Revive Spring 2026

News and features from USPG – Anglican Mission Agency

Revive Volume 7 | SPRING 2026

+ Summit Against Human Trafficking Unites Anglican Leaders & Practitioners + Love Stronger Than Fear: A Christian Response to Nationalism + Pages of History: Uncovering Stories of Mission Through the Ages

From the Editor

REVIVE MAGAZINE Dear sisters and brothers,

CONTENTS + What’s been going on? + Summit Against Human Trafficking Unites Anglican Leaders & Practitioners

+ Learning, Unlearning, Relearning: My Faith and Leadership Journey in Kenya + Reconstruct, Reassemble, Restore: Hope After Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica + Opening Doors to Theological Education for Women across Africa + Love Stronger Than Fear: A Christian Response to Nationalism + Called to Serve: Empowering the Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East + Pages of History: Uncovering Stories of Mission Through the Ages + Global Scholars Gather in Limuru + Lent Study Guide: ‘For Christ is Our Peace’ + Lent Appeal + Lent Wordsearch

It is with joy and excitement that I share the latest edition of Revive Magazine with you. It is a privilege to witness together with USPG’s family and friends how God has been moving around the world, and to see how your support continues to change lives and transform communities worldwide.

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That ministry will be exercised in the midst of a storm. Around us, fear is being stirred, divisions are deepening, and democracies, where they exist, feel fragile. Issues such as migration and national identity are increasingly used to draw hard boundaries between “us” and “them”, leaving many communities anxious and excluded.

Beneath the surface lie deeper currents shaping the direction of travel: long histories of inequality, the shifting balance of global power, and unresolved legacies of empire, race and exclusion. Christianity itself is not a bystander in this moment. Our faith has shaped public life in many positive ways, but it has also been misused. Too often, the gospel has been compromised by nationalism*, and faith has been driven by fear rather than love. This calls us to lament, speak honestly and to act with humility.

For Christians, the task is not to retreat from the storm, but to navigate it with care. At USPG, this means resisting fear-based politics and pursuing truth and peace. Peace, as the gospel understands it, is not passive. It is active, costly and grounded in relationship. It involves standing alongside those most affected by violence and instability and working patiently for justice.

This year’s Lent Appeal invites you to stand together in that pursuit of peace.

And so our thoughts turn especially to Myanmar, where ongoing conflict, displacement, and natural disasters have left millions struggling to survive.

Nearly four million children are currently unable to access education. The Church of the Province of Myanmar is responding through its Integrated Education Programme, providing vital learning for children and adults across all nine dioceses. This work not only protects communities today but also offers hope for the future. Find out more at lent.uspg.org.uk.

The last few months have continued to demonstrate the power of global partnerships, with a global Anglican gathering held in the Church of North India for the first time, sharing the best practices necessary for the global Church to respond effectively to human trafficking and modern slavery (pages 6-7).

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Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

The Revd Canon Dr Duncan Dormor General Secretary and Chief Executive, USPG

And with great partnerships come great stories. Together we will hear from Jen Lun (pages 8-9) and The Revd Rachel Moshanah (pages 12-13) about how they have been shaped, impacted, and developed by USPG’s Emerging Leaders Academy and Young Anglican Women’s Theological Education Scholarship Programme.

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USPG is committed to giving young leaders the opportunity to grow and develop, and this year’s Called to Serve conference in Jordan (pages 16-17) gathered 20 young leaders from across the Middle East to explore Christian leadership more deeply and put that knowledge into practice.

Closer to home, USPG’s Research and Learning Advisor Dr Jo Sadgrove shares her thoughts on how Christians can respond to nationalism in the UK (pages 14-15), and we get a rare insight into USPG’s book collection and stories of mission thanks to a committed volunteer, Anne Bonger (pages 18-19).

USPG – 5 Trinity Street, London, SE1 1DB 0207 921 2200 www.uspg.org.uk

Whether you’re new to the USPG family or have walked alongside us for years, thank you for supporting us on our journey. May we continue to be inspired by how God is moving among and through His people.

Follow us on @USPGglobal Editor: Matthew Anns Sub-Editor: Rachel Weller communications@uspg.org.uk Charity number: 234518

As we enter the new year, we look forward to the consecration of Archbishop Sarah and offer our heartfelt congratulations and prayers for her ministry in the years to come.

WELCOME

Welcome to the latest edition of

Thoughts from the General Secretary

Matthew Anns Editor, Revive Senior Communications & Engagement Manager, USPG 2

* For more on Christian responses to nationalism and the far-right, read Dr Jo Sadgrove’s article on pages 14-15.

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News from USPG

News from USPG

WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON? Advancing Gender Justice For the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we highlighted how faith-based organisations are advancing gender justice, equipping communities to protect girls’ rights, and enabling young women to thrive.

