Emergency powers and coronavirus -saving lives whilst protecting freedoms

There have been two significant decisions this week concerning the pandemic. The first took place in a Scottish court where the closure of churches in Scotland during the latest lockdown was ruled unlawful.  The second was the vote at Parliament to renew emergency powers for another 6 months. Now, both decisions have elicited a range… Continue reading Emergency powers and coronavirus -saving lives whilst protecting freedoms

The pastor king?

I’m continuing to reflect on some of the lessons arising from the 31:8 review of the Jonathan Fletcher case. The case relates to an Anglican minister in London who has been identified as engaging in systemic abuse of young men over a number of years.  Leaders within what is often referred to as “the conservative… Continue reading The pastor king?

The fear factor

One of the issues that emerged from the Jonathan Fletcher review was the prevalence of fear amongst those affected by the case.  The review comments: A further factor which is of great importance is fear. As has been explained, the level of fear some participants held was palpable in interviews and email correspondence. Repeated reassurances… Continue reading The fear factor

Book update – The Pastor with a thorn in his side

Some of you will know that I recently contributed a chapter to a book coming out in May about pastors facing depression. The aim of the book is not only to help fellow pastors cope with depression and their churches to support them but to encourage a wider conversation about mental health and the church.… Continue reading Book update – The Pastor with a thorn in his side