The high-water mark of Christianity in the UK appears to be long gone. Back in 1867, poet Matthew Arnold, struck by the march of scientific rationalism and technological innovation, predicted the “melancholic long withdrawing roar” of the tide of faith, in his famous poem Dover Beach. Most of us have lived our lives with this retreat of belief and the apparent triumph of the “new atheists”. All around, our cultural religion has preached a message of vacant hedonism, saying: “This is all there is, enjoy it while you can”.
Yet, as all coast dwellers know, ebbing tides turn; what goes out comes in again. Could we now be experiencing a change in the tide of faith?
Many think so. Certainly, something appears to be going on. Young (and not so young) adults are simply turning up at churches. Podcasters and broadcasters have picked up and discussed the Bible Society Quiet Revival report, suggesting that church attendance has increased. Public intellectuals and influencers are increasingly exploring the social and civilisational benefits of the Christian faith.
What we can say with certainty is that the context for sharing the good news of Jesus is changing positively. As one commentator described it recently: with the greater religious diversity in British society, and the openness amongst Muslims and others to speak of their faith has come a new confidence in Christians to join the conversation. This “Pluralism gives permission “is encouraging Christians to speak up.
Journalist Emily Maitlis has also observed, interviewing new believers at the recent Wildfires gathering, that the age-old desire in humans for meaning and purpose in the world is being expressed afresh in a new generation:
” a life lived online by kids born into a world of the touch screen, trying to find the one thing that, by definition, cannot be touched”
So, all this to say…
Please come along to our Quiet Revival event at QP 7pm on August 17th, when together with a bunch of other churches we will be exploring how to respond to the new opportunities around us. Already the evening has created quite a buzz – so we are expecting that many folks are going to join us to get in on the conversation – so make sure you are part of it!
We are delighted that Justin Brierly, who has been interviewing influential secular and Christian thinkers and who is now promoting the “Surprising Rebirth of belief in God”, will be a keynote contributor, live online. So too, Robin MacLellan, who, in his role as Chief Executive Officer of SU Scotland, is seeing the effects of this awakening amongst young people close up.
This is also a time to explore together, sharing stories and listening for how the Lord might wish us to act in these days. So please come, learn and make your contribution.
As we seek to invest in this opportunity, we are keen to build our confidence and clarity in sharing our faith. So please save the date for “To Boldy Go” on Saturday, 20th September, when we have the inimitable Greg Downes with us to encourage and equip us to share the life-changing message of Jesus. Greg is familiar with QPBC, having been one of the speaking team at Onelife youth conferences over the years and as a Magnitude speaker. He is a fun-filled and engaging speaker who will invigorate and inspire us to live and speak effectively and fruitfully for Jesus.
Two great ways to kick off a new session – make sure you join in!
Iain