FUTURE YOUTH (FY) is an opportunity for those aged 18-30 to spend a year growing in young people and children’s ministry through ministry placements, training and mentoring.
FY is more than just a great experience year though, participants test God’s calling on their lives by pursuing ministry in a safe and supportive environment and receiving training through a nationally run course. All placements will provide ministry opportunities across a range of ages and contexts.
Youth and children’s work can sometimes be made to feel like the smallest cog in the machine – and yet it lays the groundwork for the future of the church as well as bringing life and vibrancy to church congregations today. FY is an opportunity to invest in young adult leaders to make that happen.
The year is free to do with accommodation and expenses covered.
“I love being a support for young people, being patient with them even when they go wrong, being somewhere safe for them”
“The best thing about this year is my youth growing. I‘m just really, really, proud of them. And that makes me really, happy to see their growth” Camila
EDITOR
Marcia Dixon MBE editor@keepthefaith.co.uk
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Becky Wybrow
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Jackie Raymond
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THE PUBLISHER WOULD LIKE TO THANK:
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The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Publisher.
Editor’s Note
Easter is a special time for Christians. The events that took place over 2,000 years ago, when Jesus died on the cross and rose again from the dead, is the key factor that makes Christianity so different from other faiths.
Christians serve a risen Saviour who sends the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide and empower His children to do good works and to spread the Gospel. He has also gifted them with everlasting life.
One thing the Christian faith does is it encourages people to focus on the positive. The Bible verse in Philippians 4:8 says: ‘Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.’
This verse is a reminder that, although the world is filled with negative, depressing things, conversely, there is much good, and, if we want to uplift ourselves and others, it’s important to focus on those good things, and look to God for strength, wisdom and help to overcome life’s challenges.
This edition of Keep The Faith turns a spotlight on the significance of Easter, and features stories about how the core message inherent in Easter has transformed people’s lives. You’ll discover how believing in Jesus has set people on the path of change, purpose and peace.
The Easter story demonstrates God’s love for humanity. John 3:16 sums up this fact perfectly: ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosover believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’
Happy Easter
Marcia Dixon MBE Editor
To discuss how Keep The Faith could work with you, request a media pack or book an advert, please call 020 3868 0664 or email advertising@keepthefaith.co.uk
06 Latest news
10 The Power of Easter By Pastor Agu Irukwu
12 Noel Robinson: Making music 35 years and counting By Juliet Fletcher
14 Reblah: The transformational power of rap music By Akosua DF
12 14 28 22 26
16 StepFWD Gospel News By O'Neil Dennis
18 Black Pentecostals: How they impacted Christianity in Britain By Roy Francis
20 Nicaea 1700: A celebration of churches old and new! By Bishop Mike Royal
22 My Faith and its role in elevating my career By Shirleena Celestine
24 My journey to finding God in midlife By Carol Stewart
26 How following Christ transforms a life By Apostle Jacqueline Peart
28 Interview with Moses Nwanji By Marcia Dixon MBE
31 Kingdom Entrepreneurs: Advancing God's purpose through business By Akin Thomas
32 8 ways to attract people to your church, ministry, event or group By Vee Roberts
36 Managing change in a world that constantly changes By Shirley Anstis
37 The crossroad of comfort and transformation By M Jasmyn Allen
38 Allow Jesus to bear you up By Gary Clayton
39 Food 4 Thought By Marcia Dixon MBE
40 Matters of the heart By Pastor Yvonne Brooks
41 Chaplains: Praying, listening and serving those in need By Rev Cassius Francis
42 How to study the Bible effectively By Dr Marvin Sanguinetti
43 Protecting our children in this social media age By Chioma Fanawopo
44 Burnout: Reasons and recovery By Dr T Ayodele Ajayi
45 Accessing church from the perspective of neurodivergent people! By Rev Victoria Lawrence
46 Spring hair revolution By Verona White
47 Walk Like Jesus Challenge By Olivia Williams
48 What you need to know about Christian publishing By Vanessa Grosett
49 Redemptive stories and the power of storytelling By Joy Roxborough
50 Cook with Kirly-Sue By Kirly-Sue
51 Thousands dead, millions homesless: The crisis you don't see on the evening news By Christian charity Open Doors
Working with what you have to grow closer to God and your community this Lent
Ten years ago, The Dandelion Church and Community in South Manchester went through a period of major change. Through listening to God and listening to their community, a new vision emerged, symbolised by the dandelion.
With few resources and during challenging times they creatively and generously responded to the evolving needs of their communities. They now work in partnership with more than 25 local organisations to build community, provide support, and improve wellbeing.
Church Urban Fund’s Growing Good taster sessions can help you explore how your church can make a lasting difference by discovering the gifts and resources within your community.
The resources will help you reflect on:
• the assets, gifts and skills in your group, church and community that may have been overlooked
• the challenges and opportunities of working with what you have
• the value of places where people can connect
• ideas of growth and success and how these are measured
• the value of listening
• the fruits of partnership
You’ll watch inspiring films to gain valuable insights from The Dandelion Church and Community and the Church of St Edward King & Martyr in rural Somerset. You’ll find easy-to-follow guides to run a 45-minute
session, including Scripture readings and questions for discussion.
These two new sessions are designed to be used as a one-off small group session during Lent, over a meal or light refreshments, as part of a more informal service, or with your leadership team or PCC.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed ... it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown, it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches” (Matthew 13:31-32).
BOXING LEGEND GEORGE FOREMAN DIES
The world has lost a boxing legend, following the passing of boxer George Foreman. A heavyweight world champion, he went on to become a preacher of the Gospel and a successful businessman, following the launch of the George Foreman Grill that earned him millions.
His death was announced by his family on his Instagram account. It said: ‘Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandand great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose.
‘A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected – a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name for his family.’
Foreman is renowned as one of the top fighters of his generation. An Olympic
boxing medallist, Foreman won the heavyweight championship twice – first when he took the title from Joe Frazier in 1974, and again when he took the crown, aged 45 – the oldest man to do so.
It was, however, for the iconic fight with Muhammad Ali, called ‘The Rumble in the Jungle’, that Foreman will be forever remembered. He entered the fight as the favourite, only to be knocked out by the underdog Muhammad Ali. The crushing defeat
caused Foreman to step away from the ring for two years. On his return, he beat his nemesis Joe Frazier, fought three matches, and then lost to a young boxer named Jimmy Young.
At the age of 28, suffering from exhaustion, and heat stroke, Foreman had a near-death experience. It resulted in him committing his life to God. The rest is history.
Foreman leaves behind a great sporting legacy, along with a legacy of faith.
CHARITY LEADER WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Rev Dr Carver Anderson, co-founder of Bringing Hope, a Birmingham-based charity that works with those involved in crime, prison inmates, and supports those at risk of serious violence, has been awarded a High Sheriff West Midlands Award for Outstanding Service to the Community.
Commentating on his win on LinkedIn, Rev Anderson wrote: ‘This recognition is not mine alone; it belongs to the many individuals, families and communities I have been privileged to serve and walk alongside over the years.
‘Importantly, I give thanks to God for His guidance and to all who support, encourage and partner in this work. The journey continues, and my heart remains with those still facing hardship. I pray for hope, justice, and lasting change in our communities.’
Aside from his work with Bringing Hope, Rev Anderson serves as an Executive Member of the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership, and West Midlands Faith Alliance, and is involved in violence reduction strategies in HMP Birmingham. He is committed to making a difference and playing a part in transforming the lives of at-risk youth and families.
Visit www.bringinghope.co.uk
Gold
Image courtesy of Gage Skidmore
BRIXTON BARD PASSES
Award-winning writer Alex Wheatle, aged 62, has died recently following his battle with prostate cancer.
His family announced details of his passing on Instagram. It read: ‘Alex has 26 years of legacy for you all to continue and enjoy by reading his novels, watch again the self-titled episode, Alex Wheatle, from the Small Axe TV series and also watch the new upcoming Crongton TV series, as he looks over us in spirit.’
Born to Jamaican parents, he was put into care as a child. He became interested in becoming a writer whilst serving a four-month prison sentence. His first book was published in 1999. His experience in the care system was chronicled in his self-titled book, Alex Wheatle, and featured in the BBC Small Axe TV series, directed by Steve McQueen.
People paying tribute to the writer, called the Brixton Bard, include Chloe Sackur (Senior Commissioning Editor for Andersen Press, publishers of his Crongton book series), who wrote: ‘Alex genuinely was an inspiration as a human and as a writer. He was a brilliant author who believed in everything he wrote, and captured voices and lives with truth and power.’
Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children and Education, stated: “We feel incredibly privileged to have worked with Alex on the adaptation of his award-winning Crongton Knights books... Alex’s authentic writing tells stories that impact young people's lives. And, with the blessing of his family, we will continue the planned broadcast of Crongton in celebration of Alex’s incredible life and powerful stories that mean so much to so many young people.”
Visit www.alexwheatle.com
IGOC is more than a convention: it’s a movement, and an opportunity to gather, grow, and go forth with renewed vision and strength, to further the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ!
August 20th - 24th, 2025.
Why register now?
· Save before price increases take effect
· Qualify for E-books
Also, experience new exciting elements for all the family such as:
· The Masterclasses – Deep dives for greater insights by a panel of experts
· Winning Conversations – Real Talk with A-Class speakers and thought leaders
· Expo Centre – Bringing an innovative and inspiring exhibition experience to IGOC
· Kids’ Zone – A dynamic play experience for the next generation
· Game Zone – Fun and engaging zone for state-of-the-art virtual games and physical activities
· Wellness zone – To include health checks likewise wellness talks for men and women
· Chill out Zone – top-of-the-range ambience to chill and network – in between sessions
CELEBRITIES JOIN CARIBBEAN SOCIAL FORUM’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
TV star Rudolph Walker CBE and former Met Police superintendent Dr Leroy Logan MBE attended the Caribbean Social Forum’s (CSF) 10th anniversary celebrations in south London recently. They joined over 250 members and guests at community hub Tramshed in Woolwich, with celebrations kicking off with a Thanksgiving Service, led by Bishop Euston Copeland of Bibleway Churches.
Former members of CSF, who have passed since 2015, were remembered during an Award of Remembrance service. Alex Charles of soul group Heatwave performed during the day.
CSF is a self-funded, not-for-profit, set up by Dr Pamela Franklin “to plug a gap” of loneliness and isolation in Greenwich in 2015. It started with just 12 people, growing to 250 after 12 months, with 1,000 people registered to date.
The Forum meets weekly for companionship, social events, such as dancing, eating, and speaker events, as well as offering a counselling service. Current members range in age from 50 to 99.
Dr Franklin, who runs CSF with fellow trustees Sonia McIntosh MBE and Bishop Copeland, said it has become a lifeline for the community: “CSF stands as a testament to resilience, unity, and the enduring strength of a community that continues to build on the foundation laid by the pioneers of yesterday.”
A key highlight for CSF during the past three years has been the Caribbean Takeover at the National Maritime Museum. Dr Franklin said: “We were the first Black-run organisation to do something like this in any museum in London.”
CSF received a BBC Make a Difference community group award in 2023.
The trustees hope CSF will develop into a centre of excellence, offering information, advice and guidance, and form a strong alliance with London’s Caribbean High Commission to keep members informed of critical changes, especially important in light of the Windrush scandal.
Caribbean Social Forum
Written by Shirin Aguiar
COMING SOON – MORE KEEP THE FAITH TALKS
The Keep The Faith online talks have proven to be very popular. Since their launch in June 2024, over 500 people have attended these sessions to hear leading preachers and speakers expound on issues impacting the Black Christian community.
Peter Nembhard, senior pastor and founder of ARC Global churches, will be talking on April 28th on the topic of how to reach young adults and make more disciples. Rev Dr Carol Tomlin is earmarked to give a talk on Black preaching styles in May, and Roy Francis will talk about the impact of the Windrush Generation on British society in June.
Make sure you check out the Keep The Faith social media pages for registration details.
LAUNCH OF NEW ‘SONGSHARE’ INITIATIVE FOR BLACK CHRISTIAN SONGWRITERS
Racial Justice Sunday (RJS) saw the launch of Black Christian music platform SongShare’s RJS Special Edition Spotify playlist, showcasing the music of Noel Robinson, Muyiwa, Sarah Téibo and Jake Isaac, as well as lesser-known musicians.
Musicians in Black churches can now register and share their work through the new platform, which is aimed at empowering Black Christian songwriters. The brainchild of UK gospel music pioneer Juliet Fletcher, the initiative, which provides a centralised space to register and share their work, aims to address longstanding inequity and obstacles faced by Black music creators within churches, by offering greater visibility and opportunities.
SongShare founder, Juliet Fletcher, said: “The vibrant, powerful songs born in Black Church traditions rarely extend beyond their communities. Even within these denominations, invisible barriers hinder their outward reach. Meanwhile, gospel music thrives in cultural spaces. SongShare is the proactive solution we need to address this inequity and elevate these voices across the church family and through the dynamic music infrastructures.”
Despite their significant contributions, Black songwriters have benefited relatively little from established music systems.
Visit www.songshare.co.uk
Written by Shirin Aguiar
Sarah Téibo
Juliet Fletcher
Dr Pamela Franklin, Rudolph Walker CBE, Sonia McIntosh MBE, Bishop Copeland and Leroy Logan MBE
MISSIONARY AVIATION FELLOWSHIP TAKES OFF IN AFRICA
Two RAF pilots followed God’s call in 1948 and went on to set up Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) – the world’s largest humanitarian air service.
Squadron Leader Jack Hemmings AFC and Flight Lieutenant Stuart King wanted to use their skills to serve God’s Kingdom. On 13th January 1948 they left Croydon on a six-month survey flight to assess the gospel and humanitarian needs of isolated communities in Africa.
Surviving their plane crashing in Burundi foothills later that year, they completed the survey overland. They decided Sudan would benefit most from aerial support and eventually set up a programme there.
With Stuart leading the work as General Director and Jack providing logistical, fundraising and moral support, MAF’s ministry developed, and today, 115 light aircraft serve in more than 25 low-income countries, including Angola, Chad, the DRC, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
Jack said: “During wartime, aircraft were used for destruction, but it was always my desire that they be used for good.”
To honour Stuart who died in 2020 aged 98, Jack, then 100, flew a 1947 Miles Gemini. He had not flown for more than 70 years.
Jack, who died in January 2025, said: “We couldn’t have imagined having half a dozen aircraft in Africa, but MAF has expanded beyond anyone’s expectations.”
REV CANON ESTHER PRIOR CONSECRATED AS 11TH BISHOP OF ASTON
The Reverend Canon Esther Prior was recently consecrated as Bishop of Aston in a ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral, presided over by the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell.
The Dean of Canterbury, The Very Reverend Dr David Monteith, Bishop of Birmingham, welcomed the congregation of around 2,000. Archbishop Cottrell also led the worship and ordination of the candidates.
Born in Malawi in 1973, Bishop Esther moved to Zimbabwe aged eight. She came to the UK in 1999 and studied at Trinity College, Bristol, being before ordained in 2004.
At her consecration, Bishop Esther was presented with a Bible and episcopal ring with a pectoral cross, a gift from her mother-in-law when she first began discerning her calling in earnest.
She will take up her role as the 11th Bishop of Aston in the spring, when she will be officially installed at Birmingham Cathedral. Bishop
Esther said: “Faith in Jesus Christ... motivates me to look forward with hope and joy. I look forward to getting to know and love the communities of the Church of England Birmingham in the months to come.”
Report by Shirin Aguiar
AI ENABLES GLOBAL GATHERING OF 7 MILLION CHRISTIANS
Seven million Christians from around the globe, including a refugee camp in Malawi and prisons in the US, joined a 25-hour global gathering of Christians online, on TV, and in person – thanks to AI and technology.
Across seven live locations, on Christian TV network TBN and in more than 21,000 group gatherings in churches and homes, Gather25 saw Christians came together on 4th March 2025 to witness how God is transforming lives, and to join in prayer, worship, repentance and commissioning.
Live sessions from the US, New Zealand, Malaysia, Romania, Rwanda, the UK, and Peru were translated into 87 languages in real time.
The event highlighted powerful stories of salvation from around the world and from the persecuted church.
Pastor Mmbongya in Malawi said it was powerful: “We thank Jesus for the global church gathering in Malawi at the Dzaleka refugee camp. We have seen the Holy Spirit move through prayer and worship, with great encounters.”
More than 117,000 prison inmates in the US took part through the PandoApp from God Behind Bars.
Speakers included Rick Warren, Christine Caine, Dr Charles Mugisha, Darlene Zschech and Jennie Allen, founder of Gather25, who said: “The only way this happens is through prayer.”
Visit everybodyeverywhere.com
Written by Shirin Aguiar
Jennie Allen
THE POWER OF EASTER
Agu Irukwu, Senior Pastor of Jesus House, shares how the events of Easter demonstrate God’s love for humanity
Ifind it fascinating how messages can change or get lost in time. They evolve, get watered down, added to, and changed to suit where society might be at that point in time – or just simply forgotten. Today, there would be the added pressure to strike the right tone, to not offend, and to not engage in topics that might challenge our opinions. Under these circumstances, it would be a lot easier for the message of Easter to centre around bunnies, chocolates, Easter eggs, a bank holiday season, families gathering to eat together, or spring finally arriving. In some circles that is what Easter is about. There are those who would prefer it to remain firmly in that realm.
The facts, however, prevent that from being the case. About 2,000 ago, a young Man started a ministry that impacted the world as it was then known. He declared Himself to be the Son of God. This quote by CS Lewis sums it up: ‘A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic – on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg – or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either
this Man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon, or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher.’
This young Man went on to die a horrific death by crucifixion on a cross and was subsequently buried. He rose up from the grave three days later. Christians all around the world celebrate this miracle of resurrection which we call Easter. Our responsibility is to share the good news in all seasons but especially in this one.
What exactly are we sharing? What is the message? We must not fall into the trap of trying to make the message more intelligent so it can be more appealing. Truth be told, it is a foolish message – but therein lies the power.
The Apostle Paul drives home this point: ‘For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.’
(1 Corinthians 1:18 NKJV)
He explains that ‘we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.’
(1 Corinthians 1:23-24 NKJV)
So let’s not overcomplicate things. Let us rather rely on the message’s power. Let’s share that Easter is about a God who loved so much that He wouldn’t let those He loved go to an eternity that wasn’t designed for them, to live in unimaginable agony, eternally separated from God. Jesus, the Son of God, died on the cross, to pay the price of our sins so we could be reconciled to God (Romans 5:10).
Easter is about transformation, specifically the transformation of a soul. By embracing Christ, a person can genuinely have a new life. Sins and wrongs of the past are put away and a person can embrace a new dawn. The beauty of the Christian faith is that he or she does not have to go through life on their own; the Holy Spirit is there to help them.
(Ephesians 2:4-5).
