Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com For many people the Christian support for Donald Trump is one of the most mystifying and worrying aspects of US politics. It was no surprise to see Jesus banners amongst those carried by those who stormed the Capitol building. Four years ago, an old school friend, Nick Miles,… Continue reading Possessed by a cult of ‘Christian’ nationalism
Author: Jon Kuhrt
Jon Kuhrt has worked with people affected by homelessness for over 30 years. He is a former government adviser on how faith groups address rough sleeping and is now CEO of Hope into Action. He lives with his wife in Streatham, south London and they have 3 children. He likes football....but loves cricket.
How HUSSO volunteering changed my life
HUSSO 1994: launch of a new football coaching project. Jon Kuhrt is next to Mo Cookson (front left) I arrived at Hull University in the Autumn of 1991 to study Social Policy and Social Work. I signed up to join HUSSO, the student community action group, at the Freshers’ Fair after hearing the Chair, Martin… Continue reading How HUSSO volunteering changed my life
Standing at the Crossroads of a New Year
Photo by u0410u043bu0435u043au0441u0430u043du0434u0440 u041fu0440u043eu043au043eu0444u044cu0435u0432 on Pexels.com The New Year can be a focus for hope and change: a time of decision, to choose certain paths and resist others. In Jeremiah 6:16 it says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and… Continue reading Standing at the Crossroads of a New Year
The Queen gives us a model of how to talk about faith publicly
Over the last 10 years the Queen has been increasingly open about her Christian faith in her Christmas Day message. This quote particularly struck me from her speech this year: "The teachings of Christ have served as my inner light." Whatever your views on the Royal family, I think everyone can learn from the way that the Queen speaks… Continue reading The Queen gives us a model of how to talk about faith publicly
Zuzu’s petals, the pandemic & reminders of what is most important
In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, the main character George Bailey faces bankruptcy and scandal. After a life of service and sacrifice, someone else’s negligence takes him to the brink of ruin. On Christmas Eve, in the midst of his angst and desperation, George goes home and sees his family. His young daughter, Zuzu,… Continue reading Zuzu’s petals, the pandemic & reminders of what is most important
Fishin’ 4 Religion: the Arrested Development of faith
Way back in 1993 when I was a student, the band Arrested Development released their first album 3 years, 5 months and 2 days in the Life of... It sold 4 million copies and was pretty much the only hip hop album I ever bought. Part of what I liked was how spiritual many of… Continue reading Fishin’ 4 Religion: the Arrested Development of faith
My friend Stuart Ryland, 1969-2020
Today was the funeral of my friend Stuart Ryland. Stu was a great friend and Christian brother and his passing has devastated me. Stuart’s younger brother Andrew has been one of my best friends since I was 7, so for many years I saw him mainly as ‘my mate’s big brother’. Stuart was always nice… Continue reading My friend Stuart Ryland, 1969-2020
Its Christmas-time, there’s no need to be afraid?
The opening line to Band Aid's Do they know its Christmas? are: ‘Its Christmas-time, there’s no need to be afraid’ Many people may find it hard to sing along to these lines this year. This year there is probably a longer list than ever of things that we feel afraid for or worried about: the… Continue reading Its Christmas-time, there’s no need to be afraid?
Is the biblical God a misogynistic bully?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvd2MNT642Q Since lockdown I have listened to a lot of podcasts whilst out walking. One of my favourites has become Unbelievable which hosts debates on matters of faith and belief. The show attracts high profile authors and activists and often pits Christians against atheists. These debates could easily become pointless and bitter, like listening to… Continue reading Is the biblical God a misogynistic bully?
Tell the truth
Photo by Pexels.com Tell the truth to the person you share your life with. About what you think, how you feel and what you want. Tell the truth about what you do when no one is looking. Tell the truth to your children. About the big things and the little things. Help them not to… Continue reading Tell the truth
Grace + Truth 