VOX October 2018

ISSUE 40 / OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2018

FREE

WE ALL ONE CHRIST ?

ARE IN

The findings from our in-depth survey looking at Women in the Church

HOW INCLUSIVE IS YOUR CHURCH? Learning Difficulties and the Body of Christ

OCT - DEC 2018 VOX

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with Tearfund Ireland

ry e – Loraine Bar Celebrity Judg s’, ar St th the cing wi from RTE’s ‘Dan ncer n Ballroom Da pio am Ch ld or W

Red Cow Moran Hotel, Naas Road, Dublin 22 Date: Friday 19th October 2018 Time: Doors, 7:15pm. Show Starts, 8:00pm Ticket price – €20. Seating is unreserved.

Tickets are available from the Tearfund Ireland office, please call 01 878 3200 or email niamh.daly@tearfund.ie

Raising funds to help lift people out of poverty for good where the need is greatest.

Tearfund Ireland Registered Charity No. CHY 8600. Photos: Ewa Figaszewska, Ivan Kmit/Leigh Prather/AdobeStock

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VOX OCT - DEC 2018

EDITORIAL

Listening Well ASY LISTENING (n): a type of music that is not complicated, serious or difficult... popular music that is undemanding... quiet music that does not need much of your attention...

It strikes me that listening well is the complete opposite of so-called “easy listening”. To listen - really listen - to others requires our full attention. It is a serious business and, at times, it can be difficult or even painful!

It is possible to make assumptions and judgements about what others are saying and begin crafting our answer before they have even finished speaking. That is listening to reply rather than listening to understand.

James says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19 - 20) So as we approach the findings of our latest in-depth

E

BEING HEARD IS SO CLOSE TO BEING LOVED THAT FOR THE AVERAGE PERSON, THEY ARE ALMOST INDISTINGUISHABLE” - AUTHOR DAVID AUGSBURGER

survey exploring the experiences of and attitudes towards women in the church, my appeal to each of us is to listen well.

In the multitude of voices (3:28 Churches? see pages 12- 14, 16 - 23 and 26-29), each of us will find those we resonate with.

Other opinions may cause us to think more deeply, while we may be tempted to dismiss others as wrong or misguided.

Can we rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep? Can we value each opinion and create a safe place where, together, we can consider some really tough issues that affect our churches as well as the wider society?

In a world, that seems intent on silencing respectful dialogue in favour of violent, opposing rhetoric, it’s time for the body of Christ to model another way. So let’s build a bridge and meet in the middle. Let us sit under the shadow of His wings, knowing that each of us is a dearly loved child of God, made in His image. Let us love one another as He has loved us.

And let us learn to listen well!

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ears!)

(or €20 for two y

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

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CONTENTS

OCT - DEC 2018 ISSUE 40 ISSN: 2009-2253

12 36 16 20 24 26 30 32 39 40

COVER STORIES 3:28 Churches? - Are We All One In Christ?

E DITOR Ruth Garvey-Williams editor@vox.ie

How Inclusive Is Your Church? Learning Difficulties and the Body of Christ

L AYOUT, ADVE RTISIN G & DISTRIBUTI O N Jonny Lindsay jonny@vox.ie

FEATURES AND INTERVIEWS 3:28 Churches? The Experiences Of Women

SUBSCRIPTIONS Ireland & UK: Min. €10 for four issues Overseas: Min. €20 for four issues

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3:28 Churches? Attitudes And Concerns Of Men Regarding The Role Of Women

Subscribe online at www. vox.ie. All cheques should be made payable to ‘VOX Magazine’.

My Story: Meet Rev Katherine Kehoe 3:28 Churches? Violence And Abuse

VOX Ma g a z i n e Ulysses House 22 - 24 Foley Street Dublin 1 Tel: 089 415 4507 info@vox.ie www.vox.ie

Welcome To The Treasury - How An Artist Discovered Her Place In The Church.

3:28 Churches? Responses To The Findings In Our Research

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Not Just A Change Of Name Empowering The Swazi People To Transform Their Communities No Child Should Carry Their Life In A Bin Bag - A Northern Irish Business Helps Children In Care

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DISCL AIME R

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The views expressed in letters and articles are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the VOX Team or our partners. The acceptance of advertising does not indicate endorsement.

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PRIN T Ross Print, Greystones, Co. Wicklow VOX magazine is a quarterly publication, brought to you by a passionate team of volunteers.

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OUR PARTNERS:

06 08 10

REGULAR FEATURES VOX: Shorts VOX: World News Your VOX: Letters

15 23 43

Confessions of a Feint Saint Musings with Patrick Mitchell Music Reviews

44 45 46

Event Listing Book Reviews VOX: PS with Seán Mullan

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IRELAND

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VOX SHORTS

Connecting With One Another In Inner City Dublin

ACET Ireland is partnering with the Dublin City Interfaith Forum to link faith communities in the North East Inner City of Dublin to one another and to the story of the local community. With over 20 such communities in the area, almost all churches, there is an enormous potential to overcome the fragmentation and isolation that marks the present context. Shared gatherings and historical walking tours are the tools used to make the connections, the latter facilitated by the brilliant work of Terry Fagan at the North Inner City Folklore Project. By exploring the historic trauma, tragedy and resilient hope of the community, people’s eyes are opened to how mission can be played out locally. After one gathering, a local pastor commented, “I have learnt

more about this city in three hours than I have in eight years. Thank you so much!”

Commenting on the project, ACET CEO, Richard Carson, stated: “Churches and organisations around the world are beginning to, once again, value theology of place. Where we worship and join in the mission of God is not incidental. As the African-American theologian Willie James Jennings declared, ‘Christians must be rooted in the soil as a radically reconciling gift to the world. We must dwell in this soil deeply if we are to have any clue about what God is doing in the world today’.”

For further information on this project and how ACET are living out a theology of place, please contact Richard Carson at richard.c@acet.ie.

Be Part Of A Community-Owned Farm

Jubilee, the Christian creation care organisation run by VOX magazine’s own environmental correspondent, Dr. Jonny Hanson, is launching a community share offer to purchase Northern Ireland’s first community-owned farm near Larne.

“All over the world and all over Ireland, Christians and churches are rediscovering their mandate to care for creation,” Jonny said. “We at Jubilee exist to work with Christians and churches in Ireland and beyond to care for creation together, to the glory of God. Established in 2017 after several years of prayer, planning and consultation, we define creation care as environmental and agricultural stewardship that incorporates flourishing and fairness, welfare and wellbeing.”

The official launch will take place from 3pm at City Church Cafe, Belfast on 20 October 2018, or you can watch online. Jubilee has raised £165,000 from existing supporters to purchase the farmhouse. They need to raise a further £135,000 to buy the 13.5 acres of land, as well as polytunnels and other equipment. The minimum investment in the project is only £50. Find out more at www.jubilee.coop/shareoffer, book tickets for the event at bit.ly/shareofferlaunch or watch online via bit/ly/shareofferlaunchlive.

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Rubicon 2018

Saturday 20 October - 9.30am to 4.30pm at The Sugar Club, Leeson Street Lower, Dublin 2.

Rubicon is a yearly gathering to collaborate and explore ideas about how faith can be expressed within our cultural context. This year’s keynote speaker is Scot McKnight, professor of New Testament Studies at Northern Seminary and author of The Jesus Creed, A Community Called Atonement and several commentaries. The lineup of contributors will also include activist Jarrod McKenna, Noeline Blackwell - Chief Executive of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre - and our own VOX magazine editor Ruth Garvey-Williams, who will be exploring the implications of our “3:28 Churches?” research. To find out more or to book your place, visit www.wearerubicon.com.

VOX MAGAZINE

“Just One” Christmas Carol Service Friday 7 December at 7.30pm in the National Boxing Stadium, 145 South Circular Road, Dublin 8 Evangelical Alliance Ireland is sponsoring a multichurch Carol Service. The “Just One” outreach event with dynamic speaker Canon J John is designed to encourage each Christian attending to bring along a friend.

Tickets: €5 each (admits two people). Inquiries regarding church participation and tickets to office@ evangelical.ie.

Unsafe Online

Age restrictions on popular social media and messaging applications appear largely meaningless, with almost 68% of eight to 13-year-old children owning their own smartphones, and 70% using social media and messaging apps, according to new findings from CyberSafeIreland. The Irish children’s online safety charity surveyed over 5,000 children, parents and teachers.

Their research shows that 41% of eight and nine-year-olds are playing over-18s games, exposing children to inappropriate and potentially damaging content.

CyberSafeIreland also revealed that 32% of children are speaking to strangers online every week (18% every day). Find out more at www.cybersafeireland.org.

A21 Walk for Freedom - Dublin, Galway, Cork, Belfast

Saturday 20 October People across Ireland and Northern Ireland will join tens of thousands of people from around the world to raise awareness of Human Trafficking on Saturday 20 October. Walk for Freedom events will take place in four cities across the island of Ireland. This event is operated by the global anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to raise awareness about the millions of men, women, and children who are still trapped in slavery today. By fundraising and rallying thousands of people around the cause, Walk for Freedom aims to be a catalyst to see human beings rescued and restored.

A21 is a global nonprofit organisation currently operating in 13 countries. It aims to combat modern-day slavery by identifying and helping victims and bringing perpetrators to justice. “We are convinced that if we do this together, if we keep showing up, if we continue to be tenacious, if we continue to turn up with strength, numbers, and courage, then we can see slavery eradicated in our lifetime,” says Christine Caine, A21’s Founder. Find out more at www.A21.org/Walk.

Dublin 12pm - 3pm Starts at the Garden of Remembrance, Parnell Square East. Contact Dana for more information: dholloman1276@gmail.com Galway: 11am - 1pm Starts at Eyre Square. Contact Elle for more information: ellesander@gmail.com

Cork - 11am - 12.30pm Starts at St. Patrick’s Street. Contact Ruth for more information: a21walkcork@gmail.com Belfast 11am - 12pm Starts at Corn Market. Contact Helen for more information: helen.cupples@gmail.com

OCT - DEC 2018 VOX

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WORLD NEWS

I HAVE BECOME STRONG AND HOPEFUL

NOW I FEEL LIKE A NEW PERSON AND ABLE TO ACHIEVE MY DREAMS.

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VOX OCT - DEC 2018

Tearfund celebrates ten years of lives transformed This year, Tearfund Ireland is celebrating ten years of impact around the world. A special Sunday morning programme on RTE will be aired on 28 October and will feature news from the Ethiopian Self Help Groups supported by Tearfund Ireland’s partners. Nigist Honja is one of many women whose lives have been transformed.

Here’s a little of her story: “My name is Nigist Honja. After I lost my husband I had to care for my four children alone and my life was very miserable. I heard that a Self Help Group was starting and members were saving 50 cent a week. But I wasn’t interested in joining because I thought 50 cent would not make any difference in my life!

“But when I saw my neighbours joining and saving money together, I changed my mind and I joined too. This was ten years ago. I started to save and when I received my first loan, it changed everything. It gave me a start and helped me to bring my family and myself out of the ground.

Now I understand the benefits of Self Help Groups.

“I started a small business rearing cows and sheep. I began generating income and living a better life. Now I can feed and buy clothes for my children. My children can attend school without any worries. Before I was a shy housemaid but now I am hiring men to help me in my business!

“The Self Help Group members are like a family to me.

We support each other in any way we can. I have become strong and hopeful and I know that I can defeat poverty and live a better life. I am so much more confident now and not the old Nigist. Now I feel like a new person and able to achieve my dreams.”

Over the last ten years, Tearfund Ireland has helped over 50,000 households, like Nigist’s family, to lift themselves out of poverty. Responding to 23 emergencies, Tearfund Ireland partners have supported 680,000 people with disaster relief and aid. Working alongside 9,000 local churches, Tearfund Ireland has helped 15,803 women out of prostitution and has helped to protect 5,191 children from being trafficked.