Easter is about the power of God being displayed, advertised for all to see. I imagine a conversation: “Did Jesus really rise from the dead?” “Yes, He did.” “How could that have happened?” “By the power of God.” There is absolutely nothing that God cannot do. The amazing thing is that same power that brought Jesus back to life is available to all who accept Him as Lord and Saviour (Ephesians 1:19).
Easter is about hope. On Good Friday, hope was dead on a cross. I have often tried to imagine the hopelessness that engulfed the disciples after the crucifixion of our Lord
and Saviour. Saturday must have been totally bereft of any kind of hope. The darkness of despair must have been suffocating. However, on Easter morning, that hopelessness beat a fast retreat. Jesus is alive and so we can be filled with hope again. What a message for a world that desperately needs it (Romans 15:13).
Easter is a gift. Why would a perfect God give us such a gift? The Easter message is summed up in one word: LOVE.
‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.’
John 3:16 NKJV
He died on the cross because of His love for us. ‘Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.’
John 15:13 NKJV
What a message, to know that we are loved, we can be filled with hope, we can see God’s power, and be transformed. Let us once again receive it in our hearts. Let us celebrate and share, share, share!
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“It’s always a great read and has been a tremendous inspiration to the Church, especially to the African and Caribbean community.”
REV LES ISAAC OBE
PASTOR AGU IRUKWU
Pastor of Jesus House, Brent Cross, London
NOEL ROBINSON MAKING MUSIC 35 YEARS & COUNTING
Noel Robinson is a name inextricably linked to praise & worship within our Black-majority churches (BMCs). His latest album, Change The Atmosphere, is out now. It’s packed with congregational as well as personal devotional songs, wrapped in rich melodies and memorable scriptural declarations. In my 50-plus years’ involvement in British Gospel, Noel Robinson stands out as one of its most gifted musicians. He’s a producer, songwriter and a dynamic minister of music with a prophetic edge. His voice and music are consistently celebrated on local and international platforms. He bridges denominational and non-denominational cultural divides, and his multiple awards and accolades testify to his immense contribution. This interview celebrates his remarkable 35 years in music ministry!
I first saw Noel on the legendary gospel music show People Get Ready (PGR) in the late 1980s. (You can watch Noel and others on PGR episodes on YouTube – thanks to original co-presenter Juliet Coley.)
At the time, I didn’t realise I was witnessing the closure of volume one and the start of volume two in the book of Noel Robinson’s life.
THE GIFTED MUSICIAN
Noel was born in the UK, the fourth child of seven siblings. His parents, Austin and Merva Robinson from St Catherine, Jamaica, were part of the generation that played a fundamental role in shaping modern Britain. Sadly, Noel’s mother died when he was aged five, a pivotal moment in his life.
NOEL ROBINSON (NR): I didn’t know until in recent years that my mother was a proficient church pianist. At six years old, my father meant everything to me. As an active church musician, he gave me my first real guitar, and I was consumed by it. My schoolteachers were shocked at my skill level, so as part of music lessons they sent me to the Royal College of Music, where I studied classical guitar and played double bass in my school orchestra. By my teens, I had probably played over 10,000 hours of guitar. Growing up I had a wide range of musical influences, including rock with Santana;
soul with Earth, Wind & Fire; and Brit funk with Hi-Tension, plus Kainos and Paradise. Somehow it combined with the country music style from my church tradition. I didn't actually hear US gospel until I was 13 years old! Of course that changed everything!
In my late teens, I represented my denomination, Church Of God Of Prophecy (COGOP), at its US headquarters in Cleveland, Tennessee, winning the string section for musicianship.
JULIET FLETCHER (JF): That must have been an incredible endorsement of your musical gift.
NR: Yes! It was a beautiful time. I led my local church choir at Tubbs Road in north London for years before becoming the National Music Director of COGOP and influencing convention planning.
JF: When I saw you on PGR, what were your expectations?
NR: I thought, This is it! I’m going to be a full-time musician. Roy Francis (PGR show producer) and his younger brother John Francis (PGR co-presenter) had my band called Canticles play for The Inspirational Choir on their successful tours everywhere, and they then asked me to be the guitarist for the programme. The Church wasn’t employing musicians with salaries that could support a family, so many talented musicians were moving into the secular music industry as a result. But God had other plans for me.
THE CALLING
NR: I was developing a deep consciousness of God’s calling on my life. I recall a sister from church, Violet Palmer, had an extraordinarily powerful way of leading a flow of choruses through song, though it wasn’t called ‘worship leading’ back then. Its effect on the people impacted me. One day, while praying, I distinctly heard the Lord say: “Noel, I have called you for the House.” At first, I dismissed it, but soon after, my father, who was in Jamaica, called and said: “Noel, I had a dream about you. You were in a room and God told you, ‘I have called you for the House.’”He repeated the exact words God had spoken to me. That confirmation made it undeniable!
JF: Was this around the time you began to work with Graham Kendrick?
NR: Yes! It was Les Moir from Kingsway Music who asked if I’d play guitar on Graham’s tour following the ‘March for Jesus’ initiative. Steve Thompson and I were the only two Black musicians in his band. During our second gig, I had a life-changing encounter with Jesus, a deep weeping that lasted for days. The tour was called ‘Pray for Revival’, and since then, my ministry has carried that calling. Graham Kendrick became my greatest mentor, teaching me that ‘The Gift’ is the music, but ‘The Calling’ is something you have to discover and grow
into. He has spiritually backed me even through the most difficult times of my life.
THE SONGWRITER & PRODUCER
JF: You are widely recognised as the first person to bring worship leading and teams into Black-majority churches.
NR: It was a major shift. I developed an insatiable hunger for the Word of God and His Presence, and all my songs were birthed from that. Graham mentored me in songwriting, and I have since published over 100 songs. I’m comfortable with what God has given me and see His prophetic move through my music.
JF: While I was at the BBC making Gospel Train for Radio 2, I was so blessed to have you lead and direct many of my live shows, and introducing me to Karen Gibson who spawned the Kingdom Choir. You were extremely central to the overwhelming success of one show featuring Ron Kenoly from Birmingham Town Hall, which had a capacity audience. That was the last event held at the Town Hall before it closed for major refurbishments.
NR: That show caused me to become Ron Kenoly’s European Music Director and band leader, which was a breakthrough bringing tremendous change for me.
Noel has released four independent albums: his 1996 debut, O Taste and See, to Devoted. In 2014, nearly 20 years later, he became the first Black UK-based worship leader to sign a publishing deal with Integrity Music, the world’s largest Christian label.
Through his visionary Kingdom Worship Movement Renewal, Noel has inspired worship leaders of all backgrounds. As a producer, he is known for mentoring and providing opportunities for first-timers – Carmen Wiltshire, Sonnie Badu, Guvna B, and G-Force,
to mention a few. Noel has also co-written songs with stellar figures, like Israel Houghton, Ron Kenoly, and Matt Redman. His collaboration with Donna Akodu produced the powerful anthem Rain, which resonates with congregations worldwide.
His latest albums, Outrageous Love and Change the Atmosphere, continue to deliver vibrant, uplifting songs for congregational worship and personal reflection.
Over the years, Noel has consistently gathered excellent world-class teams of musicians and singers. Yet on his own, with guitar, his distinctive voice has graced local to stadium events for years, leading for Morris Cerullo crusades, Festival Of Praise, Spring Harvest, Evangelist J John’s Philo Trust meetings, Evangelists Reinhard Bonnke & Daniel Kolenda Christ for All Nations Crusades, Pastor Jonathan Oloyede’s National Day Of Prayer & Worship, The House Of Parliament Prayer Breakfast... TBN and God TV are just two broadcasting outlets for which he has co-presented and had his own series. He is also an Ambassador for All Souls Langham, and a champion for Compassion UK. And this doesn’t include his Caribbean and other regional tours or the 50-plus UK churches he ministers in on an annual basis!
'It is an exciting time to witness the transition of generations, where the prophetic has never been more potent.'
JF: Noel, what is your final thought as you journey to what lies ahead?
NR: I believe we have entered an extraordinary season in the global Church. It is an exciting time to witness the transition of generations, where the prophetic has never been more potent. God’s Spirit – the Lord of the Harvest – is pouring out upon all flesh (Joel 2:28, Acts 2:17), and music is central to His move. When I was planning my latest album, I thought of a ‘collection’, but the Holy Spirit said, “No”. He had fresh new songs for Change the Atmosphere. I’m so grateful to be a part of what God is doing!
JF: Noel, whether through your guitar, your band, or your recordings, you continue to change the atmosphere for the glory of God!
Visit www.noelrobinson.com to purchase Change the Atmosphere and learn more about Noel’s Renewal Residential Worship Retreat, which runs 2-4 July at Ashburnham Place, East Surrey EN3T 9NF.
THE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWER OF RAP MUSIC REBLAH
Renowned for his intricate lyrical craftsmanship and evangelistic approach to rap music, MOBO nominee Reblah is one of UK Gospel’s most celebrated artists. His musical journey began in the UK underground grime and rap scenes, but he forsook that path upon saying “Yes” to Jesus. Embodying the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17 – ‘Old things have passed away, all things have become new’, the artist formerly known as Rebler reintroduced himself to the world as Reblah.
He talked to Akosua DF about his conversion to Christ, his desire to share the Gospel through rap music, and issues a call for the UK to continue glorifying God through their music.
AKOSUA DF (ADF): You were once Rebler the mainstream artist but later became Reblah the gospel artist. Can you tell us about your journey of faith?
REBLAH: It’s interesting because I didn’t quite start off in a Christian household, although there was an element of faith in my family. I was around church from the age of 10, but my relationship with Christ began in my mid-20s. My BC (before Christ) life was very worldly, as I was heavily involved in the underground secular music scene and was exposed to a lot – alcohol and drugs were rife around me; young people were losing their lives; and some were ending up in prison. I decided that this wasn’t the kind of life I wanted to live; the fast life I was chasing was empty and void. This led me to a new chapter of my life, where I wanted to take things a bit more seriously. One day I went to a service where the worship and presence of God were palpable, the Holy Spirit hit my heart and I’ve never been the same again.
ADF: That’s a powerful testimony. You touched on your mainstream music career.
Was the transition to gospel music difficult?
REBLAH: Ohhh, it was very difficult, and I’ve got to give props to my wife. She knew I had a heart for the kingdom and encouraged me to do gospel. She and my pastor’s nephew urged me to use my gifts for the Lord. One day I was listening to a sermon about God giving His children new names. Abram to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah – they both had AH added to their name. I had a destiny-defining moment and knew that if I changed my name from Rebler to Reblah that would be the beginning of my transition. That was about nine years ago and I’ve never looked back. The Lord gave me a new name to mark my transition.
ADF: God has really honoured your faithfulness over the years. You were crowned the big winner at last year’s Premier Gospel Awards, winning best rap album and best gospel act. Take us back to that surreal moment at the awards show.
REBLAH: God doesn’t call the qualified but qualifies the called, and I think winning that award was confirmation that God is in what
I’m doing. It was an incredible honour, but I never want to get caught up in the accolades, so I’m always careful to return the glory to God and get back to the assignment – souls. Yes, I’m an artist but I see myself as a minister of the Gospel, so I try to give people God’s Word at every given opportunity.
ADF: Let’s talk about rap as a gospel music genre. Some schools of thought feel that the genre isn’t anointed enough to serve as a catalyst for the salvation of souls. Some see the genre as lacking spiritual substance and is purely an alternative to secular music. What are your thoughts on these assertions?
REBLAH: The beauty of rap music is that lots of people in the world are familiar with the sound, so if God is going to use us as fishers of men, then gospel rap music is great bait to get them in. I really believe the genre can be an incredible bridge between God and the kids involved in drugs and gang culture. If our gospel rap is Scripture-based and Spirit-filled, then God can water those seeds in the hearts of the lost and we’ll see the harvest of souls in due time.
ADF: I completely agree. God’s ways are much higher than ours, and He knows how best to draw men unto Himself. You’ve come a long way and I’m keen to know, what would you say to your younger self who was just starting out on this gospel music journey?
REBLAH: I would tell my younger self that God has a plan and a purpose for your life. I would encourage him to taste and see that the Lord is good. There are blessings in God. I feel happy and content at present, so I would tell my younger self that it’s all going to work out in God’s own time.
ADF: Wise words. So, we know that rap music is your thing, but I am curious to know who your favourite worship artists are?
REBLAH: Dunsin Oyekan – he’s on fire, Marizu, and Travis Greene.
ADF: What can we expect from you this year?
REBLAH: More music... I’m not playing [laughs] but you know something... I want all of us UK
gospel artists – whether worship or rap artists – to put out more music. I really want us all to work harder. This is what we’re called to do, so I want to encourage us to give it our all in obedience to God. I want to see us all thrive and excel in that which God has entrusted to us. On a personal level, though, I would love to do more international dates and collaborate with other international artists.
ADF: Who would you love to collaborate with next?
REBLAH: My dream collabs would be Dunsin Oyekan, CeCe Winans, William McDowell, and Nathaniel Bassey.
ADF: Really? I can’t imagine Dunsin, Nathaniel or William McDowell having a rapper on any of their songs.
REBLAH: [Laughs] I would make it work. I’ve been preaching for six years and the heart of what I do music-wise is ministry. My bars are always Christ-centred; their songs are very Scripture-focused and Christ-exalting, so I think it could work. With the spirit of excellence and the power of the Holy Spirit, we could make it work. If I were to collaborate with a rapper, it would be KB.
ADF: I think you and KB would be fantastic on a track together. OK, someone needs to make that call! [laughs] Keep The Faith family, keep your eyes peeled!
Follow on Instagram @reblahofficial
GOSPEL NEWS
OUT OF THE ASHES: A TESTIMONY OF FAITH, MUSIC AND COMING HOME
Originally hailing from the volcanic island of Montserrat, and now based in Birmingham, UK, Imrhan is a MOBO-nominated gospel artist whose songs fuse rich African Caribbean tradition with contemporary sounds. Having come from a background of R&B music and being in the duo Lotto Boyzz, Imrhan stepped into the world of gospel music after God called him home.
Imrhan has loved music from an early age, and at 16 formed a group with his friend Luke, called Ash and Lucas. Having felt ashamed of and been bullied for his Muslim first name, Imrhan chose to go by Ash, standing for ‘Always Stay Humble’. After university, the duo’s music picked up under their new name Lotto Boyzz, but, Imrhan shared: “I didn’t have peace with the situation.”
Feeling low, Imrhan decided to take his own life. He went to a bridge and put one foot over the edge when his phone started to ring. “As it vibrated,” Imrhan recalled, “it vibrated way too hard for a phone, so I thought something was wrong with my leg. When I put my foot down, my phone's ringing, so I'm in panic and I just picked it up.”
At the other end of the phone was his mum, who asked if he was alright. She told him: “The Lord is telling me that you’re not OK, that I had to call you right now. Where are you?”
Having replied that he was down the road, his mother told him: “Come home.” He ran home. Only later did Imrhan realise that God had saved him that day, and he started to understand that God was real. He went to
church and heard God say to him: “Go home.”
When he returned to the house he lived in with a group of peers, Imrhan told them he was leaving. After that, everything about that lifestyle crumbled down, leaving him in disbelief at how he had escaped.
Yet at this time Imrhan started to suffer from something he’d never had before: anxiety. Eventually he went back to church and decided to tackle his anxiety through prayer and fasting. “I decided I was going to fast for five days, and when I came out, I was never going to have anxiety again,” Imrhan said. “Day one comes, I’m struggling. I thought I was going to die. Second day, I thought I was going to die again. The third day was alright, but day four and five were the worst days of my life. And then, day six till now, I’ve never experienced anxiety, ever again.”
After this, Imrhan decided he wanted to do gospel music, though he didn’t know where to start. At church, a woman of God came and prayed for him and asked: “What’s your name?”
He replied: “Ash”, as this was what everyone still called him.
The woman saw through this, though. “What’s your real name?” she asked.
He told her, and she replied: “Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes. This one! If you want to see restoration in your life, take back your original name.”
Another woman across the room came over with a phone in her hand, saying she had just looked up the meaning of Imrhan. It meant ‘exalted nation, prosperity and happiness’. And why would anyone not want to have that name spoken over them?
“I'd been telling them to call me Ash,” Imrhan recalled. “Something that is burnt out. And I realised that with all the people who were calling me Ash, I was slowly just burning out.”
So, Imrhan started creating gospel music to glorify God, using his true name. Since then, Imrhan has been a rising star on the gospel scene, and his gospel reggae hit ‘Secret Place’ reached number 1 in the UK Christian Charts. He is currently creating a new song every week for 52 weeks, and his monthly Spotify listeners have rocketed from 60,000 to 130,000 in just six months.
Imrhan concluded by sharing his recent revelation about God being our Shepherd – an image he’d recently been researching for a sermon he gave at church. He saw how a sheep repeatedly hit its head against a rock because there were flies deep inside his nose that he couldn’t reach. But the shepherd called the sheep – leaving the 99 for the 1 – and anointed his head with oil, which repelled the flies. It set him free from the enemy within. Throughout his life, Imrhan had been fed anxious and suicidal lies by the enemy, but upon being anointed by the Good Shepherd, these thoughts were repelled and his focus turned from the things of the world to the glory of God.
“I always feel like the things God does put us in a position to know Him more,” Imrhan concluded. “I understood now that it wasn’t Him, but He allowed it to happen, knowing that He was going to sort out the whole situation.”
Written by Miriam Culy
SISTERHOOD & SOUND: A CELEBRATION OF WOMEN IN FAITH & MUSIC
On a night during Women’s History Month, the air was filled with joy, inspiration, and a whole lot of sisterhood, as Morenike Adebayo, Founder of IAMWoman, hosted a special dinner to celebrate women in music and faith. In a world where the music industry can sometimes feel like a solo journey, this night was a testament to the power of community, faith and unwavering support.
A vision a year in the making
As guests arrived, there was an undeniable buzz of excitement. Artists, managers, music executives, publishers, radio pluggers, and industry leaders gathered to enjoy an evening of good food, conversation, and to recognise, uplift and empower one another.
Morenike shared the heart behind the event: “The idea to host this dinner has been almost a year in the making. Working in the music industry for 13 years, one of the things I struggled to find early on in my journey were women of faith I could rally around, especially in challenging moments. My heart was to host this dinner
to celebrate you ladies for continuing to run your race; to provide a community for the next generation; and to learn from and encourage one another.”
A room full of powerhouses
From legendary voices to rising stars, the room was packed with women who are shaping the UK’s music and faith scene. Gospel powerhouse Lurine Cato MBE brought her signature warmth with an opening prayer, while Karen Gibson MBE, who led The Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding, was a beacon of wisdom. Industry trailblazers, such as Marcia Dixon MBE, Paulette Long OBE, and Kanya King CBE – Founder of the MOBO Awards – were also present as examples of excellence and perseverance, highlighting what it means to be a woman of faith breaking boundaries in the industry.