Removing the Eraser: Black History Month Panel For Black History Month, USPG and the Diocese of London hosted a panel event entitled ‘Removing the Eraser’. It explored how generations of histories and identities have been erased – and how they can be reclaimed.

The panel included The Revd Les Isaac OBE, The Rt Revd Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy, Annmarie Lewis OBE, and researcher Odile Jordan, who shared insights on racial justice, representation, and resilience. Bishop Lusa reminded us: “The Church has to rediscover its unique role in shaping history. God hasn’t called one culture to deal with His Kingdom; He’s called the Church.”

Watch the full recording on YouTube.

In Malawi, the Anglican Council, in partnership with USPG, is tackling barriers to girls’ education through school clubs, life skills programmes, and community engagement. Thokozani, 14, shared: “Before, I used to miss school whenever I had my period because I had nothing to use. Now I attend classes every day and want to become a nurse.”

The Rt Revd Michael Maxwell, Bishop of Barbados and Chair of the Codrington Trust, expressed his support: “We are very pleased that this is happening, particularly to help those who are descendants of enslaved people. Through this project, we will assist them to become landowners and support their development through education and entrepreneurship.”

Dame Sarah Mullally Appointed Archbishop of Canterbury USPG warmly congratulates Dame Sarah Mullally on her appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury, the first woman to serve as the spiritual leader of Anglicans worldwide. Her experience in the NHS and as a senior civil servant brings unique insight and leadership to the Communion at a time of challenge and opportunity.

By virtue of her new role, Sarah also becomes President of USPG. The Revd Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, Global Theologian and Director of Global Mission at USPG, shares: “Her role at the heart of the Anglican Communion is vital in nurturing bonds of fellowship and solidarity across diverse contexts. At USPG, we look forward to working together to live out God’s mission in the world.”

COP30 comes to the Diocese of Amazonia!

Alongside formal discussions, faith leaders and Indigenous communities gathered in Belém at Tapiri - an ecumenical hub for prayer, dialogue, and public witness supported by USPG and other partners.

For news as it happens, don’t forget to follow @USPGglobal

Confronting Codrington: Reparative Justice in Barbados As part of USPG’s Codrington Project, leaders, church representatives, and academics gathered in Barbados in October for the Confronting Codrington Conference, calling for a generational commitment to repair the legacies of transatlantic slavery.

In Zambia, the Anglican Church launched a campaign to end digital violence against women and girls. “Online abuse is real and wounds the image of God in His daughters,” said a church representative. Sporting bright orange t-shirts, volunteers took to the streets and local events to raise awareness and encourage safe spaces – both physical and digital – where women and girls can live and work without fear.

Africa Partners Forum The USPG African Partners Training Forum, held in Tanzania, brought partners from across the continent together for a week of shared learning, prayer and collaboration. The programme combined devotional leadership with practical skills-building, strengthening how we work together in mission.

Sessions explored resource mobilisation, strategic communication and storytelling for impact. Safeguarding was central to the forum, with partners from Zambia sharing their frameworks and working together to begin shaping policy outlines for different contexts. Follow @USPGglobal on social media to meet some of the partners!

Safe Churches in Latin America The Anglican Church of Mexico recently hosted the first-ever Spanish-speaking regional conference of the Anglican Communion Safe Church Commission, a milestone in promoting safeguarding and inclusion across Latin America.

We were proud to support this important gathering. Dr Paulo Ueti, USPG Theological Advisor and Regional Manager for the Americas and the Caribbean, led sessions to representatives from Mexico, El Salvador, Brazil, the USA and beyond. The Safe Church initiative strengthens our shared mission to ensure that every Anglican church is a safe place for all.

Panel talks and cultural events put Indigenous voices centre stage, calling for real and urgent climate action.

With Grateful Thanks We are deeply thankful for the prayers, generosity and solidarity of everyone who supports USPG. Together, we continue to walk alongside our partners as they witness to God’s love in diverse and challenging contexts around the world.

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Championing Justice Marking the first time a global Anglican gathering has been held in the Church of North India, the Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery conference took place in Durgapur from 3-7 November 2025. Hosted by the Diocese of Durgapur, in collaboration with USPG, the vision was to develop the strong partnerships necessary to effectively respond to human trafficking and modern slavery across the global Anglican Communion. The Diocese of Durgapur was chosen as host because of its long-established and highly effective antitrafficking programme, run in partnership with USPG. Many families earn livelihoods by making and selling bamboo crafts through the Diocese of Durgapur AHT programme.

It is estimated that 49.6 million people are currently living in modern slavery globally, including forced labour and forced marriage, with criminal profits from forced labour now estimated at over £185 billion annually. In India alone, it is thought that roughly 11 million people are living in modern slavery as recently as 2021 – the highest estimated total number of people living in modern slavery of any country.1

“Human trafficking continues to be one of the darkest realities of our time, affecting millions, stripping individuals of their identity, freedom, and hope. As a Church and as a community rooted in faith and compassion, we cannot stand by in silence.”