To find out more visit www.tearfund.ie

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YOUR VOX

Letters to the editor

Star Letter

of VOX we In each issue all of a €25 One4 ize pr a d ar aw r. tte le ite ur r favo voucher for ou u!

It could be yo

The Women of Ireland Deserve the Best Around the time of the recent referendum, I kept hearing people say things like, “If a pregnant girl was in crisis, I’d come help her in a heartbeat.”

Every church around Ireland has people in it who are loving, talented and eager to walk with women in crisis pregnancies. But how do these women connect with such compassionate Jesus-followers?

We need a connector between individuals in local churches and the women who need encouragement.

We are in the early stages of starting a website called ZoeCommunity.ie. The site will include a live chat feature to allow women to talk

CORK IS READY TO HELP

I was really encouraged to see Ruth Foley’s call to action in the most recent issue of VOX ( July - September 2018).

Much of the focus in the recent referendum was on “choice” but, tragically, a common refrain from many women who seek an abortion is that they think they have “no choice”. Often they say that they would like to keep their baby, but feel alone or unsupported (by a partner, family, or society).

Like Ruth, a number of us in Cork are actively seeking a way to be an encouraging voice that says to women facing unplanned (or challenging) pregnancies, “You can do it, and we’ll help!”

If any of your other readers respond, and share a similar vision, we would be

anonymously with a trained team member. If she wants, she may then reach out for the more practical help and encouragement that her local team offers. We believe that the message of Jesus through the local church is the hope of Ireland. We also believe that the women of Ireland deserve the best. They deserve to be cherished, honoured and protected. The days of the mother and baby homes and the laundries are at an end. The day is here for God to do a liberating work in the lives of women.

KATY EDGMON, ANA PIRES AND KIM TAYLOR ZOECOMMUNITYTEAM@GMAIL.COM

obliged if you would connect us so that we could discuss how to make that vision a reality.

MAEVE O’HANLON, CARRIGALINE, CO. CORK

GALWAY IS EAGER TO GET INVOLVED

I was very encouraged to read Ruth Foley’s letter to the editor in the most recent VOX magazine ( July September 2018). After the vote on the 8th Amendment referendum, I, too, was convicted of the care, support and compassion we as Christians need to give to people in crisis pregnancy situations.

I have a vision and dream for a centre that would support these people, as well as others who may find themselves in difficult life situations. I began sharing

this dream with fellow members of my church, Galway City Baptist Church, and we have begun praying for God to make this dream a reality. To quote Ruth, “We can help bring hope and life out of fear, despair, and the shadow of death.” We are eager and ready to do this in Galway!

MANDY POST GALWAY CITY BAPTIST CHURCH A note from the editor: We were greatly encouraged by these responses. Others have messaged us privately to say they are seeking to provide help and support to those facing crisis pregnancies.

Please keep contacting us so we can build up a full picture of how churches are responding all over Ireland: editor@vox.ie.

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO EDITOR@VOX.IE OR YOUR VOX, ULYSSES HOUSE, 22-24 FOLEY STREET, DUBLIN 1 10

OCT -- DEC DEC 2018 2018 VOX OCT

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3:28CHURCHES?

ARE WE ALL

ONE IN CHRIST? During July and August VOX magazine, in partnership with YWCA Ireland, launched an in-depth online survey into the experiences of and attitudes towards women in churches and Christian ministrie s across Ireland. In this issue of VOX, we will share some of the “headline� findings of this research and unpa ck some of the implications for churches.

However, with such a wealth of research data collected, we have decided to publish the in-depth findi ngs separately. Email us at info@vox.ie with 3:28 Churches* in the subject line, if you would like to be infor med of when the detailed findings are available. * 3:28 refers to Galatians 3:28.

Who took part?

804 people responded

30% Men 70% Women

NB: 79 people opted not to give their gender

Age profile 21% 18 - 30 years 45% 31 - 50 years 34% 51+ years

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VOX MAGAZINE

Where do they live?

Dublin - 32% Leinster (not Dublin) 20% Munster 11% Connaught 4% Ulster ROI 5% Ulster - Northern Ireland 22% Outside of Ireland / Northern Ireland 6%

Church background and Faith Experience Respondents were affiliated with a wide range of Christian denominations and church backgrounds, including the following: Baptist, Brethren, Catholic, Christian Churches Ireland (formerly AOG), Church of God, Church of Ireland, Elim, Lutheran, Methodist, Plumbline, Presbyterian, Redeemed Christian Church of God and Vineyard as well as a significant number of independent evangelical or independent charismatic /Pentecostal churches or groups.

89% described themselves as Committed Christians / Followers of Jesus Around 5% of respondents do not attend or affiliate with any church or denomination.

Theory and Practice: What is your opinion/ theological position on the role of women in the church?

Respondents considered which of the two main theological positions they adhered to. (Disclaimer: we recognise that a summary description cannot do justice to a detailed theological position.)

15% Complementarian The belief that men and women have different but complementary roles within church life and that Scripture teaches that women should not teach or take authority over men.

77% Egalitarian The belief in the equality of men and women within church life and that Scripture teaches that God calls both men and women into all types of roles.

8% Other The majority of these respondents described a position that was somewhere between these two descriptions.

How did men and women differ on this question?

24% Complementarian

67% Egalitarian

9% Other

12% Complementarian 80% Egalitarian 8% Other

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3:28CHURCHES? Tell us about the leadership of the main ministries within your church.

Preaching / Bible Teaching Entirely or mostly (more than 75%) led by men Led by both men and women Entirely or mostly (more than 75%) led by women Not applicable

Church Leadership (clergy /pastor)

Hospitality (serving refreshments, etc.)

Prayer Meetings

Outreach

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Worship

Children’s Ministry

Home groups or small groups

Pastoral Care

CONFESSIONS OF A FEINT SAINT

VOX MAGAZINE

How do you do?

By Annmarie Miles have fabulous hair.

No, I really do. Over the years I have bleached it, permed it, bleached it again, coloured it, stripped it. Doesn’t matter what I do, it grows healthy and strong; with a shine you can see your reflection in. It’s the only part of me that I’m happy with.

From the scalp up, I’m almost perfect!

Over the years I’ve had a Mohican, a full head of pillar-box red spikes, and my favourite was jet-black long spikes, with an electric-blue fringe that went to my chin. I’ve never been bothered with fashion, shoes or make-up, but I do like to do my do.

Being a former ‘coiffeuse,’ I was amazed to find so many references to hair when I started to read the Bible.

Absalom’s annual hair cut was such an event that the hair was weighed (2 Samuel), Levitical priests were not to shave their heads (Ezekiel 44), similarly, the vow of the Nazirites (Numbers 6) meant they were never to cut their hair, either. Samson had taken this vow. His strength was found in his hair and the loss of it was his undoing (Judges 16). There is a significance noted when Paul shaved his head in Acts 18, as he also had previously taken a vow of some kind. Proverbs 20:29 talks of the glory of grey hair for the older man. And what woman wouldn’t love to be told, “Your hair is like a flock of goats leaping down the slopes of Gilead”?

(Song of Songs 4:1) It gets more complicated when we get to verses such as the ones we find in 1 Corinthians 11. Not so easy to untangle in our 21st Century context. (See what I did there?)

I love being a woman, I’m happy in my femaleness.

I’m fortunate not to have been mistreated or disenfranchised in church life. I’m blessed with a husband, who is my Pastor; a man who values, seeks and welcomes my opinion and my involvement in our lives and ministry. I was brought up with a father who was very much the man of the house, and thank God, he did not abuse his position.

I know my place. I’m a child of the Most High, the daughter of a King. Wife and helpmeet to a gem, and sister in Christ to a multitude. I have had a positive experience as a woman in Christ’s church, and I’m saddened that has not been the case for every woman.

I’m not 100% sure how those verses in 1 Corinthians 11 should play out as I do my do. All I know is that the hairs on my head are numbered.

I am woman, hear me blow dry.

I

Pull Quote

Annmarie Miles is originally from Tallaght and now lives in her husband Richard’s homeland, Wales. As well as VOX articles, she writes short stories, and is working on a book about her journey with food, weight gain, weight loss and God. Visit her blog at www.auntyamo. com. On Twitter she is @amowriting.

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3:28CHURCHES?

The Experiences of Women With a huge amount of media rhetoric around the treatment of women by the Church in Ireland, our survey explored what it is like to be a Christian woman in Ireland. There were some extremely encouraging findings with many women expressing positive experiences of church and church life.

However, a significant number of women also shared experiences of sexism, exclusion and disrespect.

A majority of women feel valued by their church and are content with the contribution they make.

I feel fulfilled and content in the contribution I make to church life.

60%

Strongly Agree or Agree

“

I have only ever been encouraged and included in church leadership and teaching. I’ve never felt excluded or undermined because of my gender.

[I am] thankful for the men in my church community recognising my call and gifting and opening the door for me, but in other settings find the church is often a boys club despite declarations of support for women.

I am fortunate in being in a lovely, welcoming and inclusive church.

Our church honours both sexes equally.

17%

are Unsure / On the Fence

23%

Disagree or Strongly Disagree

73% (almost 3 out of 4 women) believe that their church values their gifts, education and experience.

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In the past, I have definitely felt like my opinion didn’t matter as a woman. I find the older I have become, and also the more confident within myself and the gifts and callings that God has placed on my life, that the world around me has responded by being far less discriminatory than I thought.

I do believe that much of this thought has been in my own mind. My own pastor has been only supportive of me in all types of ministry. The world is changing, and also in church. I think it is a very good thing as long as men are not sidelined

in response, but rather encouraged to take their roles and positions without feeling restricted also.

In the church that I work at, I have had an extremely positive experience as it’s an environment where everyone is valued, appreciated and loved.

Women are always included and it is very genuine, rather than feeling like they have to be seen to do it.

As a child of God and a member of the body of Christ the Church - I know I am valued and appreciated and [I am] not seeking to be recognised...

I am privileged to be in a church where, as a woman in leadership, I am encouraged, championed, protected and valued. My opinions are regularly sought and accepted.

I am extremely grateful that our church atmosphere promotes women in ministry.

My church has encouraged women as well as men to attend accredited preacher courses, and one woman who completed it speaks such truth and in such a good way that people look forward to the times when she is set to preach.

VOX MAGAZINE

Sexism is still common in Christian settings.

Women say they have heard sexist jokes or comments in Church or Christian ministries...

20%

41%

39%

Regularly or Constantly

Sometimes

Never

“

Sexism is often unintentional.

Men, who are significantly older than me, have commented on my physical features in ways that were meant to be complimentary, but that came across as objectifying/offensive.

I was once helping run an event (visuals) with my then boss and an intern. We all put in the exact same amount of work and when it came to say goodbye, the warden of the church shook my boss’s hand, my intern’s hand and then patted me on the head.

I’m often the youngest person in the room and often the only female, which I sometimes find intimidating. I’ve often had older men in meetings not look me in the eye or address me directly when other men are present whom they

52% of men have heard men making sexists jokes and comments in Christian settings

address by name and make eye contact with. I sometimes feel unseen and/or unheard.

I have also heard comments about nagging wives when in meetings or comments like “my wife made me...”

I found men outside of the church who were more respectful towards me and valued me more as a person than in all of my experience growing up in Christian youth culture and as a young adult active in a vibrant church and Christian culture.

As a pastor’s wife who was co-pastoring a church, I attended a leaders’ retreat day. There were three women attending, myself, an associate pastor of a big church and the administrator. The first speaker greeted the gathering, “It’s so great to be here with

other men of God.” I felt invisible.

In relation to women being described as “hot”, this has primarily been by pastors bragging about their wives (who happen to have many other desirable qualities that their husbands don’t mention...) and I actually find it demeaning.