On the artist front, there was Sarah Téibo (known for her contemporary gospel sound), Sharyn, Esther Durin, and Claudia Isaki, all are making waves with their unique artistry. Hannah Lawley-Wakelin, new to artist management, was in attendance, as well as Ginelle Appau from Apple Music, Jennifer Lee Moon, Hannah Lovejoy from Premier Gospel, and Heavilyn from Melodies from Heaven.
Faith, music and unbreakable bonds
The evening was more than just networking; it was a space where stories were shared, wisdom was passed down, and genuine connections were made. Between bites of delicious Italian
food, attendees reminisced about their journeys, the highs and lows of the industry, and how their faith has sustained them.
From career-defining moments to behind-the-scenes struggles, there was a shared understanding that being a woman in the industry comes with challenges, but together, those challenges seem a little easier to face.
One of the most touching moments of the night was hearing from those who have paved the way, offering encouragement to the next generation. There was an unspoken “We’ve got each other” sentiment that made the night all the more meaningful.
Sisterhood and continuing to be the light
This celebration, held in partnership with AStepFWD, was a beautiful reminder that faith and music are not separate but intertwined.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to supporting one another beyond this event. Connections were made, collaborations were discussed, and, most importantly, a sisterhood was strengthened.
This wasn’t just another industry dinner; this was a movement of women who are boldly stepping into their callings, lifting each other up, and reminding the world that faith and music are a force to be reckoned with.
Here’s to more nights of celebration, unity, and making history – together!
For more pictures, visit Instagram @iamwomanuk
BLACK PENTECOSTALS: How they impacted Christianity in Britain
Roy Francis looks at how Black Pentecostalism in Britain influenced the UK Church and helped transform worship styles
When the Windrush Generation arrived in Britain, in the 1950s and 60s, they brought with them not just their labour, but also their faith. Among them were Anglicans, Baptists and Methodists, but it was the smaller yet significant group of Pentecostals who would go on to establish Caribbean Christianity in Britain. In doing so, they became one of the most transformative religious movements in the country.
Once in Britain, one of the first actions undertaken by Black Pentecostals was to reach out to fellow Christians who had been rejected by mainstream English churches, and extend a warm welcome.
By focusing on their shared beliefs, rather than what divided them doctrinally, they were able to build spiritual alliances, extend their reach, and therefore attract a wide audience to their faith. On weekends, they held ‘open-air’ services, often near to bustling markets and busy street corners where Caribbean migrants were located. These services introduced a new form of worship to Britain and became the
first public expression of Caribbean Christianity, embodying the key elements of their worship: spirited singing and passionate preaching.
As a child, I often accompanied my father to these open-air services, playing the accordion while he preached. Although I was too young to fully understand their significance, he recognised their impact on me and frequently took me with him to these and other services. They were more than acts of worship; they were a bold declaration of faith, powerful expressions of identity, and a demonstration of resilience, providing Caribbeans with a platform to promote their message.
MORE THAN CHURCHES
In Britain, churches were at the heart of the Caribbean community and were more than places of worship. They were more like social and cultural hubs, where individuals could form relationships, create lasting bonds, and seek support – and where spiritual and practical concerns were met. The role of the pastor in these churches often extended beyond their religious responsibilities, and outwards to the needs of the wider community. Even Caribbean women who operated pardners – a traditional saving scheme found in Caribbean communities, which accounted for their financial success – were typically found in churches, as the women there were known and trusted for their integrity.
This unique blend of spirituality and practical care – often in the face of adversity – provided a moral compass; strengthened religious adherence; and instilled ambition and determination, while, at the same time, created a legacy that continues to influence today. Whether it was through the liturgy or cultural practices, churches helped young people to embrace their Caribbean identity and navigate the complexities of cross-cultural life without losing themselves in the process. Churches were also places that shielded the young people from the social turmoil and racism of their age, along with helping them to steer their way in society. While sometimes this led to conflicts – both within the Church
and in wider society – the churches’ unwavering sense of right and wrong, combined with their inherent strategies for survival, gave young people the stability they needed to thrive and grow in Britain. Today, their legacy endures in the form of Caribbean Christian leaders, many of whom were shaped by this environment.
THE CHANGE
For many years, Caribbean Christians maintained a quiet witness in Britain. They were mostly visible on Sundays, where they could be seen making their way to church, dressed in their finest clothes, an embodiment of dignity and devotion. Beyond this, they largely kept to themselves, focusing on building their families and strengthening their faith rather than engaging with mainstream society. Things, however, began to change in the 1960s, with the rise of gospel music and the global success of Oh Happy Day by Edwin Hawkins. As a cultural phenomenon, gospel music drew public attention to Caribbean churches, for that’s where the music came from. It sparked a shift in perception for, until then, Black people in Britain had often been seen primarily through the lens of socio-economic struggles and racial discrimination. But the public profile of gospel music – amplified by frequent appearances of gospel choirs on television and on radio during the 1980s – introduced a new narrative. Documentaries exploring Caribbean churches and their wider community began to emerge in Britain, highlighting their cultural and spiritual impact.
THE INFLUENCE
Today, Black Pentecostals are a significant force in British Christianity, with over 4,000 churches and a membership exceeding 300,000. Many of these congregations trace their roots to established Caribbean denominations, including the New Testament Church of God and the Church of God of Prophecy. They are an enduring testament to the transformative influence of Caribbean Christianity in Britain. Perhaps Caribbean Christians’ greatest impact, however, is how they have helped the evolution of English evangelical tradition. The energy, informality and community focus of their faith inspired many English churches to modernise their worship practices. For example, many threw out the pews in their churches, modernised their services, and created spaces for a more relaxed and informal worship experience. The organ – that bastion of Anglican hymnody and for so long a feature of English church music – was quietly put to one side, replaced by modern instruments, including acoustic guitars, flutes and the piano, pioneering a new soft folk rock, English Christian music sound. Graham Kendrick, Matt Redman and Tim Hughes are examples of this new development. While English evangelicals admired the worship style of Caribbean Pentecostals, their
own sense of ‘Englishness’ meant they could only express their faith in a way they considered culturally appropriate – reserved and distinct from the boldness of Caribbean worship. However, they deeply respected Caribbeans’ unwavering faith, commitment to biblical principles, and reverence for Scripture –qualities that stood in contrast to the doubt and uncertainty that often bedevilled their own faith.
THE LEGACY
Today, Caribbean Christianity in Britain – and its expression of faith – extends to a new generation of Black Christians, including a new wave of Africans, expanding both its reach and numbers. Many of these Africans, unlike Caribbeans, pursue an ‘aggressive’ evangelism, called ‘Reverse Mission’. The aim of ‘Reverse Mission’ is to re-evangelise Britain in the way the country once did in bringing Christianity to Africa. The Redeemed Christian Church of God, the leading church in this endeavour with over 800 parishes and 80,000 members, aims to have a Redeemed church within 10 minutes’ walking distance of anywhere in the UK.
This is a bold assertion, with a number of factors seeming to question whether it is likely. However, what’s clear about African Christianity is that it is bold and confident. Africans believe their God is a ‘very big God’, and so all things are possible. That’s why they hold ‘big’ services, build big churches and have an unending belief that whatever they can’t do, God will do the rest.
Today, Caribbean Christians, with their steadfast faith and dedication, have forged a new path in British Christianity, and have left an indelible mark not only on the country's religious landscape but also on its cultural and social fabric. The number of young people attending their churches are a testimony to their influence, with religion now seen as cool. However, Caribbean Christianity is a story of faith in action – a legacy of transformation. It will continue to inspire future generations, but it is now up to African Christians to build on this foundation, and continue to enrich British Christianity through an unwavering commitment to faith, adherence to Scripture, and an exemplary life of godliness.
ROY FRANCIS
Former BBC producer, founder of Roy Francis Productions and author www.royfrancis.co.uk
Photos are from the private collection of the late Rev Carmel Jones, taken during the 1950s and 60s
Top: Daddy Fagin with his brother. Middle: Mother Campbell, wife of Elder Campbell, the first pastor of COGIC Fentiman Road.
Bottom: Members of gospel group
The Touring Harmonisers.
NICAEA 1700: A CELEBRATION OF CHURCHES OLD AND NEW!
The Creed of Nicaea (the Nicene Creed) – a major statement of faith issued by the Early Church – is 1700 years old this year. Bishop Mike Royal explains its relevance for the Black Pentecostal Church
This year 2025 marks 1700 years since the Council of Nicaea met in AD325 to discuss the Person and nature of our Lord Jesus Christ and produce what is now known as the Nicene Creed.
A DIVIDED WORLD
Roman emperor Constantine’s empire was fractured and divided. To show up his empire, he called church leaders together at Nicaea in Turkey to discuss what the Church should believe about Jesus. While Constantine was keen to shore up his empire, church leaders were focused on preserving the truth about Jesus Christ.
HIGH STAKES
It was a fractious gathering. Apparently, St Nicholas walked across the room and slapped a priest called Arius during a debate about the divinity of Jesus Christ!
THE ORIGINAL NICENE CREED
After weeks of deliberation, between May and July AD325, the Council came up with a statement which we now know as the Nicene Creed. It originally stated:
“We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, begotten from the Father, only-begotten, that is, from the substance of the Father, God from God, light from light, true God from true God, begotten not made, of one substance from the Father, through whom all things came into being, things in heaven and things on earth, who because of our salvation came down and became incarnate and became Man, and suffered and rose again on the third day, and ascended to the heavens, and will come to judge the living and the dead; and in the Holy Spirit. But as for those who say there was when He was not, and before being born He was not, and that He came into existence out of nothing, or who assert that the Son of God is of a different hypothesis or substance, or created, or is subject to alteration or change – these the Catholic and Apostolic Church anathematises.”
The Creed set out a clear understanding of the truth about Jesus Christ. It challenged two errors, namely that Christ was merely human rather than divine and that Christ was created and therefore not co-equal with the Father.
NICENE CREED RELEVANCE TODAY
As a Black Pentecostal, what relevance does
the Council of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed have for us today?
Firstly, people of African descent made a huge contribution to the formation of early Christianity. African Theologian Harvey Kwiyani states: ‘Between the third and seventh centuries AD, thousands of committed followers of Christ in North Africa left their comfortable homes and villages to live in monastic communities in the desert of Upper Egypt. They would later be known as the Desert Fathers and Desert Mothers.’ African leaders, like Athanasius who was a deacon at Nicaea in 325 AD and who became the Primate of Alexandria in 328 AD, were at the Council of Nicaea. Athanasius was an African, born in Egypt. The influence of the African Desert Fathers was there at the Council of Nicaea.
CHRIST-CENTRED PENTECOSTALS
Secondly, the Christ-centred truth contained in the Nicene Creed is central to the truth Pentecostals hold to today. Finnish Theologian Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen suggests that ‘at the centre of Pentecostal Theology is the idea of the “Full Gospel” which speaks of Christ in His various roles as Saviour, Sanctifier, Healer, Baptiser with the Spirit, and the soon-coming King. Therefore, Pentecostalism represents – differently from the assumptions of many outsiders – a unique Christocentric Spirit Movement.’ As the words of Albert Simpson’s old hymn reminds us: ‘Jesus only, Jesus ever, Jesus all in all we sing, Saviour, Sanctifier and Healer, Glorious Lord and coming King.’
PREACHING FROM THE PULPIT AND LITURGY FROM THE PEW
Thirdly, I would observe that the truth about Christ preached from many Pentecostal pulpits on a Sunday is the same truth declared from the pew when the Nicene Creed is recited in a Church of England liturgical service. Different traditions but the same truth.
FROM NICAEA TO AZUSA
Finally, what the Nicaea Council AD325 does for our understanding of the Person of Jesus Christ, the Azusa Street Revival (1906-1908) does for the Church’s experience of the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Revival, held in Los Angeles, was led by African American Pastor William Seymour. Christians, who attended the meetings at Azusa Street, took the Pentecostal message round the globe. Back to a verse in Albert Simpson’s hymn: ‘Jesus only is our power, He the gift of Pentecost, Jesus, breathe Thy pow’r upon us, Fill us with the Holy Ghost.’ Both moments are vitally important in Church history.
CONCLUSION
So, as Black Pentecostals, let’s join in with the celebration of Nicaea 1700. Its Christ-centred message is our heritage too!
BISHOP MIKE ROYAL General Secretary of Churches Together in England and Regional Bishop for the Midlands Region of the Apostolic Pastoral Congress. Visit www.cte.org.uk
First Nicea Council
Your Path to Wellness: Discover Manna House
‘“For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds,” says the LORD’ – Jeremiah 30:17
Hidden amidst the hills of North Yorkshire lies Manna House Health Education & Wellness.
In 2017, my husband Arthur and I answered a call to establish a ministry teaching the principles of healthful living.
Today, Manna House is the only Christian naturopathic wellness centre in the UK, offering faith-based therapies rooted in biblical principles and true science.
Arthur is living proof of the transformative power of biblical health principles. He suffered
from persistent acne, boils, arthritis, and kidney failure, eventually facing the prospect of a wheelchair. Turning away from medication, he embraced lifestyle changes grounded in faith and natural remedies. Arthur is now healthier than he’s been in 40 years.
Manna House specialises in reversing lifestyle-related illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Using natural therapies we empower individuals to take control of their health.
Take Donna, for example. When she came to us, she was battling diabetes, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and other health challenges. After completing our 10-day health
restoration programme, Donna’s diabetes reversed, her weight dropped, and her hope was restored.
Manna House is a retreat for the soul. From invigorating massages to hydrotherapy, every service promotes holistic wellness. Our doors are open to everyone.
Come, visit Manna House, where your body can heal, your mind can find peace, and your soul can soar. Your path to wellness awaits.
Words are powerful. Jesus said, in Mark 11:23 (paraphrased) – “You can have what you say, good or bad, so watch what you say.” In Proverbs 4:22, we believe that God’s Word is medicine to our flesh, so when we take our medicine, i.e. when we feast on God’s Word, we can speak to that sickness and command it to leave in the Name of Jesus. The sickness will obey us, but we have to believe in the power of Jesus’ Name.
In a magazine article, neurosurgeon Dr Bernie Siegel wrote that anyone with diabetes should instruct his pancreas to secrete sufficient insulin for his body. The neurosurgeon stated that the patient does not have to know what his pancreas is or does – his body knows and will obey his voice. He said: “I don’t know why it works, but it does.” I have proven this to be true. I instructed my pancreas to secrete the correct amount of insulin for life and health in my body in the Name of Jesus – and it did. That was many years ago, and I am still fit and healthy. Allow me to share with you two of the Amazon reviews for my book, dated 7th October 2019. One came from a Kindle customer: ‘An inspiring read, amazing God. Encouraged me to pray and believe in miracles. My husband is now healed of terminal cancer. Amazing God we have.’ Another person wrote: ‘I have read Janet’s book. Miracles still happen, and
it’s a must-read not only for diabetes but for any disease.’ These are only two reviews, but there are more on Amazon – even one from America – that you can read.
I am so happy I wrote the book, as it has helped many people to receive healing. God's Word will heal you. Remember, nothing is impossible with God and all things are possible to those who believe.
Believe, just believe. It’s simple! Janet McBride
‘I have read Janet’s book. Miracles still happen, and it’s a must-read not only for diabetes but for any disease.’
My andFaith its role in elevating my career
Shirleena
Celestine, Global Program Manager for Apple – one of the world’s most successful businesses – shares how faith and an act of obedience changed the trajectory of her career
My journey to Christ started before I was even born, with a lineage of family members who served in the Kingdom of God.
My great-grandfather was a bishop in Clarendon, Jamaica; his wife was a very well-known prophetess, and my grandfather was a deacon. My parents were active in the church. My father is an elder at the head church of Bethel United Church, Gibson Road, Birmingham, and my beloved mother, now eternally resting, was a prophetess and a church administrator. At the tender age of 15, I said yes to Jesus and was baptised at Sheffield Bethel United.
Always in the environment of church – be it in Sunday school or hearing Claudelle Clarke playing in the background of my childhood home – I knew I was called to serve in God's Kingdom.
As a teenager, I led many a church and district choir. Later, I also served as a youth leader, pastoral care leader, altar worker, European Council of Nations (ECN) PAW administrator, PAW church minister, PAW minister of worship, leader of God’s International Leading Ladies, PAW pastor and evangelist, and I have been blessed to have preached across Africa, Europe, the UK, and the USA. I have been honoured to have worked alongside the late Bishop Norman L Wagner – former head of Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW) – and was mentored by leading female minister, the late Bishop Iona Locke. I started with a solid foundation that I still stand on today.
I would say my role working as Global Program Manager for Apple came about by spiritual appointment. During the lockdown, God said: “I will exalt you so high they all will
see you.” I initially thought ‘strange’, but I said: “God, have Your way.”
Two weeks later, God told me to start a small women’s group, which I did using iMessage, which had just five women inside. From there, we then met virtually. Two weeks later, it had increased to 35 women, and before long, by the time of the killing of George Floyd, the group was 100 people strong.
In that same period, I received a message from Apple CEO Tim Cook. He wanted me to host a community call. I didn’t know that this virtual community call would have 3,000 Apple staff members and executive leaders from across Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa. Today, it is the biggest virtual call for Apple in that region.
From that moment, a whirlwind of blessings began, and, out of nowhere, I became the most popular person in Apple across the UK. Suddenly, I was doing training development, interviews and events – all during the lockdown – and it was during this time that I returned to university to start my PhD.
In October 2021, I decided it was time to leave Apple, and it was also when Apple offered me a leadership position to be a manager within the retail store. I’d always wanted something, but God told me firmly to turn down the offer. Instead of doing the leadership role, I did work in a development position, which was meant to last five months. In the fourth month, God told me to ask them for a permanent job. I thought ‘strange’ because I knew this had never happened before, but I asked anyway. My then manager said to me: “It was odd that you should ask. We were talking about you last night, and I thought about a position you should apply for.”
The role was Global Leader for Apple. This would entail providing global leadership for Apple Music, Podcast, Beats by Dre, Shazam, Video and Sports. This role was totally out of my range, as I was working as a supervisor in an Apple store! Nevertheless, I applied.
After being interviewed, I heard nothing for at least three weeks. Then the recruiter called me, overwhelmed, crying, and then said: “Congratulations, Shirleena, you’re now a Global Leader for Apple!”
It was hard to take in because I had gone from being a salesperson to now a global leader for “This has never happened in the company's history. We had to build a brand-new system to move you to the level that you have been appointed to.”
The role opened the door for me to work at Apple Music’s head office in Los Angeles. I have been blessed to have worked with many celebrities and creatives from the music and entertainment industry, including Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Bobby Brown, LL Cool J, Ben Crump, Dotty, Estelle, DJ Khaled, and many more. Since working in this new role, I proposed a gospel music label for Apple – Platoon –and created and activated two of our biggest community programmes, Beats Academy and Apple Music Pathway. I am also a board member for Let It Break, a women's network organisation led by April McDaniel and Savannah James, the wife of superstar basketball player LeBron James.
