Back In Swansea . . . and Reading . . .

It was good to be able to return to familiar surroundings at Zac's Place after the recent foreign sojourn. The three week period was the longest I have been away from Zac's since it began over eleven years ago and I am so impressed with everyone there with the way it all ran - especially on the Tuesday night tribal gatherings. Contribution from a wide variety of our regulars, speaking openly and honestly about their life and faith, took relationships to another level and encouraged all involved. It's also a measure of how much the group has matured and sharing responsibilities is now a hallmark.

Today has seen a different side of activity at Zac's Place. In partnership with our friends at the Big Issue Cymru, The Cyrenians, Swansea Drugs Project and The Wallich (who manage the breakfasts for rough sleepers at our place), Zac's was used as a venue for a Health Check Up for many of our collective friends. Over fifty people came throughout the day for; flu and swine flu jabs, blood pressure checks, blood sugar level checks and benefit from the services of other health specialists such as dentists and chiropedists. What made this occasion different to other years was the involvement throughout the day of medical students from the Swansea Medical School Graduate Entry Programme who also found the experience very beneficial - and i can testify that being a guinea pig at the sharp end wasn't so bad after all!

I hit the road again this weekend returning to take part in the 24th Annual Reading Toy Run, on Sunday, which I was involved in founding with my closest of mates back home. It's an event that can attract over 2000 participants and one where I try to bring relavent Christmas message. I'll also be speaking at Sindlesham Baptist Church (near Wokingham) prior to the run. Monday sees a change of gear back in Swansea where I'll be contributing at a Remembrance Event for those lost through drug addiction; raw emotions, fragile souls and tough questions will all mark a special time, (3-5pm on Mon 7 Dec, St. Matthews Centre, High St. Swansea)

A mix of people and variety of circumstances ensure that the journey continues in it's usual colourful chaos and to a greater or lesser degree, often involves tending 'wounds' of one sort or another.

Gold Coast to Welsh Coast

Arriving back at Heathrow Airport and onto South Wales amid howling gales seems like so many miles away, in more ways than one, from the Gold Coast of Queensland in Australia, the last stop on the tour. Sweet family reunions and disciplining myself to sleep and stay awake at appropriate times to minimise the effect of an 11 hour time change are all part of a homecoming.

The last 'formal' event of the trip went very well - an evening speaking engagement in Southport at the Church of Christ there. Smithy has spoken there numerous times and Ash Barker (UNOH/Thailand) was there just a few weeks previously and I knew a message reflecting on mission to the margins would not only be anticipated but welcomed - I hope at each of the venues folk will be inspired to find life on the margins. It's been a trip of varied venues and opportunities and I've tried hard not to repeat myself, (with the exception of a few stories). It would be easy to give the same message each time, but no part of the journey is ever the same. (At some stage I hope to put a few of the messages up on podcast or as links from the soapbox part of the webpage).

From start to finish it's been 21 days, a dozen messages, 14 different beds/couches/seats, 2200kms on 1 bike and a lot further on six aircraft in 5 States. It's been about a lot of people. Out of the whole trip all my waking hours were spent in the company of many people, (with the exception of a few hours riding here and there) and it's people that make the journey and it's people that continue to make a difference.

My deepest thanks to all those who showed hospitality and showed support in so many ways, to those who gave me space to do what I do, to Magoo for the wheels, and to the NSW Police dept for the helicopter escort through Sydney (I'm sure the tax payers of the city will be most appreciative of your paranoia).

Here's a few snaps from the mobile - so resolution won't be that great:


Melbourne - I wanted to learn much more about Aboriginal issues on this trip which I did - the moving story of a rescue in Gundagai 150 years ago touched my heart enormously..
Glenn on the flood plain at Gundagai

After speaking at a Baptist Church in Canberra.
The helicopter appeared shortly after!
Lismore crew - NSW
Some of the Gold Coast Crew, QLD

Canberra, Sydney, Newcastle, Lismore & on to the Gold Coast

One week on from the last blog entry I have travelled considerably further north. A ride that had taken me from the city by design of Canberra through the tangled streets of Sydney up over the famous bridge, (with a police helicopter escort!) and up to the sea port and industrial region of Newcastle. Real hot from there up to Lismore - saw a wedged tailed eagle for the first time as I mile munched up the freeway. Onto to Byron Bay and up to the Goldcoast.

At each resting place very generous hospitality from fellow pilgrims in God's Squad has been welcome and is so much appreciated as we have shared stories and food. The speaking in Canberra at a Baptist Church there went very well, (great to see photo's of a family working with UNOH in Bangkok on their notice boards) and a personal whistle stop tour of the Aboriginal section of the NAtional Museum followed; courtesy of one of the congregation who happened to be on duty later that afternoon.

LAst time I was in Sydney I was so jet lagged I fell asleep in the foyer of the Opera House and was 'moved on'. This time was another brief overnight visit but was far more with it discussing with friends there the unjust laws that NSW is aiming towards motorcycle clubs. The following days ride up through the city was very hot and it was a buzz to ride across the famous bridge. Glenn accompanied me on the ride all the way to Newcastle. More reunions with special friends, (including eating in a bar in Swansea of all places), that spans nearly two decades and a midweek gathering at a Uniting Church in Warners Bay went well also - a couple of guys who were at the meeting in Yass the previous week six hours away came back which was good of them. I have tried to vary the talks at each place but with a common theme of misfits and the marginalised in Jesus' life on the road.

Travel by road rather than internal flight has given me wonderful opportunity to absorb both the landscape and the stories - especially of the indigenous population here. My 600 km ride up to Lismore in Northern NSW was long one and well worth while. One of our associates in Squad up there is an Aboriginal and an Elder from his community was very pleased to grant me an official welcome and blessing to the region, followed by a meal of Kangaroo Curry, (Turtle was the original first choice but unavailable on the day). The next day meeting up with the same folks in Byron Bay, we ate the biggest prawns I've seen in my life!

Once again I hit the road on Magoo's 1994 Softail which hasn't missed a beat, leaving the country town of Lismore and making the short hop to the Gold Coast. Signs for 'Surfers Paradise' and the first high rise buildings since Sydney come into view. This is where the Dolphins, Whales ans Sharks play and egos parade the sea front. It's also my final destination on this trip. I now have a day to relax, after clubhouse visits the previous night, before my final speaking engagement in Southport on Sunday night. I've spent time with a huge variety of people - I dare say these last few dares will bring some more surprises.

Launceston, Melbourne, Glenrowan, Wagga, Yass & Canberra . . .

