The Chaplain to the Archbishop of York, spoke on ‘Dreaming a different world’ at the
Christians Aware annual conference. Originally from South Africa, Jenny Wright, shared the
African word, ‘Ubuntu’ meaning ‘humanity to others,’ and explained how her hope is rooted
in liberation theology. She suggested that the post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation
Commission, chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu from 1995, was an example of
promoting reconciliation and forgiveness after apartheid. “Merciful justice allows us all to
flourish,” she said. Telling stories and sharing history between communities helps “to heal
fractures and bind peoples together.”
Around 60 people attended the annual ecumenical conference at Hinsley Hall in Leeds on
the theme: ‘In a Fractured World: Work for Reconciliation towards Justice and Peace’.
Anthony Reddie, Professor of Black Theology at Oxford University spoke on ‘Reconciliation
for Race and Culture.’ He told stories from his own background to illustrate how “issues of
race and class are embedded in our culture,” but said, “I believe we are moving to a more
hopeful place.”
Jon Swales, Head of the Lighthouse Community in Leeds and an eco-activist, spoke on the
theme, ‘Following Jesus in a world of climate breakdown.’ He called for the formation of
“Cruciform communities,” offering hope to a world that is “unravelling,” particularly because of the
challenges of human-induced climate change. He urged Christians “to embrace a more
transformative vision,” tackling “the unholy trinity of Capitalism, Consumerism and Individualism.”
He feared ongoing denial of the climate crisis, including denial in the Churches. “Fossil fuels bring
a curse upon humanity,” he warned. He felt cruciform communities will be compassionate to
those who suffer climate extremes, particularly refugees, and lower their carbon impact with
simpler lifestyle choices. The Churches should boost work to tackle fossil fuel production and
undertake peace-making to reduce the impact of war on communities and the environment.
Artist Adam Boulter highlighted the importance of imagination and described his art projects as
“missional”. He showed paintings produced on Advent themes for the L’Arche community, with
‘The Journey to Bethlehem’ including a boundary wall. Other presentations included feedback on
a Christians Aware trip to Rome last November which included visiting Rome’s Anglican Centre
and Methodist Ecumenical Office as well as a papal audience. The group reported seeing US
citizens crying on the streets when they heard the result of their country’s presidential election!
Participants at the conference were very diverse – from Kenya, South Africa, Japan, Pakistan,
India and Iraq, as well as the UK. A smiling Anglican Emeritus Bishop Mano Rumalshah of
Peshawar Diocese, located on the volatile border of Pakistan and Afghanistan, said
Leicester-based Christians Aware “has given me hope over the years,” with its
international outlook.
Ecumenical liturgies were diverse too, offering new hymns from Argentina, Ghana and New
Zealand, as well as popular social justice hymns. Participants prayed for readiness “to work for
our world and its people every day.” The closing Eucharist was held in the beautiful chapel of
Hinsley hall.
Seminars included, ‘Interfaith work for justice and peace,’ and ‘Palestinians and Israelis come
together to work for Justice.’ A resources room included Christians Aware cards, magazines and
publications including ‘Seeking Peace in the Pacific’. There was a display of new cards for 2025.
The National Justice and Peace Network, the Lincoln Centre for Reconciliation and Columban
missionaries also ran stalls.
It was a valuable weekend.
