Two weeks ago Pope Francis addressed a meeting of those working to promote social, economic and racial justice across the world. He described them as Social Poets, because they are creating “hope where there appears to be only waste and exclusion.”
The recent history of St Stephen Walbrook owes a great deal to one such social poet; Chad Varah – who on 2nd November 1953 took the first call from someone contemplating suicide, on what became the world’s first telephone helpline. The organisation that we know as The Samaritans was born.
Find out more in this week’s Start:Stop reflection. Listen to the recording at the link above, or read the transcript by clicking here.
Image : The Good Samaritan by Jared Small, 2013
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Hello We have discovered St. Stephens via the internet and the beautiful worship which you broadcast. Here in Mid Northumberland we are a long way from anything but the Light which you shine has reached us in the land of Aidan and Cuthbert.
May God bless your offerings Sheila and Keith Ward (Ret Clergy)
Dear Sheila and Keith, many thanks for your very kind note. We are delighted that you have become part of our community. All blessings to you and to glorious Northumbria. WIth best wishes, Stephen
Thank you for the greetings and the encouragement, which are both much appreciated!
Phillip Dawson, Ordinand