Sat here in Canberra at the home of Glenn and Ros, eventually getting chance to pause for breath and it's all a bit sureal. Just twelve months ago they returned home to Aus after having spent nearly three years with us Zac's Place. Now it seems I have just nipped out the door and called around for coffee. In fact it's seemed like that for much of the last week or so catching up with so many from the community that is God's Squad.

The National Run in Tasmania was a blast as expected, although this year the added responsibility of deputizing for for JS meant that I was flat out from the point I landed in Melbourne. Returning to Melbourne after the weekend is less than an hours flight and since then I have been working my way north by bike after catching up with folks at St. Martin's. Precious times with fellow Squad members and their families and other friends at each resting place ensure that talk late into the night continues way after any formal speaking resposibilities have finished.

It's good to be riding amid the vast spaces of the Aussie coutryside between the country towns. (Road kill is much bigger than home and I'm sure the bugs wear bigger boots!). It was great to be in Yass in Southern NSW his morning to take a Breakfast meeting which was packed - am staggered that some folks had travelled 5 or 6 hours to be there; very humbling indeed. The next few days see more speaking, more miles, more reunions . . . .

Despite the vast open spaces between towns and cities; the world seems so very small.

Australia Dates On The Road - UPDATED

Sean will be speaking at the following venues over in the coming days in Australia. Tuesday night's at Zac's continue as normal in Swansea with an emphasis on personal stories of life and faith from regulars in the gatherings . . .

Weds 4 Nov, 7pm - St. Martin's, Collingwood, Melbourne, Vic. (6pm for BBQ)
215 Wellington St. Collingwood, VIC 3066 - Cnr Otter St, (Melways ref: 44 C4)

Sat 7 Nov, 8am - Yass Breakfast Meeting,Yass, NSW.

Sun 8 Nov, 10am - Tuggeranong Baptist Church, Canberra. ACT
33 Jenke Circuit, Kambah, ACT 2902
Phone: (02) 6296 1587

ADDITIONAL DATE
Weds 11 Nov, 5.30pm - Uniting Church at The Willows
342 Hillsborough Rd, Warners Bay, Newcastle, New South Wales

Sun 15 Nov, 6pm - Southport Church of Christ, Brisbane, Queensland
Queensland Academy Health Sciences (QAHS), Edmund Rice Drive, Southport, Brisbane, Queensland.

Baptism in the bay . . .

Here's a Zac's snap shot - Ric's baptism in a rather chilly Swansea Bay last Sunday!

Last Call for Bryn Haworth Tickets

There will be some tickets available on the door for Bryn's visit to Zac's on Saturday night for £10 - doors at 7.30pm, Gig at 8pm.

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Profits from the gig will go towards the ongoing work at Zac's Place.

City of Angels

Saw this on my friends' Kev & Linsey's blog, who are themselves committed to serving the urban poor. This snap shot from Skid Row in LA is representative of many cities . . .

Rowan Williams and Zac's Place.

"As far as the Church of England is concerned, Rowan Williams has said he wants to be remembered for the Fresh Expressions initiative when people look back at his time in office. Speaking during an interview for a York Courses audio CD, the Archbishop says that encouraging new forms of church was one of his first thoughts when he arrived at Lambeth in 2003. He also added that it was important to go to where people are, and be willing accept a 'mixed economy' church with fresh expressions and more traditional forms of church sitting side by side."

He also states in the interview that during his time as a bishop in Wales, is when he first became aware of both the need for different forms of church and that it was already happening in Wales. Virtually from day one, (1998), he has been an enthusiastic supporter of what we have been trying to do through Zac's Place, for which I am very grateful and it also seems it may have been one of the contexts that encouraged and challenged his thinking as he launched the Fresh Expressions initiative.

Listen to Interview Excerpt Here

Original Post Here, Monday, 12 October, 2009

"The work going forward at Zac's Place is in every way innovative, courageous and important for the community in general as well as the Christian community. I have been privileged to watch the development of this initiative over several years and would want to pay the most sincere tribute to the dedication and vision of those who have been running it."

Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury, October 2005

Zac's Place Story on Fresh Expressions Website

Fresh Expressions Oct 2009, Podcast - Zac's Place Feature

Here's a direct link to the recent interview for the Fresh Expressions Podcast this month. I think it gives a reasonable representation for where Zac's Place is at, at this moment in time and something of the history.

Main Feature..

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Australia Dates . . . .

Whilst attending to some God's Squad matters in Australia later this month, I will also be dropping in on the following places for a bit of banter; if you're in the area it'd be good to meet up. Four states, four gatherings.

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Weds 4 Nov, 7pm - St. Martin's, Collingwood, Melbourne, Vic.

Really looking forward to returning to see my fellow dreamers and risk takers. St. Martin's was the place of my ordination and is the home of God's Squad and sister church community of Zac's Place.
215 Wellington St. Collingwood, VIC 3066 - Cnr Otter St, opposite the Housing Commision flats - (Melways ref: 44 C4)

Sat 7 Nov, 8am - Yass Breakfast Meeting, Yass Motel Convention Room.
Yass, NSW.

Sun 8 Nov, 10am - Tuggeranong Baptist Church, Canberra. ACT
33 Jenke Circuit, Kambah, ACT 2902
Phone: (02) 6296 1587
Email: tbchurch@internode.on.net

Sun 15 Nov, 6pm - Southport Church of Christ, Brisbane, Queensland
Queensland Academy Health Sciences (QAHS), Edmund Rice Drive, Southport, Brisbane, Queensland.

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OTHER RECENT NEWS:
Zac's Place Podcast Interview by Fresh Expresssions Here (2/10/09)

Fresh Expressions Feature and Podcast

Fresh Expressions are running a Zac's Place Feature on their web site this month.

There is also a Podcast which may be of interest - features interviews and sound bites from muggins and also others at Zac's - there's also the virtually uncut interview as a podcast extra available too.

Am really pleased with the coverage, and we enjoyed Alicia's visit and the time she took to listen to everyone's story was much appreciated. Hope you find these items helpful - particularly regarding the history and foundational principles of Zac's Place.

Finland - The Long Walk Home

The recent return visit to Finland for the God's Squad Euro Run was always going to be special - seven nations, eight languages - one purpose. One lasting memory will a long walk in silence through the forest to a wigwam arrangement where we gathered around a fire a shared communion together. One of those times when stuff happens and it's very difficult to explain.