The Revd Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, Global Theologian and Director of Global Mission at USPG, says: “These are not distant statistics but real people created in God’s image, with inherent worth, dignity and value. As Christians, we are called to seek justice for the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17).”

The Rt Revd Sameer Isaac Khimla, Bishop of Durgapur, adds: “Human trafficking continues to be one of the darkest realities of our time, affecting millions, stripping individuals of their identity, freedom, and hope. As a Church and as a community rooted in faith and compassion, we cannot stand by in silence”.

SUMMIT AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

it is built into the system, keeping workers out of sight and making their exploitation possible.

In response to this matter, over 50 participants gathered in Durgapur, India, for a week of mutual learning and connection. The diverse group, from five different continents, brought a wide range of experience, including safe-home volunteers from Hong Kong and Calais and project leads from Zambia and Kenya. During the discussions, delegates focused on the main trends in trafficking, identifying the most vulnerable groups, such as youth, and highlighting key areas of concern across different regions.

As part of the conference programme, delegates visited a village hosting the Bamboo Craft Training Centre, run by the Diocese of Durgapur. There, a dedicated team helps at-risk communities learn new skills and run small businesses. It was inspiring to witness the impact firsthand - families remaining together, safeguarded from the risks of false promises of marriage or employment.

One of the participants, Da Young Kang, is a social worker at the Social Mission Centre of the Anglican Church of Korea. Based at Yongsan Nanum House, DaYoung works with migrant women, offering a community hub in the heart of Seoul. She has spoken publicly at the National Assembly in Seoul and campaigned to stop the crackdown on undocumented immigrants. Around 400,000 undocumented immigrants in South Korea work in a hidden labour market, taking informal, low-paid jobs in kitchens, factories, or forced into other forms of abuse. This invisibility is not accidental –

DaYoung reflects: “Meeting women who rebuild their lives through sewing and local businesses showed me how empowerment can prevent human trafficking. When I return to Korea, I hope to share these insights with my church, to strengthen our solidarity with migrant workers, and to continue the mission of building freedom and dignity for all.”

From India to Hong Kong, participants at the conference left energised by practical strategies and approaches for navigating the complex realities of cross-border trafficking, online recruitment, and economic vulnerability and, crucially, bringing tangible hope and freedom to those experiencing exploitation or entangled in trafficking networks and related systems.

Unites Anglican Leaders & Practitioners

Greater impact can be achieved through working in partnership, and we are deeply grateful to Westminster Abbey and the Anglican Communion Fund for their generous support in making this conference possible.

Rachel Weller - USPG Communications Officer

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ttps://www.ilo.org/publications/major-publications/global-estimates-modernh slavery-forced-labour-and-forced-marriage https://www.walkfree.org/global-slavery-index/country-studies/india/

Cross-Regional The Emerging Leaders Academy is a leadership formation programme run by USPG in partnership with the Anglican Communion Youth Network. It brings together young Anglican leaders from across the Communion to grow in faith, leadership, and cross-cultural understanding.

In this article, Jen Lun, Operations Manager at Anglican Missions in Aotearoa New Zealand, shares her experience: Earlier this year, I travelled to Kenya for the residential gathering of the ELA. The 3-weeks were full – stretching, encouraging, and at times surreal in the best possible way.

Jen (pictured right), João and Kristy take a look at some of the Parables of Jesus.

“The ELA has emboldened my faith with a growing picture of Christianity across the globe.”

There were 12 participants, including myself: Guilherme and João from Brazil, Lester from Ghana, Kristy from Palestine, Niamh from the UK, Adelina from Bangladesh, Brinda from Sri Lanka, Elisha from Myanmar, Samkeliso from Eswatini, Kenneth from Tanzania and Kelly from Kenya.

One of my biggest fears going in was that I might unintentionally embody a colonial attitude – showing up as if I had the “right” knowledge because I come from a Western expression of church. I worried about stepping into a Kenyan context and accidentally taking up space that wasn’t mine or talking when I should have been listening.

I wanted to receive, not instruct. And I was relieved to find that the environment was so mutual that those fears quickly eased.

LEARNING, UNLEARNING, RELEARNING:

On Sundays, we joined in with services in local parish churches. At St Stephens in Limuru, the joy was infectious.

Their passion for faith was beautiful and intergenerational – unlike any service I’ve ever attended. In New Zealand, once you stop going to big youth camps, dancing and expressive worship stops too. But that was certainly not the case here.

At Sunday School, I taught the children greetings in te reo Māori, and it wasn’t long until the classroom was echoing back with “mōrena!” (good morning). Then they turned to teach me some Swahili, and we laughed trying to get the words right. There was a moment where I found myself standing there awestruck, realising how surreal and cool it all was. I paused and thought, “How did I end up here?”

