All Things Considered

Jonathan Thomas discusses the 80 year history and ongoing work of Christian Aid, the relief and development charity founded by British and Irish churches to help refugees following the Second World War.We also hear about Gwynne Hodge, the Japanese Prisoner of War from Mumbles who returned home and set up the first Christian Aid group in Wales.

Rosa Hunt talks to Phillip Henry, a Rastafarian Beekeeper in Cardiff, about religion and biodiversity. Nestled on a rooftop overlooking Cardiff Bay, Sankofa scientist, Phillip Henry, is helping to create biodiversity corridors for pollinators - bees. Rosa Hunt met with Philip to talk about his background, Rastafarian beliefs, beekeeping, and restorative justice. In this wide ranging discussion, they look at the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, the history of mining in Wales, and slavery. Phillip Henry also chooses some songs that represent his journey and beliefs.

It can inspire fear and dread in many of us, but for others there is a beauty in maths that is sometimes closely related to matters of faith. Rosa Hunt hears from four mathematicians whose mathematical research has helped to support their religious faith. Professor Larry Lesser gives some fascinating insights into the mathematics of Judaic peoples as reflected in the Torah and the Talmud. For mathematician and bishop's chaplain Rev. Dr Emma Whittick one of the most curious numerical sequences is one that is found in nature and is closely related to both natural and artistic phenomena - the so-called Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Ratio. Mathematical Biologist Dr Paul Roberts has looked very closely at the relationship between maths and biology, looking specifically at the human retina. For Dr John Hayward, a study of relativity and some very complex mathematics led to some curious insights into the relationship between mathematical and religious truths - and that was even before becoming a Christian.

Delyth Liddell in conversation with Dr Sharon Dirckx, author of the recently published 'Broken Planet: If There's a God, Then Why Are There Natural Disasters and Diseases?' In the wake of the recent earthquake in Myanmar, Delyth and Sharon examine one of the most enduring and difficult questions, if there is a good and loving God, how can we make sense of natural disasters and diseases? It's a question that has challenged philosophers, theologians, and ordinary people for centuries. Sharon holds a PhD in brain imaging from the University of Cambridge and is an adjunct lecturer at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics. Readings from 'Broken Planet' by Kate Clark, Nia Llewellyn-Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Amy and Manuel Watts-Padilla.

Jonathan Thomas and guests examine the life and legacy of Pope Francis, from his beginnings in Buenos Aires to his leadership as the head of the Catholic Church. The passing of the 88 year old Pontiff this week came the day after he offered his final Apostolic Blessing on Easter Sunday. Francis famously told all priests to be “shepherds with the smell of the sheep," to connect and empathise with the people they serve. Thousands flocked to Rome for his funeral yesterday; a public reaction that has been echoed globally. We hear of the public response to his death from those visiting St David's Metropolitan Cathedral in Cardiff, and a group of young pilgrims visiting Rome. And we explore the hallmarks of Pope Francis' pontificate. How he will be remembered by both his supporters and critics? We look ahead to the conclave – the election of a new Pope – and the global significance of this at a pivotal time in the Church.With contributions from:Archbishop Mark O'Toole, who mas made a Bishop by Pope Francis; Catherine Pepinster, a former editor of The Tablet (the Catholic Journal), and religious commentator Fr Michael Doyle, Dean of the Metropolitan Cathedral Church of St. David, Cardiff Fr Matt Roche Saunders, Director Director of Youth Mission, based in Cardiff who travelled to Rome this week with a group of young pilgrims

In recent years, mainline denominations in Wales have faced a continual decline. Meetings have been held to address these losses, focusing on training and retaining clergy, and utilizing church buildings as resources rather than burdens. However, earlier this month, the Bible Society released a report titled ‘The Quiet Revival,' highlighting a surprising trend: many churches in England and Wales are experiencing growth, particularly among Gen Z. This demographic has shown a significant increase in church attendance, suggesting that things may not be as lost as they seem.Our guest today is Owen Cottom. Seven years ago, Owen planted a church in Cardiff, which has grown to over 100 attendees on Sundays, representing more than 15 nations. His church is part of a global group of Charismatic Churches. Building on his success in Cardiff, Owen has helped plant another church in Blaenau Ffestiniog. This year, he published two books: one on pursuing a new day of mission and revival in Wales, and the other a series of prayers to accompany the first book. Owen is also part of 100iCymru (100 for Wales), a collective of church planters with a vision to plant 100 churches in Wales over the next 10 years.In this interview we explore the way resurrection hope has shaped his ministry, what 100iCymru see happening around Wales, and their hopes for the future.

