Jubilee+

Jon Kuhrt (Hope into Action) talks about homelessness and housing, and how churches can respond practically through mercy ministries that bring hope and dignity.Find out more about the work of Hope Into Action UK, and follow Jon's blog here: Jon Kuhrt – Grace + Truth.To explore what it might look like for your church to partner with Jubilee+, and benefit from the free training, events and resources we offer please visit: Jubilee+ Partner Church Scheme

Join Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) as they conclude their journey through Isaiah 58. In this season finale, they explore the collective calling of the Church to serve our communities, not from a distance, but as a visible, present people of God bringing hope, justice and restoration where it’s needed most.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Has the Church been chasing prosperity in the wrong places? In this thought-provoking episode, Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) explore how serving those who are broken and struggling can lead us into the true blessing of God.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

What does it truly mean to spend ourselves on behalf of those in poverty? In this challenging episode, Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) explore the cost of compassion and why we must move beyond arm’s-length Christianity. If we want to see real change, poverty has to become personal.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Why does God bring instant freedom to some, while others face a long and often painful road to healing? In this episode, Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) share personal stories that reveal how God patiently, lovingly works in our lives, and in the lives of those we walk alongside.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Isaiah calls us to loose the chains of injustice, but what does that look like in practice? In this episode, Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) explore our role in tackling poverty, the power of recognising the image of God in those we serve, and why justice must be personal if it’s going to be transformational.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Season 2 of the Proximity Collab podcast is here, and we’re diving into Isaiah 58Kicking off with a bang, Sam Ward and Natalie Williams take on the hot topic of fasting. What happens when spiritual practices become duty rather than delight? Could the same be true of our relationship with God, and if so, how might that disconnect also distance us from his heart for our communities?For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

What happens when we commit to our communities for the long haul? And how can our lives reflect the Lord’s splendour, even through our imperfections? In this final episode of the season, Sam Ward and Natalie Williams conclude their journey through Jesus’ manifesto, sharing stories and insights on rootedness, resilience and real hope.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

The gospel isn’t just good news when life is going well, it’s hope for the hardest moments too. In this episode, Natalie Williams and Sam Ward explore how, even in seasons of mourning and despair, we can experience the joy of God that sustains and strengthens us.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

This week, Sam Ward and Natalie Williams dive into the depths of grief, exploring God’s profound willingness to meet us in our sorrow. They reflect on what it means to share in the grief of others, especially within our communities, and how, even in suffering, we can encounter the presence of Christ.A tender, honest conversation about pain, hope, and the God who draws near.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

In this powerful episode of the Proximity Collab podcast, Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) and Sam Ward (The Message Trust) unpack how Jesus’ declaration still echoes through our estates and communities. They explore how we can push back the darkness around us – and why God’s anger at injustice is something we should be thankful for.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Where might we, as Christians, be unknowingly complicit in systems of oppression? And how can we become agents of justice in our own communities? Join Sam Ward (The Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) as they tackle these challenging questions and share practical ways we can confront injustice with courage and compassion.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Sam and Nat are back, diving deeper into Jesus’ radical manifesto in Luke 4. This week, they explore what keeps us from seeing the goodness of God – and how confronting poverty up close can open our eyes. When we make injustice personal, it transforms how we see the world and how we live out the gospel.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

What does true freedom look like in our communities? In the second episode in collaboration with Proximity, Sam Ward (Message Trust) and Natalie Williams (Jubilee+) are looking at how we can bring Christ's freedom to the lives of our neighbours and why it’s so important to celebrate the small changes we see in people’s lives.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

Join Sam Ward from The Message Trust and Natalie Williams from Jubilee+ as they dig deep into the manifesto of Jesus in Luke 4.In this powerful new series, they unpack how our words shape our understanding of poverty – and how the Church can lead the way in eradicating it. Together, they’ll explore what it really means to be good news to the poor in our time.This isn’t just another conversation. It’s a call to rethink, reimagine, and respond with hope.For more information, please head to:Jubilee+ - https://jubilee-plus.orgThe Message Trust - https://www.message.org.uk/Proximity - https://proximityhub.org/

In today’s episode, Rosie Hopley draws on Colossians 3:3 (and the life of St. Anthony of Egypt) to explore what it means for our lives to be hidden in Christ.@jubileeplus

Guest contributor Alianore Smith considers how an Anglican Morning Prayer relates to Larissa, one of 7 million Ukrainian refugees to cross the border. Another inspiring story of rescue and redemption from the IJMUK team.@alianoree@IJMUK

What did a swimming lesson teach Abi Thomas about the spiritual discipline of solitude? Tell us in the comments how you encounter God by deliberately pausing for breath…

For today’s episode, Jez Field heads on to the South Downs to ask: Who are your role models? And do they practice what they preach when it comes to mercy?