The past four years have taught me a lot. I recognise that faith, God’s timing, and change are activated through obedience. I’ve been in church all my life, and I continued to get the same results year after year, attending conference after conference with the same results!
I eventually asked God: “What am I missing? There has to be more! How do I activate walking in the blessings of God?” During the lockdown, God spoke loud and clear and said: “Shirleena, I can’t give to you when you haven’t given to Me, and you have no seed in the ground.”
I was a part-time tither! I wasn’t giving my tithe consistently and God convicted me to give my tithe and to declare His Word over my own life. I started to give my tithe; give a regular offering; added faith and worship, and... BOOM!!! My WHOLE LIFE CHANGED!!! Not only did I begin to prosper financially, my whole life began to elevate to a whole other level. What I’m sharing is only the surface. I learned that God didn’t want my money! He wanted my obedience and my sacrifice.
This is now my culture, and I, along with my family, we are blessed beyond measure. Moving from Sheffield to Los Angeles, California, is something only God could have done, but I needed to activate this by way of my obedience and sacrifice.
I know that God is just getting started. My hope for the future is to be able to connect with more people, especially women, in order to share my testimony.
I was the saint who sat in the pews; regularly attended church and conferences; and hoped that my time would come. I wasn’t particularly popular or even that well-known by anyone. But I’ve learnt that if you give God your obedience, sacrifice and worship, anything is possible! As my mentor, Bishop Norman L Wagner, said: “I know I’m called for such a time as this – a sacred call in a secular arena.”
You can connect with Shirleena Celestine on LinkedIn and Facebook
Shirleena with Blair Underwood Shirleena with DJ Khaled
Shirleena with Bobby Brown
My journey to finding God in midlife
Carol Stewart explains why she decided to follow Christ in her mid 40s and why churches need to explore how to share the Gospel with the middle-aged and older
Like many children of the Windrush Generation, I went to church as a child because I had to. On reaching my teens and an age where I could protest against it, I stopped going. Despite this, I still described myself as a Christian when filling out forms or whenever asked what my religion was.
At the age of 22, I had my son and separated from his father when he was six years old. At 29, as a single mum with a mortgage, I went through challenging times. It was upon reaching the age of 42 and having achieved several promotions at work that I was in the best place I had ever been materialistically. I was in a good position financially; my son was away at university and doing well, and I was engaged to be married.
Despite this, I felt as if something was missing and, at times, I felt empty. This coincided with Michael Jackson's death. I had bought tickets for his concert, which never happened because he died. Michael was considered a musical genius, yet his life ended so tragically. I couldn’t comprehend this, and it got me questioning what life was about.
One Saturday evening, home alone, an overwhelming feeling of emptiness came over me. I cried out to God asking what was wrong with me and I felt a desire to go to church. Because I didn’t attend church, I didn’t know which one to go to. I remembered visiting a church a few years previously that a work colleague had invited me to, and I decided to go there.
I looked online to find out when the service
started and went the following morning. I expected the earth to move as a sign from God, but it didn’t. But it felt right, and I felt at peace, so I went back the following week. A few weeks later it seemed like the pastor was speaking directly to me and I responded to the altar call. Spending time reading the Bible – things I had heard as a child – and going to church began to make sense. As I got to know God, I realised how important having a personal relationship with Him is, something I hadn’t experienced growing up.
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about those of my generation who do not know God. For many, there is a blurring of biblical, cultural and secular, such as automatically assuming that a person is at peace and in heaven when they die. Or certain phrases, such as “God helps those who help themselves”, or “Cleanliness is next to godliness”, which many mistakenly believe to be biblical. They think that doing good and living good is enough (as I had). But no one comes to the Father except through Jesus.
Research by Grey Matter Research & Consulting and Infinity Concepts in 2024 found that 72% of evangelical Protestants came to faith before the age of 18. The same study found that only 8% of evangelical Protestants came to their faith aged 40 or over. A 2017 poll by the Church of England found that, of the 8,150 adults who responded, just 5% said they became Christians after the age of 18.
For some of my generation, as they begin to realise they have spent more years on this earth than they have left, they become more
aware of their mortality, and this leads them to God. For some, losing parents or members of their peer group gets them questioning life and turning to God. But what about those who don’t? Those who do good, live above the law, give their time and money to charity, and work hard raising their families? This is a demographic often overlooked by the Church. Nine years ago, I started a blog called ‘Finding God at Midlife’ and non-believing friends told me they got something from it. But things became too busy, and before I knew it, the weeks and months turned into years without me writing it. That is, until January of this year. During a period of prayer and fasting, I believe God was telling me to start it up again. This is heightened, having lost two people of my age group unexpectedly over the past two years – people who were close to me. I don’t know if they reconciled with God in their last moments. I can only hope that they did.
Reaching people over the age of 40 requires a different approach than engaging younger audiences, as they often have established beliefs, routines, and life responsibilities. Many are going through major life transitions, such as career shifts, parenting challenges, or personal loss. Churches would do well to think about how to connect with them where they are at.
CAROL STEWART
HOW A CONFERENCE COULD CHANGE LIVES
In the hustle and bustle of everyday church life, it’s easy to feel like you’re just skimming the surface. Sunday services are powerful, but they can also be fast paced. And, while fellowship after church is great, there’s often little time for meaningful conversations between catching up with family, friends, and church duties.
But what if there was an opportunity to pause, step out of the routine, and go deeper – with God, with each other, and with the vision He’s placed in your heart as a community?
The Gift of Time
Taking time away for a conference or retreat with your church or leadership team creates a unique opportunity to invest in relationships. A few days away allows for unhurried conversations and shared experiences that strengthen bonds and build unity. Imagine the richness of time spent not just catching up but truly listening to one another, sharing stories, and praying together.
In an overnight setting, you’ll have the opportunity to meet someone new over breakfast, share a laugh during a team-building exercise, or engage in heartfelt prayer as the evening draws to a close. These moments, often rare in our busy lives, can lay the foundation for friendships that last a lifetime.
A Fresh Perspective
Sometimes, stepping away from the everyday can bring clarity and inspiration. The beauty of God’s creation often brings peaceful times of reflection. A quiet walk or a moment of stillness overlooking beautiful countryside can be the perfect setting for hearing His voice anew. Christian Conference Trust conference venues are surrounded by God’s beautiful creation which is loved by thousands of churchgoers every year.
Food, Fellowship and Fun
The act of breaking bread together is deeply woven into the fabric of our faith. Jesus Himself modelled the significance of shared meals, and a conference is a wonderful way
to embrace this. When someone else takes care of the cooking, you’re free to focus on what truly matters: connecting with others.
Whether you’re swapping stories over lunch, discussing Scripture at dinner, or laughing over dessert, mealtimes become a space for fellowship and friendship. And who knows? That light-hearted conversation over a brew might just spark the next big idea for your church’s mission.
Worship and Vision
Retreats and conferences aren’t just about connection; they’re also about spiritual growth and shared vision. Raising the roof with extended times of worship, diving deep into the Word with rich teaching, and challenging each other during group discussions can all take your church deeper in relationship with God. Leadership teams, in particular, can use this time to pray, strategise, and align their hearts with God’s direction.
Being away together gives everyone a voice. Small groups can break out for focused discussions and then come back together to share insights, ensuring the whole community benefits from the wisdom and perspectives of each member.
Making It Happen
Perhaps the idea of organising a conference
or retreat feels daunting. Between finding the right venue, managing logistics, and encouraging people to commit, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Christian Conference Trust feels blessed to have hosted countless church retreats and leadership conferences over the years. Their all-inclusive packages make planning simple, offering exceptional value and taking care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most.
From beautiful venues and delicious catering to tailored meeting spaces, the Trust provides everything you need for a successful time away. And if finances are a concern, their bursary fund ensures that no one is left out.
Why Wait?
The benefits of stepping away for a retreat with your church or leadership team are profound. It’s a chance to deepen relationships, strengthen faith, and align your hearts with God’s calling. It’s an investment in the spiritual health and unity of your community that will bear fruit for years to come.
So why not take that step? Call Christian Conference Trust on 0300 111 4444 today to receive a tailored quote.
HOW FOLLOWING CHRIST TRANSFORMS A LIFE
The life of Apostle Jacqueline Peart is a prime example of how the trajectory of an individual’s life changes when they make that decision to become a Christian. She recently celebrated her 30th anniversary of following Christ. A ministry leader, businesswoman, trainer and author, Apostle Peart is one of the UK’s most well-known Black female preachers/speakers, and is viewed as a leader of leaders, through her training programmes, designed to enable people to develop and expand their leadership capacity, which have a focus on spiritual and emotional wholeness.
Apostle Peart spoke to Keep The Faith about her journey to faith in Christ, her journey to ministry leadership, and her plans for the future.
KEEP THE FAITH (KTF): Can you share the story of how you became a Christian 30 years ago, and what led you to that decision?
APOSTLE JACQUELINE PEART (AJP): I attended church until my early teens but left to find my own path. Then, in my mid-20s, while saving for my first house, my deposit ran low and a coworker suggested I pray, saying God could help if I believed. Though sceptical, I
remembered some of the biblical teachings from childhood, and something stirred in me. As I prayed, I found myself weeping. I said: “God, if You’re real, I want to know You.” A simple prayer, but I believe that’s when I became a Christian. I eventually confirmed my faith at a friend’s church in January 1995.
KTF: How did your faith transform your life in those early years, and what impact did it have on your personal and professional journey?
AJP: One of the most impactful things my faith did in my early years was to secure my identity in Christ. Before then, my identity was measured by external factors, such as job, relationship and financial status. Seeing myself through Christ’s eyes and through His Word transformed me! Also, learning that God has a purpose and plan for us all was something else that set me on a fresh trajectory – personally and professionally. In those early days, God also spoke to me about leaving full-time employment and starting a ministry and business, which I did between 1995 and 1997.
KTF: You started reciting poetry soon after becoming a Christian. What role did
poetry play in your spiritual growth?
AJP: I believe poetry helped me learn to hear God’s voice. Before 1997, I’d never written poetry – I didn’t even like it! Everything changed during a family holiday in Portugal during a gratitude fast. During that time, I felt led to write what I heard, and it sparked a journey. Some 28 years later, six of my 11 books are inspirational poetry. Poetry hasn’t only deepened my faith but has also ministered healing, encouragement and challenge to me. Many people have shared how my poetry has impacted their lives, helping them to grow spiritually and deepen their connection with God.
KTF: How did you transition from poetry to teaching, to founding Deep Calleth Unto Deep? Was there a specific moment that made you realise this was your calling?
AJP: Things shifted in 1997 when my church invited me to lead a workshop at a retreat, and I sensed a greater calling to serve the Kingdom. Two specific moments confirmed this: a pastor’s words after I shared poetry – he said if my poetry was this impactful, he wanted to invite me to preach. Secondly, a leading UK pastor encouraged me not to pigeonhole myself because he saw a ministry of inner
healing beyond my books. As an experienced management consultant and leadership coach, I knew the Church could benefit from some of the tools and techniques available, so I began to train leadership teams and speak at church events.
KTF: Deep Calleth Unto Deep has helped many women experience wholeness. What inspired you to focus on this aspect of ministry?
AJP: From the moment I was saved, I’ve longed for a real, relevant and complete relationship with Christ. John 10:10 reveals Christ’s desire for us to live a whole life, yet so many are saved but not whole. Spiritually astute, focused and growing, yet emotionally, physically, financially, socially or relationally broken. After several prophetic words over my life, I realised ‘wholeness’ was key to my God-given assignment – after all, we teach best what we’ve learned or are learning. This move coincided with the transition from Deep Calleth Unto Deep to Jacqueline Peart International Ministries in 2010.
KTF: What are some of the most profound lessons you’ve learnt while leading and equipping others for ministry?
AJP: There are many. Wholeness is key. To lead balanced lives and ministries, we must be equipped to live from a place of wholeness. Broken vessels leak and hinder effectiveness. Secondly, leadership isn’t about a title but servanthood and a love for the people you serve. If you don’t care, it becomes a job, not a call. Thirdly, not everyone will understand your calling, but obedience is better than sacrifice, so do it anyway. Fourthly, prioritise self-care, rest and boundaries – that’s essential for longevity. Finally – and this can be a hard one –people who are hurt need loving the most.
KTF: Ministry comes with its share of challenges. What have been some of the biggest obstacles you've faced, and how have you navigated them?
AJP: Ministry brings many challenges, and one of the biggest for me has been dealing with criticism and misunderstanding that can arise – whether that’s the expectations of others while trying to stay true to God’s call, or navigating gender debates regarding women in ministry and whether we have a role in leadership. I’ve learnt to lean in on prayer, get guidance and support from trusted wise counsel, and stand on what God’s Word says about each situation.
KTF: The landscape of faith leadership is evolving. How have you adapted to changes in the Church and wider society over the years?
AJP: A major shift in ministry has been recognising the necessity of team leadership. It’s no longer about one person doing everything, but about empowering others and working together as a unified body. With global communication and influence growing, I’ve focused on building strong teams and mentoring leaders to take ownership of various areas. Additionally, there’s an increasing emphasis on addressing real community needs, such as mental health and social justice. We’ve also been embracing technology, including social media, livestreaming, and digital platforms, to reach and engage with broader, more diverse communities, ensuring the ministry stays relevant in today’s world.
KTF: Tell us more about your new Wholeness Academy. What is its vision, and how do you hope it will impact the next generation of leaders?
AJP: The Wholeness Academy was birthed in 2011 when I was ready to give up on ministry – not God – on the struggle to encourage others to embrace wholeness. It runs programmes and courses for leaders and individuals aimed at equipping them to live and lead in wholeness – essentially, the abundant life Jesus spoke of in John 10:10. The next generation of leaders needs wholeness to guide others, because no one can pour out of a broken or empty cup. The Academy helps individuals find their identity in Christ, purpose, security in God, and to cultivate intimacy with Jesus.
KTF: What advice would you give to women who feel called to ministry but struggle with confidence or direction?
AJP: Embrace your unique calling. Trust that God has equipped you for this journey, even if the path isn’t clear yet. Get support from trusted leaders, and, with their guidance, take the first step. Know your identity is in Christ, not in the approval of others. Seek mentorship from women who have walked the path you believe God is calling you to, and start serving wherever you are. Each step of faith builds confidence. Don’t compare your journey to others; trust God’s timing. Keep learning, praying, and refining your skills. Finally, remember, God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
KTF: Looking ahead, what are your hopes and plans for the future of your ministry and your personal journey of faith?
AJP: In this next season, I’m joyfully releasing those I’ve trained to step into leadership roles, empowering them to lead key areas of the ministry. This allows me to focus on speaking, teaching and leadership coaching and development to reach lives across the globe. I’m also intentional about getting my books into the hands of individuals, believing they will positively transform lives. Finally, on a personal note, I’m excited about deeper encounters in God’s presence, knowing it will fuel the expansion of His Kingdom in ways beyond what I can imagine.
For more information, visit www.jacquelinepeart.com
FROM YOUTHFUL MADNESS TO PURPOSEFUL LIVING
How faith in Christ changed the life of Moses Nwanji for the better
Moses Nwanji, 32, is gearing up for the release his debut book, The Streets vs The Kingdom, which chronicles the journey of his life to date. This husband, father of three, former youth pastor and banker is living a fulfilled and exemplary life – because of his faith in Christ. His life could have turned out very differently. Moses was walking a path that would have led him to a life of unfulfilled potential – that of some of his childhood friends. However, his parents’ decision to send him to Nigeria when his life took a turn they didn’t like, turned out to be transformative. Not only did Moses get into education and put away childish things, he became a Christian too.
Moses spoke with Keep The Faith about the follies of his youth; how following Jesus has
changed his life; and how he is now compelled to share with others the transforming power of the Gospel.
KEEP THE FAITH (KTF): Can you tell us about your childhood and what it was like growing up as a child of Nigerian parents in the UK?
MOSES NWANJI (MN): My childhood was filled with family, church and libraries. I am the eldest of three siblings, and so from a young age I knew I was to set a good example for them. We didn’t have much, but my parents were very intentional to ensure we were exposed to certain things: holidays, so we could see other parts of the world; church, so we would know Jesus; and education, so that we would have better opportunities than our parents did.
KTF: At what point did things start to go wrong for you as a teenager? What influenced your decisions back then?
MN: Everything turned south when I entered secondary school. Year 7 exposed me to things I hadn’t known when in primary school. School versus school fights; people selling cookies and doughnuts to make money; postcode gang affiliation; and protection based on who you knew. When I reflect back, I realise that my decisions were influenced by insecurities. I had no older brother or cousins (role models) close by, and so I note that a lot of my actions stemmed from wanting to make a name for myself and being accepted by a specific crowd. I got what I wished for, but this came at a high cost.
KTF: What kind of trouble did you get into, and what were the consequences of your actions?
MN: It started with bunking classes and being disrespectful to teachers, and then progressed to stealing and violence. This resulted in me being expelled from my first secondary school in Year 9. Unfortunately, that didn’t stop me, and shortly afterwards I was expelled from my second secondary school for the same things, ending up in a pupil referral unit. It was during this period that I immersed myself deeper into gang culture, travelling to different areas and schools to intimidate others, and also being introduced to drugs. My actions meant I had a criminal record instead of GCSEs by the time I was 16.
KTF: Being sent back to Nigeria at 16 must have been a huge turning point. What was that experience like for you? How did it shape your perspective?
MN: It was definitely an important point in my life. Looking back, I can see that if I hadn’t been sent back I wouldn’t be doing this interview today. It was a complete shock. I was in a boarding school. There was a rigid structure: when to eat, when to sleep, when to socialise, when to study, when to wash clothes. We didn’t have electricity 24/7; malaria was a common thing; and the teachers had the authority to beat you. But it was there that I came to understand that education is for progression and that faith in Jesus isn’t for old people only.
KTF: At what point did you decide to turn your life around, and what role did faith play in that decision?
MN: It started within one year of being in
Nigeria. In that year alone, I got excluded from my school in Nigeria for fighting and, at the same time, the majority of my friends in London had gone to jail. It felt as if God had intentionally removed me from London in order to grant me a second chance. I didn’t become a follower of Jesus at that point, but my heart was definitely more open to Him. What followed, though, is that I decided I would make the most of my time in Nigeria; integrate and actually make friends; take my education seriously; and aim to leave with some qualifications.
KTF: Was there a specific moment or experience that led you to become a Christian?
MN: Yes, there was a moment. Up until that point I had been scared of God and death, because I knew I had done much wrong. But, as I was reflecting one day, it’s as if a lightbulb went on in my heart and I started thinking about the familiar phrase, ‘Jesus died for my sins’. It was in that moment that I got the revelation that the same God who I’d been scared of because of my sins, was the One who sent Jesus to die for all those very sins in order to forgive me. It was then I knew that Jesus truly loved me and wanted to make me new. And I decided I would follow Him.
KTF: How did you transition from that past life into becoming an investment banker? What were some of the biggest challenges you faced?
