We live in an era of ‘post-truth’ or ‘alt-facts’. In former times, we might have called these terms what they are, lies and distortion. In the age of Trump, Johnson, Bolsonaro and Orban, we have alpha males who are providing strong leadership but repel almost as many people as they attract. Added to this is the challenge of climate change and floods and the world of split socio-political viewpoints and outlooks.
I remember the Sunday after the last general election. A guest preacher at the church I attend carefully and skilfully offered us a sermon that was very nuanced in its reading of the nation’s social and political climate. Our congregation was, like many across the country, split between Leavers and Remainers, between those committed to a socially left position who wanted to see radical change in the country and those equally committed to a conservative position built upon continuity and maintenance of the status quo. I found the sermon pleasant, genial, brilliantly crafted and excellently delivered. And yet I left the service shaking my head in frustration. Why?
Liberation and justice
So, let me lay my cards on the table at this juncture. When I was invited to write this essay – contributing to this publication committed to the art and discipline of preaching – I did wonder if the editor really knew who I was
