What happens when two neighbouring churches decide to think bigger than their own walls? We gather with St Stephen’s in the heart of Norwich to prepare for Lent, swap stories from a thriving city café, and open a brave conversation about Christian nationalism—how faith can be misused to prop up identity politics, and how we can respond with humility, scripture, and neighbourly love.
Edward sits down with the new vicar of St Stephen’s, Reverend Heike, to talk about shared ministry a stone’s throw apart. We compare worship styles, celebrate the café that welcomes hundreds each week, and reflect on small signs of grace: a thousand pocket crosses finding their way into hands and homes, a guidebook that turns curiosity into wonder, and simple hospitality that keeps conversations warm. The city’s voices chime in too—visitors drawn by sport, heritage, and the beauty of Norwich’s historic churches—reminding us that community is built one genuine exchange at a time.
Our joint Lent study, written by both clergy, invites a thoughtful look at the pressures of public faith. Instead of telling people what to think, we’ll read scripture, share experiences, and ask harder questions: How do we honour our country without excluding others? What does repentance look like in civic life? Where does the gospel challenge slogans and amplify compassion? Set against the season’s rituals—from Ash Wednesday’s ashes made from last year’s palms to Shrove Tuesday’s lemon-and-sugar pancakes—this conversation aims to be honest, generous, and grounded.
Walk with us into Lent. Subscribe for more conversations from the heart of Norwich, share this episode with a friend who loves thoughtful faith, and leave a review to help others find our community.