Not in my current church but previously... I was in meetings regularly where jokes were shared by male senior leaders about women... jokes and slagging about “difficult” female leaders and “feminists” pushing their agenda.

Note: A number of men and women commented that they had heard women making sexists comments about men.

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3:28CHURCHES?

Some women experience limitations, stereotypes and exclusion.

“

Men are seen as the more natural leader in some churches. Opportunities seem to be given to them more often. More often than not there are more women in the congregation and a women teaching/leading could be more relatable ...

There would appear to be very few churches in Ireland where women are released and encouraged to teach and pastor.

As someone committed to full time ministry I and other... women I know, have been deprived of leadership and work/income because the roles - ordained and otherwise - are retained for less qualified, less suitable men.

When I worked for a Christian organisation, I was not treated as an equal, my opinion/ suggestions were often not heard, and I was often made feel ‘less than’ my male colleagues.

My experience of males within church and other Christian organisations have been that...

I am forced to justify every comment and decision I make and am often argued against.

I am made to feel small, stupid and over-sensitive.

I regularly get called to make sandwiches/traybakes for events but never my husband.

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OCT -- DEC DEC 2018 2018 VOX OCT

I am still frowned at when my children make noise in church, despite the fact that if I leave with them, I miss church entirely. The council posts are all male. The lay preachers are majority male. Communion is administered by males. I have a PhD, I’m a mother, I’m a senior manager in a company and I’ve been a committed Christian all my life. The female-led teaching I receive is mostly based towards the servitude, sandwiches and children. God gave me talents that are useful in the church but I am counted as bossy or annoying when I try to ask for something different.

I have never been made to feel less than or inferior by any of the men in my church but the policies of the church on women in leadership make me feel that way.

Women are leaders of ministries. They also teach in Sunday School but not from the pulpit on Sundays. This would not be accepted.

I was told in a leadership class that hell would freeze before I would be asked to preach or teach on a Sunday.

I have found myself ignored or talked over when trying to make a contribution with snide anti-woman remarks made, and unfortunately this was with male clergy.

41% of women say there are limits to what they are permitted to do in church.

48% of men believe that women in Irish churches are experiencing sexist attitudes and exclusion.

“

VOX MAGAZINE

Single women often experience additional challenges.

“

Both married and single women expressed concern about the challenges faced by single women in churches and Christian ministries: I think the high pressure within Christian circles to meet and find a husband or wife has contributed to a very specific culture regarding roles and priorities within church settings, leading to many who don’t find this mate feeling implicitly redundant in value.

Single women are the people least allowed in ministry leadership or teaching positions in the Christian church.

As a woman who is single and in her 40s, I have experienced many examples of being overlooked for ministry. Not all the time, but there seems to be a thing where if someone gets married they’re automatically considered more capable of ministry, etc.

I believe the church treats single women poorly. It’s as if the church only values married women - comment by a married woman.

When I first joined the church, I was married. The marriage did not work out and when I ended it, I got zero support. In fact, some people shunned me, because I wouldn’t stay in an abusive marriage. I stepped away from church for three years and only went back because God told me to! It’s been difficult, to say the least.

I still feel judged because I’m divorced.

In my experience there is no place for single, highly capable, women in church or women who have strongly held opinions and beliefs. You have to be married, it seems, to be valued and even then being valued by association is not being valued.

My current church is “woman friendly”. However, since I’ve recently been widowed, I do feel the difference.

I’m beginning to think it’s harder being single in the church. I think there are more opportunities when married just because [you can] ‘ride’ on the back of your husband’s gifts. As a single, I think you have to stand out more before being recognised in your gifting.

I have rarely seen women in leadership positions in the church, and when I have seen it they are often married to the men in leadership positions, as if being married qualifies them in some way above a single woman. As a young single woman, I don’t see any role or opportunities for me in... the Irish church. I think my gifts, educational achievements and experience are an inconvenient thorn in the side of Christian patriarchy.

The only contributions to church life I have been offered have been domestic duties of child minding and serving refreshments... And yet the church is still keen that I tithe a correct proportion of the salary I earn by being a ‘career woman’.

Other comments

There was great diversity in the comments, anecdotes and issues raised by women from their experiences in church:

No women available?

I have always attended churches that affirm the role of women and release women into leadership - it has only ever been outside of my own church settings that I have encountered anything different - more than anything the prevailing attitude amongst men (particularly those in full time church roles) is that there aren’t any women around to ask to do x, y or z.

Urban/ Rural Divide?

Since moving to rural Ireland, I have been invited to preach in many churches within and beyond my diocese. I have been invited to contribute to national publications and reports and to join boards and committees and my input is extremely meaningful. Overall my experience in rural Ireland has been much more positive than in the city - which I have found very surprising.

All ideas welcome?

I had an idea to set up a ministry project. At Sunday service, the pastor made a big point that all ideas are welcome and the door is always open for suggestions. So I went up and suggested my idea. I explained every aspect of the project and how it would be resourced and delivered to which the pastor replied, “That is an excellent idea, I wonder if John* would be interested in doing that.” John was a young man who no longer attended the church. The pastor used my idea to try and entice him back.

I attended that church every Sunday for several years and had set up community projects like this before. John said yes to leading the project, continued not attending the church, and didn’t do the project. *Name changed

Just joking?

When we were first married, our lead pastor constantly commented on whether or not I was pregnant yet and when I might be. I found it extremely upsetting. I made this clear to him but he persisted with the ‘joke’ for a long time.

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Attitudes and Concerns of Men Regarding the Role of Women 30% of those who responded to the survey were men. Here we look at some of the headline findings and their comments and concerns.

3 in 4 men believe their church fully encourages and empowers women to be all they were created to be.

More women leading and teaching?

This question provoked a wide range of different comments and opinions from men.

72% said they would like to see more women in active leadership and teaching roles

14% were on the fence 14% disagreed or strongly disagreed

29%

said they would be personally or theologically uncomfortable to come under the authority/ leadership of a woman minister and a further 10% were “on the fence”.

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I think a large part of what we are missing is high profile “successful” female role models in leadership and platform ministry for our young women to aspire towards and to fuel their dreams and self-belief.

I want to see women fully empowered to use their gifts of leadership and teaching within the God-given roles that Scripture outlines.

I think the church is behind in women’s rights; my church is more recently actively promoting women speaking on Sundays and being elected to eldership. I think it’s important to promote women without discriminating against men. Men and women are different and should be allowed to express themselves differently. Each person should have the opportunity to be used how God created them. They should be able to fulfil the purpose He has for them and if the church stands in the way of this then there is something wrong.

Women leading women is fine. Women teaching women is fine.

Women having authority over men is not biblical.

I would like to see more equal opportunity for women in church leadership, however I recognise that in the near future it may be that more men hold these positions... due to experience and education.

So opportunity should be created, recognising that not all women will want these positions.

I think from my theological perspective, equality of dignity doesn’t mean equality of role. I would see myself as “complementarian”, however, the usage of the term has come to mean (and sadly to be treated by some) as a way to ‘keep women down.’ From the experience I have had, and the churches I have been a part of, I have seen complementarianism lead to flourishing of both sexes, and have heard this from both men and women.

Greater equality can mean different things to different people.

Equality of opportunity to do all that women are called and mandated to do - yes! But not to do what God says only men should be doing.

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Is Christianity too Feminine?

31%

of men surveyed expressed concern about the “feminisation”* of Christianity (*the idea that forms of worship in the church appeal more to women than to men)

“

“

Many unchurched men are uncomfortable with the style and activity of a normal church ‘service’ (singing, prayer, long teaching - especially teaching that they feel is irrelevant). But these issues may be quite separate from a female/male discussion.

I think that references to masculinity and femininity are profoundly shaped (for better and for worse) by the culture that we live in. So any arguments about masculinity and femininity in the church are automatically warped because more often than not they are not working from a biblical perspective.

I believe there is a crisis of masculinity that has nothing to do with the “feminisation” of men. I think the predominate view of what is masculine-physically strong, non-emotional, virile, etc. is biblically incorrect. The crisis is not what men may be finally changing into, but what men have been for a long, long time.

I think the ‘crisis of masculinity’, if there is any, is more to do with the church being influenced by and adopting cultural norms and stereotypes related to male attitudes and behaviours, rather than biblical ones!

The balance between valuing women with regards to gifting, leadership and their uniqueness on one hand and feminism on the other is a difficult one to strike. I love to see women who are comfortable in their own skin, leading as they do best in the way they do best and not mimicking a male pastors traits.

A Crisis of Masculinity?

62%

feel churches need to do more to attract men

45%

of men surveyed think there is a crisis of masculinity within the church

28% 27%

on the fence

disagree

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The Rise of Feminism 40% of men expressed concern about the rise of feminism

22% were on the fence

38% were not concerned

We asked the women: Are you a feminist?

45% Yes

55% No

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A large number of comments by women echoed the concerns of men (see below) that feminism within the church should be about encouraging equality between men and women, not demeaning or hating men.

I am definitely concerned about it. Not for all the good things that it promotes but how I see society emasculating men to promote women. I just think the church needs to be careful of this. There is nothing positive about positive discrimination.

Obviously, God is pro-woman. I don’t love the term feminism and I don’t love everything it has become associated with. The last thing we need is a war of the sexes. Let’s keep raising issues that need to be addressed. Let’s keep making sure that people aren’t abused or left out or excluded for the wrong reasons. God is all about that. Let’s get the best the whole body of Christ has to offer. And Jesus loves people so much that He reaches right down into the midst of our cultural baggage. He can work within culture, but when we really get opened up to the depth of His love, our comfort and preferences aren’t so important!

[I support] feminism that highlights the strengths and calling of women in the church, but those who use it to supplant men are wrong.

I think feminism is a worldview which is not consistent with biblical truth and on those grounds I disagree with it and its aims.

I’m very concerned about feminism. The females are, as well. Feminism says girls are better than boys and that girls don’t need boys. If we started to say we were better than females... we’d get so much abuse. Yet girls seem to be able to do it in certain circles and get applauded. I think we need to deal with females who have been overlooked but feminism has gone too far, to the point of belittling men. Belittling of men or women is wrong. That’s why I, and so much of my church (both male and female), are against the feminism movement.

Boys exposed to extreme feminist rhetoric are left without a positive view of what they can become as a man.

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Musings...

...Love’s Hard Calling: Rejoicing in the Truth With Patrick Mitchel

Corinthians 13 is one of the most famous passages in the New Testament. It is also one of the most troubling.

First, a wee bit of context. When read at weddings, verses 1-13 are often sentimentalised. ‘Love’ is abstracted to be a ‘lovely’ description of the loving couple in a day celebrating their love. But 1 Corinthians is anything but abstract.

Paul writes to a church riven by division, bad theology, pride, arrogance, immoral behaviour and misplaced priorities over gifts. So, as we read these verses they have a hard edge; there is nothing soft and fluffy about them. There are seven positive descriptions of what love does and eight negatives. A verb is used in every case – love is seen in what it does.

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LOVE REJOICES IN THE TRUTH

Let’s take one example of a positive: love… rejoices with the truth (6b). It sits in opposition to love does not delight in evil. The verb has a sense of ‘joyfully celebrates’ or ‘acclaims’ truth.’ At first reading this sounds lovely does it not?

But think about the implications for a moment.

In his NIGTC Commentary, Anthony Thiselton argues the emphasis here is not so much on ‘truth’ with a capital ‘T’ (e.g. the Truth of the Gospel) as on relationship. Love rejoices in truth that protects, fosters and strengthens relationship, even at a cost to ourselves.

There can be powerful reasons NOT to rejoice in the truth.

TWO CURRENT EXAMPLES IN THE CHRISTIAN WORLD

The Church of England: This summer, the Church of England published a ‘report into a report,’ namely a review of their own first investigation into how

allegations of historical abuse had been handled by the church. The independent review found that the first report has been ‘botched’ and that negative aspects were downplayed in order to protect the reputation of the church.