MN: By God’s grace, I left Nigeria at 19 – a Christian with 3A*s and 3As. Before leaving, though, I’d developed an interest in finance, and so I returned to London to study Economics at university. Most people didn’t know I was
back, as I kept it quiet so I could remain focused. While at university, I volunteered at a corporate finance firm in order to get some experience, and in my second year, I was fortunate to secure an internship at Santander. By the time I started my final year, I had secured a graduate role at Barclays Investment Bank. The biggest challenges were the fierce competition for these opportunities and overcoming the hurdle of having a criminal record. Jesus saw me through!
KTF: You're now a husband and father of three. How has your past shaped the way you raise your children?
MN: Given my past, I recognise the importance of affirming my kids in God’s truth. I aim to constantly remind them that they are loved and their identity is to be rooted in Jesus, not in the things I was once did. I also endeavour to spend quality time with them and have frequent conversations, as I want to make sure they know experientially that they can speak to me about anything. Lastly, I am honest – age appropriately – about my past and my sins, so that they recognise that their dad isn’t perfect, but deeply dependent on Jesus – just as I desire them to be.
KTF: You’re getting ready to launch your book, The Streets vs The Kingdom. What inspired you to write it, and what message do you hope readers take away from your story?
MN: In 2019, I visited three friends in jail. It was a very depressing experience, which made me ponder the way Jesus had rescued me from
the streets and transformed my life, and ultimately how He can do the same for my friends. This is when the book idea was birthed. Alongside this, I routinely heard reports of young people dying, and abhorring the fact that many were doing so without Christ. My heartfelt desire is for readers to recognise that ‘the streets’ thrive in deceiving our youth due to the worldview they espouse, and that only Jesus and His Kingdom are able to discredit, dismantle and deliver them to true freedom.
KTF: What advice would you give to young people who may be heading down the wrong path, just as you once did?
MN: I’d advise them to get alone and ask themselves this question: at what cost are you becoming loved by the streets? When you’re on that path you often don’t take time to reflect, as there’s a lot of adrenalin involved. But
when alone, ask yourself: are the arrests, the constant paranoia, near misses, fear, jail time, lost potential, and tears of your parents worth the five minutes of fame in your area? Not at all. Recognise that the streets are a counterfeit for true purpose, set up to stunt and destroy you. The truth is that you were made on purpose and for a purpose, and it’s the Author of your life, Jesus Christ, who leads you into that purpose.
KTF: What are your goals for the future, both professionally and personally?
MN: In truth, to honour God in all that I do. Professionally, that looks like continuing to add value to my clients, treating my colleagues well, and grasping at the opportunities to grow and lead. I’m fortunate to work in an expanding business with ambitious targets, so I know I’ll continually be challenged. On a personal level, there’s more writing to do. My wife and I set up a publishing company, Safehaven Prints, with the goal of empowering people’s faith beyond the page. We want this first release to be distributed throughout UK prisons, but there is more to come, including resources for both children and adults.
KTF: How do you hope your story and your faith will inspire others?
MN: My story is a testament to God’s awesome grace. I want others to see that same grace is also available to them – no matter how chequered a past they may have. Jesus sought me out when I was a complete mess and opposed to Him, and, despite that, He dealt with my sin and gave me a new life in Him. You may or may not have the background I have, but my hope is that all will know that it’s the power of the Good News of Jesus that is able to transform any life and, by extension, our society.
KINGDOM ENTREPRENEURS: ADVANCING GOD’S PURPOSE THROUGH BUSINESS
Entrepreneur and author Akin Thomas explains how Christian business owners can share, fund and promote gospel values through embracing a Dominion Mandate
God has entrusted me to steward the Dominion Mandate – a divine instruction for believers to excel, shape industries, and establish God’s principles in the marketplace. It’s not about personal ambition but about advancing God’s kingdom through business. Inspired by Joshua 1:14-15, I believe Christians are called to help one another possess the land – to create businesses of scale, impact communities, and operate with kingdom values at the core.
Breaking away from the world’s system
When I first started in business, I unknowingly adopted a worldly mindset. Like many, I was money-driven; success was about revenue, not impact. I would cut corners and delay supplier payments to extend cash flow. But God stripped me back, forcing me to rethink my approach.
The biggest shift came when I realised that people were my true profit – the impact I have on staff, clients and suppliers. A defining moment was when my team told me: “You are too kind.” Initially, I struggled with this, questioning whether kindness was a weakness in business. However, I soon understood that love in the workplace is rare. For instance, when employees shared experiences of domestic violence, I realised that, as kingdom entrepreneurs, our businesses must be places where people feel valued, supported and seen.
Owning our space in the marketplace
The marketplace is the greatest mission field for believers. Jesus called disciples from business backgrounds – fishermen, tax collectors, tentmakers – demonstrating that business is central to kingdom expansion. If there is an available space, someone will occupy it. Too often, Christian businesses fail to take their rightful place, allowing others to dominate industries and shape culture. We must
be deliberate in building businesses that reflect kingdom values and transform communities. This also means being discerning about where we invest.
Scripture instructs us to ‘prefer one another’ (Romans 12:10), yet many believers unknowingly fuel systems that weaken Christian businesses. If we fail to be strategic in where we spend and invest, we limit our kingdom impact.
Scaling for greater impact
For years, I believed business success was about survival. But I realised that true impact required scaling. Scaling isn’t just ambition – it’s about increasing influence and expanding God’s kingdom in the marketplace. So, I am unapologetic about scaling my organisational change consultancy, AKD Solutions. This shift required practical changes:
• building a team with the skills and capacity for bigger contracts
• developing systems to manage increased administration
• creating partnerships to meet procurement criteria
For example, we now bid for contracts of up to £500,000, requiring robust policies, financial viability, and operational excellence. What once seemed impossible became attainable through faith and strategy.
Yet, growth isn’t a smooth trajectory. There are challenges and seasons of pruning. John 15:2 reminds us that God prunes us so we can bear more fruit. Instead of resisting difficulties, I embrace them, knowing they prepare us for greater rewards.
Creating a kingdom supply chain
It’s not enough for customers to be discerning – we, as business owners, must also be strategic in our supply chains. Every business operates within an ecosystem, and if we aren’t intentional about where our money flows, we weaken our financial power.
When money constantly exits our communities without returning, it limits our ability to fund kingdom initiatives. However, strong, interconnected businesses can create a self-sustaining economic system that advances God’s work.
Collaboration is essential. When Christian businesses support one another, they strengthen the kingdom economy, create jobs, and increase financial influence. By intentionally building business networks, we shift from surviving to thriving.
Excellence: The greatest marketing strategy
One lesson I’ve learned is that our greatest marketing tool is recommendation. Ninety percent of our business comes from referrals, meaning:
• Customer experience must be exceptional (we strive, even if we don’t always get it right).
• Integrity must be non-negotiable.
• Our values must be tangible in everything we do.
Many businesses spend millions on advertising, but if your service is excellent, customers will market for you.
Excellence should be our default standard as kingdom entrepreneurs. Daniel and Joseph stood out in secular systems because of their wisdom and excellence. We must do the same.
Business as a kingdom vehicle
Every business should be a soul-winning vehicle. This does not mean forcing faith onto customers but creating an environment where kingdom values – integrity, excellence and love – are evident.
The Dominion Mandate is not just about individual success; it is about building an ecosystem where believers partner, grow and thrive together. We are responsible for helping one another fully occupy our industries.
By aligning our businesses with God’s principles, we don’t just survive in the marketplace – we dominate in a way that glorifies Him. If we fully embrace this calling, we will build thriving businesses that establish lasting kingdom influence for generations to come.
AKIN THOMAS
8 WAYS TO ATTRACT PEOPLE TO YOUR CHURCH, MINISTRY, EVENT OR GROUP
Marketing consultant Vee
Roberts provides some useful tips that ministries, businesses and churches can implement to promote their events, initiatives and services
Growing up, church was a big part of my life. There was always a social event or afternoon youth service to attend and, typically, everyone found out about it via a bulletin, noticeboard, newspaper or church announcement.
Fast forward 30 years and, in my capacity as a brand and marketing consultant and agency owner, I’ve seen how much things have changed.
I’ve had the privilege of working with churches and faith-based businesses, such as Tab Church London and Game Changers (https://www.changers.org.uk/), as well as being booked to speak at workshops and events over the years.
One thing I’ve noticed is that not all churches, ministries and event organisers are taking promotion seriously. It is not like 20 or 30 years ago, when word of mouth and a few text messages may have been enough to promote an event. If you want to welcome new people, fill your events, and serve your community, you need to understand the importance of branding, promotion and marketing planning.
Here are eight practical ways to promote what you do this year:
1 Set clear goals
You need to consider some measurable and realistic goals – whether it’s hosting an event this month, launching a website before autumn, or increasing the number of youths in your congregation. Be specific and realistic.
2 Use clear and inviting messaging
Let’s not overcomplicate or confuse anyone. People won’t engage with your church if they don’t understand what you stand for. Avoid vague statements. Your messaging should answer: Who are you for? What do you offer? Why should someone visit?
3
Build a community online and stay consistent
Don’t just pop up when you have a livestream for your service. Your church needs to be consistent online. Post consistently; use engaging visuals; and don’t be afraid to
show personality. Livestream sermons, share testimonies, and interact with followers through comments and messages. Create a hashtag, so that people can stay connected.
4 Livestream, and use congregationgenerated content
Video is one of the most engaging ways to connect with people. Short, authentic videos from pastors, members or leaders can showcase your church’s energy and warmth. Also, don’t forget that you can reshare and repost content from people who use your hashtag. Congregation-generated content (CGC) is the term I use for this. Encourage your congregation to get in on the fun!
5
Host events that serve the wider community
Not everyone will come to a church service, but they might attend a free business workshop, parenting seminar, or mental health discussion. Think beyond traditional church services and offer events that meet practical needs. This opens the door for deeper conversations and connections.
6 Leverage local media and community partnerships
Use publications, like Keep The Faith magazine and local newspapers, radio stations, and community websites to share news or publish features about upcoming events, charity work, or special services. Partner with local schools, businesses or charities to co-host events. This boosts visibility and credibility.
7 Revamp your website and maintain it
Your website is your digital front door. If it’s outdated, hard to navigate, or lacks key information, you’re turning people away before they even visit in person. Keep your website
simple, mobile-friendly, and informative. Essential sections might include details of the leadership team, YouTube channel and social media links, service times, location, upcoming events, and a clear ‘Plan Your Visit’ page.
8 Encourage members to be your ambassadors
The best marketing? Personal recommendations and congregation-generated content. Equip your congregation with tools to invite others, such as social media graphics, event flyers, etc. A friendly invitation from a trusted friend is often more powerful than any ad. Do you have any online community groups or membership boards? These always work well.
Final
Thoughts
Promoting your church or community group doesn’t mean becoming ‘too commercial’. It means making sure people who need hope, support and community can find you. Start with one or two of these strategies and build from there. The more visible you are, the more lives you can touch.
We all have a part to play and we all have a message we can communicate! Even if you are not in a leadership role yourself –you may be a member of a congregation, for example – how do you represent your church, event or local community?
Times have changed, so don’t be left behind. And, if you know you need guidance on how to get started, use the services of a professional.
VEE ROBERTS
THE BLESSINGS OF A FAMILY HOME?
Church buildings: assets or liabilities?
Helpful or a hindrance? How should we view our churches? Steve Wright asks whether we should see our church building as our family home…
‘Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce… Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper’ (Jeremiah 29:4-7).
Put down roots, start families, build a home… so said the Lord to His exiled people. Is there something here for the Church today? We too are exiles, awaiting the return to our promised land.
Of course, church is the people and not the building. But, just like a family home, the church building is where the family of God comes together, offers hospitality, and participates in the civic life of a neighbourhood.
A secure place of gathering
The family home matters! A place of our own, where we feel secure. A place we tailor to our particular needs. And so it is for a church family. Our meeting place matters to the quality of our time together. Is there a welcoming entrance, space for fellowship, sufficient toilets, good acoustics and lighting?
No family wants to be uprooted, but churches meeting in hired spaces face a new wave of vulnerability as biblical truth appears increasingly counter-cultural. At ECS we can
help you understand the protections your church might draw upon but, if building owners want you out, there are usually ways and means to achieve that, sooner or later. Churches forced from one hired space to another often find the move unsettles the dynamic of Sunday worship and upsets the family. Even committed members find that adjustment hard.
In contrast, a place of our own provides the security to build sustainable ministries for the long term and a place for the family to mature together.
A welcoming place of hospitality
The spiritual gift of hospitality – welcoming and loving the stranger – is one every church should develop (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2). The blessing of God to His people should overflow into the nations (Genesis 12:3) and, as we welcome in the newcomer, we share an experience of God’s undeserved grace to all who come to Him.
Just as church members show hospitality in their homes, so the gathered church has opportunity to do that in the family home of the church building. The good news we proclaim, week by week, is demonstrated to be good news in the gospel culture (the openness and relational warmth) of our gatherings. Church buildings are places where doctrine and culture go hand in hand, to the glory of God.
A place of community engagement
The writer Wendell Berry argues persuasively for the connection between community and place – the importance of shared history and commitment to our neighbourhoods. He connects with a core theme of Jeremiah 29:4-7. It is through these human connections that the blessings and Gospel of God will spread.
We know this instinctively in our family homes: a commitment to bricks and mortar represents an investment in the neighbourhood we inhabit, bearing relational fruit.
In the civic realm, the church can too easily sit on the edge of community. Where once churches were central to neighbourhood life, today they seem almost irrelevant to all but the Sunday faithful. Yet, in many places, there survives a strong sense of place – a sense of belonging and shared history. If the church isn’t part of that, and isn’t showing basic commitment to its community, our attempts to share the Gospel will simply seem irrelevant. As a church leader told me recently: “Without our own building, I think we’re viewed as a cult.” In our disconnected age, people long for real community. Church buildings provide an opportunity to move church from the periphery of civic life, closer to the centre. A building demonstrates commitment to community in myriad ways.
Church buildings are not straightforward: they’re costly to buy and build, complex to manage, and something always needs fixing. Just like home! But these buildings are the places where brothers and sisters live out the blessings of family life together.
At Edward Connor Solicitors, our Property Team has years of experience of helping churches with their buildings – whether acquiring a site, leasing, extending or developing. We’re all committed to our local churches and understand what matters to church families. We’re also familiar with the complexities of acting for charities, so we can ensure your gospel mission is strengthened at every step.
Steve Wright Head of Property at Edward Connor Solicitors
Discover The Bible Course: New Edition – one step at a time
The Bible Course New Edition seeks to make the Bible accessible, engaging and transformative. For many, the Bible can seem daunting, confusing or irrelevant. The Bible Course New Edition is an eightsession small group resource that seeks to change that perception. This updated and improved edition of The Bible Course has been created by Dr Andrew Ollerton and Bible Society. It o ers a fresh, visual approach to understanding the Bible and how it speaks to our lives today.
Visit Biblesociety.org.uk/thebiblecourse today to access the course.
Many of us have grown up hearing isolated Bible stories or verses but may have missed the bigger picture. This course bridges the gap. By introducing the Bible’s key events, people and stories using a unique visual storyline, The Bible Course allows participants to see how the big story fits together and the profound relevance of the Bible in today’s world.
Each session film provides a dynamic learning experience, including contributions from three new presenters, discussion questions to get your group talking about the Bible, a host of Bible experts and powerful personal stories.
Bible experts include Clare Williams taking us through the reliability of the Bible, Dr Nick Spencer explaining science and faith, Revd Dr Helen Paynter explaining violence in the Old Testament, and many more. There is so much to unpack in each session and these amazing experts help us to understand big themes, questions and talking points throughout.
The Bible Course Guidebook is the perfect accompaniment to the course films. It has been beautifully designed and is packed with additional content, maps and diagrams as well exclusive content from Dr Andrew Ollerton. There is also space for notes and reflections to personalise your experience of the course. Finally, The Bible Course Digital Hub is a free online resource where you can
re-watch the course films, access the daily Bible Plan and further video, audio and written resources to take your learning to another level.
Whether you are new to faith, a seasoned believer or somewhere in between, join thousands of others doing The Bible Course New Edition this year. It connects the dots between various parts of the Bible and o ers a framework that allows you to see God’s redemptive plan unfold from Genesis to Revelation. We believe every church needs to host The Bible Course, whether in small groups or coming together as a whole church. It’s easy to host – we’ve provided everything needed to help each person in your church to feel more confident and inspired in their experience of the Bible.
The Bible Course New Edition is more than just a teaching tool – it’s an invitation to discover the transformative power of the Bible. Whether you seek a deeper understanding of Scripture, a stronger connection with your church community, or a clearer path to living out your faith, this course o ers a way forward.
Start your journey today and let The Bible Course New Edition deepen your faith, enrich your understanding, and empower you to live out the truths of Scripture.
Biblesociety.org.uk/thebiblecourse.org.uk
Join fellow Christians in our Resonate research panel and have your voice heard by journalists, church leaders, researchers and more. You can join the panel by scanning the QR code or going to biblesociety.org.uk/resonatenow
Kuk’s BBQ: The traditional BBQ with an Afro-Caribbean Twist
At Kuk’s BBQ you’re not just a customer, you’re family. Discover our rich, smoky flavours – right from the comfort of your home or church.
Why Kuk’s BBQ?
• Authentic Recipes: Passed down through generations, our family recipes offer the best of traditional BBQ with an irresistible African and Caribbean flair
• Fresh Ingredients: Only the highest quality meats and ingredients make it to your plate
• Personal Service: We bring the BBQ to you, offering tailored catering that makes every event special
Ready to transform your church summer fest, corporate event or intimate family gathering into a flavour-packed celebration?
MANAGING CHANGE IN A WORLD THAT CONSTANTLY CHANGES
Shirley Anstis reminds us that change within ourselves and the wider world is inevitable and provides some tools and insights to manage both
As the seasons change, and the days seem longer, we step into another phase of life. Change gives us an opportunity to transform and grow. Whether positive or negative, change is inevitable.
We’re still in the early months of the year, so there’s still time to consider your hopes and plans for 2025. What would you like in this next chapter of your life? Is there anything from 2024 that you want more of, or less of? Was there something missing in 2024 that you would like to add to 2025? This is an opportunity to invite positive change.
The year could bring changes we desire – and other life events could force changes we do not want. Often being proactive is better than sticking our heads in the sand and then being jolted into a reaction. By being mindfully present in our lives, we can respond to what is real rather than focus on our regrets or worries. Whatever the case, know that change is often difficult, so be gentle with yourself and practise self-care.
Life takes us on a developmental journey from childhood to old age. At each stage of life, there is an opportunity to expand our world by adding new ideas and experiences. This expanded perspective can bring more joy into our world. By adding more into our life bucket, we crowd out the joyless activities and significantly reduce the proportion of our world they take up.