Check out the God's Squad blog for more images and comment.
(Thanks Dale for the pic)

Bryn Haworth Tickets Now Available

Bryn Haworth Tickets are now available for the event on 17 October, on line via paypal at this Zac's Place link for the price of £6. Just print out the order and bring it with you.

Alternatively tickets are available in person at Zac's or by post for £5 until 13 October. Thereafter, all tickets and any door tickets will be £10.

Postal tickets should enclose an SAE and a cheque payable to 'Exousia Trust' to Zac's Place, Gospel HAll, George Street, Swansea, SA1 4HH.

70,000 in the choir . . .

Am not always the biggest fan of congregational singing but this was a pretty good effort at the Millennium Stadium . . .
You'll have to check out other people's footage for the whole song - including a very Welsh orientated intro; but here's an excerpt . . . .

Bryn Haworth Returns to Play Zac's Place

Gospel / Bluesman Bryn Haworth returns to play Zac's on Sat Oct 17th

Check his MySpace page out to have a listen and read his biog.

Tickets will be available in person at Zac's Place (07971 218644) and there will be a discount for advance purchase - check back in the next few days for details.....

The 'Winter Blues' gig will be a solo performances showcasing Bryn's exceptional guitar skills and songwriting - his reputation at one of the best slide guitarists around will only be endorsed. A sample from his last gig at Zac's is available to listen on our myspace page (see links on right).

Any profits from this event will go directly into the ongoing work of Exousia Trust at Zac's Place.

Throw Away Prayers

Having done about 400 of the 550 miles that day, I figured I was due a break of longer than it took to refuel the bike. So, I rode about 300 metres down past the pumps and parked in shady spot before launching back onto the Dutch motorway.

Short moments of still, quiet, reflection are precious on a long journey. As traffic thunders past on the other side of the trees, I quench my thirst and get some sugar intake.

As I begin the ritual of putting on my helmet, shades and gloves before firing the trusty HD into life, I notice a small scrap of paper on the tarmac below the bike.


On closer inspection, it’s a paper dart with the words, ..’please pray for . . ‘ visible on the upside of one of the wings. I recognised it as similar to the little prayer card things that are often in the chapel in prison.

As I stooped down and opened it, I read the scrawly pencilled words also in English; ‘..nobody, because there are no god.’

Some years ago, Tom Petty sang, ‘Even the losers get lucky sometimes’. Maybe also, even now, the throw away prayers don’t necessarily fall on deaf ears.

Summer Updates

Just a few news updates for Zac's through the month of August. ...

Thursday eve Coffee Bar will be on a break through August, resuming 3 Sep. Some will be providing a soup run at around 9pm in town instead.

Tuesday 'Tribal Gatherings' will be on a break on 18 & 25th August and on 4th and 11th we welcome representation from 'Fresh Expressions' (the joint Methodist and Anglican crew exploring different concepts of church community), to see what we are up to and get some stories for their monthly podcast.

Discussions also continue about the options for starting a monthly Sunday night gathering at HQ this Autumn - more to follow . . . .

Facebook Feedback

For those on 'Facebook' you like to know that there is a Zac's Place 'group' - a space available for comment and discussion.
It has been encouraging to read comments, particularly about people's first experiences of Zac's Place - as folks folks have come along for many and varied reasons.

Here's a recent entry for your encouragement:
"My first experience of Zac's place..........hard to remeber. To be honest I was so off my face during that period ofmy life......? One thing that i will never forget is that it is where I first found Christ. Not in a head knowledge way but in a deep, heart knowledge. It was the first place I found Gods unconditional love, acceptance and grace in action. Not people talking it but people living it. Authentic faith and deeds in action."

For Facebook users you'll find the group here: Zac's Place Facebook Group

Final Curtains

This past week has as usual been varied at Zac's Place. It has however been particularly marked by the final performances from JEMS Drama School here at Zac's - infact not just here, but anywhere as Jayne winds the school up after ten years of wonderful creativity. As usual the kids pulled all the stops out and last thursday's final night was not just a great performance but also very emotional; especially as some of the older kids have been involved for the whole ten years. Many of the folks that come through this building are tortured souls, so I shall miss the sound of laughter from the fifty or so drama school youngsters even more so.

As I write and prep for tonight's Tribal Gathering at Zac's - with the images of Michael Jackson's Memorial Service in the news, (but not much about the 7/7 victims), we'll ironically be looking at 'lament' and 'grief', (in the context of Old Testament geeza David in 2 Samuel 1); Lament and grief are two things I really don't think we're very good at in our culture. Tragedy is easier to deal with if it's a news story or a spectacle . . . lament is possibly what we should do with our questions and struggle when there aren't any obvious answers, but we cling to a bigger picture.

On a lighter note, it was good to welcome year ten students to Zac's this afternoon, from a local school, to come and hear some stories and look at the artwork - Doris continues to be a star attraction - based on, yup, 'Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted'!

A Window Into Zac's Place

Zac's can be a bit of a mad house sometimes, it's also a haven of peace in a storm and a punch bag amid pain.
One of our regulars at the Tribal Gatherings, Liz, is also a regular blogger.
Here's a link to her blog, with a filter on it for the Zac's related posts, in which she share's her reflections and observations amid the kaleidascopic experience. Feel free to take a look if your interested:
Liz's Zac's Place Reflections . . . .

Tony Campolo Interview

Ok - He's an American and he's a preacher. But don't let that put you off. He's vastly different to most of them.
He's as passionate about advocating the rights of the poor and vulnerable as much as ever. Now in his 70's, here's a very recent radio interview link that he did last week with BBC Radio Wales. You'll need 20 mins or so, but it's well worth it.

Tony Campolo - BBC Radio Wales 14/6/09

The Gospel According To Nick Griffin . . .

Having seen the BNP's Nick Griffin being interviewed late last night on Sky news, as the European election results were being announced, I am a little confused. Mr Griffin stressed the importance of the UK being a Christian country and all residents should adopt Christian principals such as his own. I wonder which principals he means? Could it be the loving your neighbour or indeed your enemies ones? Or maybe it's the cross cultural connections that Jesus made cutting across all religious and racial divides when he spent time in the company of Samaritans amongst others? Absolutely bizarre. There We Are Then.

Street Football Wales - fundraising concert in Swansea

A Night to Remember!!!


Street Football Wales (SFW) to host a fundraising concert in Swansea.

As part of SFW's continued efforts to raise funds for the Street Football league and the Homeless World Cup Team, a concert has been arranged to take place on Saturday May 9th at Llewellyn Hall, Swansea YMCA. The Morriston Phoenix Choir will be performing alongside the Swansea Young Single Homeless Project Dance Troupe, the Disconnected and special guest Steve Balsamo!, (of The Story's, Jesus Christ Superstar and also currently performing with Jon Lord on International dates).