In an age of polarised politics “cancel culture” and online echo chambers, it can feel as though respectful disagreement is a dying art. However, across the world's faith traditions, argument isn't something to be avoided. Jesus questioned, challenged, and debated—often with religious leaders of his day. Abraham argued with God in the Hebrew scriptures. Across many religions, sacred texts are filled with dialogue, debate, and the wrestling of ideas.Rosa Hunt is joined by an inter-faith panel to discuss whether it is possible to reclaim the art of argument, not as a fight to be won, but as a practice of deeper understanding. Gavin Ortlund is a pastor and theologian based in Tennessee. He's the author of the recently published ‘The Art of Disagreeing' and runs the YouTube channel, ‘Truth Unites'. Raphael Zarum is the Dean of the London School of Jewish Studies and holds the Rabbi Sacks Chair in Modern Jewish Thought. Imam Faisal Khajjou is from the Revive Academy in Newport. Joanna Williams is a Baptist minister and a trainer in conflict transformation. She works with the Blackley Centre to help churches and communities build peaceful relationships and resolve conflicts.

As the 'Strike' exhibition wraps up at Cardiff Museum, Azim Ahmed embarks on an exploration into the role of churches during the strikes. What actions did they take, and were they sufficient? Through this journey, we uncover covert meetings between church leaders and politicians, and the emotional tale of a Welsh politician who lost faith—both in the church and spiritually—due to its perceived silence. This narrative shines a light on power, faith, and the complexities of moral responsibility in times of upheaval. We hear from former miner, and now curator for Big Pit Mining Museum, Ceri Thompson; Adam Price MS; Cynan Llwyd, the General Secretary of Cytun; Rev Steffan Jones; Church leader Ruth Morgan; and retired minister Dr Noel Davies.

For centuries the singing of psalms has been a cornerstone of Christian worship and in Wales today psalms are sung in the splendour of great cathedrals and in the quiet devotion of Catholic monasteries. While the singing of psalms has long been cherished, in some churches and denominations psalm singing has been replaced by more modern songs and worship. But a new movement called 'Psalm Roars' is challenging that notion. Led by vicar Tim Vasby Burnie, 'Psalm Roars' aim to make psalm singing accessible to everyone, regardless of whether you have a musical background, and to encourage singing that is “enthusiastic, robust, loud, and inclusive.” Jonathan Thomas attends a 'Psalm Roar' and meets enthusiastic people learning all about psalm singing. He speaks to one of the most pre-eminent modern hymn writers of today, Keith Getty, who sets psalms to music, bringing them to contemporary audiences. Jonathan visits Llandaff Cathedral and meets Stephen Moore, Director of Music, where psalms are sung daily by the cathedral choirs. At Belmont Abbey, Abbot Brendan Thomas explains the ancient tradition of psalmody in the Benedictine Order, where psalms have been sung since its foundation in the sixth century.

According to the Alzheimer's Society, 1 in 3 people in the UK will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime. 55 million people worldwide. But, what is dementia, how does it affect people, and what role does faith play in a person's journey with dementia? In this programme, presenter Delyth Liddell talks to her mother about the experience of being a full-time carer for a relative with dementia. We also visit Rhos on Sea, just outside Colwyn Bay, to meet the chaplain of Coed Craig residential and dementia care home. Samantha Hodgins talks about the GOLUD initiative, helping churches support those with dementia, and invites us to a weekly Fellowship Service she runs. Details of organisations offering information and support with dementia are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free, at any time to hear recorded information on 08000 560 780.

Neurodivergency is an umbrella term that includes people with Tourette's, Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and more. To mark ‘Neurodiversity Celebration Week' Jonathan Thomas asks whether faith communities do enough to support people with additional needs. Pembrokeshire born artist and writer Sophie Killingley has recently been commissioned to write a book, ‘Blessed are the Neurodivergent'. She shares her experience of raising her two Autistic children, and how churches could be more welcoming to all.We visit ‘Little Cherubs' in the Rhondda Valley, a group set up by Hannah Leyshon to support neurodiverse children and their families. We'll hear from Methodist minister Jon Miller in Carmarthenshire, who's found that his adult diagnosis has helped him understand how his mind works, and also to value the strengths neurodiversity can bring. We'll ask what churches can do to be more accommodating to neurodiverse people, with advice from Anne Laure Jackson who runs a Sensory Healthy Church programme to help churches to be more inclusive. We hear from Emily Prance at St. Mark's Church in Cardiff about the changes they've made to help families with additional needs.

