Karen Campbell, a United Reformed Church (URC) Related Community Worker (CRCW) for Grassroots – a Luton-based ecumenical charity that supports community work through its involvement with the Bury Park Beech Hill Council of Churches (BPBHCC) – reflects on the tragic and violent loss of teenagers due to knife crime.

Karen’s poem is a response to a Huffington Post article that lays bare harsh statistics which shows across London ‘the victims, and perpetrators [of knife crime], are mainly poor, and they are disproportionately black.’

The Revd Richard Church, Deputy General Secretary (Discipleship), reflects on society’s desire for instant gratification as Christians around the world prepare for a time of reflection, preparation and sacrifice.

The practicing of ‘ashing’, the marking of a cross in ash mixed with oil on hands or forehead, has never played a significant role in the liturgical practices of the United Reformed Church. However, it marks an entry into a period dedicated to deepening prayer, practicing generosity and fasting.

Andy Jackson, Head of Communications for the United Reformed Church (URC), shares some memories from past pancake days along with recipes from around the world and a prayer for those running Shrove Tuesday events at churches and for those who want to try something other than lemon and sugar!