Art in Focus: Issue 2 – 2025

11/03/2025 | Reform

Mount Calvary, 1944William H. Johnson

The scene is simple and graphic. The background, timeless and plain. The figures wear contemporary dress. In this crucifixion scene, there is no attempt at historical accuracy. We know about these people from the Gospel … Read More

Colin’s corner

11/03/2025 | Reform

We remember Colin Richards, who died in January, having supplied puzzles and columns to Reform for six decades. Those who worked with him share their stories

Colin approached me in 1997 to edit the daily newsletter at the annual Council … Read More

Editorial: Does my giving pinch?

11/03/2025 | Reform

I recently reread CS Lewis’s 1952 classic Mere Christianity. Unpacking the already aged term ‘Christian charity’, Lewis says loving my neighbour is a much broader obligation than financial giving; but giving is one thing it inescapably entails. How much should … Read More

Songs of Faith: Ray Stanyon

11/03/2025 | Reform

Ray Stanyon’s sung response to sermons

It would be difficult to be more URC than Ray Stanyon. Son of a URC minister and a URC minister himself, Ray describes himself as ‘born into, baptised in, and brought up by the … Read More

Soul stories: Andrea Heron

11/03/2025 | Reform

Where is love? asks Andrea Heron

When I was 18 months old, I was taken to St Stephen’s URC, Wavertree, for the first time by my grandparents. Or so I’m told. I can’t remember, though I believe there may be … Read More

Do stay for tea and coffee: ‘No one likes virtue signalling, but are we starting to see vice signalling?’

11/03/2025 | Reform

I can’t imagine anyone likes the idea of ‘virtue signalling’. Whether you’re the accuser or the accused, you’re likely either fed up of spotting self-righteousness, or fed up that your virtuous intent isn’t being taken seriously.

I see both sides. … Read More