The first episode of this season of Politics in the Pulpit for Spring 2026 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and features our special guest and new host, William Gibson!

William is a candidate for ministry in the Church of Scotland and a PhD student in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Glasgow. Prior to this William worked at Apple where he led unionising efforts in the first unionised Apple store in the UK before working for the Student Christian Movement as their theology and resources project worker for a year. William is also an Iona Community member.

This week, Stephen, William and Erica explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 11th January.

Timestamps:

6:58 – Isaiah 42: 1-9

12:42 – Psalm 29

16:20 – Matthew 3: 13-17

24:40 – Acts 10: 34-43

Alex, Christine, Erica, and Thomas discuss the readings for 4 January. Don't forget to listen to parts 1 and 3 of our Christmas special and watch this space for a new host and a return to our traditional format in the new year. 

The eighth episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Alex Clare-Young, and featuring our special guest, Mark Rowland!  

Mark is Secretary of the Faith and Order Committee for the Methodist Church in Britain. He has been a Methodist minister since 2009 and his formation stretched from inner city Sheffield to the United States. He was awarded his PhD for a thesis entitled “A queer and Methodist theology of holiness: strategies for queering Wesley’s teaching,” reimagining concepts of sin, transformation and perfection. Before his current role, Mark has served in local church and chaplaincy ministry and has a deep passion for worship and preaching which respond to the realities of the world God loves and calls us to love. An activist for the greater participation and inclusion of LGBT+ people in the Church, Mark is co-Chair of OneBodyOneFaith and a trustee of Dignity and Worth. In his free time, Mark is a keen singer and organist. 

This week, Alex, Mark and Erica explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 9th November.  

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro 

04:16 - Luke 20: 27-38 

17:30 - 2 Thessalonians 2: 1-5, 13-17 

21:59 - Haggai 1: 15b-2:9 

28:58 - Psalm 145: 1-5, 17-21 

 

Mentions:

King unveils new memorial to LGBT veterans after gay ban campaign  

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr7m8kzgy77o 

Just Money Movement – https://justmoney.org.uk/  

Make Them Pay coalition - https://www.makethempay.org.uk/ 

2025 General Council for the World Communion of Reformed Churches - https://wcrc.eu/gc2025/ 

 

The seventh episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest, Phil Nevard!

Other than a few years dabbling in other jobs, Phil has been a URC minister for most of his working life - over 30 years.  For all of that time Phil has managed to escape temptation into regional URC jobs and has happily followed his calling to be a local church minister and not much else.  Phil counts preaching to be one of the joys of ministry and URC folk might vaguely remember his name from the three year vlog and podcast series "Talking Absolute Worship" that Phil hosted through the Covid years.  Phil's most significant contribution to the Liberation struggle has probably been his voluntary work with the Battery Hen Welfare Association.  With the Essex team, including his youngest daughter, he has helped liberate thousands of battery chickens, many of them finding refuge and a new life in his own back garden.  Being a lifelong Bolton Wanderers fan has taught him all he needs to know about dealing with disappointment and disaster.  It is said that this is character-building!  Phil is currently Minister in three churches across Cambridgeshire and Suffolk and is mostly talking about retirement these days!

This week, Stephen, Phil and Simeon explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 2nd November.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

08:50 - Habakkuk 1: 1-4; 2:1-4

23:56 - Luke 19: 1-10

37:44 - Psalm 119: 137-144

44:01 - 2 Thessalonians 1: 1-4, 11-12

Mentions:

Prophetic Imagination by Walter Brueggemann

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Talking Absolute Worship podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/3bPvwOSi9UIuXVMhw5Ks9m

Together with Refugees https://togetherwithrefugees.org.uk/

The Zacchaeus tax campaign https://www.cwmission.org/news/spotlights/zacchaeus-tax-campaign-to-relaunch-in-africa/

The sixth episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest Claire Nicholls!

Claire is Regional Minister for London Baptists, looking after 80 plus churches in South East London. She also oversees the Justice Hub in the association and has a particular focus on enabling and empowering women in leadership. She is a director of the London Baptist Property Board and does many other things as well – it’s a very varied role! She represents the Baptist Union on the JPIT SPG. Claire has led churches in North Manchester and South Croydon, and before she went to train for ministry she was a maths teacher in Derbyshire. She is passionate about bringing people together, within and despite of difference and loves to see churches walking with and watching over one another so that we can thrive in order to enable the good news of Jesus to be brought and lived out in our local contexts. She is a baker of wild and wonderful things and she likes a good walk and plenty of laughter. Good music makes her heart sing – one of the advantages of living in London is the access to last minute cheap tickets to shows and concerts, and Claire definitely takes advantage of this!