In today’s episode Rachel Wilson draws on Psalm 77 to explore how an accurate memory of God’s mercy can propel us in faith.

In today’s episode, Andrew Wilson considers how, despite their different life stories and social standing, Mary and Zechariah both burst forth in song about the mercy of God.

In today’s episode, @KemiKoleoso considers the life, death and resurrection of Dorcas, a believer rich in mercy. For more information about Jubilee+, head to our website: https://jubilee-plus.org

The Bible is filled with the stories of people who cry out to God in their distress. In this week’s episode Natalie looks at the reasons why, and God’s response…

In today’s episode, author Claudine Roberts shares from her own experience as she considers the disturbing story of Dinah, and the search for God's mercy even in a context of violence.

In this week’s episode, guest contributor John Groves helps us to find mercy in unexpected places, even when we drift from God…

How often do we consider God's discipline toward us an expression of his mercy? Natalie uses Isaiah 38:17 to explores this theme in today's episode.

Natalie reflects on the importance of meditating on each attribute of God, and worshipping him in all his fulness and perfection.

We are called to be vessels of mercy, but what sort of vessel is both transformed by mercy, and a means of others receiving? Rachel Wilson goes back to Jeremiah 17:8 to find out.

It's the final episode in our Voice Raisers series, here on the Jubilee+ podcast. We’ve been exploring the Bible’s call for Christians to be change-bringers by raising our voices. Today Rachel Wilson from Jubilee+ is going to close the series by helping us reflect on how we raise our voices, and the voices of those around us. This talk was originally recorded for the Churches That Change Communities conference, held in Liverpool late last year. 

On our Voice Raisers episode today we are going to hear from Will Pearce. Will is a leader and Elder at King’s Church Leicester. He is going to talk to us about the challenge to Christians to bind the broken hearted. This talk was originally recorded for the Churches That Change Communities conference, held in Liverpool late last year. 

In these special Voice Raisers episodes we’re exploring the Bible’s call for Christians to be change-bringers. Today we are going to hear from Ben Parish. Ben works in the NHS as a Physiotherapist in Lowestoft, and is a member of the Jubilee+ Core Team. He’s going to be helping us reach beyond local action to become system changers.

We are back with another Voice Raisers episode for the Jubilee+ podcast. Today we are going to hear from Rosie Hopley. Rosie leads Jubilee+ Voices, which gathers people with lived-experience of poverty to advise churches as they act against poverty and injustice. Rosie is also founder of the charity Beloved. She’ll be helping us think about being peace-makers. This talk was originally recorded for the Churches That Change Communities conference, held in Liverpool late last year. 

Welcome back to our special series for the Jubilee+ podcast, called Voice Raisers. In these episodes we’re going to explore the Bible’s call for Christians to be change-bringers. Today we are going to hear from Chris Duerdon, the Jubilee+ Projects and Operations Manager and she’s going to explore with us about seeking justice whilst also holding on to mercy, with some great examples!This content was originally recorded for the Churches That Change Communities conference 2024.

Welcome to our new special series called Voice Raisers. Each of these episodes focuses on a part of the Bible’s call to be change-bringers to the people in our communities.Today’s message comes from Natalie Williams, the CEO of Jubilee+, and author of the amazing book 'Tis Mercy All. On Friday 10th January the ’Tis Mercy All Audiobook is launched, read by Natalie herself. You can buy it here, or wherever you get your audiobooks. Do recommend it to your friends who would love to dig deeper into the often overlooked spiritual discipline of mercy.Natalie touches on some of the themes of the book in today's episode, originally recorded for the Churches that Change Communities Conference.

Our episode today comes with a health warning, it may change your life! Matt Parfitt and Ben Topliss share with us God’s vision for people in poverty; not just relief but release. How can we provide pathways for people to come out of poverty, and stay out? Matt Parfitt gave up his career as a teacher to set up Grace Enterprises, while Ben is the leader of Grace Church Nottingham. We hear how the businesses they have set up have brought more than just jobs to the people in their community.This is a talk from the Churches that Change Communities Conference, held in Liverpool in November.