There is a lot of work involved in preparing for the concert and those involved in Street Football Wales continue to give up a huge amount of their free time in an effort to ensure the success of the league and the Welsh Dragon's participation in the Homeless World Cup.

If you are reading this and are in or around Swansea, come along and support SFW - tickets for the concert are a bargain at £5 each! Order your tickets by contacting streetfootballwales@hotmail.co.uk.

SUPPORT IT IF YOU CAN . . . . . .

Apprentices On The Road - Spring Harvest

Most of what I seem to get involved in is pretty well out there on the fringes when it comes to church related activity. Spring Harvest however is an exception, having been involved in numerous capacities since it's very early days in the late 70's. For those not in the know, SH is an annual multi week church based conference style family event spanning many denominations and attracts around 45,000 people in total each Easter. It's accommodated at Butlin's sites in Minehead and Skegness. There's bits of it that make me cringe and frustrate me, but I can't deny that certainly as a younger person there were some key moments for me in my Christian journey that Spring Harvest helped shape and it continues to encourage many in their faith and I am pleased to have the opportunity to be involved.

Over the years having been on the youth team as a speaker, detached youth worker, musician and in more recent years the pastoral team. In this role I have been running 'Just Looking' groups, specifically for those who attend SH who question much of what they see and want a safe space to ask questions and discuss life, faith and whatever else comes up. In practice this means over the course of the week about twenty folks come along and enjoy honest and open discussion not too disimilar to our Zac's tribal gatherings on a tuesday eve - but without the chaos!


In the wider programme the theme was 'Apprentice - walking the way of Christ' - the logo for which was a pair of old boots. As the week went on my own boots gradually desintegrated - if only replicating the way of Christ was as straightforward as that!

Is This A Road I Have To Go Down?

To continue the Holy Week theme,I couldn't resist putting in the following clip from local fella, Steve Balsamo singing 'Gethsemane'. Captures the the moment fantastically...

Performance of this show-stopping song at Ahoy, Holland in June 2004 by Steve Balsamo, who starred in the London West End Revival production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1996/97 at The Lyceum, and tours and records with The Storys currently.

Hero To Villain? - Palm Sunday Reflection

Today is what in the Church Calendar is called 'Palm Sunday' - celebrated a week before Easter. Traditionally it's the day when we reflect on Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem amid the welcoming enthusiasm of the crowds that had caught on to Lazarus' raising among other things.

This scenario and the following Easter week is full of contrasts - betrayal and trust, love and hate, denial and faith, justice and coercion, mercy and brutality. I can't help thinking of the bizarre turnaround from the outpouring of emotion of the 'Palm Sunday' moment to the same crowd calling for His execution one week later. Sure they wanted a deliverer, but Jesus didn't fit the mould for their kind of warrior saviour. The crowd wavered in it's support and opinion over these days, but the message and actions of Christ remained constant as indeed it still does - amid our often wavering still.

The full horror and delicate beauty of the Easter week is not contained in a sanitized pic and mix saviour to make us feel good for five minutes to suit our wants, but in the stark reality of a sacrificial ragamuffin saviour bringing hope to a weary and wounded world. How we see the Christ of Easter and how we see the people around him at that time, will have a huge bearing on how we may or may not choose to follow Him. Me, I'll hang on to the hope that while everything around Christ was shifting he stayed true to what needed to be done and for that I am eternally grateful.

Sean
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The Palm Sunday story is contained in Chapter 12 of John's Gospel which can be found here
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2012&version=65

Coincidence

The telephone goes; it's that mate that's been on your mind all day. For some reason you take the second left, not the first and you find a stranger needing help. You feel like giving up and moving on and a reminder stares you in the face to hang in there, keep going and not give up.

Telepathy? Good fortune? A Lucky day? or just Coincidence? In his book 'Wishful Thinking', the writer Frederick Beuchner writes of the word, 'coincidence':

"I believe that people laugh at coincidence as a way of relegating it to the realm 
of the absurd and of therefore not having to take seriously the possibility 
that there is a lot more going on in our lives than we either know or care 
to know. Who can say what is going on, but I suspect that a part of it 
is that every once and so often we hear a whisper from the wings that goes 
something like this: You've turned up in the right place at the right time. 
You're doing fine. Don't ever thing that you've been forgotten."

Bushfires

Today as Australia mourns, I too remember dear friends and brothers and sisters in Australia going through dark days. Even within the family that is God's Squad and St. Martin's, (my ordaining church), there are those who have lost their loved ones and their homes. There are others too who fought the fires and others who in their capacity as chaplains and pastors have much to do. May God grant them strength and grace.

Helsinki . . . to Minehead?

Not had chance to right much of late. But recent days have seen such diversity amid much activity sometimes you only get chance to take in what's happening when you write it down.

Was in Finland the weekend before last, (flew out Friday, back Sunday), on God's Squad duties visiting the Finnish chapter. Much road travel, little sleep and feeling full of flue, but had an encouraging time with the guys - the 'Dutch' were also visiting, so it was never going to be quiet. The ministry of God's Squad in the bike scene continues to be effective on many levels and it's rewarding to see the development of the new chapters in Europe with the challenges of not only language but also diverse church and bike scene cultures. Got back into Heathrow shortly before they closd it due to snow - kind of ironic having just come from Finland where packed ice and snow is normal on the roads for months on end!

The next week or so saw the regular Zac's Place gatherings and another funeral to take in Reading. It's been a rough ride for mate's up there. From their close knit brotherhood, three guys from their club have died in the last eight months, the second just a few weeks ago. Amid the heartache, it remains an honour to be entrusted with the responsibility to help steer people through dark days. I try to keep things real and honest in the hope that it helps a little.

Back to Swansea for more Squad related events and meetings on the Saturday and then in Swansea Prison first thing Sunday morning to take the services there. Jail is always a favourite gig! Especially Swansea as there's so many familiar faces in there! Also get the tragic news from friends in Australia the some have lost their homes and one dear brother has lost his two daughters - the faces on my God's Squad photo montage at Zac's help us to remember them in our prayers tuesday night. Dark days indeed for some.

A couple of local Church meetings and time to spend with the family and then hit the road again on Sunday for the Minehead gig. It's a one off Zac's Place 'on the road' Songwriters circle (see post below). Am looking forward to it as Lorraine, Phil and Rob have been three of the most supportive musicians in the 10 years of Zac's Place.