This week, Stephen, Claire and Roo explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 26th October.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 06:00 - Joel 15:20 – Psalm 65 23:30 - Psalm 84 34:17– Luke

The fifth episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest Melanie Smith!

Reverend Melanie Smith is the Training and Development officer and Pastoral Consultant for the West Midlands Synod of the United Reformed Church. She is also a Synod Green Apostle and a trained mediator through Place for Hope. Previously, Melanie served for two years as the Director for the Centre for Gender and Social Justice at the Pacific Theological College in Fiji, a higher education college serving 20 churches of 6 denominations across 16 nations in the south Pacific. Her first career took her from banking, to public sector accountancy, to working for Christian Aid as a Volunteer Development Officer in the West Midlands. She has tried to walk the talk by protesting against Trump, the arms fair, and at various climate protests. She has worked locally on Syrian Refugee Resettlement Schemes and individual refugee cases. She helped set up two food banks and two debt centres and chaired a homelessness charity during the pandemic. If she could live anywhere other than near family, it would be India.

This week, Stephen, Melanie and Thomas explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 19th October.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 09:00 - Luke 18: 1-8 24:10 – Jeremiah 31: 27-34 30:51 – Psalm 119: 97-104 37:12 – 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

Mentions JPIT's guidance on the rise of the British National Party in 2006 - https://jpit.uk/wp-content/uploads/20... Freedom Sunday resources - https://www.ijmuk.org/freedom-sunday Tent of Nations - https://tentofnations.com/ Daoud Nassar from Tent of Nations visits JPIT at Methodist Church House - https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fb...

The fourth episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest Sarah Edwards!

Sarah Edwards is Executive Director of the JustMoney Movement, an ecumenical education and campaigning charity which has a vision of a world where money is used to shape a greener, fairer future for all. Sarah oversees the organisation’s work, which aims to resource a movement of Christians and churches to act more justly with their own money and to speak out for a more just use of money in the economy. Sarah has recently started training for ordination in the Church of England. She lives in North London with her husband and two children.

This week, Stephen, Sarah and Thomas explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 12th October.

Mentions

JustMoney Movement - justmoney.org.uk

• Tuesday 7 October - Greening our Finances: Practical steps for Eco Churches
• Wednesday 8 October - Investing in a Fairer, Greener World

UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association - uksif.org

Bill McKibben, environmental writer - billmckibben.com

The third episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest Pat Bennett!

Pat is a writer, scholar and liturgist who has worked at the intersections of the humanities and sciences fostering conversation, exploration and the exchange of ideas. She has a background in both science and theology. She is a member of the Iona Community, for whom she has also worked developing programmes and resources to help people explore faith and activism.

This week, Stephen, Pat and Alex explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 5th October.

Pat's work: The Spirituality of Conflict project - https://www.spiritualityofconflict.com/  Editor of the book 'What were you arguing along the way?' - https://canterburypress.hymnsam.co.uk/books/9781786223999/what-were-you-arguing-about-along-the-way

Other mentions: Housing Justice (for Homelessness Sunday) - https://housingjustice.org.uk 

The second episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is hosted by Stephen Ansa-Addo, and featuring our special guest Fiona Haworth!

Fiona is a member of the Iona Community and an associate priest in the Church of England, based in St Peter Mancroft Church in Norwich.  She has a long interest in issues of justice and peace, the intersection of science and faith, and climate and nature, and finds that life is generally much happier when shared with a dog.

This week, Stephen, Fiona and Roo explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 28 September - Disability Awareness Sunday.

The first episode of Politics in the Pulpit Autumn 2025 is a handover episode featuring special guest Stephen Ansa-Addo, who will be your host for the next ten episodes!   Stephen is a United Reformed Church Minister serving a cluster of three churches in Berkshire who is passionate about living out the Gospel, pursuing justice, and exploring God in popular culture and current affairs.   This week, Stephen, Alex and Steve explore the lectionary readings for Sunday September 21 - the first day of the Week of Prayer for Peace in Palestine and Israel.

Join our host Alex Clare-Young for the final episode of the season as they speak to Father Angus Ritchie and Simeon Mitchell to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday 20th July.

Drawing on the lectionary readings:

• Genesis 18:1-10a - A Son Promised to Abraham and Sarah
• Colossians 1:15-28 - The Supremacy of Christ / Paul’s Interest in the Colossians
• Luke 10:38-42 - Jesus Visits Martha and Mary

Father Angus Ritchie is the director of the Centre for Theology and Community, which supports churches in their engagement in community organising. An Anglican priest, he has served in east London parishes since 1998, and his books include Inclusive Populism: Creating Citizens in the Global Age.

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

Join our host Alex Clare-Young as they welcome Dr Frances Clemson and Roo Stewart to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 13th July.