In today's seminar Rachel Wilson from Jubilee+ explores the relationship between poverty and learning disabilities, and draws on great work being done by churches around the country to help change the odds for individuals and families. Finishing with an interview with Dr Naomi Fox, the pioneer and CEO behind UK charity, Growing Hope.Rachel lives in Eastbourne with her husband Andrew and three children. The couple drew on their personal experience of raising children with autism in a book titled ‘The Life You Never Expected: Learning to Thrive while Parenting Children with Special Needs’. Rachel has a heart for the vulnerable and marginalised, and for serving churches which reach and welcome those most in need.

Today’s seminar, recorded at the Churches that Change Communities in Liverpool, is from Dr. Andy Knox. Drawing on over 20 years of experience as a GP and healthcare leader, Andy delves into how inequality and injustice are fuelling a healthcare crisis and how we can invest in hospitality, and being hosted and be part of God’s plan for the restoration of all things.But it’s not all bad news. Andy brings a hopeful message, offering insights into the antidote that can help us build a kinder, fairer society where everyone can thrive.Andy shares from his vast experience, including his work as Associate Medical Director for Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB, his teaching role at Lancaster University, and his thought leadership at the King’s Fund and NHS Assembly. Buy Andy’s important book Sick Society here.

We are joined by Charlie MacDonald and Dan Glover to talk about Gen Z, or Generation Z, who are typically defined as people born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. How can Generation Z’s passion for justice inspire the rest of the church, and how can we connect with them, and help them to connect that to the God of justice who we serve?Charlie MacDonald oversees schools work for London City Mission as well as being part of the Jubilee+ core team. Dan grew up in Brighton and has lived in Hastings for the past eight years and is the Youth Pastor at the brilliantly named King’s Church 1066! Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2019%3A1-10&version=NIV

As part of our special series featuring seminars from the Churches that Change Communities Conference we will hear from Tom Grant, a great communicator with a passion for urban church ministry and community transformation.Tom is the Head of Proximity, a new resource hub designed to empower the urban church. He’s also the minister of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Netherton in North Liverpool.In this episode, Tom introduces us to Mission Mapping, a practical tool to help you and your church better understand and serve your neighbourhood. Whether you’re new to your area or have lived there your whole life, mission mapping can help uncover what’s special about our communities and highlight opportunities for bringing hope and transformation.You can download the Mission Mapping tool at proximityhub.org where you can also sign up to get more support and resources.

We’re joined by Alasdaire Duerden today, for his seminar at the Churches that Change Communities Conference. As our nation faces an array of challenges—from housing and education to mental health and local council funding—Alasdaire helps us to consider how the Church can respond with hope and light.Alasdaire is a civil servant with over 30 years of experience working to improve outcomes for disadvantaged families, children, and young people. He is currently leading the delivery of a £70m programme designed to improve systems for those with special educational needs. Alasdaire is part of City Church Sheffield.

We're really pleased to bring you another seminar from the Churches That Change Communities Conference. Today we’ll be hearing form the brilliant Steve Rouse, who works for the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, he is also a teaching pastor at Balham Baptist Church in South London, with a career as a bricklayer before that. Steve is speaking to us about creating a church for all.If you’re enjoying the content from this conference do visit the Jubilee Plus website and find lots more resources and more information about how to partner with us!

In today's seminar from the Churches That Change Communities conference in Liverpool, Lauren Windle explores the challenges faced by those living in poverty and asks: how can the Church respond? From health disparities to education gaps, from postcode lotteries to the poverty premium, the odds are stacked against those who have the least. But there’s hope. Lauren challenges unto consider how churches can not only support and welcome individuals facing these issues but also work to push back against the systems that perpetuate inequality.Lauren Windle is a journalist, public speaker, and author of two brilliant books:Notes on Feminism: Being a Woman in a Church Led by MenNotes on Love: Being Single and Dating in a Marriage-Obsessed ChurchLauren is also celebrating a decade of sobriety from alcohol and drugs.Lauren also mentions Natalie William and Paul Brown's excellent book Invisible Divides.

Join Abi Thomas and Rachel Wilson as they bring us the keynote talk from Natalie Williams at the Churches That Change Communities Conference from the wonderful city of Liverpool this year!Be encouraged as Natalie unpacks profound truths about Jesus from Isaiah 9:Wonderful Counsellor – Jesus is personal.Mighty God – Jesus is powerful.Everlasting Father – Jesus is permanent.Prince of Peace – Jesus is present.We'll be bringing you lots more content from the Jubilee+ conference over the coming weeks, so be sure to subscribe on your favourite podcast service!

Our merciful acts find their origin in knowing the mercy we first received. Rachel Wilson asks: Who could we now invite to the table?