It wasn’t a scenario I ever imagined for my life, but there I was: fully in it, loving every second.

Each day began and ended with prayer, which created a rhythm that helped everything else fall into place. One of the most meaningful parts for me was the daily Bible studies led by Dr Paulo Ueti (USPG Theological Advisor / Regional Manager for the Americas and the Caribbean), where we noticed how often Christians read scripture through the eyes of empire rather than the eyes of Christ.

Empire frames leadership as control, punishment and coercion. But Jesus reframes leadership entirely. His way is never about force, but about compassion, humility, and service. This clicked for me when reading Matthew 18:17, which says that if someone refuses to reconcile, they should be treated “as a pagan or tax collector.” Ordinarily, empire would exclude them, but Jesus shows grace and moves towards them both. This was probably my biggest challenge; realising the biases I had and seeing how Jesus changes everything.

Now back home, the ELA has shaped the way I show up as a youth worker and in the mahi (work) I do at Anglican Missions. It has helped me to think more deeply about formation, community and what it means to lead gently.

Hearing how other parts of the Communion think about mission has widened my imagination. The ELA has also emboldened my faith with a growing picture of Christianity across the globe.

“Through the local churches we visited and the people in the cohort, a sense of hope has grown in me. Our churches are alive.”

My Faith and Leadership Journey in Kenya

Originally published by Anglican Missions, and shared with permission.

By Jen Lun – Operations Manager at Anglican Missions in Aotearoa New Zealand

Applications for the 2026 Emerging Leaders Academy are now open! Learn more and apply today at: uspg.org.uk 8

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RECONSTRUCT, REASSEMBLE, RESTORE: Hope After Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica

Caribbean

Caribbean

Hurricanes in the Caribbean are expected and Jamaica is no exception.

I followed closely as Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica’s south coast on 28 October 2025. This Category five storm brought sustained winds of 185mph, devastating storm surges and torrential rainfall.

The Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands reported that 18 churches were destroyed and 100 damaged. Several of the churches destroyed or damaged date back to the 18th Century and have been an integral part of the Jamaican landscape and declared national monuments by the National Heritage Trust. They were often used for diocesan national and community events. The Bishop of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, the Rt Revd Leon Golding, said: St Thomas, Lacovia

Students from Kingston college helping with the cleanup.

“Let me remind us that the church buildings may be down, but the church remains, for the church is the people of God. It is we that God calls and seeks to work through in reaching his people.”

The scale of destruction was unprecedented. More than 120,000 buildings were damaged and over 90,000 families displaced. Under the heading ‘Reconstruct, Reassemble, Restore’, the Diocese launched a global appeal. It also launched a coordinated relief plan which included providing emergency shelter, food and pastoral care for displaced families, clearing debris and reopening access to isolated communities, supporting the restoration of electricity and communication lines, assessing and beginning repairs on damaged churches and schools, offering trauma support to clergy, teachers, and parishioners.

USPG contributed towards the Diocese’s appeal and worked in partnership with the Anglican Alliance and the Diocesan Disaster Response Task Force - an 18-member strong group chaired by the Venerable Patrick Cunningham, Archdeacon for the Kingston region as well as clergy and other Diocesan personnel and volunteers – in helping ensure that resources reached the most affected as quickly and effectively as possible.

Bishop Leon Golding shared the following message: “These are difficult times for all of us. However, I commend to you the words of Psalm 46:1 ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Do not be discouraged. Despite the present challenges, let us thank God for spared life, and the many offers of assistance from kind donors in Jamaica, the diaspora, the Province of the West Indies, and the Anglican Communion.

We also acknowledge the words of encouragement and prayers received from our local and overseas partners. We are a resilient people, and with faith in God, we will overcome this challenge and work together, with compassion, to bring hope to our brothers and sisters who are now in grief and despair.”

Students from Diocesan schools and the National Council of the Anglican Youth Fellowship were among early responders who reached out to the school community and districts in the disaster zone. A team from Kingston College assisted with the initial clean-up efforts at St Elizabeth Technical High School. A bus load of volunteers from St Jago High School, accompanied by counsellors, worked at the Diocese’s Black River High School in St Elizabeth where they restored a Book Room to full use.

They also distributed more than 120 bags of non-perishable food items, toiletries and cleaning agents donated by the students and staff.

By Sophia Jones - Director of Communications, Engagement & Fundraising (Maternity Cover) 10

Please Pray The work of ‘Reconstruct, Reassemble, and Restore’ continues. Please remember the people of Jamaica in your prayers and give what you can to the Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Island’s appeal.

St John’s, Black River

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Africa Across Africa, many women feel called to serve in the Church, but the chance to study and develop their gifts often feels out of reach. Cultural expectations about the role of women can feel discouraging, while scholarships and bursaries often favour men. Long distances to theological colleges, the cost of tuition, accommodation and travel make formal education even harder to access. Without support, many committed women are unable to fully develop their gifts, leaving their talents and leadership largely unrealised.