This week’s discussion draws upon the following lectionary readings:

• Deuteronomy 30:9-14 - God’s Faithfulness
• Colossians 1:1-14 - Paul Thanks God for the Colossians
• Luke 10:25-37 - The Parable of the Good Samaritan

Dr Frances Clemson is Christian Aid's Faith Communications Specialist. In this role she works with churches and communities across the UK and with Christian Aid's partners around the world, exploring how and why our faith compels us to take action on poverty and injustice. Prior to joining Christian Aid in 2023, Frances was Assistant Professor in Theology and Ministry at Durham University. In this role she worked on the Common Awards partnership - the national framework that supports the academic components of ministry training in a range of UK churches. Her theological interests include embodiment, justice, and the arts, particularly drama. Her PhD was on theologies enacted in mid-twentieth century drama, particularly plays by Dorothy L. Sayers.

 

Relevant dates and links:

Climate Coalition mass lobby – Join the Mass Lobby of Parliament on the 9th of July, organised by the Climate Coalition – JPIT and Christian Aid will be around! Mass Lobby 2025 - The Climate Coalition

Beckley lecture - watch “Whiteness is the Sea, not the shark” with Anthony Reddie here: https://youtu.be/MTrl9eL2ymI?si=t1aHOuslGGW-Ho5S

To find out more about the Consituency Action Network head to: https://jpit.uk/can

Find the reimagined version of When i needed a neighbour from Christian Aid here: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/news/about-us/when-i-needed-neighbour-reimagined#listen

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

Alex, Christine, Erica, and Thomas discuss the readings for 28 December. Don't forget to listen to parts 1 and 3 of our Christmas special and watch this space for a new host and a return to our traditional format in the new year. 

This week our host Alex Clare-Young talks to Molly Boot and Roo Stewart to ask the provocative question of how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 6th July.  

Their discussion draws upon the Lectionary, this week being:  

-  Isaiah 66:10-14 - The Worship God Demands  

- Galatians 6:1-16 - Bear One Another’s Burdens  

-  Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 - The Mission of the Seventy  

Revd. Molly Boot is a theologian, musician and priest, currently based in rural Gloucestershire. They’re very enthusiastic about a lot of things, including music, prayer, LGBTQ+ liberation, and the stranger corners of medieval church history. 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/ 

This week our host Alex Clare-Young is joined by Mel Beaven and Paul Morrison to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching, drawing upon the Lectionary: 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25 and Luke 9:51-62.

 

Mel Beaven is a Methodist Deacon and lives in Birmingham. Since 2020, she has been a tutor at The Queen’s Foundation, teaching Pastoral Theology, Mission & Evangelism and Leadership in Social Justice. She is a PhD student at the Institute for Christian Social Practice, Heidelberg University, Germany, researching approaches to diaconal training. In September 2025, Mel will leave Queen’s to take up the role of Director of Discipleship within the Evangelism & Growth Team.

Find out more about our conference here: https://jpit.uk/conference

Find out more about our Constituency Action Network here: https://jpit.uk/can

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

This week our host Alex Clare-Young is joined by Jennifer Smith and Steve Tinning to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 22nd of June, drawing upon the Lectionary:

• Isaiah 65:1-9 - The Righteousness of God’s Judgement
• Galatians 3:23-29 - Law or Faith
• Luke 8:26-39 - Jesus Heals the Gerasene Demoniac

Jennifer Smith is a Methodist Minister serving as Superintendent of Wesley's Chapel and Leysian Mission, the London church opened in 1778 for John Wesley, founder of Methodism. An Honorary Canon of St Paul's Cathedral in London and a US citizen, she is a regular contributor to BBC religious broadcasting and a widely invited speaker and preacher.

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or join our facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

This week our host Alex Clare-Young is joined by Jo Clare-Young and Paul Morrison to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching for Trinity Sunday, drawing upon the lectionary: Proverbs 8:1-4,22-31 (The Gifts of Wisdom), Romans 5:1-5 (Results of Justification) and John 16:12-15 (The Work of the Spirit).

Jo Clare-Young is a minister ordained in the URC tradition, a member of the Iona Community. She currently spend her days navigating around Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire Essex and a tiny bit of Hartfordshire , serving the 105 churches of the Urc’s Eastern Synod providing training and resourcing for mission.

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

This week our host Alex Clare-Young talks to Fiona MacMillan and Florence Wright to ask the provocative question of how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 8th June. Their discussion draws upon the lectionary, this week being: Genesis 11:1-9 (The Tower of Babel), Acts 2:1-21 (The Coming of the Holy Spirit) and John 14:8-17 & 25-27 (The Promise of the Holy Spirit).

 

Our guest, Fiona, is a disabled and neurodivergent practitioner, advocate, speaker and writer exploring disability, faith and questions of social justice. She is chair of St Martin in the Fields Disability Advisory Group, an Inclusive Church trustee and the planning lead for an annual disability theology conference. She is a member Church of England's General Synod and the contemplative Nazareth Community, and is a keen knitter of hats.