In today’s episode, guest Sam Akrasi draws lessons on mercy from the story of Jesus and Zaccheaus…

When we look closely at the Gospels, we see the mercy of Jesus everywhere — it’s in the stories He told, the company He kept, and the miracles He performed. Check out this week’s episode from Natalie Williams.

In this week’s episode, Andrew Wilson explores a powerful description of the church in 1 Peter, and shows why we are called to be a people of mercy.

Friend of Jubilee+ Akhtar Shah is our guest this week, bringing us an episode on one of the most beautiful words God ever says to us...

In this week’s episode, special guest @GavCalver of the Evangelical Alliance helps us to see how Jesus showed mercy to individuals… @EAUKNews

Our friend Jeremy Simpkins from Christ Central Churches is a podcast guest today, looking at how Jesus embodied mercy for the marginalised.

Our Christian lives are bookended by moments of transformation, but what about everything in between? Natalie Williams gets us thinking about the theme for #CTCC24…

What does a passport and a latrine have to do with the mercy of God? In three minutes Rachel explores what we have been rescued from, and appointed with.

Do some people in poverty deserve our help more than others? In today’s 'Tis Mercy All episode, Natalie shares about a man who was begging for beer money...

In this week's episode, Jubilee+ founder Martin Charlesworth encourages us to think about tackling climate change in the context of loving our neighbour.

What does it look like to love God and the people around us well? In today’s episode, Natalie explores loving and taking seriously the things that God loves...

God delights to show mercy. He’s not reluctant. He is merciful and He loves to show His mercy, as Natalie explains in this week’s episode...

The 'Tis Mercy All podcast is back and today we find out what we can learn from the life and death of Dorcas in Acts 9? Martin Charlesworth explores this question in today’s episode...

Abi Thomas takes us to the joyful launch of Natalie Williams new book 'Tis Mercy All at Westminster Chapel in central London. With thanks to Rachel Wilson, Lauren Windle, Andrew Wilson and Chris Duerdon.Buy the book here.'Tis Mercy All is a Big Church Read book. For video sessions and downloadable notes, visit their website.

The third in our special Book Club episodes on the launch of Natalie William's new book, 'Tis Mercy All!Tola Doll Fisher and Natalie discuss part four "Merciful Actions".Buy the book here.'Tis Mercy All is also Big Church Read book. For fantastic video sessions and downloadable notes, visit their website.

The third in our special Book Club episodes on the launch of Natalie William's new book, 'Tis Mercy All!Akhtar Shah and Natalie discuss part three "Merciful Thinking", as well as the role of mercy in our public life.Buy the book here.'Tis Mercy All is also Big Church Read book. For fantastic video sessions and downloadable notes, visit their website.

The second in our special Book Club episodes on the launch of Natalie William's new book, 'Tis Mercy All!Lauren Windle and Natalie discuss part two "Our Struggle to "Love Mercy".Buy the book here.'Tis Mercy All is a Big Church Read book. For video sessions and downloadable notes, visit their website.

The first in our special Book Club episodes on the launch of Natalie William's new book, 'Tis Mercy All!Sam Ward from The Message Trust and Natalie discuss part one "A God Merciful."Buy the book here.'Tis Mercy All is a Big Church Read book. For video sessions and downloadable notes, visit their website.

In this week’s episode, Natalie takes comfort from Peter’s mistakes and the beautiful mercy Jesus showed to him in response...Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

In this week's episode, Rachel explains how Isaiah 61 became Jesus' stump speech, and how He embodies mercy in human form.Rachel Wilson leads communications for Jubilee+, and is part of the core team. She is an occasional speaker and writer, and is co-author of The Life You Never Expected: Thriving While Parenting Children with Special Needs (Crossway, 2015)

Do you ever find your heart hardening to people around you? In today's episode, Natalie explores some clear instructions from God about our hearts...Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

What happens when our circumstances are our own fault? Today Natalie explores how God responds to those who are facing hard times because of their own decisions.Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

Today former social worker and pastor, Akhtar Shah asks: What did Paul mean when he called himself "the worst of all sinners", and how does a deep awareness of the mercy we've received enable us to carry the mercy of God at scale?Akhtar Shah is a former social worker and pastor. He is part of The Foundry International, a charity which exists for the advance of the gospel and the relief of poverty around the world. 

