Understanding and helping when you have a thorn in the flesh (situations of chronic suffering) is not an easy task. We need to focus on the light of hope rather than on the darkness of the trial; to speak of victory rather than defeat; not to be paralysed by the thorn’s venom but rather strengthened by the supernatural antidote of grace. Victory is forged along a costly road that ultimately leads to serene acceptance and to experience the power of Christ that is perfected in our weakness.

Conclusion and summary from the A Safe Place? conference

A tongue in cheek parody of what might happen when the well-intentioned but not well-thought-through try to 'fix' your church. Glib, simplistic and offensive answers to complex problems abound. Do not listen to without a sense of humour!!!

Introduction to the Safe Place conference.

How can we make our churches welcoming places for people who struggle with their mental health? How are they currently unhelpful and what do they have to offer that is so vital?

This talk will look at some contemporary psychological theories of spiritual growth and explore some connections with biblical themes. The areas explored will include spiritual growth as goal directed behaviour; processes of change, continuity, and transformation; Christ as model and guide; spiritual fruits and gifts. High Resolution Video available at http://www.blip.tv/file/3400811/

Are we called or driven? Is our identity based on our performance or the performance of Christ on the cross? Drawing on the stories of Paul, the Prodigal Son, the theology of Thomas Cramner and his work with Olympic athletes, Ashley challenges our own attempts at self-medication through achievement and shame-based motivation. He explores how we can make our activities reflect God's healing love instead."

This talk will look at some contemporary psychological theories of spiritual growth and explore some connections with biblical themes. The areas explored will include spiritual growth as goal directed behaviour; processes of change, continuity, and transformation; Christ as model and guide; spiritual fruits and gifts. Video also available