For more information on WAVE for change visit here: https://www.wave-for-change.org.uk/

For more about Tax Justice Sunday visit here: https://justmoney.org.uk/tax-justice-sunday/

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

 

This week our host Alex Clare-Young is joined by Graham McGeoch and Florence Wright (JPIT Intern) to discuss how politics could appear in our preaching. 

They draw upon the lectionary: Acts 16:16-34 (Paul and Silas in Prison), Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 Epilogue and Benediction) and John 17:20-26 (Jesus Prays for His Disciples). 

 

Graham McGeoch works for the Council for World Mission. He taught Theology & Religious Studies at a small university in Vitoria, Brazil and is visiting Professor at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

This week our host Alex Clare-Young talks to Gary Hall and Steve Hucklesby to ask the provocative question of how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 25th of May. Their discussion draws upon the lectionary: Acts 16:9-15 (The Conversion of Lydia), Revelation 21:10,22–22:5 (Vision of the New Jerusalem / The River of Life) and John 14:23-29 (The Promise of the Holy Spirit). Gary is a Methodist presbyter serving at the Queen’s Foundation, Birmingham, and soon to be Superintendent Minister of the Hidden River circuit. Do look at our blog at: https://jpit.uk/whats-new/blog ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

Alex Clare-Young and Roo Stewart speak to our guest this week, Alison Webster. They discuss this week's lectionary readings: Acts 11:1-18 (Peter’s Report to the Church at Jerusalem), Revelation 21:1-6 (The New Heaven and the New Earth), and John 13:31-35 (The New Commandment).

Alison is General Secretary of Modern Church and Mission Theologian in Residence at Citizens UK, the Community Organising Charity. She was, for many years, Deputy Director of Mission (Social Justice) at the Diocese of Oxford. She has written widely on issues of sexuality, wellbeing and identity. Most recently ‘Found Out: Trangressive Faith and Sexuality’.

Alex Roo and Alison discuss themes of inclusion, community organising, listening to the most vulnerable and our ultimate commandment to love others.

 

Sign up for the next Constituency Action Network (CAN) Webinar here: https://jpit.uk/can-webinars

In this webinar we will be discussing community organising practices further, (looking at how churches can build relationships with each other) with Kerry Scarlett, Faith-Rooted Community Organising Officer at the Methodist Church.

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

This week our host Alex Clare-Young talks to Sam Wells and Paul Morrison to ask the provocative question of how politics could appear in our preaching for Sunday the 11th of May. Their discussion draws upon the lectionary, this week being: Acts 9:36-43 (Peter and Dorcas or Tabitha), Revelation 7:9-17 (The Multitude from Every Nation) and John 10:22-30 (Jesus is Rejected). 

Our guest this week, Sam Wells, speaks, preaches and broadcasts on a range of pastoral, political and theological issues. He has been Vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square, London, since 2012 and is also Visiting Professor of Christian Ethics at King’s College London. Sam has served as a parish priest for 27 years–10 of those in urban priority areas; and also spent 7 years in North Carolina, where he was Dean of Duke University Chapel. Samhas published 47 booksand the most recent is ‘Constructing an Incarnational Theology.’   

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

Politics in the Pulpit is back after a short break! This season is hosted by Alex Clare-Young, JPIT’s new Campaigns and Churches Officer.

This week we have Simon Cross helping us discuss the lectionary for Sunday the 4th of May from a faith and politics perspective, looking at Acts 9:1-20 (The Conversion of Saul), Revelation 5:11-14 (The Scroll and the Lamb) and John 21:1-19 (Jesus Appears to the Seven Disciples).

Simon Cross is a minister in the United Reformed Church, based in East Yorkshire. He is the chair of the Progressive Christianity Network (Britain) and is a writer and activist. We are also joined by Simeon Mitchell, head of the JPIT team.

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit.

You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200/

Alex, Christine, Erica, and Thomas discuss the readings for Christmas Day. Don't forget to listen to parts 2 and 3 of our Christmas special and watch this space for a new host and a return to our traditional format in the new year. 

This week we have Revd Roy Searle helping us discuss the lectionary for Sunday the 23rd of March from a faith and politics perspective, looking at Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9.

JPIT’s Steve Hucklesby also joins this conversation with Clare Williams as our host. They discuss the importance of remembering God as the source of life amidst injustice and leaning into the prophetic. Alongside they consider how to balance this with living out a life of seeking justice, showing a positive alternative story as ambassadors for Gods Kingdom.

