Monthly Archives: June 2020

Journeys of Hope: Masood’s story During #RefugeeWeek we’re listening to the stories and experiences of those who have journeyed across the world to seek safety. Masood’s story reminds us of the importance of creating an environment where we welcome the … Continue reading →

During #RefugeeWeek we’re listening to the stories and experiences of those who have journeyed across the world to seek safety. Nouran’s story offers inspiration in finding hope for ourselves and for our communities amidst uncertainty and difficult circumstances. Where did … Continue reading →

Refugee Week 2020 For many refugees and asylum seekers, the journey they have been on has been one of hope. Hope for change, hope for refuge, hope to be reunited with those they love. This Refugee Week, we want to … Continue reading →

What does the Old Testament book of Ruth have to say about the coronavirus lockdown? Dr Alison Gray, Tutor in Old Testament Language, Literature and Theology at Westminster College, Cambridge, explains in Reform magazine’s latest edition. Read More … … Continue reading →

The United Reformed Church (URC) has joined more than 200 organisations in signing an open letter to Priti Patel, the Home Secretary, about the meagre increase in asylum support rates. On 8 June, the Home Office announced an increase of just £1.85 in the weekly rate of asylum support. Read More … … Continue reading →

The United Reformed Church’s (URC) mission committee has called on local churches to lobby the UK government over plans for the annexation of parts of the West Bank. At its June meeting, the committee considered the threat posed by the Israeli government’s proposed annexation of a significant part of the West Bank. It then passed a resolution that strongly endorsed a parliamentary petition calling on the UK government to oppose annexation and to introduce sanctions if the annexation goes ahead in July. Read More … … Continue reading →

What we do with our money makes a difference, even down to the banks and pensions we use. Roo Stewart, United Reformed Church (URC) Programme Support Officer (Church and Society) reflects on our relationship with investment, and highlights the findings of a new report revealing how financial institutions are contributing to the production of nuclear weapons. Jesus had some hard sayings about how we use money, according to the writers of the New Testament. Read More … … Continue reading →

A new URC resource has been launched to help people explore how they can respond to the current needs, opportunities and injustices in their local neighbourhoods. It is hoped that New reality, same mission will act as a stimulus to renewed community engagement by individuals and local congregations as lockdown eases. Read More … … Continue reading →

As their time as United Reformed Church (URC) General Assembly Moderators comes to a close, the Revd Nigel Uden and Derek Estill reflect on their two years in office. Derek Estill: My two years as General Assembly Moderator – visiting churches, being welcomed and appreciated – have been a joy and a privilege. These visits have reinforced my opinion that we are blessed to have dedicated people living out their faith in active and positive ways and, in the process, being a real blessing to many more. Share this article Read… Continue reading →

The following statement and prayer comes from Karen Campbell, the United Reformed Church’s Secretary for Global and Intercultural Ministries, and the Moderators of the URC General Assembly, the Revd Nigel Uden and Derek Estill: “I have come that you might have life in all its fullness.” Jesus Christ said this more than 2,000 years ago. But when will that fullness of life be afforded to all people – irrespective of the colour of their skin? The United Reformed Church has no hesitation in adding its voice to the outrage and dismay expressed following the brutal killing of George Floyd. Floyd… Continue reading →