We can try to keep our world tightly closed and unchanged although this is near impossible. Life has a way of forcing us to make changes and our resistance often makes this a harder and longer process. Whether we’re losing a relationship or losing our health, early recognition and action stem the loss, helping to preserve what is left.
When we experience loss or hurt, we may want to shrink our world so that we can feel safe or have control. This receding is often ineffective. It may be better to face the loss and work through the many stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. For all of us, the recent pandemic changed our world forever and we need to make sense of that. This is best done with support – free or paid.
Once we’ve achieved some form of acceptance, we might be able to consider what changes could be helpful. Years later, we may be able to look back and recognise the many lessons learned and insights gained. I know the sad and sudden death of my sister many years ago gave me the courage to publish my first book.
Whether you are embarking on changing your thoughts, changing your brain, changing your emotions, or changing how you experience your body, becoming more self-aware is a good place to start. Any approach that encourages you to look after yourself and improve your well-being is divine work. Having faith in something greater could support you connecting to your soul and embracing transformation.
The world continues to go through turbulence. We can either deny the reality of change or find a way to work with it. If and when we accept the reality of it, we can still pledge to push against it, in whatever way we can. Sometimes change can feel like a death. Who will we become, without ‘that thing’ that feels so much a part of us?
You may be one of those people who feels stuck in a rut and would love to make changes to your life but aren’t sure where to start. Perhaps you want to be healthier, fitter, braver or more energetic. Or maybe that’s just my hope for 2025. You just need to start wherever you are.
You may have well-meaning contacts who encourage you to stay as you are. They may fear losing you or being left behind. You will need to find the courage to make desired changes. If there is no one in your network who can support you, then I’d suggest finding a counsellor or coach who can support you in your desire for more or different.
Best of luck in dealing with the changes that 2025 will bring.
SHIRLEY ANSTIS Counsellor, transformational coach, and author
www.envisioncounselling.co.uk
The crossroad of comfort and transformation
M Jasmyn Allen writes that in order to want to fulfil God’s purpose, we must leave a life of comfort behind
Life is full of crossroads – moments where we must decide whether to remain where we are or step into the unknown. These moments are often uncomfortable, agonising even, because they demand something from us. They call us to release what is familiar and embrace transformation. Change is rarely easy, yet it is the currency of growth. Without it, we stagnate. With it, we are refined, strengthened, and prepared for something greater. But, to walk this road, we need courage, commitment and conviction.
The Illusion of Comfort
Comfort is seductive. It whispers to us: “Stay here. Don't risk. Don’t stretch. Don't step out.”
Comfort feels safe, predictable and reassuring, but it attaches us to what we know, even when it no longer serves us. However, Scripture reminds us that we are not called to a life of passive comfort but of active faith.
Consider the Israelites in the wilderness. God had delivered them from slavery in Egypt, yet, when faced with the uncertainties of the journey, many longed to return to the very place that had oppressed them (Numbers 14:2-4). Why? Because the discomfort of transformation made the bondage of familiarity seem preferable. How often do we do the same? How often do we cling to old habits, relationships or mindsets simply because they feel safer than the unknown?
The Necessity of Transformation
The Gospel at its core is a message of transformation. Jesus did not come to affirm our comfort; He came to call us higher. He invited fishermen to leave their nets (Matthew 4:19), tax collectors to abandon their booths (Luke 5:27-28), and all who would follow Him to take up their cross (Luke 9:23). The call to follow Christ is an invitation to be made new, to be shaped, pruned, and refined for God’s greater purpose.
Transformation is uncomfortable because it involves surrender. We must surrender old ways of thinking, old fears, and old limitations. Transformation requires courage because it demands that we step into uncharted territory, trusting that God is guiding us even when the road ahead is unclear.
The Role of Courage, Commitment and Conviction
Growth does not happen passively. To truly embrace transformation, we need three key ingredients: courage, commitment and conviction.
Courage is the ability to move forward despite fear, which we often experience when stepping into something new. Whether it is launching a ministry, starting a business, reconciling a broken relationship, or deepening our spiritual walk, fear will try to paralyse us, but courage chooses faith over fear. Joshua was commanded: “Be strong and courageous... for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Courage does not mean the absence of fear but the refusal to let fear dictate our decisions. Commitment sustains us when enthusiasm fades. Many begin the journey of transformation with passion, but when difficulties arise, they retreat.
True growth requires perseverance. James 1:4 reminds us: “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Transformation is not a one-time event but a lifelong process. Commitment ensures that we stay the course – even when it’s hard, even when it’s lonely, even when it feels like nothing is changing. Conviction anchors us in purpose. Without a deep sense of why we are pursuing change, we will waver. Conviction is what kept Nehemiah building the wall despite opposition (Nehemiah 6:3). It is what fuelled Paul’s missionary journeys despite beatings, imprisonments and hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). When transformation gets difficult, conviction reminds us why we started and who we are following.
Embracing the Call to Growth
We will all face moments where we must choose between comfort and transformation. When the moment arises, will you remain where you are, or will you step forward, trusting that God has more in store for you? God is calling you to more – more purpose, more impact, more of Him. Transformation is not a passive process; it requires intentional action. Here’s how you can start your journey today:
• Courage: Identify the limiting beliefs that hold you back and challenge them with God’s truth. Take one bold step – whether it’s initiating a difficult conversation, launching a new project, or stepping out in faith where you feel unqualified.
• Commitment: Set a clear and realistic growth goal. Write it down, pray over it, and review it weekly to stay accountable. Establish daily faith-building habits, like prayer, Scripture study, and worship to keep you anchored.
• Conviction: Surround yourself with constant reminders of your purpose. Create a vision board, meditate on key Scriptures, or journal your faith journey to track how God is shaping you.
M JASMYN ALLEN Marketing Specialist and motivational speaker. Connect
on Instagram @jasmyn a
ALLOW JESUS TO BEAR YOU UP
Gary Clayton reminds us that we live in a fallen world, and if we want to overcome its challenges and remain hopeful, we must put our trust in God
Because we live in a fallen world, it’s hardly surprising when our plans fall through or when things fall apart.
Those who end up s ingle may not necessarily do so through choice, while those who are married won’t necessarily live ‘happily ever after’, whether that’s due to the death, diminution or dementia of a beloved spouse or – tragically – through separation, estrangement or divorce.
Some people die young, their time on earth all too short. Others, far longer-lived and therefore suffering from the ailments, indignities and pains of old age, may feel that it’s too long.
In the play Uncle Vanya, one of the characters is forced to confront her miserable existence, saying: “What can we do? We... shall patiently bear the trials that fate imposes on us... and when our last hour comes, we shall meet it humbly... We shall say that we have suffered and wept, that our life was bitter, and God will have pity on us...
“We shall rejoice and look back upon our sorrow here... We shall hear the angels. We shall see heaven all shining with diamonds... Our life will be as peaceful and tender and sweet as a caress... We shall rest!”
Despite Sonya’s suffering, Chekhov’s character sees life as ultimately glorious – our heavenwards trajectory finally ending with those who follow Jesus being gloriously united with
God for all eternity.
Until then, life for us ageing, earthbound individuals is more like a ticking time bomb than a carefully curated timepiece – one that seems primed at any moment to blow up in our faces and do its destructive worst.
Before we know it, we’ve progressed from needing to be fed, cleaned and clothed to needing a career so we can purchase our own food and clothing, to eventually needing a carer who can then feed and clothe us!
Life – whether we like it or not – contains trial, tribulation, disappointment and despair as we stagger around, looking for security in a world that’s more often a minefield than a sweet-scented meadow.
‘When sorrows come,’ Shakespeare wrote, ‘they come not single spies, but in battalions.’ It’s true! How often does one thing go wrong, only for other things to follow suit?
Life isn’t easy and, even if it’s easy for us today, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll be easy tomorrow...
Without God, we’re just a load of broken Humpty Dumptys, in need of a super-Saviour who can Superglue us back together again.
The consequences of sin’s curse and man’s separation from God require Jesus’ cure, which is why we so desperately need to accept and believe that Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected.
But what does Scripture tell us about the One who loves us and wants the best for us – even though He at times appears to allow the seemingly worst to befall us?
Consider Job’s suffering or that of Naomi (“Call me Mara because the Almighty has made my life very bitter”); King David’s volatile relationship with Saul or his rapacious, murderous sons; or Joseph, who was sold into slavery, then unjustly imprisoned.
Despite their sorrows, their lives ended well. Remember, too, the biblical heroes of the faith who faced persecution and of whom the world was not worthy (Hebrews 11:38). Think too of missionaries like MAF pilot Nate Saint who, along with four others, was martyred in Ecuador in 1956. All faced death but received eternal life.
The God who loves us – and who loved them – is ‘mighty and awesome’ (Deuteronomy 10:17). He ‘made all things, stretching out the heavens and spreading out the earth’ (Isaiah 44:24).
He is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4-6), gracious, righteous and full of compassion (Psalm 116:5). He not only sustains us (Psalm 54:4) but withholds no good thing from those whose walk is blameless (Psalm 84:11).
Abounding in love and faithfulness (Exodus 34:6), He is love (1 John 4:8).
This is the God we serve! This is the One who is on our side!
Are things hard? Philippians 4:13 reminds us: ‘I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.’
Do we feel like giving up? 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us, ‘God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.’
Whatever society might say, when things appear unbearable, there is nothing we can do but – like Sonya – bear it. The good news is that Jesus is there, and He will daily bear us up (Psalm 68:19).
GARY CLAYTON Works
FOOD THOUGHT
BY MARCIA DIXON MBE
4
marciadixonpr.co.uk
THE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWER OF EASTER
Easter is the most important celebration for Christians throughout the world.
It provides a moment for believers to focus on a momentous moment in human history and on their own personal lives: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and its transformative power.
Such has been the impact of Jesus’ life and death, centuries are measured as either BC (before Christ) or AD (anno Domini, or after Christ) and His teachings have, in some way, impacted every single nation on this earth. Christians are everywhere.
Furthermore, and more importantly, Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross and His resurrection paid the price necessary for the atonement of human sin – bridging the gulf between God and humanity – and won victory over death.
I understand why some unbelievers might get a bit confused about the events leading up to Easter and the spiritual significance of this special time of year. Scripture explains why they might feel this way. The Apostle Paul wrote: ‘The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the learning of the learned I will set aside.” Where is the wise one?’ (1 Corinthians 1:18-20).
It should be noted, though, that if individuals hear stories of how someone’s life has been totally transformed by the message of the cross, they get an insight into the power of the Easter story and how the events of
Easter can change the trajectory of someone’s life, their character and their heart.
Over the years I have had the pleasure of speaking to men and women who have experienced phenomenal changes in their lives and character as a result of accepting God’s gift of salvation. I’ve written stories on people some would view as the ‘dregs’ of society, like prostitutes, drug dealers and gang members, pastors’ kids ‘gone bad’... I have also written about professional highflyers and successful businesspeople – who were living the good life but recognising there was something missing from their lives – being forgiven of their sins and beginning a relationship with God.
Jesus died and paid the price for our sin, so that we could have a meaningful relationship with our heavenly Father – a relationship that became broken and skewed because of sin. If we accept this fact and the salvation He offers, we become born again and start a new life in Christ.
It may seem crazy but it’s true.
Happy Easter
DON’T GIVE IN TO HATERS
Over the years, I have met numerous people who are discouraged, upset and angry with themselves because they allowed ‘a hater’ to stop them from either living out God’s purpose for their lives or from pursuing their dreams and ambitions.
Haters have also been known to break up relationships and friendships, and, in the worst-case scenarios, break people’s spirits.
Haters are a part of life, and they tend to come to the fore whenever an individual is good at what they do and are on a path of success.
People must never give in to haters or allow them to derail them from their God-given purpose.
Instead, they should stand up to their haters in the best way possible: by loving themselves wholeheartedly and by deciding to keep on keeping on.
DON’T
BE FOOLED BY NOISE
Since the beginning of 2025 I’ve been watching videos by entrepreneurs to elevate my business mindset.
In one video, a millionaire businesswoman – who I’ll call Anita – shared how she went on a podcast with a second businesswoman – let’s call her Jane – who was viewed a success because of her large social media following and for the media coverage she received.
After the podcast, Jane took Anita aside and asked how she had achieved her success, adding that she (Jane) was doing OK but not great.
Anita was surprised, because she had automatically assumed Jane was excelling in business due to all the noise she was creating, and that she was the one who should be asking Jane for advice. When Anita shared her recipe for success – which was how to elevate one’s mindset – Jane was shocked.
What I learned from this story is that it should never be automatically assumed that someone is successful because they get a lot of media coverage, have a big social media following, or are well known. Noise does not equate to success. This is true within the Christian space too.
I remember interviewing a minister who worked in the US Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 60s. He told me that when Martin Luther King Jr died, he didn’t have much money in the bank and owned very little, but his influence on American society and the wider world has stood the test of time.
If we are prepared to dig deep, we’ll often find the people making the least noise are the ones who are the most successful, so don’t discount the quiet people or those in the background.
As Caribbean parents used to say: “Still waters run deep.”
Ministry leader and pastor, Yvonne Brooks, provides wise, compassionate and insightful advice to readers experiencing problematic life issues
I was unethically removed from my ministry role
I have been a Christian since the age of 15 and most recently served the Lord and my church as leader of the Women’s ministry. However, I feel I was unethically relieved of this role. I went to what I thought was a normal church leadership team meeting to discuss plans for the forthcoming year, only for my pastor to announce I was being relieved of my role and would be replaced by a younger woman who has been at the church for just six months. To say I was shocked is an understatement. I was blindsided. When I got home, I told my husband. He was so angry and wanted to speak with the pastor. I told him not to. Since then, however, I have felt so hurt and angry. I haven’t been to church and want to leave, but I’m fearful of going somewhere else just in case I get treated the same way. How should I move forward?
Belinda
the
Matters Heart of
spiritual maturity, and evidences your growth and development over the time you have been a Christian. A leader is in place not to serve themselves but rather God’s people. I’d encourage you to take the time to thank God for what He has done through you, and the lives you were able to touch and change. Rest for a while. Literally. Be still, then ask God what is His next plan for you. I encourage you to be prayerful and ask your husband to pray for you rather than dealing with the pastor. Continue to be an example in all that you do. Remember, your reward is not from the pastor or the people but from God, who sees your heart and motives. Don’t leave because you are upset or angry, move only because God leads you to do so.
Pastor Yvonne writes: I read your letter several times and, as a pastor myself, I am cringing and dismayed at the treatment you have received. I do not condone it on any level. The meeting you describe was not the right setting for you to find out you would no longer be leading this ministry. After serving in the ministry for a long period, this is not what you would have expected. At the start, was there any discussion of how long you would be in the role? I am sure you didn’t expect to occupy the position indefinitely, as the right to serve in any position is by agreement with the pastor, based on a person’s ability to perform their role well.
Whilst your treatment has been poor, how you deal with this situation is a sign of your
How can I re-connect with my long-lost daughters?
I had twin daughters with a woman I was not married to. We split up when my daughters were five, but their mother wouldn’t allow me to see them at all. I didn’t have the energy to go down the court route and resigned myself to life without my daughters. Since then, I have got married, have a new family, and got saved five years ago. For the past six months I have felt the Lord encouraging me to reconnect with my daughters. I know their mother lives in the same area, but I need some guidance on how to go about rebuilding a relationship with my daughters.
Tony
Pastor Yvonne writes: Thank you so much for your letter. It is a sign that you care and are ready to be an active part of your daughters’ lives. With God there is always the possibility of a second chance. Fathers are so important to a child’s life. Dads bring confidence and boost their self-esteem, so it’s important that your daughters get to know that you care. Even if you don’t get access, the knowledge that you are fighting to see and spend time with them will be something that brings comfort and an opportunity for healing in the relationship.
I encourage you to summon the will and energy to do whatever you can to broker a relationship with your daughters. It may take time and hard work, but it will be worth it in the end. Start off by discussing your feelings with your wife and what your intentions are. Mutual understanding is key. Then consider reaching out to mutual friends you had, in order to get specific information as to where your daughters are and the best way to make contact with them. Get as much information as you can before reaching out to them. I will be praying for you as you seek to repair these relationships.
If you would like help with a problem, email editor@keepthefaith.co.uk. Your name will not be published.
Pastor Yvonne Brooks is a co-pastor at New Jerusalem Community Church, Birmingham, and founder of Woman of Purpose, a ministry that encourages women to fulfil their purpose. She is also a speaker and author. Visit www.yvonneelizabethbrooks.co.uk
CHAPLAINS: PRAYING, LISTENING AND SERVING THOSE IN NEED
Wesleyan Holiness minister Rev Cassius Francis writes about his work as a hospital chaplain with the NHS in Birmingham
Icurrently work as a senior chaplain providing spiritual care within a multi-faith team, where we serve patients, families and staff with the Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust (BWC).
Chaplains are traditionally an ordained cleric or a lay representative of a religious tradition, who work within a secular institution. As chaplains, we don’t force our faith onto anyone and take pride in the mantra that we do not mention God unless the person we are serving does so first. This allows us to work with anyone in the hospital, whether they have a faith or not.
Whilst there are no chaplains recorded in Scripture, there is biblical inspiration to be found that exemplifies the chaplaincy role in Job 2:11–13:
‘Now when Job’s three friends heard of all these troubles that had come upon him, each of them set out from his home – Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. They met together to go and console and comfort him... They sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great.’
His friends provided a reassuring presence, which is what chaplains aim to do.
When the NHS was founded in 1948, chaplains were in post and were required to meet the religious needs of the then mainly Christian patients.
I was introduced to chaplaincy work in 2019, when I was asked to visit the Children’s Hospital to support a young woman who attended my church. She had given birth but had been transferred to the hospital because her baby was very ill. Sadly, the baby died, but I was greatly impacted by the chaplain, Reverend Emmanuel Bwalya, a minister based at Mount Zion Community Church, who provided calm reassurance as I supported the bereaved young couple and their extended family.
After that visit, I began training as a chaplain. My work as a chaplain is multi-faceted. It entails providing religious care, pastoral care, and spiritual support. No two days are the same. For instance, in one week, the day started with a staff support session in the emergency department; a baby’s baptism in the afternoon; and then work on a sermon for the annual memorial service. The following day kicked off with a meeting about a placement to support bereaved siblings, followed by another meeting about long-term patients. And in the afternoon I visited patients and families on the wards.
I recently supported a couple whose baby had to have extended treatment at the hospital. They were comforted knowing that the hospital had a chapel they could visit, but they had no idea who chaplains were or what they did. However, after making contact with the chaplaincy department, they were supported with regular check-ins, prayer, and facilitated communication and visits with their local church.
One key quality a chaplain needs to possess is active listening skills. Sometimes
people assume a chaplain’s role is about proselytising or evangelising within the hospital, but it is not about that at all. The main focus is about being present with people and recognising the privilege of being invited into the hospital bed space at a time when they may be quite vulnerable, be experiencing a range of emotions, and have lots of questions.