Roy is a passionate preacher and former president of the Baptist Union of Great Britain and founder of the Northumbria community, dedicated to loving God, our neighbours, and the planet. He joins JPIT’s Steve Hucklesby and host Clare Williams to discuss God as the source of life amid injustice and how to seek justice as ambassadors for God's Kingdom.

 https://www.northumbriacommunity.org

You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at / jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host Clare Williams and JPIT Team member Paul Morrison, chat to Revd David Mayne. 

David Mayne is a a previous host of politics in the pulpit and Regional Minister Team Leader for the Eastern Baptist Association, supporting 170 Baptist churches in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Dave is Essex born and bred, and his work has consistently focused on topics of justice and inclusion particularly in relation to gender, economics and sexuality. 

Clare, Paul and David discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 16th March, which are: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27, Philippians 3:17-4:1, Luke 13:31-35 or Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a) 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at   / jointpublicissues    

Please note this episode has been recorded a week in advance! 

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our guest host and JPIT Team Leader, Simeon Mitchell, chats to William Gibson.   William Gibson is a candidate for ministry in the Church of Scotland and PhD student at the University of Glasgow researching secularisation, mission and the Church of Scotland in the 1960s. Prior to this William worked as the Student Christian Movement’s theology and resources project worker and hosted their podcast for two seasons, discussing Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and theology as well as Christian political action.   Simeon and William discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 9th March, which are: Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13   ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to Cathy Bird. They are joined by Florence Wright, another member of the JPIT team.   Cathy is a Methodist Minister, currently with permission to serve the Congregational Church. She is minister at Union Chapel, in the Highbury area of London; Union Chapel, as well as being known as a leading performance venue, is also a community of Christians of diverse backgrounds who are committed to living lives that are spiritual, sustainable and responsive to the Gospel’s prophetic call for justice and peace. Cathy has served her ministry mainly in London - in Tottenham, Kings Cross and Hackney - although was more recently in Stockport in Greater Manchester. She has a heart for ministry on and with the margins and is the author of ‘The Divine Heart of Darkness’ published in 2017. She also serves as a mediation practitioner with Place For Hope and is a supervisor, coach and spiritual director.   Clare, Cathy and Florence discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 2nd March, which are: Exodus 34:29-35 - Psalm 99 - 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2 - Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)   ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues  

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to JPIT member Florence Wright. They are joined by Aoife Wright, another member of the JPIT team.   Florence brings a strong background in environmental justice and student activism, having been actively involved with ‘Just Love,’ a Christian student social justice society at Durham University. She is deeply committed to the intersection of faith and politics and is eager to inspire Christians to embrace the call to pursue justice. She is also keen to contribute to the development of the newly launched Constituency Action Network and is excited to support its growth.   Clare, Florence and Aoife discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 16th February, which are: Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 and Luke 6:17-26.   Get involved with the Constituency Action Network here: jpit.uk/can   ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to Hannah Fremont Brown. They are joined by Roo Stewart, a member of the JPIT team.   Hannah coordinates Let’s End Poverty, a movement of people united behind a vision of the future where poverty can’t keep anyone down. She is passionate about supporting churches and Christians to campaign and walk alongside our communities for justice. She is a member of Hinde Street Methodist Church, and currently completing an MA in Theology, Mission and Ministry.   Clare, Hannah and Roo discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 9th February, which are: Isaiah 6:1-8, (9-13), Psalm 138, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 and Luke 5:1-11   ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to Jeronne Rudder. They are joined by Steve Tinning, a member of the JPIT team.   Jeronne is a pastor, theologian, speaker, and all-around Bible nerd who is passionate about seeing people live lives shaped by love and justice. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in theology, he brings a deep well of knowledge and insight to his work.   Jeronne is the founder of Uhambo The Journey, an online video Bible study resource aimed at helping individuals and churches understand the Bible for themselves. His mission is to empower people to become confident followers of Jesus, bringing ancient truths to life and applying them to modern-day situations. In addition to his work with Uhambo The Journey, Jeronne is also a team member of Sankofa Collective, an ecumenical racial justice and reconciliation community for Christians.   Clare, Jeronne and Steve discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 2nd February, which are: Jeremiah 1:4-10 - Psalm 71:1-6 - 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 - Luke 4:21-30   ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to Tom Price. They are joined by Aoife Wright, a member of the JPIT team. 

Tom Price studied Philosophy at university and later completed an MA in Christian Apologetics, and is currently undertaking doctoral research in theology, philosophy and film. 

In recent years Tom has spoken to all kinds of audiences – at various levels of questioning – in different countries. In the UK, he has worked with well known conferences, organisations and media outlets. He was previously the Founding Editor of UCCF’s website www.bethinking.org, and more recently he has created www.beliefmapping.com (a worldview survey and analysis system).  Tom has expertise and experience in outreach, mission, apologetics, cultural engagement, film, theology and discipleship. He is passionate about philosophy and theology that fundamentally takes people seriously, values the individual and engages with the serious questions and objections they may have about life and religious beliefs. Tom is married to Caroline, has three kids, and they live in Oxford. 

