My upbringing amongst conflict in Northern Ireland convinced me early of the necessity of engaging with those whose outlook is different from mine. After many years’ experience in inter-denominational encounter I sought to create spaces in which I could come close to the experience of members of religions other than my own, people of other beliefs and of atheists.
I start from an emphasis not on ideas or theories but on life lived. The sharing of experience, of what happens when people ‘do’ what they believe, encourages realism and builds respect. It fosters attentive listening and enriches and enlarges one’s own experience.
From Scripture To Life, Convener.
Jewish, Muslim, Christian dialogue 2008 – present.
Each month a phrase is chosen from the scriptures of the 3 faiths, put into practice by the respective faith members and the experiences shared.
The Group, Convener.
Atheist, Agnostic, Believer dialogue 2010 – 2011
What’s it like to live without religious faith or as an agnostic or as a believer? Each month a theme agreed to be put into practice and the experiences shared.
What Our Lives Say – Seminar leader, Worth Abbey 2011
We assert what we believe. What does the way we live say about what we believe?
“the ease with which you approach your audience…with sensitivity and confidence”
“You held us spellbound … everyone was most complimentary”
Seeing and Being Seen – Seminar leader, Aylesford Priory, 20th Sept 2013
“a born communicator”
“your gentle style of presentation – people are assured that you are speaking to them”
“leaving your listeners with food for thought – with the excellent aide memoire for future reference”
Keynote Speaker at 2015’s Regenerate conference 13th – 15th February
Multiculturalism – Do You Care? Young Muslims, Christians, Atheists
Journalism in The Tablet, The Furrow, Religious Life Review, New City, Doctrine and Life, Reality etc