The Baptist Union of Wales has recently recognised a new type of minister. A 'Category 7 Minister' has a licence to pioneer. It may not be clear what a Pioneer Minister does, but there are more of them than we might think, across all the Christian denominations. For today's programme, Rosa Hunt travels to Anglesey and interviews 5 people involved in pioneering ministry. We meet the Reverend George Bearwood in Holyhead, who as well as being an Anglican vicar, has his own heavy metal radio show; Rev Deb Stammers, a Baptist minister in Holyhead, who is also a pioneer worker in the small village of Llanerchymedd; John Hay, who wrote a feasibility study about the future of Methodist churches on the Island; Hywel Meredydd, who planted a new church nearly 50 years ago in Llangefni, in a church formally pastored by Christmas Evans; and Rachel Radbourne, who leads a growing church for young families.

Later this week, on March 8, we'll celebrate International Women's Day. It's a time to acknowledge the achievements of women, as well as championing equality. And today, on All Things Considered, in an episode originally broadcast in 2024, we consider the way women are presented in the New Testament, their place in Jesus's ministry and the early church. We ask whether women were silenced in the Bible and explore the extent to which we have an accurate picture of the way the culture and the church viewed women, both then and now. To discuss these issues, Jonathan Thomas speaks with:Helen Bond, Professor of Christian origins at the University of Edinburgh Dr Ros Clarke, who runs The Priscilla Programme, an online training course for women, in partnership with Church Society and Union School of Theology Arfon Jones, who worked on a translation of the Bible into colloquial Welsh and published the booklet 'Beibl ar... Ferched', 'The Bible on... Women' Dr Paula Gooder, Canon Chancellor at St Paul's Cathedral and a writer and lecturer in Biblical Studies

It's 75 years since the publication of C.S.Lewis's classic children's fantasy The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. In celebration, the West End stage version is touring in UK and Ireland throughout the year – its run in Cardiff finished a week ago, and it will be back in Wales, at Llandudno, in August. In this ATC we look at the continuing appeal of this story, look at the man behind it, and explore the use of an imagined world for conveying religious truth. We also discuss Philip Pullman, JK Rowling, and others. We are joined in studio by three guests who've done a lot of thinking about story-telling – and written quite a bit themselves. Caleb Woodbridge, who's based in Pontypridd, has been in publishing in a variety of roles for most of his career after focussing in children's literature as a student. He delights in myth and legend, science fiction and fantasy, and not surprisingly he's a Doctor Who fan. Hannah Hess, from Cardiff, has three children to keep her supplied with ideas for her writing, and to date she's had four books published for young people, Callenlas Chronicles. And Catherine Butler is professor of English literature at Cardiff University, specialising in children's literature. She's author of several monographs and editor of five academic volumes, and has published six novels for children and young adults. Catherine Butler - People - Cardiff University

Throughout history, faith-driven philanthropists, from the Cadbury family to the Aga Khan to the Bloombergs, have given generously to help those in need. But does wealth always lead to generosity? Is it possible to be wealthy and live according to faith values? And in an age of social media influencers and lavish lifestyles, how are young people's financial values being shaped? Azim Ahmed is joined by four guests to discuss the issues: Rhys Parry is a Christian business consultant known as the Money Monk and a trainee Anglican priest. Dr Asif Zaman is a principal lecturer and Head of Department at Cardiff Metropolitan University, with a specialism in Islamic Finance. Dr Gemma Simmonds is a sister of the Congregation of Jesus, Ecumenical Canon of St. Asaph Cathedral and a senior research fellow at the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology in Cambridge. Rabbi Raphael Zarum is a dean at the London School of Jewish Studies and currently holds the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought.

It's estimated that around 100 million people sing hymns by Keith and Kristyn Getty around the world each year. Originally from Northern Ireland, they now live in America, with their 4 children. And their songs are seemingly universal. According to Christianity Today, they've “changed the way evangelicals worship.” Across Wales, in English and Welsh, you won't have to search far to hear a Getty hymn being sung on a Sunday morning. They have performed for Presidents and Prime ministers, and been nominated for a Grammy. But now, they have turned their musical attention to a Welsh hymn, Dyma Gariad – Here is Love. To discuss this wonderful Welsh hymn, congregational singing and song writing, Jonathan Thomas talks to Keith and Kristyn Getty.

‘What self-respecting murder mystery doesn't have a priest.' So said the Rev Lisa Coupland in the recent hit psychological reality TV series, The Traitors, where players have to decide who they can trust. The ‘Faithful' spend their time trying to work out who the Traitors are, and the Traitors, ‘murder' the Faithful one by one. It is a game that has taken the country by storm. But, does the programme glorify lies and deception at a time when, as a nation, some studies suggest we are becoming more dishonest? And what message does it send when a priest appears on a show hiding her identity and prepared to lie to her fellow players? Joining Delyth Liddell to discuss these questions are the Traitor star Rev Lisa Coupland; Peter Ladd, head of content at CARE; and Simon Plant, co-founder of the charity for action on Spiritual Abuse.

