to Policing Bill – United Reformed Church

Faith Leaders urge Priti Patel to scrap controversial bill

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The group, led by WCRC Europe President Jenny Dobers, travelled from as far as Sweden, Germany, Romania, Switzerland and North Yorkshire to meet representatives of the three Welsh member churches of the WCRC: Undeb yr Annibynwir (Welsh Independents), the Presbyterian Church in Wales, and the ��ɫ��Ƶ as represented by the National Synod of Wales.

The Revd Dr Kevin Snyman, ��ɫ��Ƶ Head of World Justice and Interfaith Relations also attended as one of the steering group’s Vice Presidents.

During the visit, the steering group sought to deepen its understanding of the Welsh ecumenical context, meeting with church representatives, Cytûn, and serving members of the Welsh Senedd. The programme also included visits to local churches, St Fagans National Museum of History, and Cardiff Bay, offering insight into both the cultural and political life of Wales.

As part of the visit, Jenny preached at City United Reformed Church in Cardiff, delivering a sermon reflecting on the difficult questions raised by Palm Sunday, particularly around the illusion of power and the enduring power of hope.

One of the group’s key reflections was the extent to which Welsh churches have progressed on the ecumenical journey when compared with many Reformed churches elsewhere in Europe. Members noted that, despite its relatively small size, Wales has much to offer the wider Reformed family through its rich diversity and long‑standing commitment to working together across denominations.

Commenting on the visit, János Antal, the steering group’s Secretary, reflected particularly on what Hungarian‑speaking churches could learn from Wales, observing parallels between Hungary’s historical experience under the Soviet Union and Wales’s experience alongside England. He noted the creative and non‑violent ways Welsh churches have resisted oppression over centuries, rooted deeply in Reformed spirituality, education, and social action.

Reflecting after the visit, Jenny expressed her gratitude to the Welsh churches, writing:

“I want to extend our deepest gratitude to the Welsh churches for this past weekend. You put so much effort into preparing everything, and so many of you gave generously of your time to welcome us and help us understand more about life in Wales.

“We take with us the warmth of the Welsh people, the care of your church members, the beauty of Welsh nature and culture, and a wealth of wisdom and inspiration on how to live the gospel in our time. We thank God that we are in communion with you. It is comforting to know that even across the distance, we can pray together for a world so deeply in need of peace.”

As a gesture of thanks, Jenny Dobers presented small gifts to the Revd David Salsbury, Moderator of the United Reformed Church National Synod of Wales, Hefin Jones, Annibynwyr, and Peredur Owen Griffiths, Presbyterian Church of Wales.

The steering group is served by Jenny Dobers as its president, János Antal as secretary, Kerstin Koch as treasurer, and two vice presidents: Martin Hirzel and Kevin Snyman.

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Founded in Derby, Welcome Churches has grown into a network of more than 1,420 churches offering friendship and practical support. Its vision is that every refugee in the UK should be welcomed by a local Church, preferably within just a short walk of their accommodation.

Diss ��ɫ��Ƶ in Norfolk is among those taking part.

“We joined the Welcome Churches network when several Ukrainian refugees began attending Diss,” said Gabrielle Pagan, an elder at the church.

“We hosted a support group and, as part of Churches Together, collected funds for essential items. One highlight was discovering that two of the Ukrainian women were opera singers from Odesa. We found them a professional pianist, and they performed concerts at the church and across the district, which were very popular.”

Churches and community partners worked together to offer support, including a weekly welcome café, English classes and sewing groups. The congregation has also supported families placed in local hotels after arriving in the UK with few possessions.

“It’s been an interesting time,” Gabrielle added. “We’ve learnt a lot about the challenges people face when settling in a new country. It’s important to build strong local partnerships, use people’s gifts, and work out what you can offer.”

In Greater Manchester, churches led by the Revd Dr Kate Gray have also signed up to the network.

“We want the church to be in active and public solidarity with people who are marginalised,” she said. “That is what the Gospel means to us in this moment. We can’t remain silent when our brothers and sisters are the target of hostility.”