During the pandemic, my chaplaincy and pastoral skills were in great demand. I had an opportunity to share some of my experiences of that time in a recently published book, Black Grief and Healing: Why We Need to Talk About Health Inequality, Trauma and Loss, edited by Yansie Rolston and Patrick Vernon OBE. It was an awful time for those of us working with people, and during that time the only reliable way of being able to contact my dad in hospital was through the chaplaincy department.
If you are interested in exploring the role of the chaplain or becoming one, why not get in touch with the chaplaincy department at your local hospital to find out more? You can also ask about any volunteering and training opportunities.
It’s worth noting that chaplains operate in a host of different contexts – from businesses, educational establishments, fire departments, military forces, police, prisons, shopping centres, to sports clubs and more.
And, even if you aren’t interested in chaplaincy as a career, it may be worth familiarising yourself with the role, in case you, a family member, church member, or friend are in hospital and could benefit from the support of the chaplaincy department.
REV CASSIUS FRANCIS
degree
Minister with the Wesleyan Holiness Church, married to Vanessa for over 27 years, and recently completed a master's
How to study the Bible effectively
Christians are called to be students of Scripture. Dr Marvin Sanguinetti provides some guidelines on how to explore Scripture and retain what you learn
Christians will often hear the familiar mantra drawn from 2 Timothy 2:15 – ‘Study to show yourself approved’, but often won’t know exactly what the text is asking us to do, or how to go about doing so.
Of interest, the word ‘study’ here is not simply a reference to up the ante in reading or research, nor is it a casual reference to the acquisition of more religious knowledge. Rather, ‘study’ comes from the Greek word σπούδασον spoudazō, which means to ‘be diligent in a hurry’. In other words, because there is so much to learn and life is so short, the quicker we apply ourselves to the discipline of learning, the more effective we will become as Christian witnesses. What follows in this article are ways I have applied this text in my own journey of biblical and theological education, and I hope my methods will bring value to how you approach studying the Bible.
At the very onset I must offer a disclaimer: I will not focus on prayer, because it is expected that students of Scripture should always start and end Bible study with prayer. My approach here focuses on the tools and study space for making personal Bible study worthwhile.
The first decision we must make is where we are going to study the Bible, for, if our environment is not conducive to learning and retaining information, we will find ourselves going over the same ground repeatedly and wasting time. When we study the Bible, we should avoid distractions as much as possible such as turning off the TV in the background. We should also avoid studying in areas where we are most likely to fall asleep, e.g. never studying on the settee or sofa or in bed when
tired – this is a recipe for disaster, including torn Bible and book pages. Study sitting upright or standing at a desk.
The second thing we need for making personal Bible study effective is a good study Bible. I suggest a Thompson Chain-Reference Bible or Scofield Study Bible. Bibles without footnotes or endnotes of a proper reference system are for devotional purposes only, not for serious students of the Word. For those desiring more advance research, with original biblical languages for Word studies, online resources like www.blueletterbible.org or www.biblehub.com are helpful, as they have many translations of the Bible, and Bible commentaries, including Bible atlases.
The third thing we need in order to make personal Bible study effective is to decide on what we are going to study, and how long for – and stick to it. We can start off with studying the lives of biblical characters, such as Joseph, Paul, Jesus, but use other historical sources in addition to the Bible. Or you may do a topical study on subjects, like ‘Where do angels come from?’ or ‘What happens after death?’ My study practice is not to move on to other subjects
– no matter how tempted I am – until I have a good grasp of the current one I am studying. This next approach I apply is unconventional for studying the Bible, and, in my experience, is more popular with American and Asian Christians than British, African or AfricanCaribbean ones: i.e. taking notes during sermons and doing a weekly reflection on what the preacher actually said. It might surprise you of the wealth of information we glean from many modern pulpits. Take notes. We can do the exuberant hyping and shouting after the sermon is finished, particularly if you are Pentecostal...
When I was studying New Testament Greek, I thought this was the most demanding thing to do on planet Earth and I would never learn it, but my lecturer shared an acronym that I will share with you. I found it extremely helpful and hope you will do too when studying the Bible. It is HI-SI-WI-SI-MI! Yes, HISIWISIMI! Try and say it as one-word HISIWISIMI: HI = Hear it, SI = See it, WI = Write it, SI = Say it, and MI = Memorise it! Each time we read a passage, verse or book chapter, we should write a summary of what we read and even try to share it with others. If we cannot do this, then we might not have truly learnt what the text is saying.
There is much more to effective Bible study, but this should serve as a good introduction.
PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN IN THIS SOCIAL MEDIA AGE
Chioma Fanawopo shares some insights on how parents can protect their children from online grooming and gangs
As a youth minister, educator, safeguarding official, teen-andparent coach, and mother of two young men, I know how vital it is to protect our children from online grooming and gang exploitation. For Black children, especially those growing up in the diaspora, these dangers can be even greater due to economic, societal and cultural challenges. But with early intervention, open conversations, and the right support, we can help them stay safe and thrive.
Growing up, many of us were taught to stay out of trouble, focus on school, and never bring shame to the family. While discipline is important, I’ve learned that just enforcing rules isn’t enough. We need to actively engage with our children, guide them through life’s challenges, and make sure they feel safe coming to us when they need help.
One of the most important things we can do is stay involved in our children’s lives. Know who their friends are, where they spend their time, and what they do online. Even if they complain that you’re “being nosy”, stay engaged. Presence matters—it’s not about controlling them, but ensuring they are safe.
Another red flag parents should watch for is unexplained gifts. If your child suddenly has expensive trainers, designer clothes, or gadgets you didn’t buy, ask questions. Gangs and predators often lure children in with gifts, money, or fake friendships, making them feel
obligated to return the favour. A heartbreaking example of this is a young boy in London who was groomed by a drug dealer who regularly took him out for meals. When the time came, the dealer asked him to deliver a parcel—what seemed like a small favour. The boy agreed, not realising he was being used to transport drugs. He was robbed of the package and suddenly found himself indebted to the dealer, leading him into a life of crime.
Staying informed about their online world is also crucial. TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat and Instagram are where most young people spend their time. Do you know what they’re watching? Who they’re talking to? Predators can now reach our children through social media, right in their own bedrooms.
Instead of banning social media altogether, set digital boundaries together. Privacy is important, but protection is our job as parents. Rules should be clear: no chatting with strangers, sharing their location with a trusted adult, and no secret accounts. I always made sure my children knew they could talk to me about anything without fear of punishment. Many children don’t speak up about dangerous situations because they’re afraid of getting into trouble. Creating a safe space for open conversations is one of the most effective ways to prevent grooming.
For children who may be more vulnerable, offering them safe, legal ways to earn money can make a huge difference. Many young people get drawn into gangs because they are looking for financial independence. Encouraging part-time jobs, tutoring, or entrepreneurship can help them avoid risky situations. Building confidence and a sense of identity is also key. Children who feel valued and have strong self-esteem are less likely to be manipulated. Engaging them in sports, creative arts, faith-based groups, or community programmes can give them a sense of purpose and belonging.
Parental controls can help monitor online activity, but technology alone isn’t enough. Having regular conversations about online safety is essential. Teach them to spot red flags, like strangers asking for personal details, sending inappropriate messages, or pressuring them to meet in person.
No parent can do this alone, so building a strong support network is important. Work with teachers, youth leaders, and mentors to ensure your child is surrounded by positive role models. Many community organisations can help, such as The King’s Trust, The Amos Bursary, Urban Synergy, Catch22, CEOP, Internet Matters, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, and XLP. If you’re raising children in the diaspora, look for local organisations that offer similar support. Churches, community centres, and cultural groups often have programmes designed to uplift Black youth.
Too many families realise the dangers of grooming and exploitation too late. By the time parents notice their child withdrawing, becoming secretive, or receiving unexplained gifts, the grooming process has already begun. That’s why early intervention is key. We must start conversations early, stay present – even when they push us away – and make sure they know they are loved, valued and never alone.
We can’t control everything, but with awareness, boundaries and a strong support system, we can equip our children with the tools they need to stay safe and thrive. Let’s raise a generation that doesn’t have to recover from their childhood but instead grows up with confidence, wisdom and a bright future ahead.
'Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are older, they will not depart from it' (Proverbs 22:6).
CHIOMA FANAWOPO
BURNOUT: REASONS & RECOVERY
Dr T Ayodele Ajayi looks at the causes of burnout, and provides remedies to overcome this debilitating condition
Traditionally, Easter is a time of reflection and reassessment of priorities. As you move towards this resurrection season, I encourage you to look inwards and consider that question you may have previously been too busy to consider: Could you be burnt out? Burnout is a real-life experience that compromises potential, production, processes and purpose – irrespective of the industry. It happens in ministry too!
WHAT IS BURNOUT?
Burnout is not a medical diagnosis. Given the interest in the subject, it is unsurprising that it has attracted several definitions over the years since American psychologist Herbert Freudenberger coined the term in 1974. He used it to describe the consequences of severe and high ideals in ‘helping’ professions. Most recently, the World Health Organization defined burnout as ‘a syndrome conceptualised as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed’ (2019). Another popular definition is ‘a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by a long-term involvement with situations which are emotionally demanding’ (Mateen & Dorji, 2009).
It occurs when an individual feels overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands of their job or endeavour. Burnout can affect anyone – from the high-flying CEO to the overworked employee; stay at home parent; clergy or lay preacher. Interestingly, burnout is never a sudden event. Its progressive nature can make it difficult to identify and easy to accommodate. That is, until the inevitable happens – complete inability to function in one’s role.
The three core features of burnout are emotional exhaustion, emotional distancing, and reduced professional efficacy. Emotional exhaustion manifests as feeling emotionally overextended by one’s work (or ministry), with a pervasive effect on one’s ability to carry out work effectively, and the associated negative
impact on relationships and life outside work. Emotional distancing is marked with unempathetic, unfeeling and impersonal responses or feelings of negativism or cynicism to work. Ultimately, this results in progressive reduction in professional efficacy.
WHAT ELSE?
The features of burnout can be physical or behavioural. Easy and chronic exhaustion, frequent headaches, gastrointestinal problems, insomnia, and shortness of breath can be associated symptoms. Feelings of frustration, anger, resentment, suspicion, or overconfidence and invincibility or omnipotence are other red flags to watch. Damaging coping attempts, such as use of alcohol, illicit substances, and sedatives is not uncommon. The Mayo Clinic have on their website (www.mayoclinic.org) a helpful 10-item checklist for self-assessment.
AT RISK?
According to Freudenberger, burnout is more likely to happen in occupational contexts that require a significant amount of emotional work and empathy, personal involvement, and intrinsic motivation. The other risk factors include a heavy workload and long hours. On a BBC TV Question Time in January 2023, Professor Dame Clare Gerada, President of the Royal College of General Practitioners, disclosed that the confidential mental health service for UK doctors and dentists was seeing as many professionals every week as they used to see every year, when it was commissioned in 2008!
Other vulnerability factors include work-life balance struggles; working in a caring profession; feelings of little or no control over work; and personality traits of being a perfectionist. Committed and dedicated workers who have no boundaries in place are also at risk.
Working for employers with no clear job expectations or social support for employees – coupled with a hostile, dysfunctional
workplace and disregard for employee work-life balance – can make one prone.
RECOVERING FROM BURNOUT
The recovery process starts with first identifying and admitting the condition. Denial and feelings of invincibility can be hinderances. The role of empathetic managers, seniors, mentors and family members in flagging this up cannot be underestimated. Speaking to a healthcare professional, such as a GP or occupational counsellor, may be necessary. Anxiety and depression are common co-existing conditions with burnout, which may sometimes require independent interventions.
Gaining as much control over work is key. Working from home, reduction of contracted hours, ring fenced mid-week rest days (crucial for ministers) and prioritisation of regular rest breaks and holidays are within this remit.
Cultivating calmness in the workspace – using plants, furnishing, colours and decluttering – has a place. Prioritising self-care, in terms of adhering to adequate sleep, exercise and dietary regime, can be of benefit. Putting accountability processes in place to embed these changes may be required. Taking a personality test can be informing as to the cause of the burnout. You can obtain a free test from www.16personalities.com
Assertiveness training could shed light on the need for and how to set boundaries. The use of coaches and career mentors can offer an unbiased view and a fresh insight on how the various approaches work. Ultimately, a change of job role, employer, or retraining is a last resort. The way to see it is, burnout is heavily expensive. No job, vocation or ministry is worth the price of losing your physical, mental or family health.
DR T AYODELE AJAYI
ACCESSING CHURCH FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE!
Rev Victoria Lawrence shares some ways churches can make themselves more welcoming to people who are neurodivergent
It’s time for churches to be more intentional about seeing individuals with additional needs as valuable members of their congregations. Oftentimes, I meet people who attend church, but they attend without their child or adult person who has special needs – also described as neurodivergent.
WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY?
Neurodiversity is the concept that differences in brain function and behaviour are natural variations of the human experience rather than disorders that need to be “fixed”. It acknowledges that people think, learn and process information in diverse ways.
The term is often used in relation to conditions such as autism-spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and Tourette Syndrome.
The neurodiversity movement promotes acceptance, inclusion, and the idea that society should adapt to accommodate different ways of thinking, rather than forcing individuals to conform to neurotypical standards. It emphasises strengths as well as challenges, advocating for accessibility, education, and workplace accommodations.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY?
The Bible does not specifically mention neurodiversity or conditions like autism, ADHD or dyslexia. However, its core teachings emphasise the value, purpose and dignity of all people – regardless of their differences. These teachings are:
1 Everyone is created in God’s image. ‘So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them’ (Genesis 1:27). This means that every person – no matter how their brain works – reflects God’s image and has inherent worth.
2
God has a purpose for each person. When Moses worried about his speech difficulties, God reassured him, saying: ‘“Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord?”’ (Exodus 4:10-11). This suggests that differences in communication and ability are part of God’s design, not mistakes.
3
God uses people with unique strengths. Many biblical characters displayed traits that today might be seen as
neurodivergent. Moses struggled with speech but became a great leader (Exodus 4:10). Samuel had a unique way of perceiving God’s voice (1 Samuel 3). Paul was highly intense and focused – qualities sometimes linked to ADHD or autism – yet he played a key role in spreading Christianity.
4
The Church should embrace and support everyone. ‘On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable’ (1 Corinthians 12:22). This highlights that every individual – including those who think differently – has an important place in the community.
5
Jesus welcomed those who were different. Throughout His ministry, Jesus showed compassion to people who were marginalised or overlooked, including those with disabilities, demonstrating that God’s love is for everyone.
The Bible teaches that every person is valuable, loved, and has a unique role in God’s plan. Neurodivergence is not a flaw but a reflection of the diversity in God’s creation. The Christian response should be one of acceptance, support and inclusion.
The month of April is Autism Awareness Month. Why not do something for the neurodivergent people in your church?
As a mother to a 24-year-old daughter living with autism/ADHD, some of our painful experiences came from the Church, but such experiences have been turned around to provide education for the church communities.
One of the things that greatly helped my daughter was that our church allowed her to be herself, join the choir to sing, and just enjoy the service. Because the church gave my daughter such a positive welcome, I now drive
40 miles on Sundays to get to church simply because my daughter was made to feel supported, valued and special.
My church now also hosts Ability Sundays, where we encourage other young people with additional needs to come and showcase their talents. This has really meant a lot to parents.
HOW CHURCHES CAN SUPPORT NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE
Promote awareness and education. Educate church leadership and members about neurodiversity. This increases understanding and removes attitudinal barriers.
Create a sensory-friendly environment. Offer a quiet space or sensory room where individuals can take breaks if overwhelmed by harsh lighting, loud music, and other sensory triggers in worship services.
Adapt worship and church activities. Offer different service formats, such as shorter services or live-streamed options for those who find crowds difficult. Also, use clear, predictable structures in services, with visual schedules or bulletins.
Communicate with clarity and compassion. Use clear, direct language in sermons and church materials. Provide written or visual guides for events, sacraments, and church traditions.
By taking these steps, churches can truly embody Christ’s love, ensuring that all people – regardless of neurotype – feel valued, included and empowered in their faith community.
Your hair has always been beautiful, bold and unique. As we move through 2025, the hair care industry has been embracing and celebrating the diversity of textured hair more than ever. Whether you're rocking an afro, braids or curls, keeping your hair healthy, hydrated and defined is crucial. Here's a look at the top trending tools for all types of hair that will help you achieve the perfect hydration and moisture.
DYSON SUPERSONIC HAIR DRYER
Perfect for: Faster drying with less heat damage
One thing about afro hair is that it gets heat damage. This company has taken time out to create a product that produces gentle heat for hair. The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is an investment worth making for those who prioritise healthy hair. Known for its powerful airflow, this dryer reduces drying time while minimising heat damage. It also has multiple styling attachments, such as the diffuser and smoothing nozzle – perfect for curly and textured hair. The intelligent heat control feature ensures that the dryer maintains an optimal temperature, preventing over-drying.
SPRING HAIR REVOLUTION
TRENDING TOOLS TO KEEP YOUR HAIR HEALTHY IN 2025
Verona White gives the low-down on products that can enhance and improve your hair health throughout the year
MOLECULAR STEAM HAIRSETTER
Perfect for: Long-lasting curl sets
This is an old-fashioned way of curling your hair, but this product of rollers, with a little groove in them and gentle heat, will allow your hair to be straightened out without heat damage. For those looking for an alternative to traditional curling irons, the Caruso Molecular Steam Hairsetter uses steam to curl hair, offering a gentler styling process. This tool uses steam to create long-lasting, bouncy curls, without damaging your hair with direct heat. It’s a great option for textured hair because it provides curls that maintain moisture and shine. You can always wrap your hair in a circular method to achieve the straight sleek look.
You can also use rollers with setting lotion and leave-in conditioner. These are all gentle on your hair.
PORTABLE HAIR STEAMERS
As a freelance celebrity hairdresser, I am always on the move and need tools that will be portable and effective. Treating your hair is very important. You can buy the traditional upright steamer or one of my favourite tools, this amazing steamer. It uses the steam to open up the hair cuticle, allowing the deep conditioning treatments and moisture to penetrate.
The benefits are improved elasticity, reduced frizz, healthy scalp, and it enhances product absorption. You can also customise the intensity of the steam. It is a portable design which can be used at home and is easy to store.
WOODEN COMB
Using your fingers is the safest way to detangle your hair but, if you use a comb, use one that reduces breakage. Over the years I have used different combs and found that this comb is the best. It is part of my kit essentials for afro hair. Incorporating a wooden comb into your hair care routine can provide benefits to your hair. By promoting healthy detangling practices, reducing frizz and distributing the natural oils, wooden combs can help maintain the health of your hair.
SCALP MASSAGE MACHINE
My brother-in-law Gabriel had a small patch of alopecia and was addicted to scalp massage machines. This kind of tool is amazing for the scalp: a healthy scalp means healthy hair. A scalp massage machine can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine. They vary in design and function, but the benefits are improved blood circulation, exfoliation, scalp health, relaxation and stress relief.