So there we go, Helsinki to Minehead - it's the usual diverse mix of people, places and emotions. All the more reason to hang to that which never changes.

Zac's Place - On The Road Gig - Minehead

Sunday night Feb 15, sees Sean hosting a night of music and banter in good Zac's tradition from the trio that is Lorraine King, Rob Ash and Phil James at the Regal Theatre, Minehead.

Live Music at Zac's Place - some discussion....

Since Zac's Place began as, 'Zac's Place - Church in a Pub?' just over ten years ago, great quality live music was an essential part of everything that took place in the four different pubs we used; Over 300 gigs in fact, lost count of the number of artists, five TV programmes with ITV Wales, several other documentaries for TV and radio plus festival stages. Musicians such as Martyn Joseph, Phil James, Rob Ash, Lorraine King, Bill and Rachel Taylor Beales, Julia Harris have all been regulars on gig listings. Guests for TV and festival stages have included Glenn Kaiser, Rick Elias, Mike Peters, Mal Pope, The Electrics, Ben Castle and many others as well. The quirky TrifleSky and innovative Iain Hornal made their mark alongside the metal of Kosher and in more recent months it was great to run the stage and host a fundraiser with The Story's.

Since having our own venue over recent times it's been good to have the occasional gig and this past year we've had guest: Bryn Haworth, Martyn Joseph, Rob Halligan, Julia Harris, Rachel Taylor-Beales and Sir Silence and then just last week After The Fire. Swansea continues to be a frustrating place to put on gigs, especially paying ones. In the main we've managed to make this years gigs work out OK and I want to maintain some sort of momentum into next year.

One option is to introduce a regular monthly gig - something like a Sunday Night Live at Zac's. Charge a little bit on the door cover all the costs and on a busy one might even make a bit towards the charitable work we continue to be involved in among the marginalised.

Ten years on and Zac's Place has moved on - we're a 'Church for Ragamuffins' - but I still passionately believe in the importance of the voice of the artist - as unpredictable and chaotic as it may be sometimes; I still believe in giving artists a platform for their creativity. So my friends - musos, artists, fellow pilgrims - is there any mileage in some regular gigs? Is it something you'd support? Let me know - lets bat it around for a bit........

Cheers and God bless

Sean

ATF GIG

Well, After The Fire came to Zac's to play their first gig in Swansea since 1981 and what a good night it was! Thanks to all those who came out to support it. Thanks too to Pete, John and the lads for making the journey and we hope it serves as a fitting start to their Autumn tour. It was a bonus getting them an interview and live session on BBC Radio Wales on the Fri night too. Rob Halligan grew in confidence taking the lead vocal role as his first full gig with ATF, and was good to see him again. Zac's is a long way from the venues and stadiums they played in with the likes of Queen and ELO in the 80's, but it was great to hear the songs are still alive and kicking and back on the road again.

AFTER THE FIRE PRE-GIG VIDEO...TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE

TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR THE ATF GIG THIS SATURDAY AT ZAC'S PLACE - BOOK ONLINE FOR £10 OR ON THE DOOR FOR £12....

Here's a pre gig preview vid...

After The Fire Tour rehearsal and preview...

Only a few week to go before the After The Fire gig at Zac's - here's a snippet.

......The Persecuted

On a day when I was reading some news stories about the persecution of Christians in Iraq, the tragic shooting of 34 year old Gayle Williams by the Taleban in Kabul, Afghanistan also hit the headlines. Her body was peppered with bullets as she made her way to her office where she volunteered for a charity working among people with disabilities.




Taleban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told AFP that they killed Ms Williams "because she was working for an organisation which was preaching Christianity in Afghanistan"

At Zac's Place we have an art commission based on the Beatitudes. We shall be adding Gayle's name to the sculpture that was inspired by Jesus words 'Blessed are the persecuted...' It depicts hundreds of faces and hundreds of crosses separated by a river of blood and barbed wire, symbolizing those imprisoned and martyred for the Faith in recent years.



For those choosing to work in hostile environments takes courage born of faith and their stories should not just remain a story, but a challenge. It will never cease to amaze me just how threatening a life lived in love can be...


My prayers are for Gayles colleagues and family - for her, I am sure she is now indeed Blessed.

NEW WINDOW!!!

Here's a snap of our latest piece of artwork at Zac's Place - a ace stained glass window based around the God's Squad colours, (Zac's serves as the European HQ for the club and a base for our activity in South Wales).

It sits nicely above the main doors alongside a previous piece based around the Zac's Place logo, (something of beauty made from all the left over bits...). Both windows have been made by great friend Lloyd Evans.

AFTER THE FIRE - News Release

Originally well known back in the 70s and 80s, the last time After The Fire played in Swansea was in 1982. After a bit of a layoff since their monster hit 'Der Kommissar' in 1983, After The Fire (aka ATF) are now back and return to play Zac¹s Place on Saturday 22nd November for what promises to be a great show. Over the last 18 months, ATF have been enjoying their busiest period since 1982, when they toured the world with rock icons Queen, ELO and Van Halen.

Since 2004 both their early, self-financed cult LP 'Signs of Change' has finally appeared on CD, as has the full collection of CBS recordings, re-released by Sony on a double CD set. The band's energetic live set came out on both DVD and CD and a suite of material recorded back in 1982 was released on Angel Air Records.

During 2005 ATF returned to the studio to re-record their former top 40 UK hit, 'One Rule For You', re-titled 'One Rule (For Trade Justice)'. In conjunction with Christian Aid, the band immersed themselves in MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY campaigns and events.

Now loyal supporters are introducing their offspring to ATF's positive, high energy music! The band have re-invented their live approach with a well crafted, semi-acoustic sound. ATF's website afterthefire.co.uk and myspace.com/afterthefire continue to help build their following with a new generation of fans.

Tickets are available from the ATF website or at Zac's Place.

AFTER THE FIRE TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE

Tickets are now available online for the ATF Gig on 22 Nov via the ATF website.

SEAN AT WOODLEY BAPTIST CHURCH, READING, THIS SUNDAY

Sean will be bring a flavour of Zac's Place to the folk of Woodley Baptist Church in Reading on Sun 21 Sep.

He'll be joined by Musician Phil James for an evening of reflections, music and banter that will hopefully encourage and challenge.....

Kick off 6.30pm....directions on the WBC site.

News Feature in Evening Post

Just to for here's the link to the news feature in Swansea Evening Post (9 Sep, 2008)

10 years of Zac's Place!!