Kate said the network has provided encouragement and practical support, helping churches act together and “bear witness to pain, faith and solidarity”.

Several congregations are already seeing the benefits:

• St Paul’s with St John’s, Abbey Hey works with Rainbow Haven, supporting displaced people.
• Oasis Church and Community Hub, Salford runs weekly English sessions, with growing attendance, particularly among people from Hong Kong.
• Wilbraham St Ninian’s ��ɫ��Ƶ, Chorlton-cum-Hardy hosts welcome and wellbeing sessions, providing meals, travel support and a Rainbow People’s Choir.

The ��ɫ��Ƶ Public Issues team is encouraging more congregations to join the Welcome Churches network and explore how they can offer hospitality, support and solidarity in their local communities.

Roo Stewart, ��ɫ��Ƶ Head of Public Issues, said: “It is a shining example of the love of God that churches are ensuring that their spaces are welcoming and supportive not only of local people, who themselves are often experiencing impossible challenges because of the high cost of living, but also those new to the area who are seeking safety in the UK.

“In a time when some are trying to foment division and mistrust within our society, congregations connected with Welcome Church are demonstrating that love for God and love for neighbour, from whatever background, are inextricably linked and vital to our Christian faith and practice.”

James Lynch, CEO of Welcome Churches said, “Welcome Churches exists to help churches welcome refugees and to offer connection, integration, and a sense of belonging. It’s been our privilege to support over 1,400 churches in their journey of welcoming, and we are delighted that several ��ɫ��Ƶ churches are among them. We’d love to connect with many more, and to offer our support, training, and resources to more churches.

“Sharing about their experience of being part of the Welcome Network, a church in Sheffield said ‘Working with Welcome Churches is helping to turn our church inside out, helping us to reach out to people from all walks of life. We want to see more and more asylum seekers and refugees becoming part of the church, finding community, family and belonging.’

“P���𲹲��� to join the network. We would love to partner with you as you welcome the stranger among you, as Leviticus 19:34, Matthew 25:35, and Hebrews 13:2 encourages, and help provide a loving Christian community for those seeking sanctuary in your local community.”

.
Learn more about ��ɫ��Ƶ grants.

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Since last summer, thousands of flags.

The council said the installations were not an act of patriotism but “an act of intimidation and division that is having a real and damaging impact on our communities”.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council said

“We are proud of our diverse communities in Oxfordshire and of being the first county council to be awarded Local Authority of Sanctuary status. We proudly fly the Union Jack and St George’s flags, which are visible symbols of democracy and unity.”

In a statement, the Revd Dr Michael Hopkins, Moderator of the ��ɫ��Ƶ Wessex Synod expressed praise for the council’s action and commitment to social cohesion, saying: “Churches are called to be people of hope, not fear.  We welcome any step that helps ensure our streets and public spaces are places of safety, dignity, and neighbourliness for all.  As A Million Acts of Hope approaches, we want to affirm all that brings communities together, and to bear witness to the God who calls us away from division into compassion, justice, and a shared common life.”

The ��ɫ��Ƶ is joining faith groups and other organisations in supporting the national “A Million Acts of Hope” week of action, taking place 13-20 May. The initiative is designed to show that there is more that connects us than divides us.

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Image: Les Chatfield/Wikimedia Commons/

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“I have watched with anger and deep sorrow as the Israeli government intensifies its bombing of Lebanon. These attacks come at a moment when a ceasefire agreement is reportedly being negotiated between the US and Iran, offering a fragile but real prospect of de-escalation.

“To expand military operations against Lebanon precisely when diplomatic channels were open is a reckless betrayal of the hope for peace. Such actions disregard the lives of countless civilians and the sanctity of international efforts to halt the cycle of violence.

“I welcome the 9 April announcement by the Israeli government to begin talks with Lebanon. However, its lack of a clear commitment to a permanent and sustainable ceasefire, and its continued bombing campaign across southern Lebanon and areas of Beirut (containing two major hospitals) are deeply at odds with any prospect of establishing truly peaceful relations.