Willow Creek Community Church: This story has been unfolding for some time. Serious allegations against Hybels had surfaced some years ago and had not been dealt with openly. When more women came forward, the reaction was denial, calling the women liars and failing to implement a robust external investigation. Finally, and only after enormous criticism and widespread concern both within and outside Willow, there were public apologies and resignations.

THE COST OF REJOICING IN THE TRUTH

Stories like these are bad news and good news. They begin with the bad news of damaging behaviour compounded by an instinctive reaction to hide the truth, or at least give a partial version of the truth, in order to protect the institution in question. But the good news is the movement towards full disclosure.

There were powerful motives NOT to rejoice in the truth: • Money (at all sorts of levels: potential court cases, book sales and huge ministry budgets at stake, etc.)

• Reputation and the deep cost of admitting ‘we got it wrong’ (and, in the case of Hybels, the protection of a deeply-loved and charismatic leader) • Power – and the threat of a loss of that power • God (perhaps persuading ourselves that God needs protection – that the truth will damage

the church, the Gospel and good Kingdom work) I mention these cases because they are current and in the (very) public domain.

If postmodernism has taught us anything, it is to have a healthy scepticism over how institutions act to protect themselves – and that, sadly, is true of churches as well.

The tough calling of love is NOT to act in our own self-interest but in the interests of others, especially when there is a cost to ‘us’.

Love meant first seeking the good of those damaged and hurt rather than using manipulation, obfuscation or obstruction to hide the full truth and protect ourselves.

That’s why 1 Corinthians 13 is anything but a mushy feel-good ‘ode to love’, but is, rather, a very troubling and difficult text.

This article first appeared in Patrick’s blog (Faith in Ireland - www.faithinireland. wordpress.com) at the beginning of July and is reprinted here with some small edits and updates because of its relevance to this issue of VOX.

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

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

MEET REV. KATHERINE KEHOE

Methodist Minister, Rev Katherine Kehoe, recently moved from Tallaght and Lucan to serve in Gorey and Arklow, in County Wicklow. Robert Fullarton met up with her to find out more about her journey of faith and her work as a minister.

H

AVE YOU ALWAYS HAD A WHAT LED YOU TO MINISTRY WITH THE DEVOTION TO THE CHRISTIAN METHODIST CHURCH? Growing up spiritually, I felt FAITH?

Very often I meet folk who can name the time and place when they were ‘saved.’ I cannot recall a time when I did not know about our Heavenly Father or feel His presence walking with me. Many little children claim to have an invisible friend. As a little girl, I always had a secret Friend walking along with me. I never felt alone and I continually spoke to Him. I knew without any doubt that my Friend loved me unconditionally. This

very much like a square peg in a round hole. I did not grow up in the Methodist tradition. I did not choose the Methodist Church, it chose me. I had a very personal relationship with Jesus Christ and I yearned to learn more and more about Him. I had an unquenchable thirst to learn more about Scripture and I read God’s Word from cover to cover repeatedly. I started to seek out and listen to services on radio and TV. God led me to attend worship at the Methodist Church in Athy almost 20 ago and I THE GOD WHO WALKED WITH ME WAS NOT SOMEONE years knew I had found TO BE FEARED, HE WAS AND IS SOMEONE WHO LOVES my spiritual home.

It was as if a fire had ME WITH A LOVE PAST ALL UNDERSTANDING. ignited in my body.

God has given everyone gifts to relationship grew and grew and became use in blessing others and to bring Him central to my life. I do not remember glory. We all belong to the priesthood anyone telling me about God’s love. I of all believers. I am convinced that always felt it in my inner core and, as we are called to serve Him wherever a child wishes to please a much-loved we are at any present moment. People parent, I always wanted to please Him. wonder if I am disappointed that I The God who walked with me was not did not enter ministry earlier. Like someone to be feared, He was and is Abraham, God called me later in life. someone who loves me with a love past He did not want me earlier; the time all understanding. is right now. Looking back over my 24

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life, I see God’s hand moulding and equipping me.

I am drawn especially to the Methodist Church because, for me, it best reflects the early church as found in the Book of Acts 2:42 - 47.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR YOUR FUTURE MINISTRY?

The Methodist Church changes ministers round every few years. I have been serving in Lucan and Tallaght.

In early July, the Methodist Church sent me to serve at Gorey and Arklow.

During my pre-ordination interview, I was asked what I would like written on my tombstone about my ministry.

This is something I have been giving quite a lot of thought to. Ministry is all about God, not about the individual minister. By my actions and prayers, I am called to represent Christ in every situation - that is my primary call. I am also conscious that I represent the Methodist Church to the world.

I hope and pray that each person I meet would know that they are loved

by God. That each would know their identity as a beloved child of God and that God is faithful - He keeps His promise to never leave or forsake us. I hope and pray that they know the God who dwells within each one of them is so much stronger that anything the world will throw at them, armed with

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the full armour of God, that they would be ready for battle and so on fire for God.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR MINISTERIAL DUTIES

Often people jokingly say, “What do you do all week, as you only work on Sunday?”

Ministry is so much more.

Others think that weekday ministry is about attending events representing the Church, such as sitting on the reviewing stand on St Patrick’s Day (something I have never done).

Ministry is about serving others and as such is very fluid. During the week, I must prepare for worship the following Sunday. Friends are surprised to hear this can often take up to two days. I usually try and have this completed by Wednesday as one never knows where the next phone call will lead.

Ecumenism is very important to me.

I regularly meet with the other church leaders in both Lucan and TaIlaght. I passionately believe that if the Church of Christ is to be the Church He intended, we must work together. After praying in the garden for His disciples Jesus prayed for us: “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are

in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:20 - 21 Pastoral care is also central to ministry. I regularly visit congregation members who are unable to leave their homes because of illness or disability. I try and visit all members as regularly as possible. I also visit vulnerable people who live near our churches, even if they are not attached to the Methodist Church, as well as patients in nursing homes and hospitals.

I was asked what the biggest surprise was during my first few weeks on ministry. I must admit that the vast amount of admin came as a great shock, such as setting up a new Data Protection plan because of GDPR legislation!

Robert Fullarton is a member of Ballycullen Community Church in Dublin who enjoys writing about faith and life.

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Violence and Abuse While the focus of this study was mainly on the experiences of women, we recognise that both genders experience violence and abuse. For this reason, these questions were addressed to both men and women and the findings are significant. Here we explore some of the “headline” findings of the survey and consider what implications these findings might have for the church.

1 in 15 have experienced sexual abuse or sexual harassment in Church and 1 in 7 have experienced domestic violence.

Sexual Abuse or Sexual Harassment in a Church Context?

6.5% - personally experienced (4 men and 40 women) 6.5% - personally witnessed (17 men and 26 women) 68% - no Experience of sexual abuse and harassment occurred in all types of churches identified in our survey with similar percentages across all evangelical, Pentecostal and nondenominational churches as well as all main Protestant and Catholic churches.

Note: A total of 22% (145 people) said that they have experienced or witnessed sexual abuse or sexual harassment outside of the church context: 118 women and 27 men.

Have you ever experienced domestic violence?

71% No

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14% Yes personally experienced 17% Yes personally witnessed

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Help-seeking Behaviour If you were (or are now) experiencing domestic violence/sexual assault/sexual harassment would you feel comfortable speaking to your church leadership about it?

No 31% Yes 69%

Have you ever heard preaching / teaching on any of the following?

Sex before marriage 76%

Sex within marriage 58%

Gender-based violence 16% Sexual Abuse 24% Domestic Violence 22% While people within all churches represented in our survey have experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse, many churches do not appear to have addressed these issues.

Question for Church Leaders: Are you equipped to help people who have experienced (or witnessed) sexual abuse or domestic violence outside of the church? Does your church have procedures in place for responding to allegations of sexual abuse or harassment that has taken place within your church?

Rape Culture

Rape Statistics in Ireland and Northern Ireland According to crime data, released by the Central Statistics Office in Ireland, there were 655 instances of rape recorded by the Gardaí in 2017. That represents an increase in 144 rapes when compared to 2016 and it is part of a wider rise in sexual offences, which increased by nearly 17%.

The up-to-date conviction rate in ROI is not available but in 2009 the rate stood at 8% of reported rapes.

According to 2015 statistics from the Rape Crisis Network fewer than 32% of survivors will report sexual violence to the Gardaí In Northern Ireland, 967 rapes were recorded by the PSNI in the year 2017-2018, an increase of 17.8% on the previous 12-month period. For the previous year 20162017, only 15 people (less than 2%) were convicted of rape out of 820 cases reported to the PSNI. Myth busting: One “myth” is that a high percentage of rape allegations are false. A Europeanwide study including Ireland showed the overall rate of false reports is less than 9%.

Looking at the society at large we asked whether people think that there is a “rape culture” in Ireland.

55% of respondents believe we have a rape culture* in Irish society. *Rape Culture is defined as an environment in which rape is prevalent and in which sexual violence against women is normalised and excused in the media and popular culture. Rape culture is perpetuated through the use of misogynistic language, the objectification of women’s bodies, and the glamorisation of sexual violence, thereby creating a society that disregards women’s rights and safety.

No 56% Yes 44%

Yes 60% No 40%

There was a notable difference between men and women on this issue and in the comments that were made (see next page).

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3:28CHURCHES? More than 1 in 4 of those who responded to the question about rape culture also added a comment. The comments demonstrated a serious engagement with the question but a range of views as to whether rape culture existed and if so, why. 10% felt there should have been an “unsure” or “don’t know” category to the question. Below is a cross section of the comments we received.

No or not sure...

Definitely not. Most people (certainty anyone l know) condemn rape.

I don’t believe we have a rape culture but there is an increasing drift in entertainment media towards objectifying women’s bodies especially in so called reality TV shows.

I don’t believe rape culture exists, everyone knows that rape is bad and wrong. And just because it takes place in the media doesn’t mean that it is a specific culture that diminishes its seriousness.

characterised by an acceptance of rape.

Acceptance of chauvinistic jokes, yes, a little macho, yes, dismissive of women drivers, yes, - but does that make it a rape culture?

I wouldn’t like to think so but underreporting may be to do with this.

Pornography is contributing Pornography needs to be addressed in churches! It is very prevalent among young men.

I think free and unchallenged access to pornography is a major factor in men’s attitude [to] and sexual understanding of women. I think it might be one of the most dangerous things under the skin of our world today and yet it is barely talked about.

“

more ‘progressive’ our society gets, the more dehumanised both sexes become.

Given the definition supplied (which I’m not that happy with) I would have to say yes but all sexuality apart from the redemption and centrality of Jesus is broken. It’s not normal - i.e. as God designed it and intended it.

It affects both men and women Though I don’t think it is just a rape culture that affects only woman. I think men too are the objects of woman’s unwanted comments and attractions.

Patriarchy and victim blaming

When society moves away from God

I think the discussion needs to move away from what women do/have done in this context and start addressing the problem with men. Why do men behave this way?

Why are so few men asking questions when they witness/experience abusive behaviour by their peers?

When we see culture remove biblical standards for dignity from life, then it is inevitable that we open a Pandora’s box of sexual assault against both sexes. The

Everyone wants to think they are nice and the rapists are bad aberrations out there (bogeyman). But most rape is in

I wish there was an, ‘I don’t really know’ option. I [don’t] perceive the culture to be

51% of men and 47% of women have experienced emotional abuse, spiritual abuse or bullying in churches or Christian ministries.

A Response David Hamilton spent years advising churches and charities on issues of governance and risk. Now retired and studying for his Masters in Applied Theology at IBI, he responded to the VOX findings about bullying, emotional abuse and spiritual abuse within churches.