........

ALSO - PLEASED TO BE ABLE TO ANNOUNCE 'AFTER THE FIRE' WILL BE GIGGING AT ZAC'S ON 22 NOV.....,MORE INFO TO FOLLOW

Ribbons of Grace - Olympic Reflections...

Recorded some years ago with HTV Wales, thought it's worth re-airing as it carries some Olympic themes.....

On The Road, Goodbyes......

Apologies for the lack of updates on the blog recently. The past six weeks or so have seen a lot of time on the road which have included brief visits to Ireland, Ukraine and Holland as well as a couple of thousand miles within the UK. Holland was a crazy ride of 1050 miles round trip laving Swansea 5am Saturday morning and being back home by 9pm the Sun evening! On such a public forum as this I can't detail the nature of the trips but suffice to say it's all been very productive.

Recent months have also been sad with five funerals of people connected with me - tragedy close at hand is a constant reminder to keep things in perspective, travel safely and appreciate the love of those around you always.

The recent gigs at Zac's with Rachel Taylor Beales with Sir Silence, Julia Harris and Rob Halligan went well despite struggling a little for numbers - Quite superb performances with some very intimate moments. Is good to see numerous of our regular artists on the bill for the Tenby Folk Festival next weekend - Rachel, Julia, Phil James, Martyn Joseph and more recently The Story's. Well worth a visit to Tenby if you can get a ticket.

At Zac's we have a quiter two weeks to give me a breather, so no Tribal Gathering and Coffee Bar until the first week in September now. We also say goodbye to Aussie Glenn as he returns with his family. They came for a year, two and half years ago, (connected originally through God's Squad) and have made a huge contribution to the very core of what goes on at Zac's. I am really going to miss having them around and thanks God for them. Glenn and Ros on right of pic below after a gig at Zac's with Sammy Horner, also pictured.

Rachel Taylor-Beales Gig - Live Video

Here's a clip from Rachel's recent gig at Zac's.

Audio recording by our man at the desk Paul and video by Bill...enjoy...

You can check out several other tracks HERE

GIG Update - Rachel Taylor- Beales

SAT 12 JULY at Zac's Place

Rachel will be performing songs from her new release 'Red Tree', (produced by Martyn Joseph), and her previous album 'Brilliant Blue'

Profits from this event will go towards our work amongst those on the margins of society.

CHECK OUT RACHEL'S MUSIC HERE

Big Issue Cymru Feature - Homeless Deaths

Zac's Place work among the homeless and street community of Swansea features in this weeks edition of The Big Issue Cymru. It is as part of a story covering the recent deaths of several from the street community - (see the previous post; also related we finally get have the funeral of Julie next Wednesday.)

Remembering Julie

One week ago Julie was found slumped at the top of a stair case just off the High Street in Swansea City centre. This wasn't in itself unordinary; Julie has been sleeping rough for many years and her life was coloured by deep tragedy and resulting addictions continued the struggle, so sleeping in a corner on a public footpath was part of daily life. Except this time she had slipped into unconsciousness and died. Her body was discovered at about the time she would have been at Zac's Place on a normal Thurs night, where along with many others she came for soup and friendship. Julie was also a regular for Breakfast on the weekday mornings at Zac's and in recent month's she had also enjoyed and actively took part in our Tuesday Tribal Gathering, (Bible Study, discussion etc). She felt accepted, taken seriously and 'at home'. it was also a place where many experienced her tender touches of kindness and thoughtfulness. On the one hand a raging, angry soul but it was easy to see why she was considered to be like the street community's 'den mother'.

A few weeks ago Glenn bathed her feet during the Tribal Gathering, (not necessarily a pleasant task I can assure you), and having been angry and disruptive moments before, she started to sing the old Sunday School song, 'Yes Jesus Loves Me...'. Indeed He did. Last night and one week on from her death, after our Thurs eve Coffee Bar our regulars and others from the street community and welfare workers walked to where she had died and placed flowers, tributes and candles. To some, Julie was a homeless addict, to others a statistic - to those of us last night, Julie was someone who mattered and will be missed.

Rachel Taylor-Beales Gig Date Announced

We are pleased to be able to write that Rachel will be playing Zac's Place on Saturday 12 July. This date along with others follows the release of her second album, 'Red Tree'.



....When Rachel Taylor-Beales released her first album, it was met with great appreciation from those who heard it. BBC Radio 2’s Bob Harris called Brilliant Blue "lovely" and Acoustic Magazine said it was "hauntingly beautiful". That album, the first in her colour trilogy, is now to be followed up by Red Tree. Released on 21st May 2008, Red Tree was recorded, produced by and features Martyn Joseph. The album blends folk, country and Americana in a bewitching, otherworldly fashion. It’s an album of great drama inspired by the music she heard as a child (Tori Amos, Joni Mitchell), her modern day fixations (Iron And Wine, Ani DiFranco) and by The Red Tree, an illustrated children’s book by Shaun Tan. Much like the book, the album reflects the fear and wonder of childhood. It’s haunting, sometimes eerie, vivid and often beautiful.

ROB HALLIGAN AND JULIA HARRIS DATE ANNOUNCED

We are pleased to be able to confirm another line up of great acoustic music at Zac's Place with the visit of Julia Harris and Rob Halligan on 13, June. Check out the links to their myspace pages. More info further dates available soon. Tickets will be priced at £5.

Here's a clip of Julia from her set at our fundraiser in April 2007...

ITV Interview Archive - From 2006

With some recent media profile provoking a bit of interest, (also featured in present issue of Christianity Magazine), I thought it might be good to make available this 2006 clip from ITV of an interview I did - some reminders of where a few things began and some early shots inside the current venue and the first two commissioned art pieces....also features Rowan Williams, Rick Elias, Stewart Henderson & Ben Castle in the second clip.

PART ONE

PART TWO

Surprise Award

After a hectic two weeks on the road, covering in the region of 3,000 miles and including the previously mentioned memorial run - plus ministry at Spring Harvest in Skegness, then onto Holland to take a wedding, (also took the family) and a return to Reading to take Tim's funeral in there, compounded into a period of mixed emotions indeed. As usual on my return, there was a heap of messages to catch up on including several from Swansea Bay Radio. Turns out, they were running a series of community awards and I'd been nominated and won the 'Good Samaritan' catagory and the presentation was only two days away! Not being used to this kind of thing, it came as a complete surprise and I'm very grateful and pleased for all associated with Zac's - particularly those who volunteer time to work among the homeless community through our ventures.