“The United Reformed Church, through its world justice programme, Commitment for Life has for more than thirty years supported partners in Israel and Palestine. The ��ɫ��Ƶ enjoy a living and vital relationship with the people of Lebanon, not least through our umbrella body the World Communion of Reformed Churches in Europe.

“We have expressed our unreserved solidarity with our partner church, the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon (NESSL). The Revd Joseph Kassab, our good friend and President of the evangelical community in Syria and Lebanon, laments the death of innocent civilians who “have nothing to do with this war”.

“I invite our congregations to hold in our prayers NESSL’s congregations, their witness, and all the people of Lebanon who are once again subjected to bombardment, displacement and fear.

“We continue to pray for the comfort of the Holy Spirit for those who mourn, for the healing of the wounded, and for the protection of medical and humanitarian workers.

“We have also committed ourselves anew to walking with NESSL and all who seek a just and lasting peace, rooted in international law, human dignity, and the recognition of the equal rights of all peoples in the region.

“In light of this escalating crisis, I invite us to ask and pray that our own UK government might act without delay and call upon Israel to halt all military action immediately.

“Silence is complicity.

“The UK must use its diplomatic and economic leverage to uphold United Nations Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 1701, to cease hostilities and to insist that all parties return to peace negotiations.

“In 2024, the General Assembly of the ��ɫ��Ƶ, the highest decision-making council of the church, urged the UK government to cease the sale of arms to the region (Res. 40: I3), and to press for an immediate, verified, and permanent ceasefire.

“The United Reformed Church has resolved that only a just peace, established through dialogue and not military force, can confront occupation, respect sovereignty, and guarantee security for all that will end the suffering.

“We call on our congregations to pray, to speak up, and to press for their MPs to act until that peace is won.”

Image: First responders stand amid rubble at the site of an Israeli airstrike in Beirut’s Corniche al-Mazraa neighbourhood on April 8, 2026. Israel launched a series of strikes in Beirut on April 8, causing panic among residents in the most violent attack on the capital since the start of the war with Hezbollah. The Israeli military said it carried out its “largest coordinated strike across Lebanon”. Israel has insisted the two-week truce in its war with Iran does not apply to Lebanon. (Photo by AFP via Getty Images). 

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The voices of those who spread hate and seek to separate communities can be loud, but the voices of hope and kindness are louder.

Across Wales, Scotland and England, United Reformed Church (��ɫ��Ƶ) congregations, community groups, and projects show up for people in their neighbourhoods every day. As part of the national “A Million Acts of Hope” week of action, taking place 13-20 May, the ��ɫ��Ƶ wants to celebrate these acts of care, kindness and connection.

During this week of action, congregations, community groups and projects are invited to send in photos or videos capturing some of the many acts of hope that they are involved with in their neighbourhoods. These could highlight support for parents, refugees and asylum seekers, young people, older people, warm spaces or any other community activity that brings people together and gives people hope. These examples will help to show that there is more that connects us than divides us and will be used as part of a national campaign alongside a wide range of faith groups and other organisations which will be taking part.

Roo Stewart, Head of Public Issues for the ��ɫ��Ƶ, said: “Jesus encouraged us to let our light shine before others and not hide it under a basket. We can do that with humility, but often we don’t manage to do it at all because we’re tired from all the good work we’ve been doing! A Million Acts of Hope is a superb opportunity to fill our media with the superb activities run by churches and other organisations, to counter the hateful rhetoric which often seems to dominate public discourse.”

Taking part doesn’t require major planning. With the permission of those featured, simply take a nice, clear photo or a short video (less than 10 seconds is fine), and send it to public.issues@urc.org.uk. Please include the name of your church, group or project, location, and what is being highlighted. Optional: could some people in your photo be holding letters that spell ‘HOPE’ or could the word ‘HOPE’ feature somewhere else in your photo or video?