Do churches have legal responsibilities for this type of abuse and bullying?

Firstly, well done to VOX for gathering this data. Sadly, the results do not surprise me. For almost 40 years I have been working with churches and charities on governance issues, giving my services at low cost or more often at no cost to the charities.

The simple answer to legal responsibility is “yes.” However, the civil legal side should not be the driver here. Christian organisations should be committed in word and deed to love all under their care.

In two recent independent cases, church members had concerns of music volumes during worship. One was indirectly ridiculed in a sermon from the pulpit (I was sent a podcast). In the second case, the member brought her concerns to the chairman of

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trustees and was informed that the spiritual leadership had authority over the trustees and no action would be taken!

In another case, and despite formal written pleas, the church leaders and trustees refused to meet the parents of a young man who had suffered serious emotional abuse by a senior leader.

Possibly the most serious recent case related to a man preying upon vulnerable women. He also worked with a Christian charity involved overseas. Three concerned Christians formally reported his activities to his church elders and charity board, both in Ireland and the States.

Their letters and reminders were totally ignored, neither acknowledged nor replied to.

What should Christian organisations do to improve?

From experience, trustees or directors appear to function merely as passive leaders, completely subservient to the active leadership. This could reveal a flaw in the reason for their role and the method used in their selection. As a first step, I would encourage trustees/directors to check that their insurance policies include cover for civil action claims due to gross negligence such as lack of protection against bullying or sexual abuse. Secondly, make it mandatory for

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the home and most sexism is learnt in childhood (“don’t be such a girl”, etc.) Rape culture is not simply a gang of lads watching a rape and not reporting it. That’s the horrendous end-of-the-line stuff. The start of the line is teaching girls that they, not boys, are responsible for boys sexual decisions (“Boys can’t help themselves,” “What did you do that he got that angry?” etc.). Rape culture is teaching boys that being responsible for their actions is not necessary “Make her get rid of it”, “You don’t know who else she’s been with” etc.).

Rape culture is pretending not to see abuse (“but the child might not be correct,” “How can I risk a man’s career by reporting him?”). Rape culture is generations deep and not something we imported from American porn. It’s the basic belief that men are the normal humans and women and children exist only in their orbit, and as bit actors in the male story. Thus women’s pain is not equivalent to men’s success, and children’s pain not as important as adults’.

We have started to change a patriarchy. It is taking some time because more of it is unconscious. Naming the unconscious rape culture that permeates our society and causes us to want to protect women from men is a necessary part of the journey to wholeness. Someday we will not need to unconsciously protect women from men that’s the kingdom of heaven that I’m working for.

Getting Help

The court case in Belfast confirmed this for me. How the victim was treated and the assumption that this treatment of the women was the ‘norm’, I found really upsetting.

1. Avoid the ostrich-syndrome Burying your head in the sand does not make the problem go away. Our research shows that men and women are experiencing all of these issues both inside and outside of the church.

all senior leaders and trustees to attend one of the “Leading Through Conflict Seminars” by the Saint Patrick Foundation, as advertised previously in VOX. The training, professionalism, manuals and methodologies shared during this one-day event are outstanding. Thirdly, could some Christian body take on the responsibility of providing a resource for Christian leaders and trustees/directors to meet and share the burden of managing governance?

When bullying or other such accusations surface, devastating damage is done to the reputation of the church, lasting for decades.

I’m delighted to say it is not all doom and gloom! Having retired from business, I have studied in the Irish Bible Institute and have observed that their ongoing focus on continual assessment is exemplary. Another well-managed charity from a governance perspective is Tearfund Ireland.

Also, I have been very impressed by the grievance methodologies of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. I am sure there are other charities which practise good governance, but I can definitely verify the proactive work of these three examples.

Helpful advice and helpline numbers are available for both men and women online at www.cosc.ie, www.oneinfour.ie or at www.womensaidni.org.

We also recommend the Irish and Northern Irish associations of Christian counsellors - www.iacc.ie and www.accni.org.

Helplines Women’s Aid (ROI) 1800 341 900 AMEN 046 902 3718 (for men experiencing domestic violence - not 24 hour) Sexual assault 1800 77 88 88 Domestic and sexual violence helpline NI 0808 802 1414

Recommendations for Churches Women and men within Irish churches have experienced and witnessed a range of abuse, bullying and violence both inside and outside of the Christian community. It is vital that we are equipped to respond appropriately with compassion and integrity. While child protection policies should include clear guidelines for responding to disclosures from or about a minor, churches are often illequipped to provide the right care and support for adults.

2. Don’t go it alone Seek help, advice and training from the experts. A poor response can re-traumatise survivors of abuse and cause added harm.

Ireland:

Women’s Aid: www.womensaid.ie

Safe Ireland: www.safeireland.ie

One in Four: www.oneinfour.ie

The National Office for the Prevention of Domestic,

Sexual and Gender-based Violence: www.cosc.ie

Northern Ireland: www.womensaidni.org 3. Develop policies and procedures that create a safe space within your church community, to help you know what to do and how to respond. These should include: • an understanding of your legal responsibilities to report criminal behaviour to the proper authorities • appropriate channels for reporting abuse or bullying • adequate resources for referring people to expert help 4. Expand the conversation by integrating these issues into teaching and Bible studies NB: YWCA provides a resource for faith communities on the topic of violence against women (see bit.ly/2Qj5JjN or visit www.ywca.ie)

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FAITH

How an artist discovered her place in the church

Welcome to

THE TREASURY n September, St. Mark’s church in Dublin city launched a new children’s ministry under the leadership of Karen McSweeney. VOX editor Ruth Garvey-Williams went to meet Karen to find out more.

In the unexpectedly-crowded restaurant, Karen takes a sip of coffee and promptly forgets that it is there. “It’s ridiculous!” she smiles as she thinks of herself heading up the re-launched children’s ministry at St. Mark’s Church.

Brought up in a Christian home, Karen’s parents were both pastors. She was one of six children but says, “I gave my dad all his grey hairs.” By the age of 18, Karen knew she wanted to do her own thing. “I didn’t leave God but I walked away from the church.”

I

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It wasn’t until she was married to John with children of her own that Karen joined St. Mark’s. “They had a fantastic children’s ministry and I wanted my children to grow up in the church,” she explains.

About that time, Karen and her husband attended Summer Fire, where she heard Pastor Carter Conlon from Times Square Church, New York. “He explained that when you are forgiven, it is not about you, it is about Jesus. He has always loved you. You are perfect in God’s sight because of Jesus. Suddenly, I got it and my life changed completely!” The pieces fell into place and for the first time she truly understood that she was loved and accepted by Jesus!

Karen started off in business but her

passion was always to create. Eventually, her work as an artist became full time.

Karen has successfully exhibited paintings and textile art and is a member of The Design & Craft Council of Ireland. She found herself writing and illustrating children’s books.

“Last January, I heard Pastor Sean preach and somehow I just knew I had to talk to him after the service about the Sunday School. I had no idea that the church had just put an advert in VOX magazine for a new leader for the Children’s Church!

“Soon afterwards, I was walking through St. Anne’s Park, thinking about what the children’s ministry should look like, and I felt the Holy Spirit giving me a vision and even a name - “The Treasury”. I

VOX MAGAZINE

wrote it all down and then went through my unbelievably supportive husband by the whole interview process in the church my side. John’s encouragement in my telling them that this was the vision for life has been a game changer. We have a the person who would take on the role. I great team of men and women and young never even imagined that person would people - there are mums, PE teachers and be me! I just wanted to help,” Karen even a nurse. smiles.

“We really take child protection But the leaders at St. Mark’s knew that seriously because we want to look out Karen was the perfect person for the job. for the children and make sure they are “Never in a million years would I safe. So everybody who works with the have dreamed of doing this. They saw children’s church is Garda vetted and the potential in me, even when I didn’t. I will go through child protection training. used to be afraid that people might think, People cannot just show up - they have ‘Who do you think you are?’ I know that to apply for the role and go through the I couldn’t do it without help and without proper procedures. The children have God. It is only because of His grace that their own entrance and we make sure that I’m sitting here talking to you. It is the the same adult who drops them off also biggest miracle!” picks them up. We pray for protection but By this time, Karen’s coffee has gone we also do everything we can to ensure cold but it goes unnoticed as she recounts that they are safe. her story.

The room is decorated like Treasure “I’m not brave but God has given me Island and Karen created colourful the courage. I can’t explain it. Suddenly, decorations and furnishings - from pirates my faith stepped into my passion and to pineapples! The aim is for the children became my to have a lot of fun purpose…. it has in an environment just exploded. is nothing like THERE ISN’T A MINIATURE VERSION that Nothing can stop school and where OF THE HOLY SPIRIT FOR CHILDREN. they can make great me now. It feels like this was what friendships.

HE IS THE SAME HOLY SPIRIT. I was born to do!

Karen has Suddenly it all created a giant makes sense but I television set. Every had to wait until I was 50 to discover how week, the children can go inside the everything in my life fits together. God television and share their good news with had a plan and purpose for my life.” the rest of the group.

Karen’s vision for “The Treasury” “We also found the original tithe box revolves around her understanding of from the church and I’ve painted it up to how precious children are to God. “Our create a prayer request box. Each week children are our treasure. We don’t just the children can put their worries and mind them. We are to treasure our kids. concerns into the box and when God We want them to be loved and valued. answers their prayers, they share their When people brought their children to good news story in the TV. Jesus the disciples wanted to keep them “We will tell Bible stories in a away but Jesus said, ‘Cause the children fun and interactive way. I use a lot of to come to me, and do not hinder them.’ character puppets. And we’re going to And He blessed them. We are involved have a treasure chest filled with Scripture in causing them to come, in creating a promises, which the children can take space that is loving and fun - but it is Jesus home each week and stick up on the who blesses the children! There isn’t a fridge. I want to have a proper Kids miniature version of the Holy Spirit for Church band, made up of the young children. He is the same Holy Spirit.” people from the team but I’d also like to “I want to teach children in a fun buy miniature drums and instruments so way that God has got this. I really believe the younger children can join in.” if you can get that as a child, it will be Karen is seeking to integrate the empowering.” children’s church into the wider ministry Throughout the summer, Karen of St. Mark’s by enabling the children to worked to create a fun and beautiful space help out and get involved in supporting for the Children’s Church and to build a the Homeless Ministry and finding team of people that would be able to help out about mission agencies such as out during two services each Sunday.

Compassion Ireland. “We are all in this “I’m serving (because I took the together… To God be all the glory!” she position as a service to the Lord) with beams.

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3:28CHURCHES?

Christian Leaders Respond We approached a number of Christian leaders in Ireland for their comments and reflections on the survey findings and here we publish all of the responses we received. Others, who were unable to respond by the deadline, will contribute at a later stage. We also invite you to join the conversation - feel free to write a letter to the editor or let us know if you would like to contribute in greater detail to the full report on the survey findings that will be published later this year. All responses welcome to editor@vox.ie.

Nick Park is a church pastor and Executive Director of the Evangelical Alliance of Ireland. Here he reflects on some of the key findings of the 3:28 Churches? Survey.

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he issue of women in ministry is probably never going to be completely resolved this side of heaven, and this is reflected in the survey results. I am passionate about seeing women released and empowered into their God-given ministry potential, and a majority of respondents agree with me but there is a significant minority who feel differently. It is likely that egalitarian and complementarian views will continue to co-exist in Irish Christianity, just as we currently embrace different views on freewill and predestination, or on the validity of charismatic gifts of the Spirit. A very few see these as warranting withdrawing fellowship from one another but most of us agree to disagree.

A majority of men want to see more women in leadership, and want to see their churches doing more to fully encourage and empower female leaders. This is further evidence that the very real underrepresentation of women in church leadership is not men ‘keeping women in their place’ so much as deference to the significant minority (of both men and women) who are uncomfortable with the pace or extent of change.