Why is the ascension good news?! In today's episode Rachel considers the ongoing work of Jesus on our behalf, and how his humanity continues to bear witness to his great mercy.Rachel Wilson leads communications for Jubilee+, and is part of the core team. She is an occasional speaker and writer, and is co-author of The Life You Never Expected: Thriving While Parenting Children with Special Needs (Crossway, 2015)

Craving sunshine? ☀️ In today’s podcast episode Rachel reminds us of God’s mercy in every season, and of our final destination: the eternal summer of the soul.Rachel Wilson leads communications for Jubilee+, and is part of the core team. She is an occasional speaker and writer, and is co-author of The Life You Never Expected: Thriving While Parenting Children with Special Needs (Crossway, 2015)

God's unique parenting strategy is for us to become increasingly dependent on his strength, as opposed to our own. Today, Emily Williams explores this call to deeper reliance.Emily Williams was a speaker at Churches that Change Communities, 2023. She is based, with her family, at King's Community Church in Southampton.

What if what feels like the slowness of God is actually his mercy? What if what feels like the unnecessarily long route is actually him protecting us from battles we are not yet ready to fight? Today, speaker & writer Liam Thatcher draws valuable life lessons from Exodus 13.Liam Thatcher is a pastor, speaker and writer based in Oxford. Connect with him via his blog: https://liamthatcher.com/

In today's episode author, journalist and presenter Lauren Windle makes a compelling case for extending the gift of hospitality. Are we ready to welcome people into our boundaried lives and homes, and what does that look like?Lauren Windle is a journalist, author and presenter who focuses on faith, recovery and love. Her debut non-fiction book Notes On Love: Being Single and Dating in a Marriage Obsessed Church (SPCK) is out now.

Our 'Tis Mercy All series is now well underway! In today's episode Natalie Williams reflects on how the discipline of memorising scripture has caused her to fixate more deeply on the mercy of God.Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

Rachel Wilson considers the cross-shaped nature of the glory of God, and how we are called to become carriers of His glorious mercy.Rachel Wilson leads communications for Jubilee+, and is part of the core team. She is an occasional speaker and writer, and is co-author of The Life You Never Expected: Thriving While Parenting Children with Special Needs (Crossway, 2015)

Today, Andrew Wilson gets technical! How can grace, compassion and steadfast love all be translated as ‘mercy’ in the Old Testament? And what does it look like for that mercy to bring down the haughty, as well as lift up the lowly?Andrew is the Teaching Pastor at King's Church London. He is the author of several Christian books (most recently, Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West (Crossway, 2023)).

God is perfect in all his ways, including in his anger. In today’s episode, Natalie looks at how the anger of God relates to his merciful heart.Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

Paul writes to the church in Corinth from a context of extreme personal trial, yet he’s confident none of his pain is wasted. How can our trials likewise become mercy and comfort for those around us?Rachel Wilson leads communications for Jubilee+, and is part of the core team. She is an occasional speaker and writer, and is co-author of The Life You Never Expected: Thriving While Parenting Children with Special Needs (Crossway, 2015)

Our salvation story is the ultimate demonstration of the merciful heart of God, which is moved with compassion toward the undeserving. Start your day by meditating on his incomparable mercy with Stef Liston (Relational Mission).Stef Liston co-leads Relational Mission and is also part of the eldership at Revelation Church, London. He’s married to Davina and has three children, Daisy, Levi and Melody. He has written several books including Gender Quality and Who Was, And Is, And Is To Come.

In today’s podcast episode, David holden helps us see how Jesus’s compassion and capacity was born out of relationship with the Father. How can this model of ministry help us as we reach out to those in need? David Holden leads the New Ground family of churches (part of Newfrontiers). David is married to Liz and they are part of New Community Church, SE London, UK. They have four grown-up children and an ever increasing number of grandchildren. He is an ardent West Ham supporter, lover of jazz and avid reader of history.

In today's podcast, John Ghanim shares his story of growing up in a Muslim family, hearing the gospel, then encountering the mercy of God for himself as he read Matthew 5. “This is the God I have been looking for…” John Ghanim was born in Yemen, and converted from Islam to Christianity following a radical encounter with Jesus. He now shares his faith on social media channels, and has been involved in reaching asylum seekers with the gospel. Read an interview with John via the New Ground link below.Find out more information about John here: www.newgroundchurches.org/docs/John-Ghanim-Interview.pdf

Jesus sees the crowds and has compassion; acting upon what he has observed and responding to their need. Today, Simon Allen from City Church Bristol suggests practical ways we can do the same.Simon leads the Bradley Stoke site at City Church, Bristol and oversees social action ministry within the church (a role he previously held at King's Church London where, for many years, he led the Jericho Road Project supporting people out of homelessness).