The Revd Jenny Mills, Deputy General Secretary (Faith in Action), added: “We know there are so many amazing things going on in ��ɫ��Ƶs around England, Scotland and Wales. Churches reaching out into local communities, sharing the good news of Jesus with those who live and work near them, witnessing to the love of God through foodbanks and warm spaces, through toddler groups and cafes. So many people being beacons of hope. How great it is to be able to share this widely, counter the negativity and celebrate hope!”

For more information, include free downloadable resources, visit the A Million Acts of Hope digital community hub at .

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Thames North

Cheshunt Free Church is celebrating its 144th anniversary.

On 21 March, the Revd George Watt, Moderator of Thames North Synod, presided at a service of thanksgiving for the church’s life and witness as the congregation prepares to amalgamate with nearby Broxbourne ��ɫ��Ƶ.

Stories shared by three members of the congregation, including two young people, highlighted the church’s lasting impact on faith across generations. The service – led by the Revd Mark Robinson, Minister of Cheshunt Free Church – was attended by members past and present, a former minister, community leaders, and the Mayor of Broxbourne, Councillor Patsy Spears.

Cheshunt Free Church’s rich history dates back to its 1889 foundation as part of the Countess of Huntingdon’s Connexion, later becoming a Union Church in 1921 and joining the United Reformed Church in 1972.

South Western

Warm congratulations to Pat and Bryan Elkington, who recently celebrated an incredible 70 years of marriage.

The couple marked the occasion with a family celebration and a special message from The King and Queen.

Aged 90 and 96, Pat and Bryan celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary on 24 March with family and friends at the Highworth Hotel. Long‑time Highworth residents, Pat and Bryan moved to the area after retirement to be closer to family and have been active members of the local community ever since.

Pat has been involved with the Women’s Institute, while Bryan has supported the work of Highworth ��ɫ��Ƶ, serving as its church secretary for a number of years. Together, they have two children, four grandchildren, and one great‑grandchild, with another on its way.

Among the many cards they received was a congratulatory message from the King and Queen, recognising their remarkable milestone.

We give thanks for their enduring commitment and wish them continued joy and wellbeing in the years ahead.

Image: Bryan Elkington.

West Midlands

Congratulations to Rodborough Tabernacle ��ɫ��Ƶ which has gained a Silver Eco Church Award from A Rocha UK.

The church registered with the Eco Church programme in May last year, initially aiming to achieve Bronze. However, once members began completing the survey, they realised that with a little more work, Silver was within reach.

Kim Baker, who began working full‑time as the Tab’s Church Development Leader in May and is deeply passionate about environmental issues, has encouraged a wide range of eco‑focused activity. This has included eco‑themed services, two nature‑themed weekend events involving the local community, a joint pet service with the local parish church, and seasonal Forest Church outdoor services. The Tabernacle was also invited to host a stand at Rodborough Parish Council’s recent Earth Day event.

The church is also working with the Stroud Landscape Project (part of the National Trust), supporting the graveyard team to manage the closed graveyard as a nature area. Alongside this, they are liaising with a local history group recording the graves, ensuring families can still visit to pay their respects.

A new initiative underway is the creation of a refill account with the Stroud Valleys Project, covering hand soap, washing‑up liquid, and cleaning products. This encourages reuse while supporting a local environmental charity at the same time.

North Western Synod

A repair café based at Clitheroe United Reformed Church has saved 250 items from landfill.

Launched only 12 months ago, around 63% of the 400 things brought to the café during its first year have been fixed, a total of almost 250 items.

The group is part of the network which started in Amsterdam in 2009. The network now features more than 3,800 cafes worldwide.

The initiative hopes to contribute to a sustainable future by extending the life of everyday items, reducing waste and reusing raw materials as much as possible.

Learn more about .

Southern Synod

Southern Synod has announced that the Revd Dr Elaine Colechin has been appointed as its new Synod Clerk.

Elaine has a wealth of experience having ministered in a number of United Reformed churches, including her current church, Bromley ��ɫ��Ƶ, and serving as Area Leader for South London Synod Area.

