Goodhand in Banbury

This post seeks to follow on from my last which was about 'What defines us.’ The books I mentioned in the previous post, in one way or another, highlight the forces which control our world. To put it crudely a culture built on individualism, capitalism and consumerism are destroying the planet and dividing people. Yet many of us collude because we like the lifestyle they bring. The church has often reinforced them, even though they stand in stark contrast to the kingdom of God where people are to be in a supportive community. Instead individualism enables the rich to become richer while an ever growing number of people become poorer. Institutions often protect those in power and persecute the vulnerable. The ongoing post office scandal is just one example of this. The church is no different in being prone to protect itself with the price being paid by the vulnerable. Looking back at my own experience I am saddened by the way my institution pushed for change, ‘regrouping for mission