Jesus models for us how to suffer and lament well. Today, Rosie Hopley encourages us to dignify others’ cries of lament and lead them to the cross, and to the truth that those who mourn shall be comforted.Rosie is a core team member and leads Jubilee+ Voices. She is founder and former CEO of the Christian charity Beloved, co founder of a social enterprise LoveWell. She enjoys learning about God’s reconciling love and writing. In 2021, she wrote The Reconciled Church Course and is part of the leadership team of The Reconciled Church.

Jenny Herrera from Acts435 explores how Boaz uses his privileged position to protect, and offer mercy. How can we be generous in acts of mercy this year.Jenny Herrera is the CEO of Acts345, a giving website which matches allows donors to meet individual and pressing needs. Find out more how you could partner with Acts 345 at: www.acts345.org.uk

Where do you stand today? At the front, fixed and sorted, or at the back, beating yourself up?”. Words of comfort for the desperate from Sam Ward.Sam Ward is the CEO The Message Trust. He has been involved in the Eden Network for 24 years, initially as a volunteer and subsequently leading the team and a local church plant in the deprived neighbourhood of Openshaw where he continues to live with his family. He speaks at many national events about his passion for urban mission and the reality of living it out.

As oaks of righteousness, we are called to sure and steady growth. In today’s podcast episode, Natalie takes stock and asks: How can you grow in mercy this coming year?Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

Natalie Williams kicks off our new 'Tis Mercy All series by encouraging us to increasingly immerse ourselves, and reflect, the mercy of God. Ready for a deep dive this year?Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She is the CEO of Jubilee+, and co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides (SPCK, 2022).

Entrepreneurs and business-owners have a huge opportunity to run their businesses for the good of others. Be inspired by how Bramber Bakehouse and Ben Leach Associates are doing this and consider how your idea could become an enterprise that raises up the vulnerable and marginalised.Ben Leach is the founder of Ben Leach Associates, a not-for-profit accountancy firm with the ambition to bring kingdom values and transformation into a sector dominated by profit-making narratives.Co-Founder & CEO of Bramber Bakehouse, Lucy wants every woman to receive the support and skills they need to live positive, healthy lives. She's also driven to see organisations embrace a culture of fairness, equity and diversity, creating opportunities for all women, regardless of their background.

Welcome back to the Jubilee Plus Podcast and a happy new year from all of us.We can be so busy that we forget to pray, but God is wanting to move in ways only He can in the lives of those trapped in poverty and weighed down by injustice. As Jubilee+ launches our prayer resource for churches, Stand in the Gap, this seminar will explore the power of prayer, and its central place in times of economic crisis.We will hear from Natalie Williams, CEO of Jubilee+ and Emily Lord from 24/7 prayer. Do make sure you subscribe so you can find our new episodes as soon as they are released. Our new series of shorter reflections called Tis Mercy All, launches this week!  For more about the new prayer resource, Stand in the Gap here.

Tania Bright from Home for Good, Helen Hodgson from Hope at Home, Kate Doran-Smith from Hope into Action, Rob Liddiard and Claire from Friends First.Whether by opening our homes or investing in affordable accommodation there are many creative ways local churches can help provide safe homes to those in need. In today’s seminar we explore solutions which range from temporary assistance for those recovering from hardship to offering refuge for survivors of slavery, fostering, adoption and providing permanent housing solutions.

Christians are called not only to serve those in poverty but also to fight for justice and against injustice. This means speaking to those in power to effect change, but also proactively moving into positions of influence, and supporting those already there. In this seminar we’ll hear from people who are in high positions in government, charity and policing.A seminar from the Churches that Change Communities Conference 2023 with Frazer Mcdonald, Alasdaire Duerden, Colonel Peter McColl.

How can we resist social action projects and mercy ministries becoming merely a department of church life? The seminar from the Churches that Change Communities Conference considers how we engage the whole church – pastors, prophets, evangelists, kids, leaders, those on the fringes – and get everyone involved in showing mercy towards the vulnerable.With Steve Horne from Emmanuel Church Brighton, Emily Williams, pioneering a church in Southampton, Sean Green and Jo Kay from Reading Family Church and Natalie Williams from Jubilee+.

How can churches move beyond crisis support and enact a God-given vision of release and restoration for those living in poverty? In this seminar, we’ll hear from participants of Jubilee+ Voices and leaders of Three13 and the Oasis Centre about what is looks like to move beyond relief, and toward release as well as from Rosie Hopley from Jubilee+ who is hosting this seminar.

