narrow nationalist identity which despises and fears the so-called barbarians , those who are Other .
The present emphasis within the British Methodists is to urge support for its justice , dignity and solidarity , calling the Church to be inclusive and diverse , stressing equality of opportunity for all , irrespective of gender , age , race , social status and sexual identities . It seeks to be committed to growth with others in partnership in a Chiesa insieme which sees ecumenism not as an admission of decline and defeat , but as a springboard for mission as well as unity .
We rejoice in the coming together this week of Waldensians and Methodists and Baptists , seeking a common purpose and vision . We pray that we may be a Chiesa insieme , a welcoming and open Church gathered around the one tree which has deep roots in our common origins . Those roots go deep . They need nurturing . We seek to re-affirm our radical solidarity with God ’ s creation and with each other as God ’ s children .
Tim Macquiban
Claudiana publishing stand at Synod with lovely Claudiana girls : Sara Platone and Debora Michelin- Salomon .
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