So suitably suited and booted we went along to a Hotel for an evening of presentations from the great and the good hosted by Swansea Bay Radio. Local celebs and noteables handed out the awards in the 12 catagories, The Storys and Helen Enser Morgan performed and Mike Doyle did a fine job of mc-ing. The lasting image in my mind though was of young ten year old Georgia who, after having collected her award for 'carer of the year', (for looking after her mum who suffers with crippling arthritis), shyly snaked her way back through the tables to her seat, whilst all eyes had now turned to the stage where the Diamond Girlz were shaking their bits and bobs under the spot light. For a fleeting moment Georgia held the limelight, but now clutching the glass award, a much brighter light burned deep within her and those who love her as the stage lights pointed elsewhere. I'll post a few pics from the evening later, but for now here's one with the most famous person I had the pleasure of meeting last Thurs evening, Georgia.

In the meantime my deepest gratitude to Lor and Steve for the nomination.

DARK PLACES, SACRED SPACES

Easter should be a sacred time for followers of Jesus. No doubt about it what so ever. Too often though, as with Christmas, I have often struggled to find those genuine sacred moments amid an increasingly commercial emphasis.

This past Easter was different though, in a bit of an unexpected way. Just 25 miles up the road from Swansea, where we live, is the community of Bridgend. Bridgend has hit the headlines in recent weeks for all the wrong reasons. A seemingly in explicable high number of teen suicides over recent months have brought damming headlines such as ‘suicide city’ which have hardly been helpful in a place that is trying to cope with immense tragedy.

On Good Friday as God’s Squad members in South Wales, we hosted a memorial run (ride) to Zac’s Place for a memorial service to remember biking mates in the area that we have collectively lost. About 70 turned up from a numerous local clubs to share in some moments of quiet reflection and remembrance. Hospitality was shared and many of our guests appreciated the artworks on display too. But, here’s the twist, as an additional act, the ride then continued to Bridgend; To a popular kids hangout and near the site of the skate park in the town centre. The purpose was simply to provide a symbolic symbol of solidarity with a community of people that is hurting. As many of our biking mates rode in memory of lost loved ones, they also remembered others, as we placed a brightly coloured wreath and personal notes signed by many of the run participants. Many taking part have their own kids - many of them teenagers. This was closer to home than we thought.

It was a precious moment - many of our mates wouldn’t necessarily share our faith, the sight of all of us riding up the M4 doesn’t initially seem like a sacred act in progress! But it was, somehow it just was. There was a connection going on between people and with God; questions and human frailty were all reference points. Friday was indeed Good.
Sunday, resurrection day, was equally moving. A three hundred mile, last minute, round trip to Reading to visit a friend in the very late stages of cancer. Of all days, the day we celebrate an empty tomb, I struggle to find words of hope and comfort but I do my best. I take his hand and kiss his forehead, praying that God’s peace would be real amid the turmoil. As I walk from the ward and look over my shoulder, he raises a cup of medication, as if to say ‘cheers’........
........I got home that night and kissed each of the four children as they slept and was grateful to have a wife that I love and a God that understands such mystery when my answers have long since dried up.
Tues, 25 March, 2008

Bryn Haworth Track Added on MySpace Page...and other updates.

As expected the recent Martyn Joseph Gig at Zac's Place went brilliantly. Alternative format in the second half giving opportunity for questions proved a worthwhile exercise with a whole range of questions from the deep to the trivial, moving to the amusing. His 'storyteller' song was 'Carried In Sunlight' which he performed and then movingly explained the song line by line as he recounted much of his Grandfathers life and influence on him and his struggle and death from Alzheimer's. Numerous folk at the show commented on, despite seeing MJ on many occasions, they thought this performance was the best they'd heard - high praise indeed. Thanks to all who supported the gig and to MJ for choosing to use Zac's as his preferred venue in this area.

Continuing on the theme of live Zac's gigs, I have uploaded a short instrumental track recorded live at Zac's from Bryn Haworth on our MySpace page. It's a beautiful rendition of 'Were You There..' and a dobro masterclass for any guitarist. Quite superb.

Also did a radio spot for Swansea Bay Radio on Helen Enser Morgan's Show in recent weeks - pic below of muggin's and Helen meeting 'Doris' - one of our Beatitudes art exhibits. (Although Doris didn't say alot on the interview..)


Next couple of weeks sees me return to Spring Harvest to work on the Pastoral Team and then onto Holland to take a wedding. Some of which either some or all of the family join me. This is all after (Good) Friday's Bikers Memorial Run via Zac's which God's Squad is running and then onto Bridgend to show support for the community there.

May the challenge and eternal hopes of the Easter message be real in these coming days to each of us.

Live Music

It's been great to have some gigs to be involved in over recent weeks. Whilst we're not in a position at the moment to put on the weekly events in a pub, I really miss it. Two weeks ago I was asked to host and run the stage for a charity fundraiser gig at the Princess Royal Theatre in Port Talbot - in aid of CISS (Cancer Information & support Services). It was a very emotional night for all concerned. Last year I took the funeral of Matthew Davies, a young man, whose parents I know. Matthew died of pneumonia whilst battling leukemia. During his period of illness he dreamed of being fit enough to raise funds to help those who had cared or him - he actually wanted to bounce a basket ball from his home near Port Talbot to Cardiff. Sadly he never got the opportunity. In his memory, his parents organised a live music event pulling in a host of local musos including Mal Pope, Lorraine King, Helen Ensa Morgan, Phil James, Rob Ash, Luke Morgan, Andrew Meehan and headlined by The Storys. What followed was a great night of excellent live music infront of about 350 people and raising over $4000.

Two days later we hosted Bryn Haworth at Zac's Place. Bryn gave a master class in guitar playing in what was a virtual sell out gig. My personal fave moment was the Dobro instrumental of 'Were you there when they crucified my Lord....' - quite sensational. To see such an accomplished artist at work is indeed a priviledge. Great to have Paul P at the desk too for the occasion. Thanks to all who supported the event and also to Linden Church for help in promo. Bryn's Site Here

From host, stage manager and promoter it was great last weekend to get to a gig as a fan. To celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary last weekend, Jayne and I went to see Mike Peters at the Point in Cardiff. Jayne's always loved The Alarm - infact our kitchen noticeboard has a pic of Jayne and Mike from a Zac's gig years ago when they were both on the same bill! Mike did a great 2 hour acoustic set proving that the revolution can still be led by an loaded six string acoustic guitar.