Raising a toast to a great year! Rachel and her coursemates celebrate all the hard work.

Launched in 2025, USPG’s Young Anglican Women’s Theological Education Scholarship Programme was created in response to these barriers. It nurtures women called to ministry through theological training, and celebrates the gifts and unique perspectives that women in leadership bring.

each deepening her understanding of ministry and mission.

Services happen every morning and evening, with worship sung in Xhosa, Zulu and Sesotho.

“As a speaker of Oshikwanyama, I felt out of place at first, but I caught up quickly. I also joined the choir and the marimba group, which has helped me feel even more connected.”

Today, young women from Namibia, South Africa, Central Zambia, and Lesotho are pursuing diplomas and degrees at Anglican institutions including Bishop Gaul College (Zimbabwe), the College of the Transfiguration (South Africa), and St John’s Seminary (Zambia). The programme recognises that young women are already shaping faith within their communities. But with theological training, their impact deepens and extends into families, parishes, and dioceses.

Rachel’s leadership soon shone through. She became lead librarian, managing a team and a busy library during exam season! She also joined the student board to advocate for student welfare.

Before college, Rachel served in five Namibian parishes, some as far as 20 kilometres apart (around a 3-hour walk).

Her ministry centred on supporting youth, parents, and couples facing peer pressure, substance abuse, marital challenges, and early pregnancies.

MAKING AN IMPACT: THE REVD RACHEL MOSHANAH

OPENING DOORS TO THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION FOR WOMEN ACROSS AFRICA

The Revd Rachel Moshanah from Namibia, one of the first scholarship recipients, illustrates the impact of the programme. After many years in parish ministry, she felt called to return to theological study, and USPG made it possible for her to attend the College of the Transfiguration.

Over a Zoom call, she admitted that she felt a bit nervous at first: “After 15 years as a priest, I was curious - what would it feel like to be back in the classroom?”

“My ministry has always been about listening, observing, and responding to the challenges people face.” she says, humbly. “I often have to be strong for the people I’m helping, even when it’s tough. I want to dig deeper into counselling, particularly in counselling and suicide prevention, so I can walk alongside people in their darkest moments and help them find hope.”

Returning to academic life brought challenges: she had not been in a classroom since 2000, using a computer felt overwhelming, and academic writing was unfamiliar. But Rachel persevered and has thoroughly enjoyed her first year at college.

Rachel’s story shows what can be achieved when young women are given the opportunity to study theology and develop their gifts.

Over her first year, she studied six modules including pastoral care, Christian spirituality, history, and missiology

Across Africa, many others feel called to ministry but still face significant barriers. With increased support, USPG could expand the programme, offer scholarships, and equip the next generation of women leaders that will bless the Anglican Church.

“College life is rich and full” she says, with a smile.

By Fran Mate – Senior Regional Manager for Africa

If you are interested in helping open doors for more women like Rachel, please get in touch at info@uspg.org.uk.

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From the Editor

Reflection

If you have thoughts to share, please do get in touch with us and let’s explore how we can learn together.

For Jo’s full reflection and links to further reading, visit uspg.org.uk.

LOVE STRONGER THAN FEAR A Christian Response to Nationalism

By Dr Jo Sadgrove, USPG Research & Learning Advisor

In November 2025, an estimated 150,000 attended a ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally in central London1. The size of the gathering, organised by Stephen Yaxley Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, was shocking. For many, it served as the clearest warning of how many people saw the anti-immigration and Islamophobic ideals of the farright English Defence League co-founder as offering hope, recognition, and a collective sense of belonging

‘Christian Nationalism’ – a much contested and complex term that indicates a Christianity that is ‘as ethnic and political as it is religious’.

As Unite the Kingdom marched through London, other parts of the country remained emblazoned with St George’s flags as “#OperationRaiseTheColours” encouraged flags to be hung from buildings and lampposts and painted on zebra crossings and roundabouts. Both the march and the flags reflected, for many, the result of decades of neglect and marginalisation faced by many working people, whose industries, jobs and communities have been decimated – first by the decline of the heavy industry that provided jobs, identities, community belonging and pride, and then in successive failures by governments to invest in the wake of this decline.

The rally revealed much about the ways that Christianity is being manipulated within the UK by right wing organisers.

