Faith

What does faith mean to you?

Faith means trust you cannot demonstrate in normal ways. Faith is a trust in people, and ideas, for example, key people in history like Jesus Christ, Gandhi or Nelson Mandela. The attributes they expressed and practiced in their lives can be applied to others and that can be useful to everyone.

Has your faith ever been put to the test?

My faith was tested when I was working as a part time priest and a full time employee at Cleveland Social Services during the Cleveland Child Abuse Crisis. I was running a joint project between the health and social services.

Do you have faith in others?

Yes I have a lot of faith in people. I’ve had experiences of being disappointed when I’ve put my trust in some people. However, I have a conviction that stems strongly from the Christian religion, that love and a constructive approach to life will overcome evil.

A Liberal Quaker Christian Humanist

Which person do you most admire and why?

Jesus of Nazareth because his life and teaching has made an extraordinary impression on the world since his birth in all countries of the world.

Which characteristic do you most deplore in others?

It’s a narrow mindedness or vindictiveness that often spring from other people’s insecurities.

What is your most treasured possession?

My pen knife. I remember my father had one, my grandfather had one. I’ve had one for as long as I can remember. It has a lot of happy associations.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievements in life so far?

I’ve been pleased about different things at different stages of my life. I’ve written three books that have been published. I’ve also done a lot of pastoral work as a priest and counsellor.