More ace music coming up this Friday at Zac's as Martyn Joseph returns. This time it's part of his UK spring tour - his most recent visit was guesting with John Smith back in September. Always a pleasure, always a journey of contrasts. Some tickets still available by the way....£14 07971 218644

LARRY NORMAN - A Great American...

After a long struggle with poor health, the voice crying in the wilderness that was Larry Norman died on Sunday in America. May the legacy of his songs live on in the countless performers around the world who recognized his song writing talents and continue to perform these masterpieces. Rest in Peace, Larry.

THE GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL

THE OUTLAW

Which Piece Are You....

Made from the broken bits, the cast offs and misfits - our new window.....

Yes I know it's back to front - that's because I shot it from the inside using the natural light outside...

Windows and Gigs....

A whole heap of stuff has been happening, which means I haven't had a great deal of time to jot any notes down recently.

Great mate and stained glass artist Lloyd, has done the first of two windows to go over the main doors of the venue - this first one is based on the Zac's logo and made of a myriad of colours and shapes - and all from his scraps bin - true Zac's style, made something very beautiful out of the broken bits and leftovers.....Pics to follow....

A lot happening on the music front. I hosted a charity fundraiser gig last night at the Princess Royal Theatre in Port Talbot. It was organised by the family of a lad who's funeral I took last year and was in aid of the cancer care at Singleton Hospital in Swansea. The Storys headlined the gig which also featured a whole heap of top quality local artists, several of which are our regulars. A real great night with some very special moments and it all probably raised in excess of £5000. A wonderful tribute.

Tickets are going well for the Bryn Haworth Gig tomorrow and there's Martyn Joseph on 7 March which I'm looking forward to. Also got a radio interview with Helen Ensa Morgan for Swansea Bay next week sometime.... amid all this, usual chaos continues....

MARTYN JOSEPH TICKETS AVAILABLE

Fri 7 March sees Martyn Joseph return to Zac's Place as part of his UK Spring tour. His gig at Zac's is one of a few selected as a one that will feature special Q & A opportunity in the second set.


Great to read his 'Vegas' album review in MOJO this week and giving it a four star rating.

Colin Irwin writes.....

Britain's best-kept secret goes on the attack

Welsh singer-songwriter Martyn Joseph is one of Britain's most underrated talents. He had a hit 25 years ago with a song about dolphins and seems to have been filed under "wet" ever since. In reality, he's a challenging songwriter and a compelling courageous live performer. This forthright album - cleverly balancing a menacingly Spartan production with angry vocals, broody electric guitar and stirring narrative songs - demands reclassification. Strange characters weave in and out of its colourful human scenarios. The title track is the story of a lonesome cab driver, while The Fading of Light is a modern Desolation Row and Nobody Loves You Any more a coldly fierce epitaph to a shamed leader - just fill in your own name. But it's the musical spaces Joseph daringly inserts which make the difference, giving the album its brooding tension and intensity.

Tickets for the gig are available from Zac's Place, 07971 218644 or the tour office 01524 414043 Price £14
More info available from MJ site HERE

BRYN HAWORTH TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

Yup, Bryn Haworth play's Zac's on 23 Feb!

Check his MySpace page out to have a listen and read his biog.

Tickets are available in person at Zac's Place (07971 218644) or from Linden Church 01792 403777.

Christmas Tradition...

Thought it would be good to share a few images from the Christmas Day Dinner we held at Zac's Place. We hosted around 25 friends from the local community - many street homeless, others in housing crisis. Our thanks to all those that helped on that day and boxing day to these special times of 'belonging' - it was a precious time indeed.

It is also a time when we remember that the first invited guests on the scene at the birth of Christ as a baby were 'shepherds' - they probably had no voting rights and were not trusted enough to give evidence in court. We consider this kind of deliberate inclusion, a tradition worth continuing. Below are some pics of some of the most famous people I know - famous because God talks about them all the time.

My thanks to everyone who has supported, shown interest and added to the Zac's Place chaos over this past year - my love and prayers for God's blessing and peace into this new year.
(We continue to provide breakfast on weekday morining in partnership with The Wallich and also provide a hot meal on thursday evenings for Swansea's rough sleepers - volunteers always wanted!)

In Haste

Only seems like yesterday was travelling back from the heat of Australia, but was actually weeks ago. After several weeks of multiple sickness in our household am now getting stuff together for the additional meals for the homeless on Christmas Day and Boxing Day at Zac's HQ. (Do breakfast each weekday morning and a meal Thurs eve regularly).

Been a busy few weeks at Zac's - great to open the huge baptistry to see it used by us for the first time, as Denise took the big step of a public declaration of her faith in Christ. Love the symbolism of a full immersion baptism - death to life, washing clean, .......

Great to have two top gigs booked already for 2008 - Bryn Haworth and Martyn Joseph.

...Also been on the road - Manchester and my home town of Reading. I still help run a huge charity ride I founded with some mates 22 years ago and bring a 'reflection' to the thousand or so that take part. (www.readingtoyrun.org)

Doing the BBC and ITV news interviews................

---

Anyway, I'll leave these Bruce Cockburn lyrics with you as something to reflect on:

Like a stone on the surface of a still river
Driving the ripples on forever
Redemption rips through the surface of time
In the cry of a tiny babe

No Room At The Inn?

So why was Jesus born at such a busy time of year? Surely God should have realised the shops would be busy and the sales wouldn't start 'til January!

The fact is, even 2000 years ago Jesus was born at a hectic time. Countless families were on the move to go to the place of their birth to take part in a population census. It wasn't usually a problem getting a bed for the night in Bethlehem, but as the heavily pregnant girl, Mary, knocked on the doors of guest houses looking for rest, she got turned away each time. No room. Eventually shelter was found out the back in some shared accommodation with the livestock - at least it would have been warm.

I struggle with Christmas - in the main because I think good will and peace to all men came and was banished to the shit house out the back. I don't think much has really changed. For most in the middle classes, it's an excuse for excess to the extreme, for others it's when poverty and loneliness become accentuated to the extreme. Occasionally they meet, and exchange pleasant greetings.

As the story is re-told, with varying forms of accuracy and sincerity I am reminded that the birth of Christ took place on the margins of society. He didn't enter humanity in the mainstream - his story became an experience of exclusion as he began his life as a homeless refugee. Maybe we can take heart from that though.

The Christmas message is about God entering our world in the frailty of humanity. Maybe God is still on the side of the rejected and the lonely.

Happy Christmas? Maybe, maybe not. Here's wishing you God's gift of grace and peace whatever the coming days and events bring.

Cheers and God bless ya.