In today's episode of Good on Wood we speak to Rev. Ken Newell, Jonny Clark & Ed Petersen about the life and witness of the late Irish catholic priest and peacemaker Father Gerry Reynolds and his work to heal the wounds of North Ireland.

Our conversation explores the complexities of "The Troubles," the historical context of British colonialism in Ireland, the importance of cultivating prophetic friendships across sectarian divides, and the ongoing struggle for justice and healing in Ireland. 

Together, the speakers emphasise the need for a nuanced understanding of the Irish identity and the significance of nonviolence in the pursuit of peace.

About Reverend Ken Newell

Reverend Doctor Ken Newell is a minister and former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. Ordained in 1968, he taught New Testament Studies in the Evangelical Church of Timor, Indonesia (1972 - 1975). In 1976 he received a call to Fitzroy Presbyterian Church in Belfast and served there until his retirement in 2008. The Christian spirituality nurtured in Fitzroy during the Troubles found expression in a peace-building engagement within the city that was often seething with anger. In 1999, Ken's friendship with Father Gerry Reynolds of Clonard Monastery was recognised in the award of the Pax Christi International Peace Prize.

About Jonny Clark 

Jonny Clark is the Public Theology Programme Manager for Corrymeela, Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation organisation. A facilitator and mediator, Jonny has been working for faith-based organisations for two decades. In addition, he has produced over 40 podcasts and a documentary by the same name: Guardians of the Flame. Jonny has devoted significant energy to the development of peace-building organisations around the world in post-conflict societies.

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Music provided by John & David from ⁠The Brilliance⁠

Opening music provided by Tommy Sands