One speaker at the Unite the Kingdom rally called for the ‘forcible ban of all religions except Christianity from the UK’ and for a ‘religious war’ of ‘Christianity versus the rest’. The Revd Dr Helen Paynter2 has analysed the place of Christianity within Stephen Yaxley Lennon’s rallies in both 2024 and 2025. For The Revd Dr Paynter, it is the fusion of ‘Christianity’ with political and civic life, that characterises

A brilliant report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation3 speaks of the grief and loss that define these community 14

Credit: Martin Urmson/Better Story

stories, generating the deep crisis in identity, belonging and purpose that those living within economically and politically marginalised contexts feel. This grief is being manipulated by populists like Yaxley Lennon and directed away from the government and those in power, instead scapegoating already marginalised ‘others’ as ‘the problem’; migrants, asylum seekers, Muslims, Black people, members of the LGBTQ+ community.

the neighbourhood has been forgotten and abandoned by successive governments and elites.

Every Friday night, there is a protest outside of the hotel: anti-migrant protestors on one side of the road, and members of Stand up to Racism on the other5. Moving between the rather polarised groups are a group of Christians and those sympathetic to the work of breaking down the distance between different groups by offering home-made cakes, biscuits and crafts, and in so doing generating a different kind of energy – of curiosity, friendship and sympathy. This is Christian presence at its best. A quiet human presence, open to the concerns of others, breaking down the silos and echo chambers which we all increasingly inhabit and offering an alternative set of incarnational hopes and ways of being.

And yet, arguably, there is as much that divides as unites these groups. There is serious work for Christians to do in bringing solidarity, hope and love and reclaiming Christianity from the hands of nationalists. Or as one movement of Christians has put it, telling a “better story” of love over hate and reconciliation over division.

Trying to work out what to do can feel an overwhelming task when differences feel so entrenched and unpalatable4.

Perhaps the best way to approach it is to follow the work of so many of the Church of England’s brilliant parish priests – to begin at neighbourhood level, where we and those who might disagree with us share our community spaces and are most invested. How might we learn more about the perspectives of those with whom we disagree locally?

I am privileged to be learning locally from people who have more experience than me. And I know that there will be many reading this who have their own experiences to share – of what has worked in fostering peace and collaboration in such situations, and what has not. This is something that USPG wants to learn more about and in so doing help others to learn too.

In Leeds, I have the privilege of living in a city and a parish whose Christian leaders have been exemplary in being and building bridges of empathy amid polarised encounters between a community of migrants in a hotel and local community members in Seacroft. There is a lot to celebrate within this community, but it also faces considerable challenges and there is, amongst many, a resentment that

etropolitan Police (2025), Predicted and estimated attendance for Unite M the Kingdom and counter-demonstrations. met.police.uk Paynter, H. (2026), Unpacking the theology of Christian Nationalism, YouTube @ better_story_ 3 Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Beyond the Flags: Grief, polarisation and the work of repair. jrf.org.uk 4 Joint Public Issues Team (2026), Responding to Christian Nationalism. jpit.uk 5 Evans, A. (2025), Cake or Death?, The Good Apocalypse Guide. goodapocalypse.substack.com 1

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Middle East In a world of complex challenges, how can we raise up a new generation of leaders to serve and ensure the Church flourishes tomorrow?

CALLED TO SERVE: EMPOWERING THE

Clifton Nedd, Anglican Alliance Caribbean Facilitator, reflects: “The young people come with a range of experiences, and they come full of hope for the future.

It comes across in the way they talk about the challenges confronting their communities and how they come up with ideas to bring solutions to life.”

This question was not just answered but acted upon at this year’s Called to Serve: Empowering the Church conference in Amman, Jordan. Led by the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East (JME), in partnership with USPG, the event gathered around 20 young leaders to explore Christian leadership more deeply and put that knowledge into practice across a week mixed with fun, food, and fast-forming friendships.

Father Wadie, The Revd Canon Pastor to the Arabicspeaking congregation at St George’s Cathedral and Vicar of St Paul’s Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Jerusalem, said: “It’s been a joy to be with the participants of this course and to see how they’ve engaged with one another. When we began, many did not know each other well, but over the course of the programme there was a real transformation – not only in what they learned, but in how they related to one another.”

The conference was held at the Theodor Schneller School in Marka, on the outskirts of Amman. Founded in 1959, the school has supported vulnerable and displaced children across the Middle East with the support of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. Here, vocational training is provided in fields such as carpentry, auto body repair, cooking, hotel services, metalwork, and hair and beauty.

CHURCH IN JERUSALEM AND THE MIDDLE EAST

That connection carried over beyond the sessions too as the group celebrated two birthdays and enjoyed Amman’s famous dessert, knafeh.

John Surya, a Youth Leader at St. Andrew’s Church, Abu Dhabi, notes: “It’s an incredible school on a huge piece of land with so many opportunities for the kids. They’re happy here and have so much fun. I’m really looking forward to exploring what inspiration we can take away from this and bring to our home dioceses.”

Morenike attends Christ Church Jebel Ali in Dubai and shares her highlights: “The JME conference was such a wonderful experience as I got to meet so many people from across the Middle East. All of the sessions were really fulfilling. They fed me and I found myself constantly thinking about what God is calling me to do at this very moment.”