The Beveridge Report of 1942 outlined five ‘giants’ that held people in poverty – idleness (a lack of employment opportunities), ignorance (a lack of education), disease (a lack of access to adequate healthcare), squalor (a lack of adequate housing), and want (a lack of food and other essentials). More than 80 years on, what’s changed? What hasn’t? And what can we do? Helen Barnard is Director of Policy, Research and Impact at the Trussell Trust. She was formerly Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Research and Policy Director at Pro Bono Economics. She is a leading national expert on poverty, inequality and social policy. Her extensive body of research and policy work have covered poverty, destitution, labour markets, housing, social security and civil society. She is author of ‘Want (Giants: a new Beveridge Report)’ which examines modern day poverty and the institutions and reforms required to address it. Thanks again to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

Many of us grew up being told that God wanted us to be world-changers, planet-shapers, or history-makers. God does call us to do good, and to make a difference, but it’s for His glory and fame, not ours. Some of us are disillusioned because we thought we’d change the world and we haven’t. If we can’t make a big impact, why do our lives matter?Andrew Wilson is Teaching Pastor at King’s Church London, and has degrees in history and theology from Cambridge and King’s College London. He is a columnist for Christianity Today, and has written several award-winning books, most recently God of All Things. Views Andrew expresses here are his own, and do not represent those of Newfrontiers or any particular church.

People who are passionate about social action can sometimes find it hard when their church leader isn’t as focused on it as they are! In this seminar activist Natalie Williams and her senior pastor Paul Mann explore how to influence your leaders in ways that are helpful and bring about change.  Paul grew up in Hastings and leads King’s Church, bringing experience in commerce from his previous career in the building industry. Natalie Williams is the CEO of Jubilee+

The suicide rate in the most deprived areas of England is almost double the rate in the least deprived areas. What can we do as Christians and churches to reach out to those struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm? How can we become safe places where people can find freedom from shame and stigma?Corin Pilling spent 20 years working with homeless people and is UK Director of Sanctuary, offering The Sanctuary Course; a free resource to help build churches that tackle mental health stigma and offer safe support to all.If you need mental health support you can call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: [email protected] for a reply within 24 hours or text "SHOUT" to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or text "YM" if you're under 19.If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.Find out more about Jubilee+ here. Grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

Many of our communities have become increasingly multicultural, multi-language and multi-faith. What does it look like to build a welcoming community with open and meaningful friendships? How can we connect, befriend, and serve people across cultures in our UK context?Andy McCullough from the Unreached Network shares with us about loving our international neighbour, focusing on John chapter 4. Find out more about Jubilee+ here. Grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

From the Yorkshire Ripper to Sarah Everard, violence against women is a daily reality that should shock us deeply. Rosie Hopley from Jubilee+ hosts a seminar from the Churches That Change Communities conference, where we also hear from author Claudine Roberts about the impact of violence on her life. What can the Church do to speak up, reach out and support women impacted by violence?Some listeners may find some of the content distressing. If you need any help and support yourself, please contact Women’s Aid via their website https://www.womensaid.org.ukClaudine's important book, Violence Against Women, Discovering El Roi, The God Who Sees, can be found here.

It is increasingly difficult to get a GP appointment or see an NHS dentist and some are resorting to extreme measures. Health inequality isn’t just about access to healthcare – for people in deprived areas it impacts quality of health and even life expectancy. Why should the church care? And how can we make a difference?Ben Parish he has been involved in church leadership for many years and currently works full time for the NHS as a physiotherapist as well as being on the Jubilee Plus core team.Grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

Changing the culture of a church can be like turning a massive ship. It usually becomes necessary when demographics change, and we need to create space to stay healthy. How do we bring about culture shift? If we’re not the leader, how can we help with that and be a blessing?Stef Liston, along with his family and a small team, planted Revelation Church London in 2006, and he now serves as an elder there.Grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

We’re called to be like Jesus, not like each other, so why aren’t the working classes in our churches?Invisible Divides co-author Paul Brown will explore how we can unravel class values from biblical values to build churches where people from all walks of life find unity and community.This seminar is from the Churches That Change Communities Conference 2023. Grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

Many people who struggle with shame, addiction, depression, anxiety, or a chaotic lifestyle don’t see the church as a place for them. In this seminar from the Churches that Change Communities conference 2023, Sam Ward shares how to truly welcome everyone into church family so that each person feels that they belong without compromising on community.Sam Ward is the CEO of The Message Trust. He has been involved in the Eden Network for 24 years, initially as a volunteer and subsequently leading the team and a local church plant in the deprived neighbourhood of Openshaw where he continues to live with his family. He speaks at many national events about his passion for urban mission and the reality of living it out.Thanks to Owen O'Brien for permission to use his music: Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)

Rachel Wilson and Abi Thomas host another of the keynote talks from the Churches that Change Communities conference 2023, this time from Natalie Williams, the CEO of Jubilee+.Natalie Williams grew up in relative poverty in the deprived seaside town of Hastings. She has been involved with Jubilee+ since its first year and took over from founder Martin Charlesworth as Jubilee+ Chief Executive in April 2021. Natalie is the co-author of four books, including Invisible Divides.