Clare, Tom and Aoife discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 26th January, which are: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Luke 4:14-21 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues 

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Clare Williams, chats to Jenny Brown. They are joined by Paul Morrison, a member of the JPIT team.

 

Jenny recently left Christian Aid after 25 years in a variety of advocacy-related roles. Before that she spent 15 years as a commercial property solicitor in City law firms. Among other things she is active in her local church and a trustee of a small Christian mission organisation. She loves connecting with the global Church, and takes great pride in having her roots in Yorkshire!

 

Clare, Jenny and Paul discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 19th January, which are: Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, John 2:1-11

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, Nathan McGuire chats to our new host, Clare Williams. Clare Williams is an Associate Speaker and Tutor at the OCCA The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics. Her work focuses upon questions of race, justice, culture, and what the Christian message has to offer these big concepts. Prior to her work in apologetics, she was an English teacher in London secondary schools for ten years. Clare has a degree in English Language and Literature from Oxford University, and a Masters in Leadership (2012) and Culture, Diaspora and Ethnicity (2021) from the University of London. Clare currently resides in London. Nathan and Clare discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 12th January, which are: Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29, Acts 8:14-17, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

The fourth episode of our Advent specials of Politics in the Pulpit is hosted by Thomas Niblett, and features Hannah Fremont-Brown and JPIT member Roo Stewart! This week, Thomas, Hannah, and Roo explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 21st December.

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro

Matthew 1: 18-25

26:30 – Romans 1: 1-7

35:47 – Psalm 80: 1-7, 17-19

41:59 - Isaiah 7: 10-16

 

This week, listen to Steve, Nathan and Matt chat about what the bible says about Jesus as a Peacemaker.

 

🎙️ 'Maybe [this] should encourage us also to be able to reflect on these things that we see going on around the world, but relating them to God speaking to us, wherever we are'

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Kathy Galloway, and is joined by JPIT member Paul Morrison.

Kathy is a practical theologian, writer and campaigner. The major focus of her work has always been peace-making and social justice issues, especially relating to poverty, ecology and gender. Kathy has worked for Church Action on Poverty, the Iona Community and Christian Aid, and she lives in Glasgow.

Matt, Kathy and Paul discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 8th December, which are: Baruch 5:1-9 (in Apocrypha not main Bible canon) or Malachi 3:1-4, Philippians 1:3-11, Luke 3:1-6, Luke 1:68-79

The mentions in the podcast are linked below:

Kathy's books: https://www.ionabooks.com/product-tag/kathy-galloway

JPIT's blogs: https://jpit.uk/whats-new/blog

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Chantal Noppen, and is joined by JPIT member Simeon Mitchell.

Rev'd Chantal Noppen [she/her] A North-East based Church of England priest who is passionate about inclusion and finding, celebrating and sharing the extraordinary within the ordinary. Member of General Synod, NADAWM exec and the National Coordinator of Inclusive Church. Founder of Fragmental, an online community of neuro-divergent church leaders, used to bringing alternative perspectives into the mix, with authentic honesty. You can find out more by following Free Range Priest on Facebook or visiting NiftyNoppen.com.

Matt, Chantal and Simeon discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 1st December, which are:

Jeremiah 33:14-16 

1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 

Luke 21:25-36 

Psalm 25:1-10   The mentions in the podcast are linked below: Our website www.inclusive-church.org There are various resources on there and short course to help churches look at their inclusivity and accessibility. You can sign up for our monthly eNewsletter or even send a financial donation through to us.   The new video resource I mentioned is 'Make Room at the Inn'. There are further details on the website on this under the resource section and infographics there too that go alongside the 7 short films. The films are on YouTube - this is a link to their playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLt1p0dE9phrb5QdW8OmZyihITA3W969N3  They are freely available for anyone to watch, share and digest. - Chantal  

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Jonny Baker, and is joined by JPIT member Nathan McGuire. Jonny Baker set up the pioneer training at CMS where he is one of the directors. His role is overseeing their mission in post Christian Britain. He loves all things creative and especially is interested in how faith connects with the wider culture. He is an advocate for pioneers, encouraging and enabling people to give legs to their ideas. To that end, Pioneer Practice, his latest book distills the practical wisdom Jonny has learned over the years into short, full colour, easy to read articles and stories. He has been involved in youth ministry, alternative worship, emerging church, pioneering and will no doubt be involved in whatever else we call the waves of mission innovation in relation to post Christian Britain. Matt, Jonny and Nathan discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 17th November, which are: 2 Samuel 23:1-7 Revelation 1:4-8 John 18:33-37 Psalm 132:1-12, (13-18) ‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Catriona Robertson, and is joined by JPIT member Steve Summers.

