Author Archives: northumbrianreflections

Yesterday was warm and bright and despite the high winds that buffeted parts of Britain in recent weeks, there was still some semblance of colour in the autumn leaves, most of which now deck the ground, leaving the bare trees, … Continue reading →

It been a pleasant and relaxing weekend after the demands of leading back to back retreats at Nether Springs over the last two weeks. A great time on both weeks: hosting a German group from Nuremberg (whose attitude and response … Continue reading →

I might as well come clean and admit it. I may have put a nail in the coffin of the Labour Party, aided a false dawn or conversely been at the beginnings of a movement for change that might bring … Continue reading →

I have just returned from a brief but very pleasant trip to Ireland. A mixture of work and family time, permeated with the rekindling of friendships with those whom we have come to appreciate, love and respect greatly. Ireland as … Continue reading →

It was an unexpected and very pleasant surprise. Occasionally I help out at the local United Reformed Church and yesterday led their morning service. Expecting a handful of people in the congregation, predominantly elderly, it was wonderful to welcome a … Continue reading →

The economic crisis in Greece is not just catastrophic for its people but threatens to undermine and break up relationships across Europe and beyond. It also raises some big questions about European and global capitalism.    The fate of Greece, … Continue reading →

This morning I woke to the sad news that Charles Kennedy, the former Liberal Democrat leader had died, aged just 55.Very sad news. My admiration for him rose considerably in the light of his protestations over the Iraq War. He … Continue reading →

Some people think football is a matter of life and death. I don’t like that attitude. I can assure them it is much more serious than that. Bill Shankly, one of Liverpool’s great managers. I don’t agree. Football, from which I … Continue reading →

   The bright blue skies and warmth of the early summer sun has been displaced by grey overcast clouds and a cool, chilling wind and rain. What is happening with the weather is a metaphor for how I feel about … Continue reading →

The General Election: Politics and Religion Do Mix! When people tell me that the Bible has nothing to do with politics, I ask them, “Which Bible are you talking about?” Desmond Tutu.    Politics and religion do mix, they are … Continue reading →