It is encouraging to see that a majority of women feel fulfilled, valued and content in how their church gives them opportunity to serve God fully, but a disturbingly high minority feel frustrated and held back.

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It is depressing to discover that approximately half of all respondents have heard sexist jokes and comments in a church context. I would be interested in further research to see if this is on-going, or if things are changing.

Approximately half of all respondents (both male and female) have experienced emotional abuse, spiritual abuse or bullying in a church context. This is, for me, one of the most shocking statistics from the survey.

A disturbingly high number (one in fifteen respondents) have experienced sexual abuse or sexual harassment in a church context.

My initial question was ‘How can this happen?’ That question was immediately answered by the next statistic, that almost a third of respondents would not feel comfortable speaking to church leadership about such behaviour. This represents a problem that must be confronted with urgency.

As a pastor and preacher, I find it incomprehensible that a majority of Irish Christians seem to have never heard preaching or teaching on domestic violence, gender-based violence or sexual abuse. Has the church lost the will or the confidence to be a prophetic voice speaking into the issues that are affecting huge numbers of Irish men and women?

From this survey, this one result alone should shock us to consider how to become more culturally relevant.

This one result alone should shock us.

Richard Carson is CEO of ACET Ireland. Here is his response to the 3:28 Churches? survey:

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he findings left me with some level of frustration. In response, I want to let the discipline of lament bring me to hear God’s response to impoverished churches which will not let women’s teaching and leading flourish the way it should, to the belief that the issue is merely access to the pulpit when it is really about patriarchy and the moulding to the pattern of the world and to the refusal to allow women’s voices lead us in following Jesus out of this mess.

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Chloe Hanan is a Dublin/Wicklow native who has worked in ministry from a young age and has served with Agapé Ireland since 2009. She reflects on the positives and negatives of our survey.

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he findings of the survey have a duel effect of encouragement at the good news items - those who have had a positive experience of church and their involvement - and the contrast with those who have been hurt.

In fact, throughout the findings one of the resounding echoes I hear is the experience and handling of hurt for both men and women. As Irish people, we are renowned for conflict avoidance. We don’t like to offend, or admit that we are offended. “Sure it’ll be grand,” rolls off our tongue, often after discussing our hurt with another person…

Handling conflict and giving voice to hurt was something Jesus voiced clear directions about. (See Matthew 5 and Matthew 18 for some of these instructions with follow-ups from Paul in Philippians, Ephesians and Corinthians.) What would church life be like for everyone if we learnt how to have those difficult conversations with the person involved?

Singleness is another topic that came up here, and as a single woman in ministry, I could identify with

the good and the bad comments that surfaced.

I have been both valued and overlooked, listened to and shut down. To raise the topic of patriarchy in ministry context for me requires a lot of deep breaths to cope with the elephants that start romping in my stomach. I think single women have some valuable feedback for male leaders that could bring about significant change personally, and on an organisation level. Perhaps this could be done over a coffee?

In a society, where it was widely accepted that women were second class citizens, Jesus’ inclusion, promotion and trust in women during His ministry unapologetically shattered the customs of His day.

From the comments, and percentages, it is clear that the spirit of championing, supporting and trusting women is still alive and well [in the church] - and this is to be celebrated.

But there remains work to be done, questions to be asked, and voices to be heard.

What would church life be like for everyone if we learnt how to have those difficult conversations with the person involved?

General Secretary of YWCA Ireland, Audrey Wilson unpacks the significance of the the findings regarding violence against women.

If we want to ensure that the church is a safe, healing and restorative space for all women we must engage in and continue conversations on this crucial issue.

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he 3:28 Churches? survey highlights that violence against women, in its many forms, continues to be a real and relevant issue for the Irish church in 2018. As leaders and members of faith communities, we must acknowledge that violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in Ireland and our world today. If we want to ensure that the church is a safe, healing and restorative space for all women we must engage in and continue conversations on this crucial issue.

69% of the survey respondents indicated that they would feel comfortable speaking to their church leadership about their experience of domestic violence/sexual assault or sexual harassment. As Christian leaders,

we must equip ourselves to respond to situations of abuse in a sensitive and appropriate way and acknowledge that we need the input and support of professional services, for example Women’s Aid or the Rape Crisis Network, to do this well.

There is no doubt that ending violence against women and girls requires the combined support of all of society, including faith communities. The time is now, to educate, raise awareness and put pressure on our elected representatives to make perpetrators accountable and to allocate adequate resources to services, in the church and externally, that support victims and their families.

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Christmas Carols 2018

With speaker: J.John 7.30pm, Friday 7th December

National Boxing Stadium, 145 South Circular Road, Dublin 8.

Tickets: â‚Ź5 each (admits two) A multi-church event sponsored by Evangelical Alliance Ireland, J.John and participating churches

Dublin Carol Service-MagAd.indd 2

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13/09/2018 19:16

3:28CHURCHES?

Priscilla Reid from CFC in Belfast is a Christian leader and speaker and is on the leadership team of the church planting network ARC Ireland. Here she considers what the findings might mean for churches.

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Women are still asking, “What am I allowed to do” rather than “What God has called me to do?”

n all of the findings, the most surprising for me was the very high percentage of people who consider themselves egalitarian.

And yet when you look down in the two areas of preaching and church leadership, the majority are still men.

The problem is that if leaders see themselves theologically as egalitarian, they don’t realise that they have to work that through.

I’m encouraged by what we say we believe but we need to go a step further and say, “How can we work this out on a practical basis?”

We were in America last year at a conference when they were discussing racial issues. A black guy was saying it is not helpful for a white person to say, “I don’t see colour.” Everything I heard about racism in America could be applied to male and female in our context. People are saying, “I don’t see gender.” But that is not helpful. Gender exists. There are males and females and we are different. Men can say, “We are totally for women so all is well” until you speak to women and they say, “All is not well.”

When the children of Israel crossed over into the Promised Land, Joshua said to the ones who had already received their inheritance, “You need to fight alongside your brothers in order for them to gain their inheritance.”

Men in the church have received their inheritance or have had more of an opportunity to do so. Our plea is that you would cross over with us so that we also have the opportunity to walk in our inheritance. Women are still asking, “What am I allowed to do” rather than “What God has called me to do?”

The conversations are so important - we need to genuinely listen and start to see things from a different perspective. I do get that some men feel there is a crisis in masculinity. Women have been having conversations for a long time about what it means to be a follower of Jesus as a woman. We are good at talking about things and sharing our vulnerabilities and our strengths. I think men find it much more difficult to have those conversations. We need to talk about what it means to be a man of God. The gender wars in our culture are making it difficult to have those conversations.

If you are in a place of slight insecurity then you are going to be defensive. We need to make it clear that we don’t want a patriarchal system but neither do we want a matriarchal system. We have to work hard to maintain balance. There can be a feeling that women are pushy and demanding. I think the opposite is true. There is a genuine heart for the church and for the men.

The women want to serve God and do it in a way that honours Him. One other thing that is important to mention. We do need to have a broader conversation about single women. So often as a woman, your qualification for leadership is on the basis of your marital status. If you are married to someone in leadership, that makes a way for you to lead. Single women do not have those same opportunities. That has to change. We need advocates for single men and women within our churches to be released into their calling.

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REALITY

HOW

inclusive

IS YOUR CHURCH?

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Donna Jennings and her husband were living and working in Bangladesh when their son Micah was diagnosed with Autism and severe learning disability.

Returning to Northern Ireland, they had to grapple with what it meant for their church to genuinely include their son and what it means for the wider church to care for and learn from the “least of these”. Now as a member of Tio Associates (www. tioassociates.org) Donna has a challenging message for the church across the island of Ireland.

he culture of our Christian communities tends to lean towards strength, power and knowledge, and while there is a place for that, this imitates the values of the world. We need a biblical understanding of the Kingdom of God in valuing and including those the world deems “worthless.” The discussion surrounding the Referendum told me the shape of my child ‘s life was not worthwhile, that “these people” are a drain on their families and on wider society.

Too often the church’s interaction, or lack thereof, emits the same message.

The church cannot say that all life holds value and it is morally wrong to terminate a child [with a learning disability] unless we are willing to demonstrate that this child has value to us over the long term. We need to seek out the image of God in that child or adult. We need to learn from that person.

Can we accept and value vulnerability and brokenness?

Our heart, in Tio, is to see an integrated body of Christ where people are welcome and accepted. Micah should be seen as a member of my church who can be blessed and can bless others. Churches are beginning to explore how they can minister to people with additional needs but we need to move from ministering to them to being alongside them and learning from them.

That takes intention. It will take a shift in thinking to understand that these people who seem to be weak are indispensable in the body of Christ.

When Micah had his diagnosis and we came back from Bangladesh, our church

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gave great pastoral care for us as parents. together by intentionally asking questions.

But perhaps Micah was only seen as the In that way Micah can become a prophetic cause of our grief and the source of our voice within the church as we grapple with pain; as a little person he missed out on the tough questions. Micah is disabled. pastoral care. We have been on a very slow Why has Jesus not healed him, as He healed journey. It took a long time. others in the Gospel stories? What is healMicah cannot sit through a whole ing and how can we bring healing? We can junior church service. He understands be Micah’s friend and help him. But how very little verbal communication. Yet, can he be a friend to us? What does it mean he needs what other children need from for Micah to be part of God’s amazing plan? a church - social connection, Christian The questions raised by learning disfriendships, input from the word of God, ability touch on our perception of what it prayer and a place to serve. With the help means to be human; the personhood can of other church members who work in this be lost and we can struggle to see the image area, Micah now has his own room in our of God in them. So often we understand church and two buddies every week who our image bearing in terms of strength and work with him. We connect with and learn ability - we were made to be rational, relafrom his school to find strategies that are tional and creative. Micah is none of those helpful for him. He likes singing. He will sit with his peers and sing together, It will take a shift in share a snack with a few other children and share in thinking to understand that a special storytelling time with them. At the heart of these people who seem to this time we work together be weak are indispensable to bring the person of Jesus into Micah‘s life. That might in the body of Christ. be through a short prayer or two words of a song, or the presence of his ‘friends’. things. He struggles to relate. He loves to What is the place and function of the destroy things and I wish I could enter into Word of God for my little boy who has no his way of thinking. What does that say to words? We need a theology for how he can me about Micah’s value? encounter Jesus. Micah doesn’t understand People like Micah cannot hide their love but he experiences it. He feels com- dysfunctionality. Micah is so dependent fortable with those who demonstrate it! and so vulnerable. Maybe we need to There are opportunities to learn think about a God who became vulnerOCT - DEC 2018 VOX

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able, a God who was broken, a God who was dependent. There is a place for being skilled but the gift that Micah brings to our church is that he doesn’t, he cannot, hide his obvious ‘brokenness’.

We need to understand what inclusion really is. It is not about everyone being in the same room at the same time as church “gathered”. Before you think about inclusion in our structures and services, inclusion begins with the church “scattered”. That might mean surrounding and

whole family. These are often silent voices, exhausted voices.

We need the vision of Jesus Christ who looks towards the margins. We need to look around our churches and ask: Who is not here and why are they not here? Often churches will say, “We don’t have anybody like that in our congregation.” We say, “Why not?”

Families with additional needs children often think of churches as places where they cannot go. We think that to be holy

Families with additional needs children often think of churches as places where they cannot go. befriending a family, being present with them, letting them be present with you, inviting them into our homes.

It is about building relationships and finding out what people’s needs really are.

Going into a church can be really stressful, especially if your child is making a row. But if you are surrounded by friends who love, understand and can advocate for you, that helps!

One family is very intentional about engaging their children with Micah. They looked at him and rather than saying “that poor child”, they asked, “How can Micah help our children?” They came to us and said, “Our children are scared of swimming and if we go swimming together, Micah can help them overcome that fear.” This is not about writing people off because they can’t do what others can do but intentionally valuing who they are.