Natalie Williams and Abi Thomas are here to share the amazing keynote address by Tope and Kemi Koleoso from the Churches That Change Communities Conference 2023. Tope and Kemi lead Jubilee Church London, which is a multiracial, multicultural church in the heart of London and meets in multiple locations. They have two grown up sons. Tope also serves on the Newfrontiers UK apostolic team and preaches internationally in various circles.Kemi leads the women’s ministry at Jubilee Church which includes the Courage conference, an annual event in London that gathers over one thousand women of all ages and walks of life and Courage Sisterhood.

We wrap up the day with Natalie Williams, CEO of Jubilee+. What do we do there are giants in the land, what is the role of a Christian in a time of darkness? We don't deny the darkness, but we look to the light.We also talk about becoming a Jubilee+ partner church and how to stay healthy when working hard against poverty and injustice.Thanks for being with me for this Jubilee Plus podcast series. If you like what you hear you can find more content like this over at The Hopeful Activists Podcast, which I also host. Our latest episode is called “Where do worship and justice meet?”

Rosie Hopley talks to Abi about lament and hope, as well as the importance of reconciliation in the church and how to avoid mono-cultural church. And about tiny baby elephants.Rosie developed the Reconciled Church Course and also founded the charity Beloved and is also co founder of a social business enterprise LoveWellUK. Rosie also works for Jubilee, including on their new project Jubilee+ Voices.

Carl Knightly is Director of Church Networks at London City Mission.With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

Simon Elliott from Everyday Church in London gives Abi some great wisdom on leadership, healthy faith and not having a messiah complex.With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it.Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'BrienUsed with permission and with our thanks!

Charlie MacDonald is part of the core team at Jubilee+ - Children & Youth Lead and has lived and served in the East End of London for twenty years and also works for London City Mission.She shares about the new resource from Jubilee+, Overflow. The link to buy it will appear ASAP.With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

Kat Osborne is the CEO of Safe Families and shares her love for and the transforming power of hospitality, and Abi asks, What's the problem with projects?With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

Sam Ward is Director of Ministry for the Message Trust which is a Manchester based charity reaching urban areas, you head up the Eden Network and The Message Missions Teams and has been involved with Eden for 22 years!I ask him where Jesus is in the permacrisis, hope and garden gnomes.With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

Jubilee Plus communications officer Rachel Wilson tells us about how what she has learnt through parenting children with special needs and how these lessons have applied to her passion for including people experiencing poverty in churches. Plus an insight into her teaching on "Limited Leader, Limitless God."With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

Straight from the Churches that Change Communities Conference in Milton Keynes, I spoke to Ben Parish. Ben oversees community engagement at Lowestoft Community Church and is a member of the Jubilee+ Core Team. He's also a Physiotherapist and we talked about his hopes for himself and his team today.With grateful thanks to Owen O'Brien for his music and the permission to use it:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'Brien

A few months before the pandemic, Jubilee+ published a booklet called A Deepening Crisis? Though we had a strong prophetic sense that life was about to become even harder for those in poverty, we couldn’t foresee what would cause this to happen.In the three years since then, the landscape of poverty in our nation has changed dramatically. Our social justice activities have had to adapt, sometimes repeatedly, in light of the pandemic, and now many in our communities are facing the devastating impact of the cost of living crisis.It sounds bleak, but we are not without hope. We’re expectant for a fresh move of God’s power at work across the UK, bringing mercy and justice into the very DNA of our churches, raising leaders from all backgrounds, and sparking seeds of revival.We believe our time together at our 12th Churches that Change Communities conference will be really significant, as we gather leaders and activists to be renewed afresh for the challenges ahead. The day will include worship, teaching and ministry, and our prayer is that you will leave envisioned, equipped and encouraged.Book onto at the conference here.Here on the Jubilee Plus Podcast Abi Thomas will be bringing you bonus material from the conference from some of the incredible teachers and activists. Our first full episode will be available on the 12th November. If you are in Milton Keynes, why not say hello!MUSIC:Living in the shadow (feat. Samu'el)from Let Him Reign by Owen O'BrienUsed with permission and with our thanks!