Born & raised in the Scottish Highlands, Catriona Robertson has worked in India, the South Pacific and London. She once travelled with her teenage son across North Africa, the Middle East and on to Pakistan. Formerly Director of the Christian Muslim Forum, she has been involved in interreligious work and its links to public policy for 25 years. Catriona has now returned to London after a few years living in community as warden of Iona Abbey. She continues to be involved in the life of the Iona Community, in particular its work for peace, justice & the renewal of worship.

Matt, Catriona and Steve discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 17th November, which are: 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14, (15-18), 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, and 1 Samuel 2:1-10.

Read More:

Bruno Latour book - If we lose the Earth, we lose our souls, Polity, 2024

Church Related Community Work - United Reformed Church

ChurchWorks

Home For Good | Together we can find a home for every child who needs…

Inter Faith Week

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Liddy Buswell, and is joined by JPIT member Steve Hucklesby.

Liddy is a Methodist from Newcastle and works as Outreach Manager at Christian CND, an organisation that seeks to get Christians talking about nuclear weapons, and to bring the Good News of Christ into the disarmament movement.

Matt, Liddy and Steve discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 10th November, which are: Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 and Psalm 127.

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Niall Briggs, and is joined by JPIT member Florence Wright.

 

Niall is a Methodist Community Pioneer, working as part of the Flourish Framework in Bristol & South Gloucestershire. This has involved helping to activate and open up church-owned and other spaces as spaces of encounter for the whole community as well as at special events with the Ark Bus. As well as working on the edges of church, he helps facilitate conversations around the mixed ecology of church. He has an interest in the environment and in economics and previously worked in hospitality and software development.

Florence is the Constituency Action Network (CAN) Intern at JPIT this year. The vision of CAN is to create a network of at least one church in every constituency actively developing a meaningful relationship with their MP. Florence graduated this year from Durham University where she studied Psychology and Geography. She was heavily involved with student activism and encouraging Christian students to get political.

 

Matt, Niall and Florence discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 2nd November, which are: Ruth 1:1-18 Hebrews 9:11-14 Mark 12:28-34 Psalm 146

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/jointpublicissues

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats JPIT members, Simeon Mitchell and Aoife Wright.

Simeon has been JPIT Team Leader since April 2021, and has had the privilege and responsibility of coordinating the work of the team. He was previously Deputy Team Leader and Secretary for Church and Society for the United Reformed Church. His background is in international development and enabling Christians and churches to respond to issues of global poverty and injustice. He lives in Oxford with his wife and three children, and is a Methodist local preacher.   Aoife is the JPIT Communications Intern for 2024. They have a passion for justice, learning, creativity, and their ever-strengthening relationship with God. She's driven by a desire to help solve problems, and create a more just world, whether that is through large actions such as policy reform or global change, or smaller community action, inviting others in for a cuppa, or just a small act of kindness. Aoife is a disabled person.   Matt, Simeon and Aoife discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 20th October, which are: Job 42: 1-6 Hebrews 7:23:28 Mark 10:46:52 Psalm 34:1-8

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at / 

A Challenge Poverty Week special episode!

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, Nathan McGuire chats to Hannah Fremont-Brown, Revd. Simon Jay and Niall Cooper.

Niall Cooper has been Director of Church Action on Poverty since 1997, and has been responsible for piloting new approaches to tackling poverty in the UK that enable people and communities struggling against poverty to reclaim dignity, agency and power together. He is also co-chair of Let’s End Poverty and convenor of the URC Manchester and Salford Urban Mission Partnership.

Hannah coordinates Let’s End Poverty, a movement of people united behind a vision of the future where poverty can’t keep anyone down. She is passionate about supporting churches and Christians to campaign and walk alongside our communities for justice. She is a member of Hinde Street Methodist Church, and currently completing an MA in Theology, Mission and Ministry.

Simon is a Pioneer Baptist minister based in Birmingham. In 2003 his wife Rachel and him set up a local charity that focuses on projects that aim to tackle poverty and injustice issues. The charity several projects including the  ‘Quinton Food Pantry’. Both him and the project believe in ‘supporting people out of poverty with dignity’.

Nathan, Hannah, Simon and Niall discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 20th October, which are: Job 23:1-9, 16-17 Psalm 22:1-15 Hebrews 4:12-16 Mark 10:17-31

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at / 1001084297426200

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Revd. Dr Sally Mann. They are joined by Steve Tinning, a member of the JPIT team.