My training was in contextual ecclesiology and this has resulted in me seeing a gap in society where the church needs to be present. I have a huge friendship group with people who have additional needs like Micah. They have so many questions. Can my child know God? Does God know or care? Why would God give me a child that I am not able to care for? One child with additional needs in a church represents a portal into a whole community.

Huge cuts to funding (for example in special schools, adult care and respite services) reflect the de-valuing of society for those who don’t have a taxable income. In the past, the church was present, caring for people both medically and socially. Today, the church has the potential to be present with those who are affected by these cuts, seeing and responding to the needs of the 38

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and reverent, we need to be quiet and still, but our children don’t do quiet and still.

The Old Testament idea of holiness was to be counter-cultural and a different kind of people to the surrounding nations – in this way, God’s character was demonstrated and attracted attention. How can we reflect God’s holiness and demonstrate kingdom values by valuing the people that society de-values? When you create a church like that, it is a missional tool that demonstrates the heart of God for all people. Can we become known for what we are doing for the broken and hurting? People like Micah are so excluded in society. They are our prophets [with a powerful message for the church].

We had to fight for Micah’s respite services. As a parent you go through periods when you are so exhausted and emotionally drained that you cannot pick up the phone.

How can our churches help with the practical needs of applying for funding or services or respite care? There are Christians in our midst who have skills and expertise in these areas.

I would love to see people with a legal background offering to serve on boards of organisations or special schools, as advocates in public policy. Christian businesses need to learn how they can offer employment to adults with a learning disability.

Churches can offer their buildings or manpower to serve this section of our local communities, washing paint pots in a special school or doing a bag pack or bucket collection for a local charity that is supporting children or adults with autism, Down Syndrome or learning disabilities.

Often churches want to serve where they think the needs are rather than build-

ing relationships, being present with people and listening to what they themselves identify as the priorities. It is about gaining respect, genuinely befriending and valuing and learning to meet the needs of the whole person.

Genuine inclusion of these precious people into our Christian communities raises the bar of our own faith development. Rather than sitting in our churches and enjoying fantastic exposition of the Word we begin to live out God’s Word in the way we love those the world does not love. We all want to be fed by the Word of God and yet Jesus said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me”. Are we prioritising being fed over obedience? In practice, that might mean sitting in a church service beside someone who is noisy or socially inappropriate. Or it may mean going swimming with another family or campaigning against funding cuts. In these ways, we learn as a church to think of those who on the surface seem to us to be weak, as the ones we really cannot do without.

REALITY

VOX MAGAZINE

NOT JUST A CHANGE OF NAME EMPOWERING THE SWAZI PEOPLE TO TRANSFORM THEIR COMMUNITIES

BY PETER HEANEY

waziland, Africa’s only remaining absolute monarchy, most recently made international headlines based on the king’s decision to change the country’s name.

It is now ‘eSwatini,’ meaning ‘land of the Swazi.’ The change was prompted by a desire to no longer use a colonial name but also, according to the king, because people sometimes got confused with Switzerland.

Both are landlocked and relatively small but one definitely has a lot fewer cuckoo clocks and less snow.

Change is needed in much more than its name though. Swaziland’s economy is weak, meaning that many have to travel to neighbouring South Africa for work, breaking families apart and contributing towards Swaziland having the highest rate of HIV in the world. 27% of all adults in the country are living with HIV (UNAIDS).

On a recent visit with Team Hope, I had the opportunity to witness some of this change. In Lavumisa, a dry rural area in the south west of the country, Team Hope and its partner, the Swaziland Conference of Churches, have been working to foster sustainable community livelihoods. Together we run 112 selfhelp groups across Swaziland – a simple and effective approach to empowering communities.

Self-help groups comprise around 15

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people, often women, who come together to contribute small amounts of savings into a pool of money managed by the group itself. Our partners train them how to manage this money as a group, how to encourage each other and how to negotiate disputes. The members can then take loans from the group funds.

One group of women said they used these loans to buy simple but transformational household items like a small radio or to pay for their children’s school books and uniforms, a cost that annually can be prohibitively high.

The group also talked excitedly about the skills training that they have received to help them use their group funds to start small businesses. They were trained in making natural, organic wood polish from locally available plants, which is sold on both sides of the nearby Swaziland-South Africa border. Their real money spinner was their own idea though – the ‘espongy’.

When someone dies, people from far and wide travel to attend the funeral and in Swazi culture, they are hosted by the mourning family, who seldom have enough bedding. The ‘espongy’ are simple foam mattresses which the group rent out for a small fee on these occasions. They say that not only does this provide income but the popularity of the service has also positively changed how people view them in the community. This has a huge impact

given many are HIV positive, which still has huge cultural taboos associated with it.

The woman’s faces light up when they talk about Team Hope’s Christmas Shoebox Appeal. In 2017 Swaziland received 29,676 of the 264,636 shoebox gifts from Ireland. Their children, or grandchildren, have all received shoebox gifts. They all agree that as parents the most useful items were the educational ones – copy books, pens, rulers. But a fuller story is told as we leave and walk past the children playing outside. The women are insistent on showing us how the children’s best clothes or treasured toys came from the shoebox gift they received.

The change of name from Swaziland to eSwatini may be symbolic, but meeting these women and getting a sense of their vibrancy and empowerment, you can see not only the change that has impacted them so much, through self-help groups and shoebox gifts, but also the change that they and their children can bring to their communities and country.

To find out more about Team Hope and get involved in this year’s Shoebox Appeal, visit www.teamhope.ie.

Peter Heaney is the new CEO of Team Hope - the Irish Christian development agency responsible for the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, as well as year-round projects in some of the world’s poorest nations.

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REALITY

NO CHILD SHOULD CARRY THEIR LIFE IN A BIN BAG HOW A NORTHERN IRISH BUSINESS IS HELPING THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN IN CARE

BY MIRYAM LIGHTBODY

Dave Linton was a Northern Irish youth worker who saw an injustice and decided to do something about it. At this year’s New Wine conference in Sligo, Miryam Lightbody caught up with Dave to find out about the business he created from nothing. Every year, Madlug (Make a Difference Luggage) donates thousands of bags to children in care.

n 2014, Dave Linton was American entrepreneur Blake In August 2018, Madlug went viral attending a fostering course Mycoskie says, “Someday is a disease that when a social media influencer shared the when he saw a video about will take your dream to the grave with story on her Facebook page - “Part-Time a young girl in care. “Whenever [the you. If it’s important to you and you want Working Mummy”. In the space of one children] move, health trusts don’t give to do it eventually, just do it and correct weekend, the company sold out of its them suitcases and quite often their course along the way.” entire stock! Acting quickly to re-stock belongings are moved in black plastic Dave took that advice to heart. “Don’t the company told customers, “This meant bags. I heard nothing else for the rest of let ‘someday’ rob you of starting,” he that thousands more children in care will the evening and I left with the intention to warned. “Don’t let the lies that are saying receive a bag of their own.” do something about it. that you have no money or you haven’t got Being a leader who walks in God’s “I thought perhaps I could get my the ability or there’s nobody supporting way means, “I’m not going to gossip, or friends and families to give their old bags you, rob you. Just do something. And slag, or get one over, or try to manipulate to the children in care. That would have you’ll find that doing something will lead people’s thoughts over to my brand,” Dave dealt with the problem but it wouldn’t you to THE thing.” said. Instead, he uses the success of other have been a proper solution. The more Starting with a budget of just £480, brands to spur him on to innovate better. and more I thought about it, the more I Madlug adopted a “buy one, give one “Madlug is bigger than me,” he realised that every child has huge admitted gladly, “and that’s my heart. I value, worth and dignity,” Dave really believe in the unseen leadership explained. “That’s why the bin of empowering people. I want to EVERY CHILD HAS HUGE VALUE, WORTH AND DIGNITY. role bags are such a problem. We want be a team and to be releasing people. I to reinforce this sense of value don’t want Madlug to be built around that God’s created, this sense of Dave.” worth, that Christ died for them and so approach”. The company seeks to make Throughout the rollercoaster journey, we treat them with respect and dignity.” “incredible bags” and for every bag or Dave has discovered, “that God is faithful Dave learnt that there are over 90,000 backpack that people purchase, a new bag and He is always, always in control. It’s my children in care in the UK and Ireland. is given to a child in care.

Father’s business!”

One child enters the UK care system “I simply don’t believe there’s such Madlug backpacks start at £20/ every 15 minutes. Over half are victims of a thing as a risk. Risks are only there if €22.30 with pencil cases, gym bags and neglect or abuse, but because children in something fails and I don’t believe in luggage also available. The Lurgan-based care aren’t given a voice, the public don’t failure,” Dave said. “ I believe that, as company offers free delivery in the UK know about the problems they face every children of the King, if our heart and and ROI for orders over £30. To find out day. posture is one of worship then we are in a more, visit www.madlug.com.

The vision of Madlug came like a place where He is interested in every step.”

Miryam Lightbody is a graduate of Cork “flashing light” during that moment of “My dream and desire is to be growing City University who worked as a Journalism brokenness. The idea was to use business a business that is Kingdom right through.

Intern at New Wine Ireland’s Summer to generate funds in order to provide I dream of having a business that is Conference in Sligo. brand new bags for children in care. marked by integrity.”

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IN THE SPACE OF ONE WEEKEND, THE COMPANY SOLD OUT OF ITS ENTIRE STOCK.

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www.bridesglenhouse.com Convenient for visiting Dublin city and County Wicklow

Bethany at Bride’s Glen

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Whether you are a large or small congregation, operate from a private home, rent space or own your own building we can protect you by providing advice and solutions for your insurance needs.

Self-catering accommodation and conference centre for small retreat groups. www.bethanyatbridesglen.com Residential and Non-Residential

These facilities can be booked together or separately.

Contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Betty Stevenson | 01-2822510 |bettystevenson2014@outlook.com

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For your quotation please contact Rodney Croly at: Email: Rodney@croly insurance.com Phone 01-2989166 | www.crolyinsurance.com R J Croly & Co Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland Registered in Ireland no. 108865. Registered office 4 Finsbury Park Dundrum Dublin 14 Directors Rodney Croly QFA FLIA , Sylvia Croly QFA

R.J. CROLY & Co.

LTD The specialist for the Christian and charity community.

MUSIC REVIEWS

Keep the Banner Flying High Graham Kendrick

With a huge catalogue of songs under his belt, Graham Kendrick could be forgiven if he decided that he had made sufficient contribution and that it was time to hang up his guitar. No early retirement, however, for this veteran Christian singer/songwriter. In fact, his new album Keep the Banner Flying High is probably going to rank as one of his finest to date. The album contains ten new songs, recorded live, which beautifully capture the atmosphere and authenticity of a Graham Kendrick worship gathering. Unlike so much of today’s contemporary worship music, with its lavish overproduced wall of sound, Graham Kendrick’s songs are written almost exclusively for congregational participation, and I have no doubt that given enough exposure, many of the songs will end up on Sunday morning song lists. There is a lovely, folksy feel to the arrangements, ensuring that you will be tapping your feet and singing along as the album draws you into its intimacy and togetherness. I love this album. www.grahamkendrick.co.uk

Phoenix

Nathan Jess Nathan is a songwriter, producer and worship leader based in Northern Ireland. His debut album Love Stands Forever was released with Integrity Music in 2013, and since then he has been a regular at Christian conferences and worship gatherings both at home and abroad. He has toured alongside artists such as Rend Collective, Phil Wickham and Martin Smith, and continues to reach a growing audience with his heart to communicate the love of God, and a passion to draw worshippers into a deeper encounter with their Heavenly Father.