The group also visited the site where many theologians agree Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. Despite the intense heat, the visit continued to Mount Nebo where God showed Moses the land promised to the Israelites. It was a special and deeply spiritual opportunity for the group to walk in the footsteps of two of the Bible’s greatest leaders and renew their vows and commitment to God on the banks of the Jordan.

By Matthew Anns – Senior Communications & Engagement Manager

“Raising the next generation of leaders, who are attentive to God’s call and local issues, is vital for the Church.

Will you join us in prayer?”

Building on these experiences, the young leaders then took part in a series of seminars using the Anglican Alliance’s Agents of Change resource. Working in small groups (determined by diocese) they explored community engagement, fundraising, and problem-solving.

With thanks to Father Wadie and the staff from the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East for their partnership with USPG. Since writing this, conflict has escalated across the Middle East. Please remember our partner, the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East, and all they support, in your prayers.

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Volunteer I was invited by the Archivist at USPG to help sort books which had been in storage for nearly 40 years since the library opened at Partnership House, a building shared with The Church Mission Society, where they were not needed.

There were over 200 boxes amounting to thousands of individual books. The collection was largely 19th-early 20th century, with a handful of earlier works. The work involved sorting the books into categories: some destined for the Bodleian Library (which already looks after the other half of USPG’s historic library collection), others for charity shops, and rare or valuable editions potentially for sale. Lists were also shared with our church partners in case they wanted any. I gladly accepted the offer to help. Now, after two years, the task is complete!

Viewed through a 21st-century lens, some of the attitudes expressed by missionaries make for uncomfortable reading.

In general, there was little effort to engage with local religions or beliefs, and only limited attempts to understand or appreciate the cultures of the communities with whom they lived. The language used to describe local peoples, typical of the 19th century, now feels deeply unsettling, as does their use of certain terms for African American communities in the United States.

However, despite these reservations, this collection will be of particular interest to researchers and anyone studying the development of 19th and early 20th-century Christian mission, offering invaluable insight into the activities of various denominations around the world.

“Viewed through a 21st-century lens, some of the attitudes expressed by missionaries make for uncomfortable reading.”

PAGES OF HISTORY Uncovering stories of mission through the ages

Following 13 enjoyable years on staff, Anne returned to USPG as a volunteer.

Over two years, she sorted through thousands of historic books containing stories of mission around the world. Find out what is covered by the collection.

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The range of books was extensive. They covered the whole world except Antarctica and were written by missionaries, colonial and army officers, explorers, priests, and academics. Most were in English, with a few in French, German, and Latin. The older books were quite fragile and those with their original leather bindings had to be handled carefully to avoid them falling apart. The range of topics was fascinating – missionary accounts of their ministry among local people around the world, theology, sermons, newsletters, anthropology, geography, history, fauna and flora, a few novels and the cultures and religious beliefs in various countries. The list goes on.

Anne studies a historic map of the Horn of Africa, observing how many countries have since changed names and gained independence.

There was also a large group of books on Anglo-Catholic theology, as well as volumes listing all the clergy in various American Dioceses in the 19th century. Some books contained illustrations and photographs that I found particularly compelling, offering a glimpse into the traditions of countries where USPG has partnerships. I was especially intrigued by images of cities and villages taken in the late 19th century; seen today, many are almost unrecognisable.

“Yet, despite these reservations, the collection offers invaluable insight into the courage, commitment, and global work of 19th- and early 20thcentury missionaries.”

My interest in the history of Church mission, alongside my studies in African history, made this an especially rewarding piece of work. Having also studied anthropology, I was drawn in particular to the writings and illustrations that explored the lives of the people encountered by missionaries.

I have had a chance to reflect on some of the contents of these books. Missionary accounts reveal not only their commitment but also their concern for people who had not encountered the gospel, and their desire to bring education, medical care, and social initiatives to the communities they served. They were motivated by the ‘Great Commission’ and the Victorian imperative to bring Christianity to those they saw as living in ‘darkness’. Many missionaries died of disease, were occasionally victims of violence and certainly showed courage and determination.

If Anne’s story has inspired you, then why not consider joining USPG as a volunteer? There are many ways to get involved and make a real difference. To find out more, get in touch with us at volunteer@uspg.org.uk.

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GLOBAL SCHOLARS GATHER IN LIMURU to Reflect on the Nicene Creed Afresh

FeAST

“What stands out for me is the exciting, creative, and organic theological work happening across the Anglican community.”

- The Rt Revd Dr Anderson Jeremiah, Bishop of Edmonton, Church of England From 15 to 19 December 2025, theologians, church leaders, and students from around the world convened in Limuru for the annual FeAST (Fellowship of Anglican Scholars of Theology) conference, hosted by USPG. Marking the 1700th anniversary of the first ecumenical council of Nicaea, the gathering explored the theme “Re-Receiving the Nicene Creed: Implications for Christian Theology and Witness”.

