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British Christians to make 'liberating connections' - news from ekklesia

British Christians to make 'liberating connections' - news from ekklesia

By staff writers
15 Oct 2004

British Christians to make 'liberating connections'

-15/10/04

The eighth biennial gathering of a network promoting 'liberation theology' in Britain will meet in the north of England on 12-14 November 2004, with a focus on the link between the biblical story and the struggles of ordinary people in a divided world.

Liberation theology is an approach to faith which begins with a special concern for marginalized people exemplified by Jesus and the prophets. It first took root in Latin America in the 1960s, along with the growth of base Christian communities and church involvement in radical movements for social change.

The British Liberating Theologies Now (BLTN) event 'is not like an academic theology conference at all', say the organisers. 'It is experimental, inclusive and participatory in style.'

The aim is to create an opportunity for people working for social change, and people reflecting on radical faith today, to share stories, experience and analysis.

Those present will hear examples of grassroots action in inner city Britain, Palestine-Israel, China and many other places. There will also be worship and a workshop session on mapping the relationship between the inner and outer journey.

The gathering, around the theme 'Liberating Connections', takes place at Wistaston Hall, an Oblate Retreat and Spirituality Centre on the outskirts of Crewe.

Liberation theology across the world has faced resolute criticism from some sections of the Catholic hierarchy and from the religious right.

But it has also been widely influential, with the centre of influence moving from Latin America to Palestine (the Sabeel Centre) and Asia.

In Britain the energy has come from places such as the Urban Theology Unit in Sheffield, Catholic peace and justice activists, the Jubilee Group and the Evangelical Coalition for Urban Mission.

There has been a decline in attendance at liberation theology events in Britain over the years, as the themes it embraces have moved into a wider Christian constituency. But the organisers of 'Liberating Connections' are promising a challenging and encouraging experience.

More information on the 'Liberating Connectionsí event and BLTN can be received from Joan Sharples [].

British Christians to make 'liberating connections'

-15/10/04

The eighth biennial gathering of a network promoting 'liberation theology' in Britain will meet in the north of England on 12-14 November 2004, with a focus on the link between the biblical story and the struggles of ordinary people in a divided world.

Liberation theology is an approach to faith which begins with a special concern for marginalized people exemplified by Jesus and the prophets. It first took root in Latin America in the 1960s, along with the growth of base Christian communities and church involvement in radical movements for social change.

The British Liberating Theologies Now (BLTN) event 'is not like an academic theology conference at all', say the organisers. 'It is experimental, inclusive and participatory in style.'

The aim is to create an opportunity for people working for social change, and people reflecting on radical faith today, to share stories, experience and analysis.

Those present will hear examples of grassroots action in inner city Britain, Palestine-Israel, China and many other places. There will also be worship and a workshop session on mapping the relationship between the inner and outer journey.

The gathering, around the theme 'Liberating Connections', takes place at Wistaston Hall, an Oblate Retreat and Spirituality Centre on the outskirts of Crewe.

Liberation theology across the world has faced resolute criticism from some sections of the Catholic hierarchy and from the religious right.

But it has also been widely influential, with the centre of influence moving from Latin America to Palestine (the Sabeel Centre) and Asia.

In Britain the energy has come from places such as the Urban Theology Unit in Sheffield, Catholic peace and justice activists, the Jubilee Group and the Evangelical Coalition for Urban Mission.

There has been a decline in attendance at liberation theology events in Britain over the years, as the themes it embraces have moved into a wider Christian constituency. But the organisers of 'Liberating Connections' are promising a challenging and encouraging experience.

More information on the 'Liberating Connectionsí event and BLTN can be received from Joan Sharples [].

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