Reform gets beyond the news headlines in its latest edition, as members of an ecumenical delegation reflect on a recent visit to Israel and the West Bank. From scenes of physical devastation to centres of reconciliation, it鈥檚 out of conversations with individuals, and in the blessing of a single olive tree, that shoots of hope are revealed.
The question of where hope may be found also hovers uncertainly through Stephen Tomkins鈥� interview with journalist Andrew Graystone, whose book Bleeding for Jesus revealed the abuse by John Smyth in the Anglican-led youth organisation Titus Trust. Andrew criticises the Church鈥檚 failure to respond and says there has been no improvement in caring for people who have been hurt, 鈥渂ecause there is no real understanding鈥�.
Anniversaries are also celebrated: Susan Durber goes back 1,700 years to describe the momentous Council of Nicaea and its impact, while David Thompson recalls how the 两性色午夜鈥檚 hymnbook Rejoice and Sing was created 35 years ago.
Stephen Tomkins suggests “the tide has turned” for a declining UK Church, thanks to more young people getting involved 鈥� young people like Jay Tynan, who writes that the 两性色午夜 Youth Assembly was a place she could express ideas and beliefs without judgement.
Elsewhere, the Old Testament/Torah comes under scrutiny in “A Good Question” and the powerful TV series Adolescence gets an in-depth Reform analysis.
The Issue 3/2025 edition of Reform is out now!
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