Sally is Co-Director of www.redletterchristians.org.uk and one of 5 co-vocational ministers at Bonny Downs Baptist, an inclusive church in East London. She is the 4th of 6 generations of her family to stay put and serve in that East-End community.  Sally wrote “Looking for Lydia”’ reflecting on 25 years of ministry, and recently collated 25 stories for Red Letter Christians’ book “Jesus and Justice” She lectures in sociology and has a PhD in philosophy.  She’s happiest in her Bonny Downs community where she’ll be moving in to an “Urban Abbey”- an experiment in intentional community living (see  https://www.bonnydownschurch.org/urbanabbey)  

Matt, Steve and Sally discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 10th October, which are:

Hebrews 4:12-16  Mark 10:17-31  Psalm 22:1-15  Job 23:1-9, 16-17

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at / 1001084297426200

The third episode of our Advent specials of Politics in the Pulpit is hosted by Erica Lees-Smith, and features Neil Thorogood and JPIT member Steve Tinning!

This week, Erica, Neil, and Steve explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 14th December.

Timestamps

00:00 - Intro

06:33 – Luke 1: 47-55 (Magnificat)

12:04 - Isaiah 35: 1-10

21:14 – James 5: 7-10

25:33 - Matthew 11: 2-11

30:52 – Psalm 146: 5-10

This episode includes particular discussion of the Tommy Robinson event due to take place this weekend, and what preachers could say from the week's readings to speak out for compassion and justice. For more resources please visit our recent blog - jpit.uk/is-this-love.

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Matt Forsyth, chats to Jacob Dimitriou. They are joined by Roo Stewart, a member of the JPIT team.

Jacob Dimitriou is the Director for England at Christian homelessness charity Housing Justice, he has previously worked for the Labour Party and Commonweal Housing. Jacob was closely involved in the Everybody In initiative during the pandemic, supporting rough sleepers to access safe provision which is estimated to have saved more than 200 lives. Housing Justice is the membership body for faith and community night shelters, as well as providing a Hosting and Lodgings project for destitute migrants and working to support churches to build affordable housing on their land.

Matt and Jacob discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 6th October, which are:

Job 1:1, 2:1-10

Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12

Mark 10:2-16

Psalm 26

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at / 1001084297426200

Welcome to this week's episode of Politics in the Pulpit. Nathan Maguire introduces Matt Forsyth, future Vice President of the Methodist Conference, who takes over hosting duties. Matt is joined by Steve Hucklesby, a policy advisor for the Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT).

Matt and Steve delve into their roles, emphasising the intersection of politics and faith. They explore the importance of unity in diversity, reflecting on this week's lectionary readings from Esther, James, and Mark. The discussion highlights themes of justice, prayer, and the role of Christians in advocating for global peace and nuclear disarmament.

The episode also touches on current news, including climate change, political developments, and heartwarming stories, connecting these to the scriptural themes. The conversation encourages churches to engage in prayer, advocacy, and practical action, particularly in the context of the climate crisis and local community needs.

Join us as we reflect on how to faithfully navigate the intersection of faith and politics in our preaching and daily lives.

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Revd Dr Helen Paynter, chats to Isabella Senior. 

Isabella is the Young Leaders' Development Coordinator for Baptists Together. She's from Brazil and grew up church planting with her family. Isabella first came to the UK age 15 on a mission trip when she heard God speak to her about not waiting to be older to serve Jesus and to focus on reaching younger generations. At age 18 Isabella moved to the UK in response to God's call and she now works supporting young adults nationally in the Baptist movement. Isabella loves connecting with people and encouraging them to grow as missionary disciples while discovering their God-given potential for the Kingdom. 

Helen and Isabella discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 25th August, which are: 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11), 22-30, 41-43  Ephesians 6:10-20  John 6:56-69  Psalm 84 

This is the last episode of our summer season, and we will be back with the autumn season mid-September. 

 

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200 

In this week’s episode of Politics in the Pulpit, our host, Revd Dr Helen Paynter, chats to Revd Dr Canon Sarah Hills. 

Sarah was born in South Africa and brought up mainly in Northern Ireland. She has been Vicar of Holy Island since January 2019, and Area Dean of Norham for the last 3 years. Before moving to Newcastle Diocese, she served as Canon for Reconciliation at Coventry Cathedral for five years. She is also Honorary Canon for Reconciliation at Inverness Cathedral; Visiting Fellow at St John's College, Durham; and Visiting Practice Fellow at the Dept of Trust, Peace and Social Relations at Coventry University. Prior to ordination, Sarah was a psychiatrist and psychotherapist in the NHS. She is married to Richard, a GP, and they have 2 boys and a Labrador.

Helen and Sarah discuss preaching on the lectionary readings for Sunday 18 August, which are:

1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 Ephesians 5:15-20 John 6:51-58 Psalm 111

‘Politics in the Pulpit’ is JPIT’s weekly lectionary resource, helping to equip preachers, ministers and worship leaders to unpack justice and peace issues in the pulpit. You can join in the conversation on Twitter/X at @publicissues or using #PoliticsInThePulpit, or on our Facebook community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1001084297426200