For those unfamiliar, the Nicene Creed is one of Christianity’s oldest and most widely used statements of faith. Originally formulated at the Council of Nicaea in AD 325 and finalised in Constantinople in AD 381, it outlines core Christian beliefs about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Recited in churches around the world, it begins: “We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds… And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of life…”

He added, “The willingness of SPCK to consider publishing the papers presented in the FeAST conference in Kenya, also marks the beginning of a fresh partnership between SPCK and USPG that we hope to build strongly upon.”

The Revd Tobias Okoth, a Masters student at the African International University in Nairobi, reflects: “The sessions challenged us to bring Christ to people without bias, to minister in ways that respect our context and experiences.”

He added: “One of the highlights for me was realising that without the crucified Christ, theology can become a system of oppression. Our gospel must serve all people, regardless of background or upbringing.”

Merlin, a Masters student at Senate of Serampore College in the Church of South India, shares her highlight: “The best part of this week was hearing voices shaped by their own contexts, passionately bringing their faith into conversation with others. It reminds us that theology is not only academic; it is lived, vibrant, and relational.”

The Creed affirms the divine and human nature of Christ as one, the Trinity, and the church’s universal mission, serving as a unifying declaration across Christian traditions. Yet, as the Limuru conference highlighted, it is also a text shaped by imbalanced power dynamics involving churches and imperial power, and its interpretation has far-reaching implications for how faith is lived today.

Participants were encouraged to interrogate the Creed critically, reflecting on its historical entanglement with imperial power. Scholars explored how its affirmation of unity might inadvertently support exclusion, and how the Creed’s language – shaped in a heavily patriarchal and colonial world – could be reinterpreted for liberation and inclusion.

The conference brought together voices from Africa, Aotearoa New Zealand, North America, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, creating a rare space where historical faith engaged contemporary challenges. Discussions explored faith and doctrine, as well as the resulting creed from the Council of Nicaea in AD 325. The group considered its relevance today, considering how a

“Meeting women and men from different regions around the world, hearing their stories, and sharing mine gave me a new perspective and deepened my fellowship with the global Church,” said Revd Neli Miranda, an ordained minister from Guatemala.

“We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.”

One other highlight of the week was the academic publishing workshops led by our sister organisation SPCK, which gave participants practical guidance on how to share their theological work with a global audience, especially in contexts where access to publishing is difficult.

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The Revd Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, Global Theologian and Director of Global Mission at USPG, said that the workshops, led by SPCK CEO Sam Richardson, on creating high-impact articles, turning dissertations into books, and developing publication strategies, were timely and relevant.

fourth-century statement of belief can inform questions of justice, inclusion, and ecological and political crises. Beyond scholarship, participants emphasised practical outcomes for the Church and theological education, calling for teaching that links faith with action, encouraging students to pursue justice, confront oppression, and protect the environment.

If you’re interested, find out more about the FeAST network here: www.uspg.org.uk/feast

Coming soon: ReStorying Nicaea – In the Empire but Not of the Empire? – a new free-to-download journal offering fresh, global perspectives on the Nicene Creed.

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TITLE TBC

Take a look inside the new study guide.

Education becomes a lifeline for children in Myanmar

In a world marked by conflict where we have seen the escalation of war, violence and greed – all of which threaten the sanctity of human life and the integrity of God’s creation – what does it look like to follow Christ in seeking peace and striving for justice?

With reflections from contributors from Brazil, South Africa, Polynesia, Myanmar, Palestine and more, this Study Guide invites you to explore the idea of Just Peace as providing a shape for Christian discipleship, and bear witness to the various ways in which Just Peace finds its expression in the lived mission of our partner churches around the world.

Designed for small group study and discussion.

Support the vital work of the Church of the Province of Myanmar, delivering education, security and hope for the future.

N ATE O D

TO D AY Find out more today at lent.uspg.org.uk

To download this free resource visit uspg.org.uk/resources or contact info@uspg.org.uk

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

@USPG global 22

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Registered Charity No: 234518

From the Editor

Lent Wordsearch

BROTHERS SISTERS CHRIST HOSANA GETHSEMANE

Words to find COMPASSION DISCIPLES

GLOBAL JESUS RISEN LAST SUPPER CROWN

CROSS LENT PALM TOMB PRAY

More fun and

More fun and interactive activities to download interactive activities for children this Lent at lent.uspg.org.uk to download for

children this Lent at lent.uspg.org.uk

USPG – 5 Trinity Street, London SE1 1DB 0207 921 2200 www.uspg.org.uk Follow us on @USPGglobal Editor: Matthew Anns Sub-Editor: Rachel Weller communications@uspg.org.uk

Charity number: 234518 24