Some key features include vibration and massage functions. Some machines come with vibrating features that simulate a massage. Regarding heat functionality, some models can offer a gentle heat which will open the hair follicle for better absorption of hair products. Some machines can be used while washing the hair, but please check before using it with water.
VERONA WHITE Hair stylist, wig technician, author and editor. For more hair care tips and products Follow on IG @afrohairgrowthchallenge
Walk Like Jesus: A 40-day Easter Challenge for spiritual & physical transformation
Olivia Williams highlights the spiritual and physical benefits of walking, and invites Keep The Faith readers to take the 40-day Easter Challenge
Imagine Jesus, journeying along dusty roads, His steps purposeful and filled with meaning. He walked to heal, to teach, to share the Good News. This Easter, let's walk with Him. Join the Walk Like Jesus Challenge, a 40-day journey inspired by Jesus’ life, designed to strengthen your faith and enhance your wellbeing, one step at a time.
Walking with God: Biblical footprints of faith
Throughout Scripture, walking holds deep symbolic meaning. In the Old Testament, God’s invitation to ‘walk with Him’ represents a life lived in obedience and close fellowship. In the New Testament, Jesus perfectly embodies this walking life. His journeys across towns and villages, bringing healing and hope, were integral to His ministry. Each step was purposeful, teaching us that the journey itself holds as much significance as the destination. Reflect on His walk to the well to meet the Samaritan woman (John 4) or His journey to Jairus’ house (Mark 5). These moments reveal the powerful impact of intentional action and faithful steps.
Embrace the journey: Finding purpose in every step
Committing to walking like Jesus means engaging more fully with our surroundings, communities, and, most importantly, with God. Just as Jesus connected with individuals along His path, we, too, are called to cultivate connection and build community. Walking becomes more than physical exercise; it’s a way to build relationships, share the Gospel, and serve others – a powerful expression of our faith. This Walk Like Jesus Challenge isn’t just about the physical; it’s a holistic invitation to deepen your faith through conscious movement.
The Walk Like Jesus Challenge: Two journeys to choose from Inspired by Jesus’ journeys, we invite you to join us on a meaningful challenge this Easter season. Choose the distance that best suits your needs and capabilities:
The Nazareth to Capernaum Journey (39 miles):
• Begin on March 21st and aim for approximately 6,500 to 7,000 steps daily to complete the challenge by April 18th
• This shorter journey is ideal for those new to walking challenges or with time constraints.
The Journey to Jerusalem (80 miles):
• Begin on March 9th and aim for 7,000 to 8,000 steps daily to reach your goal by April 18th
• This longer journey requires a greater commitment but offers a deeper, more immersive experience.
The Challenge runs from March 9th to April 18th. With each step, reflect on Jesus’ life, His sacrifice, and His enduring love. Allow this journey to become a powerful testimony to your faith in action.
Preparing
for your faith-filled journey
Before you begin, consider these practical tips:
• Maintain Good Form: Keep your head up, shoulders relaxed, and core engaged for optimal posture and efficiency.
• Warm-up Properly: Incorporate light stretches and basic bodyweight exercises to prepare your body for the walk.
• Invest in Good Walking Footwear: Proper footwear is essential for comfort, preventing injuries, and maximising your enjoyment.
• Use Your Walks for Reflection: Use your walks to pray, express gratitude, meditate on Scripture, and deepen your connection with God.
Nurturing
your well-being through conscious movement
Walking offers significant benefits for your physical, mental and spiritual well-being:
• Improve Physical Health: Walking helps reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses, improves cardiovascular fitness, improves muscle endurance, and promotes a healthier lifestyle.
• Mental Clarity: Movement alleviates stress, elevates mood, and stimulates creativity, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
• Spiritual Connection: Walking provides a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and aligning your heart with God.
Walking together in faith:
A community of believers
Jesus rarely walked alone; He journeyed with His disciples and followers. Walking in community strengthens our faith, mirroring the fellowship experienced by those who journeyed with Him. We encourage you to walk with family, friends, or your church group. Share your progress and reflections online using #WalkLikeJesusChallenge. Inspire others to join the Challenge, creating a vibrant community of faith and fitness.
Begin your journey today
Ready to Walk Like Jesus? Take your first step today! Choose your distance, lace up your shoes, and embark on this transformative journey. Join the Challenge, share your experience (using #WalkLikeJesusChallenge on social media!), and encourage others to walk alongside you.
For guidance on integrating faith-based fitness into your life, connect with Olivia Williams, Founder of ScriptFit, at www.scriptfit.com/workwithme
Will you accept the challenge?
OLIVIA WILLIAMS
Qualified health and fitness coach, personal trainer, and speaker specialising in faith-centred wellness
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING
Vanessa
Grossett gives the low-down on what Christian publishers look for when taking on new writers
Irecently made a video about Christian publishing houses for social media and received numerous feedback, stating how insightful it was, as inspirational writers were not aware that Christian publishers operate in the same way as secular publishing houses.
The feedback, as well as queries I receive from authors, made me realise Christian-based authors need more knowledge concerning this industry.
Christian publishers and agents are a business, not a ministry, and I think that is where the confusion comes from.
In my early years as a literary manager, I assumed that if working within a Christianbased organisation, the Lord should be involved in all matters – especially when it came to choosing a manuscript or author. However, when there are overheads and staff to pay, a company will automatically select an author who has a large platform, such as a megachurch pastor, well-known evangelist, and fiction writers, as they are more confident in those clients bringing in sales.
I personally find the secular publishing houses to be more flexible in taking on authors.
The main reason for that is because they cater to the general market, which means they gain profit through other categories. They still require authors to have reader credibility, a platform, and good writing skills, though. They are also much more open to taking on debut writers, as they organise writers’ programmes and competitions for up-and-coming authors, giving them a chance to break into the industry. I’ve noticed not many Christian publishers do this.
Also, there are secular publishing houses that have a sub-division for titles about spirituality and faith, and they create imprints for new authors who are unpublished and don’t have any representation. An example of a publisher that does this is HarperCollins.
If you are an aspiring fiction Christian writer, you will need to diversify your writing to suit the general market. Don’t panic too much, though, as you can still maintain biblical principles in the story, such as no cursing nor intense passion. However, publishers don’t want the story to be too preachy, as there are people who aren’t Christians who still like sweet romance. The good thing is that genres within fiction writing are very diverse, and storytelling matters as well as platform.
If you primarily write nonfiction, platform is all that matters. You could have a great topic, but if you don’t have the platform, houses are less likely to publish it. If you really believe in the topic and you don’t have the platform, it would be best to self-publish.
That being said, as an author you too are a business. I have regularly read in queries sent to me: “I believe this is a God/divine connection and I would LOVE for you to represent me. God told me to write this manuscript.” As nice as that is, this is not what agents or publishers want to read, and I personally cannot send statements like this to any publishers on behalf of my authors, as they will come to the conclusion that I am not serious.
Please refrain from putting statements like these in your query letters! It will make the publisher and agent believe you are not
professional and will decrease your chances in getting published or represented.
Potential publishers want to know what your platform is like; what your previous sales are like; whether you are already a published author; and whether you have good writing skills.
So instead, when sending a query letter to a publisher, include in your correspondence a brief biography, a brief description of your book (the blurb), the word count, marketing ideas, and connections with other authors you have.
Do your research on publishers and agents before you submit, and make sure they acquire the manuscript you are writing. Do not think because they are Christian-based, they will be flexible on what you submit to them. I have experienced this quite a few times: my submission guidelines are clear, but I still get sent something different because the writer assumes I will be flexible as a Christian. This comes across as unprofessional.
If you need support, there are plenty of online writers’ groups you can join. If there is one thing I really want you to take away from this article, it’s to remember that writing and publishing are a business.
Happy writing!
REDEMPTIVE STORIES AND THE POWER OF STORYTELLING
Joy Roxborough encourages artists and creatives to use the art of storytelling to tell God’s story and His desire to transform lives for the better
Approximately 43% of the Bible is made up of stories. That makes storytelling a pretty important component of our lives, especially as Christians. In light of that, it’s odd in some ways that theatre and acting, which involve storytelling, were frowned upon by some sectors of Christianity at various points in history.
The Puritans, for example, in the 16th and 17th centuries, were vehemently opposed to theatres. Admittedly, it could be argued that it was perhaps not theatre in and of itself that was frowned upon but, rather, it was the immorality encapsulated in the stories being acted out, and the drunkenness, lewdness and general debauchery commonly associated with theatre houses. Of course, we have come a long way since then. I have come a long way since then.
As a young Christian, I held the view that it was somehow wrong to go to the cinema, but now I do occasionally attend both theatres and cinemas. For sure, I do not think there could be such a thing as a writer who doesn’t ever attend theatres or cinemas!
Acting and storytelling are now very much an accepted part of the Church in today’s society – from the humble local congregation nativity plays to the expansive street Passion Plays and more. But what exactly is in a story? What has redeemed the art of storytelling, making it acceptable for church use? Is it merely the elimination of offensive language, outrageous behaviour and storylines that oppose Christian values?
I beg to argue that stories and storytelling have always rightfully been activities that Christians could have legitimately utilised. Perhaps it is only in more recent times that our eyes have been opened to see this, hence the more comprehensive acceptance of things like acting within the Church.
For me, certainly – though I am a writer – it is only in very recent times that I have begun to appreciate the true potentially redemptive nature of storytelling. In the Creative Leadership module I am currently doing as part of the Kingdom Academy, I was exposed to some key tenets regarding my role as a writer within the Christian tradition. I found these principles fascinating and surprising and yet so simple that I marvelled I hadn’t known them earlier.
I was taught in earlier years at school that every good story has to have conflict and rising tension... Why? Because it makes the story interesting. No conflict, no story. But I have
come to understand there is more to it than that. We all like conflict in the stories we read or watch, right? Yes. If conflict is absent, we get bored and close the book or flick the switch. Why? Because conflict is in our DNA since the time of the Fall.
And yet, nobody likes conflict in their personal lives. The revelation unfolded that our desire to champion and follow the hero in our preferred stories – and witness them win – is correlated to our desire to achieve resolution in the conflicts in our own life stories! Simple and yet so profound. Not only that, but our personal life stories are chapters in the one grand story – God’s story – which trumps every other story.
And that has implications for the way I – and all of us as Christian creatives –can consider formulating our future works. We are writing stories – or conducting whatever craft we do – not merely to be good at our craft but to provide the hope that consumers of our work are looking for and need, as they seek the resolution that we all crave for our ‘Fallenness’.
These simple ideas have resonated with me and are already impacting my thought processes as I ideate current and future work. They have certainly given the concept of conflict deeper significance in my mind, and I hope this will translate into richer conflicts and resolutions coming out in my work.
Despite the years the Church may have lost historically in realising the full potential of storytelling, it is never too late to tap into its power: dry bones can still come alive; God can still restore the years the locusts have stolen.
So, let’s go forth and create to the glory of God, as we wait for the final resolution that will come when that overarching story, the one grand story – God’s story –reaches its resolution, and we are restored to our true selves as we would have been in the very beginning.
Cook with Kirly-Sue
This column is all about celebrating the delicious dishes I love. Enjoy my easy-to-make, mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips to make your time in the kitchen a breeze.
CARIBBEAN-INSPIRED RICE PAPER DUMPLINGS: A FLAVOURFUL FUSION
When you think of Caribbean cuisine, you probably imagine bold spices, fresh herbs, and the irresistible combination of sweet, savoury and spicy flavours. Today, I am bringing you that vibrant Caribbean essence to an unexpected dish – rice paper dumplings!
Traditionally found in Asian cuisine, these delicate wrappers make the perfect vessel for a tropical, flavourpacked filling, inspired by the islands. Caribbean food is all about layering flavours, using fresh, local ingredients, and embracing the joy of home-cooked meals. This recipe takes a classic Caribbean element – ackee – and tucks it inside a light and crispy rice paper. The result? A dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
These dumplings are naturally vegan, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a plant-based way to enjoy Caribbean flavours. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can customise the filling to include your favourite island ingredients – maybe ackee and callaloo, or a jerk-seasoned mushroom-and-bell-pepper mix. The rice paper crisps up beautifully when pan-fried or air-fried, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite, while the filling remains juicy and bursting with tropical goodness. Perfect as an appetiser, snack, or even as a light meal.
VEGAN RICE PAPER ACKEE DUMPLINGS, SERVED WITH SWEET CHILLI DIPPING SAUCE AND A KALE SALAD
INGREDIENTS
• 6 rice paper sheets
FOR THE FILLING
• 150g of cooked ackee
• 100g cabbage, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• ½ inch ginger, minced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 spring onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• ½ tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• ½ tablespoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon chilli flakes
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon sugar
METHOD
• Place a frying pan on medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Add in your ackee, cabbage, carrot, ginger, garlic and spring onion. Fry for 5 minutes and then add in your sauces. Fry for a further 5 minutes, give it a good stir, and then set aside to cool.
• Dip your rice paper sheets in warm water for a few seconds so that the whole sheet is wet. Place it on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the filling into the centre of the rice paper and fold it into a parcel. Repeat this step for all your dumplings.
• You can either eat your dumplings like this, or you can make them crispy. Grab your non-stick frying pan and drizzle in some vegetable oil. Place on medium/high heat and add in your dumplings with enough space between them. Fry for 5 minutes on both sides or until golden and crispy.
KALE SALAD (inspired by my friend Chef Troy @ChefTroys Table)
INGREDIENTS
• 1 bunch of kale
• olive oil to drizzle
• juice of half a lemon
• 2-3 tablespoons dried cranberries, chopped
• 7-10 pieces of broccoli
• 3 dates, chopped
• 1 apple, finely chopped
• 1/2 cucumber, julienne sliced
• 1/4 of a purple cabbage, finely chopped
DRESSING
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon chilli pepper flakes
• 2 capers
• a drizzle of olive oil
• juice of half a lemon
• salt to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
METHOD
• Place the kale into a bowl, add the olive oil and massage it into the kale for a few minutes.
• Add the lemon juice, dried cranberries, broccoli, dates, apple, cucumber and purple cabbage. Set aside.
• To make the dressing, place together all the ingredients for the dressing in a blender, and blend together.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and serve.
• Enjoy!
THOUSANDS DEAD, MILLIONS HOMELESS: THE CRISIS YOU DON’T SEE ON THE EVENING NEWS
Christian charity Open Doors reports on the persecution Christians are experiencing in sub-Saharan Africa
In early March, while the media was laser-focused on Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a story quietly appeared on the Daily Mirror website. An estimated 70 Christians had been found decapitated outside a church in the village of Kasanga in the northern Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
According to the charity Open Doors, which monitors the persecution of Christians worldwide, the fact that the victims were Christian is no accident. This was the work of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a radical Islamic group with close ties to the so-called Islamic State (IS).
For most people, IS conjures up memories of their brutal takeover of areas of Syria and Iraq 10 years ago. Their original aim was to rule the region as a caliphate – an Islamic state operating under strict Islamic Sharia law. Women faced execution for baring even a few inches of flesh in public, and Christianity was completely outlawed.
Ultimately, IS was defeated by military might in the Middle East. However, the extremists’ original plan – to form an Islamic caliphate – is still alive. This time the location they have chosen is sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Their plan is to destabilise and ultimately take over large areas of the region, exploiting existing conflicts and weak government. And they have been frighteningly successful.
Barnabas is a pastor and father of five from Benue State in Nigeria. The family live in a makeshift tent, no bigger than a double mattress. It has been their home for five years.
He escaped attacks by Islamic extremists in his original village, but he saw members of his own family brutally killed.
“I was on the farm with my brother, Everen, and his wife, Friday,” he says. “We were walking when we heard rapid shooting of guns. We saw people running in different directions. We didn’t know that the militants had surrounded us.”
The Internally Displaced People’s (IDP) camp, where Barnabas and his family live, is one of many makeshift camps strewn across sub-Saharan Africa. They house many of the estimated 16.2 million Christians who have been forcibly displaced – many due to extremist Islamic violence like this.
“Each and every one you see here – we are all Christians,” he says. “We are displaced because of violence.”
“We discovered that this is because we are Christians,” says Barnabas. “They want to convert us to being Muslim.”
And then there is Manga, who saw his father beheaded by Boko Haram. Manga escaped, but bears scars across his neck, where he was almost beheaded.
The Islamist violence extends from the Sahel region in west Africa to countries like the DRC and Mozambique further south. However, Nigeria is at the heart of the slaughter. Attacks like the one Barnabas describes are commonplace and its middle belt.
There is a dizzying array of armed groups vying for influence across SSA. In Nigeria,
militants from the Fulani (or Fula) people are the most active. However, there is also Boko Haram and others. They all have the same aim: to destabilise and conquer whole regions for their form of Islam.
In the last reporting period for Open Doors World Watch List, which measures and ranks the persecution of Christians around the world, we recorded that 3,110 Nigerian Christians were killed because of their faith, that’s nearly 70% of all those killed for their Christian faith worldwide. At the end of 2023, Nigeria alone accounted for more than 3.3 million IDPs due to the violence, many of them are Christians. Again and again, we are asked at Open Doors: “Why is this not front-page news?”
It’s time to break this silence. That’s why Open Doors is launching Arise Africa. It’s a campaign to rally Christians in the UK to act on behalf of our brothers and sisters who are being persecuted in sub-Saharan Africa. Our goal is to gather 100,000 signatures for a petition to be presented to Parliament. It will demand that our government acknowledges and acts on the persecution of Christians in Africa and put pressure on African governments to challenge the impunity with which the militants carry out their reign of terror.
The Bible calls us to ‘remember those in prison as if you were together with them’ (Hebrews 13:3). This is our moment to stand in solidarity with our African brothers and sisters. Will your church stand with Africa’s persecuted Christians in their hour of need?
A CHILD IN AFRICA WILL DIE FROM MALARIA
EVERY MINUTE *
Every £18.95 donated will get a life-saving malaria treatment kit to a child in South Sudan.
Mothers carry their children for hours on foot to reach Noah’s Place Mission Hospital — one of the only hospitals they trust to have life-saving medicine when needed most.
In the wet season, malaria runs rampant, and there could be hundreds of mothers and children waiting in line for a doctor.
When every minute counts, it is crucial that Noah’s Place has a reliable supply of medicine. Their patients rely on them to have the medicine they need, but Noah’s Place relies on MAF to fly the medicine to their isolated area.
‘Road transport is not an option; driving would take three days. When we run out, MAF flights mean we can restock medicines within a week, whereas previously, it could take us months.’ Explains Dr Jonathan.
The wet season is coming. Please donate £18.95 today to ensure Noah’s Place has the medicine they need to save children from malaria.
Have you got a minute? Please donate £18.95 to fly a malaria kit to Noah’s Place Mission Hospital and save a child. Visit www.maf-uk.org/idat-malaria4 Scan the QR code with your phone to send your gift immediately.