Nathan says, “I write songs with the hope that someone, somewhere can identify with and find comfort,

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restoration, encouragement, hope and joy within them.’ This is very evident in the songs on his latest album Phoenix.

It comprises ten songs of outstanding quality that really show how Nathan has matured in both his faith and his craft. A mixture of both soft and uptempo songs, the album ebbs and flows beautifully and makes for a thoroughly engaging listening experience. For me, the standout tracks are Nathan’s slower songs, particularly Awake My Soul and Sweet Communion, which are both breathtakingly beautiful. There is also a most unusual version of Amazing Grace, sung to the air of Danny Boy / Derry Air. If you are looking for an album to complement your personal reflective time with God, Phoenix is sure to help create that space for God to speak to you. www.nathanjess.com

Sacred

Jean Watson I discovered the music of Michigan-based Jean Watson a number of years ago when I first started working at UCB Ireland. I was moved by the purity of the vocals and the beauty of her violin playing. That very same day, I found out that she was a frequent visitor to these shores, often coming here twice or three times a year to perform and minister throughout the whole of the island, and that she was actually in Ireland that particular week. I traveled to Dundalk that evening to watch her perform to a packed church, and I waited afterwards for almost three hours while she prayed with a never-ending queue of people. In the years that followed, Jean and I have become good friends. Her music and her late night radio slot on UCB Ireland are firm favourites with listeners all over the country and further afield.

As I write this piece, Jean is in Ireland on a busy tour, ministering and performing songs from her new album Sacred.

Eleven beautifully performed songs and hymns that speak to the heart and that evoke in us echoes of our rich spiritual Celtic heritage. This is a stunning album.

Perfect for your quiet time, when you are feeling a little stressed or when you simply want to feel the gentle soothing hand of God. www.jeanwatson.com

Gold

Steph Macleod I have known Steph Macleod for about eight years now. I came across one of his songs called When I Found Jesus and was so taken by it that I just had to find out some more about the writer. It turned out that he had quite a story to tell. A story of hurt and disappointment that led to addiction and homelessness, and a life that looked to be destined to end on a freezing cold Edinburgh street.

But God had other plans for Steph and the timely intervention of a couple of Christian people, who helped nurture him back to life, set him on a path that has led to him touching the lives of thousands through his songwriting talent.

Steph Macleod’s new studio album is called Gold and is a testament to just how far this man has come in his journey since those dark days. By the time the opening track Still Waters was finished, the hair was already standing up on the back of my neck “Here in the darkness, trying so hard to pray, Lord if you can hear me, come help me change my way.”

Words that will resonate with any of us who have faced our own demons and felt alone in the dark. This is one of the finest songs I have heard in a very long time, and the other nine songs on the album are all just as impressive. By the time I heard the line in the penultimate song Love Changes Everything, “And I know, I know I know, reaching out I know I am never alone, because love changes everything”, I must admit that there were tears in my eyes. Gold by Steph Macleod is raw, honest, authentic and it’s an absolute must-hear album. Awesome! www.stephmacleod.com

Albums reviewed by UCB Ireland Radio producer/presenter Vincent Hughes. Listen to UCB Ireland Radio on Virgin Media Channel 918, on Sky Channel 0214 or on your smartphone with our Android or iPhone app or online at www.ucbireland.com.

Now available on DAB Radio in Cork City and County!

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EVENTS

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Events Calendar What’s happening where and when

October Strictly with Tearfund Ireland Friday, 19th October, 8pm Red Cow Moran Hotel, Dublin 22 www.tearfund.ie Rubicon 2018 Saturday, 20 October, 9.30am The Sugar Club, Dublin 2 www.wearerubicon.com

A21 Walk for Freedom Saturday 20 October Dublin, Galway, Cork, Belfast www.A21.org/Walk December “Just One” Christmas Carol Service Friday, 7 December, 7:30pm National Boxing Stadium, Dublin 8 www.evangelical.ie

Pray for the World

Visit www.vox.ie/events for a more up-to-date event listing.

(You can also inform us about your upcoming event there.)

Have you reviewed your pension lately? rement?

How much will you need at reti How much can you co ntribute?

Is it enough?

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When a client meets with us, we carry out an assessment, review their current pension and discuss in detail their expected retirement objectives. Once we have a clear picture of our client’s retirement fund, tax liability and retirement goals, we can determine which type of pension is best suited to achieve those goals. The desired outcome is to have a financial plan that outlines the appropriate steps for the client and serves to guide them towards a financially secure retirement.

Church in Chains has published a new edition of its Global Guide, giving information about 60 countries where Christians face discrimination, attack, arrest or even death for their faith.

Order free copies by email, phone or via our website.

CHURCH IN CHAINS PO Box 10447, Glenageary, Co. Dublin T 01-282 5393 E info@churchinchains.ie W www.churchinchains.ie

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James Garza, QFA, of Trillium Financial Services, has over 17 years experience in the financial services industry.

Mention this advert to avail of a free one-hour pension consultation with James Garza, QFA. Contact James Garza at james@trillium.ie or 086 073 9902 or 01 442 9950.

James Garza T/A Trillium Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

BOOK REVIEWS

PREGNANCY & ABORTION – YOUR CHOICE, Lead author Dr M Houghton

Whether or not you engaged with the recent Referendum debate, are you ready for the new reality of legally available abortion? Time has moved on but the implications of the result haven’t gone away.

This book is addressed to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. But how would you respond to that same woman if she shared with you that she is considering an abortion? More fundamentally, would you have any idea where she is coming from? It behoves us all as Christians to prepare ourselves for this new era. This book is the perfect aid.

I learnt much from the authors, all medical professionals in Britain. They explain that most women who choose abortion believe that they have no other choice. So they tease that out, helping a woman to journey to a decision that is not based on fear. A simple visual tool helps her to explore her own situation, and to realise that she has options – parenting, adoption and abortion. Also addressed are the place of the father, when the woman is very young, and possible disability. Then they share research into the short- and long-term after effects of abortion, including some startling research conclusions.

Parenting and adoption are addressed in less detail, as they are well covered elsewhere.

I believe that this book is a must for those in any sort of pastoral care, formal or informal, for that woman could be anyone’s acquaintance. It could also be confidently given to any neighbour or colleague in crisis. It is not written to judge or blame.

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GOD IS GOOD

By Bill Johnson

God is good – surely that’s obvious! But is it? What do those three words really mean? What are their implications?

‘What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.’ - A W Tozer This book is easy to read, although it addresses deep theological issues. But I couldn’t read it quickly, as my hidden disbeliefs were constantly challenged – all those ways in which I don’t really believe that God is good.

What we believe deep down about God’s goodness affects every aspect of our lives and our futures. When we are faced with trials in life, our view of God reveals how we will respond. We have the choice to anchor ourselves in the goodness of God as revealed in the Bible. This helps us to differentiate God’s will from the plans of the enemy, and so to be confident in praying for breakthrough, believing for miracles, and having faith for God to move in difficult circumstances. We can rest in God’s goodness while waiting for answers, and embrace mystery when we don’t understand. We can partner with heaven to release God’s goodness and to change the atmosphere in our world.

To quote the author, ‘The best kept secret in the body of Christ is that God is in a good mood.’

Let’s live from that truth!

GOD IS REALLY GOOD

By Bill Johnson with Seth Dahl, illustrated by Lamont Hunt A Children’s Pastor and illustrator make the concepts in ‘God is Good’ accessible to little ones.

Sparrow starts his day in a happy mood. But then he discovers that Squirrel is running out of acorns, Owl’s eyesight isn’t very good anymore, and Puppy is fenced in. They tell him not to worry, because God is good. But then Goat is afraid of wild animals.

As Sparrow listens to Goat, he too begins to feel afraid in the forest. It no longer feels the safe place it was this morning. Every shadow seems darker and every sound makes him jump... He is worried about all the problems his friends are having. “Everyone keeps saying God is good and takes care of all of us but I’m not so sure anymore.”

I can certainly identify with that!

But fortunately Sparrow meets Lily.

And she explains how God is looking after all his friends. Sparrow realises now that all his worries really were for nothing.

God had it handled. The world still has its problems, but Sparrow can be sure – God is really good!

This story is equally suitable for a child who can read, or for an adult to read aloud.

Book reviews by Julie Carvill of christianbooks.ie, from where you can order these and other inspiring titles. info@christianbooks.ie or +353 (0)86 839 1870

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COME TOGETHER

BY SEÁN MULLAN

believe you but I don’t trust and keep seeing - a right-brain activity.

We do the same in our personal you!”

Suddenly, and I do mean suddenly, I was lives. We become aware of incongruence An overheard conversation able to draw in a way I never had before. between our public selves and our private between…

And more importantly, I was able to see selves. But we have little clarity on how .. a wife and a husband? things in a way I never had. One evening, to begin or continue the journey towards .. a business owner and a bank as I followed an exercise of drawing congruence. manager? my hand, I became overwhelmed by Organised religion may once have .. a constituent and a TD? this beautiful thing. I had carried this been a place where people would seek .. a parent and a teenager? extraordinary masterpiece at the end of help for this journey, but not these days.

Or perhaps even a conversation with my arm for 50 years and had never really For many, when it comes to religion, it’s a myself. I listen to what I say to someone seen it. case of, “I don’t believe you and I certainly and I know that while it may be true, it’s The problem was the disconnect, or would never trust you.” For others it’s a not the whole truth. Trusting someone, lack of congruence, between my ability case of, “I may believe but I no longer even yourself, is more than believing trust enough to practice.” And then their words are factually correct, it is there’s the bizarre situation of people depending on them to do the right who will practice even though they thing.

WHEN A LIFE IS CONGRUENT IT HOLDS TOGETHER. don’t believe – because, for example, From belief to trust is a journey. their children need a place in school.

The best word I have for that journey, Now there’s incongruence! a gift from the writer Eugene Given His association with the Peterson, is “congruence” - meaning, to name and to perceive. My “no good institutions that bear His name, Jesus “coming together” or “joining up.” When at drawing” paradigm supported the may not leap to the mind of someone a life is congruent it holds together. The deception, so I did not draw nor did seeking guidance on the journey journey towards I perceive things as they really were. towards congruence. But His story congruence The book shaped a journey towards reflects a continuing concern about begins with congruence in my own head –a coming and understanding of the issue. On one recognising together of right and left brain. I still know dramatic evening, He predicts a significant incongruence. that a hand is skin and bone, cartilage and failure for His leading follower, Peter.

Some years muscle. I also know that it is a thing of Unable to see any incongruence within ago, I learned to extraordinary beauty. himself, Peter rejects Jesus’ prediction draw. Being on In a society focussed on the but then crashes publicly in the manner the wrong side instant and external, journeys towards Jesus foretold. However, the story ends in of my mid-life congruence are a challenge. Technology restoration with Peter back following the crisis, I had allows us to speak now and reflect later, if man who saw His incongruence before long accepted I ever. Leaders in many walks of life work Peter could and was still willing to journey was no good at hard at making statements on issues. They with Him. drawing. Then I have advisors, spin-doctors or lawyers “Come together,” the Beatles sang. read a book that to help them. The public expectation is They had that bit right. “Right now,” was said the problem for answers. Statements like, “We didn’t a bit ambitious. Congruence requires a was not drawing skills but seeing skills. I expect this to happen but we’re working journey, and a guide. would look at something and label it – a on it and we’ll let you know when we have tree, a cup or a lamp – and, having labelled a solution” are simply not acceptable. So, Seán Mullan has been working in church it, I stopped seeing it because I thought I contrived statements issue forth in the leadership for many years. He has knew it. hope that the public attention will have developed a project in Dublin City Centre The book taught me to ease up on the shifted before the absence of congruence called “Third Space”. labelling - a left-brain activity - and to try becomes obvious.

I

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, to Drogheda n o o S g in Com y nd Killarne a y n n e k r e t Let

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