Can We Imagine a Future Together?

Author Martyn Snow
Publisher CHP £4.99
Format pbk
ISBN 9781781405130

Bishop Martyn introduces his book by offering thoughts about the programme ‘Couples Therapy’ and counselling generally. Applying this method to LLF and the CofE, each party is encouraged to speak about differences and hurt as well as being open to hearing the other party. Then we may hope to see the questions of LLF differently, using a prayerful process of discerning ‘what is pleasing to the Lord’ – how each of us can reflect love to each other in the same way that God loves all of us in our diversity. There are questions for reflection and discussion: ‘What cultures have shaped you over the course of your life?’ ‘How have you managed to journey beyond confrontation?’ ‘How have you learnt to recognise the gifts received by other cultures?’ ‘How might we offer gifts to those with whom we disagree?’ ‘Are we prepared to be vulnerable when listening to/receiving gifts of another?’ The book concludes with ‘A love letter to the church’ showing Rublev’s Trinity icon, with a space for each of us to join, in all our diversity, in love of God and each other.

Reviewed by SUE PIPER

Living in Love and Faith (LLF)