Elaine said: “I am really excited to accept this appointment at a time of change in the United Reformed Church. In Southern Synod, we are beginning to face some of the difficult challenges that go with that change and have recognised the importance of a strong synod office team to support the needs of our local churches. I am looking forward to being part of that team and working more widely with Synod Committees and local churches to enable and encourage further what we are all called to: sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.”

The Revd Russell Furley-Smith, Convenor of Southern Synod Council added: “I am delighted about Elaine’s appointment. She already knows the synod well, being a member of Synod Council, and has a great working knowledge of the ��ɫ��Ƶ. I am sure she will be a great blessing to us, and I am confident everyone will offer her support as she ends her ministry at Bromley and as plans to take up this vital role in the life of the Synod.”

Elaine will start her new role on 1 July.

National Synod of Wales

There were smiles all round on 29th March as the Revd Ken Graham celebrated the 60th anniversary of his ordination.

The Revd David Salsbury, Moderator of the Synod Cenedlaethol Cymru (the National Synod of Wales) presented Ken with a certificate to mark the milestone.

Ken was ordained in 1965, serving in St Helens and Dunstable before moving to Cardiff in 1980 where he became minister of Beulah ��ɫ��Ƶ, Rhiwbina.  He went on to serve the North Cardiff Group, which included Beulah, before retiring in 2001.  Following his retirement from stipendiary ministry, Ken served as synod treasurer for a number of years.

David said: “The presentation of his certificate took place in the context of a united service for the Cardiff Pastorate where Ken is known and admired by many.  Thanks were expressed to Ken for his service and dedication to the churches in Cardiff and beyond as he celebrated this significant milestone in his ministry.”

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In the Gospel of John’s account of the first Easter morning, we find these six words about Mary’s thoughts: “Supposing him (Jesus) to be the gardener.” (John 20:15)

These six words have always intrigued me. At first, I saw it as a lovely bit of colour in the story; then they became a question. How could someone who had been so close to Jesus and his disciples fail to recognise him? But as I reflect on it now, I find a richness in the idea of Jesus as a gardener in the Resurrection story, as we celebrate Jesus bringing new life to the world.

Like many of you, I am an enthusiastic amateur gardener, usually found in early April searching for signs of new growth in the flower borders and the vegetable seedlings. However, this year, we’ve decided to remodel at least part of our back garden to provide some more clearly defined spaces – a play space for our three-year-old grandson, a better space to simply relax with friends and family. It has also given us the opportunity to increase biodiversity in our planting and to support animal life – even if that involves managing the competition for the feeders between the starlings and the smaller birds.

I’ve also been reading Olivia Laing’s excellent book The Garden Against Time which explores the place of gardens — good and bad — through history and literature all while she restores the walled garden in her new home to its former glory. Her exploration of the garden in Paradise Lost reminded me that the word in ancient Greek for garden was paradeisos — paradise.

And that takes me back full circle to the creation story and both our responsibilities to the natural world, living as God’s gardeners, and also to the affirmation made in the ��ɫ��Ƶ’s strategy A Church with People at the Margins. This affirms our belief “that all people are created in the image of God and should have life in all fullness and to flourish with all of God’s creation”.

In a garden, new life comes in many forms: vegetables grow from seeds, well-established shrubs and trees sprouting fresh shoots, local birds raising new chicks, migrant species stopping by on long journeys around the world, and countless varieties of flora and fauna intertwining. How apt, therefore, that we find a gardener in the Easter story.

My Easter prayer for new life in our churches is that we are similarly enriched by the variety of old and new, familiar, and freshly drawn — all examples of the richness of God’s creation and our place within it.

Let us pray:

Jesus Christ, who was mistaken for a Gardener,
nurture us this Easter Day to new life in our faith in you.
Inspire in us a wonder for your creation and a commitment to live in harmony with it
Create in us a passion to bring fullness of life to all people that we meet, sowing new seeds and new growth in faith in you.

Amen

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