On July 13th last year a would-be assassin narrowly failed to kill Donald Trump, instead grazing the Republican candidate's right ear. Many people of faith - both on the right and left - see this narrow miss as something of a miracle, and for some evangelicals it is a sign of God's favour towards the president-elect. Roy Jenkins looks at the influence of faith groups on US politics, and the Republican party in particular, as Americans and the world look towards Donald Trump being officially declared the 47th President of the USA. For these groups, it is particularly important to have the ear of the President as they press their own agendas. Roy speaks to Professor Mark Silk, political analyst Calvin Dark, and to pro-Trump minister Pastor Mark Burns.

In this programme, Rosa Hunt, explores the experience and journey of grief, consolation and faith as a fellow Pilgrim walking with our contributors. Ruth McDonald lost her son Ben when he collapsed after running the Cardiff Half Marathon six years ago. Kathy Richards, who lost her son to cancer over four years ago, now runs a bereavement course. These two mothers speak to us out of their personal experience of grief. We also talk to Professor Wynn Thomas, who published 'The Art of Losing' this month. Wynn provides us with a different angle, using his literary expertise to help us see how poetry can articulate the journey of grief.

The border between England and Wales is something that some don't really notice. Whether you're crossing the Severn Bridge in the South as you see the dark grey of rain clouds loom. Or crisscrossing back and forth, dancing between lands in the North. Travelling between these two countries is something that is done easily and without much thought.For others, the border is a matter of heart, identity, heritage and pride. Look closely and you will see flat fields turn to mounds and mountains. Listen carefully, and you will hear accents adapt and language become a love affair. Dig deep and you find historic wounds and a heavy weariness. Whilst there are no border gates or passport controls, there are many historic evidences of a meaningful border. From the natural difference in geography, to the line of Europe's most heavily populated castle cluster. There are remnants of a boarder everywhere.During the summer, in a series of 4 programmes, the team at All Things Considered explored this most intriguing border line: Offa's Dyke. In this programme we will journey through the Dyke once more as we revisit some of the highlights.

Jonathan Thomas talks to a range of musicians as he explores the stories and the wonderful associations behind some of our favourite Christmas carols. Andrew Gant, a former choirmaster at the Chapel Royal, is the author of 'Deck the Hall' exploring some of curious histories of certain songs. Caroline Sheen from Caerleon is a much loved star of musical theatre on the West End stage, and she recalls happy memories of singing the descant to O Come All Ye Faithful when a member of her school choir. The Welsh plygain tradition of carol singing may possibly predate most English-language carols. Arfon Gwilym and Sioned Webb recount how they first attended a plygain service and were bowled over by the wealth of carols they heard for the first time. Harpist Tom Parry recalls his time living and working near Bethlehem, whilst composer Ben Heneghan (whose credits include Fireman Sam!) talks about his carol arrangements. Finally, Rhian Jackson from Corwen recalls the snowy sixties in her village, where her father was vicar.

Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, and that usually involves carols, nativities, candlelight services and plenty of tradition. But not everyone is following these well-worn paths this year. Many are exploring creative ways of spreading the Christmas message. In this programme we'll meet Christians and churches who are trying to do something a little different this advent. First up we meet Dai Woolridge, spoken word poet, storyteller, and creative specialist at the Bible Society. We also speak to American author, singer, and songwriter, Andrew Peterson, who is bringing his Christmas Show to Cardiff. Finally, we visit two different churches in Cardiff, who are looking at new ways to take the old Christmas story to their communities: Judith Holliman and the members of Radyr Methodist Church, and Sarah Roberts from the Bridge Church, Pontprennau.

With the coldest season of the year upon us, Azim Ahmed hears how faith groups across Wales are helping homeless people through the hardest winter months. It's estimated that nearly 3000 people each year sleep rough in Wales, but being homeless also includes people who are living in temporary hostels or night shelters, or lodging temporarily with family or friends. Nearly 10, 000 households in Wales are classified as at risk of being pushed into homelessness due to poverty and insecure housing. Across Wales people of faith do what they can to alleviate the hardship of living without a home, and today we'll meet some of these individuals and hear about the personal efforts they make. We begin at the Victoria Fish Bar in North Cardiff where one Muslim family, Mohammad and Jawad Nazakat, head up an initiative to give out free fish and chips to the homeless each Christmas. In Wrexham Housing Justice Cymru's Citadel project helps foster community for the people they support over the Christmas period. They work in collaboration with Hope Street Church, who gather together volunteers to pack ‘Bags of Kindness' for those in need at Christmas. It's part of a national initiative, ‘Love Christmas' encouraging organisations to spread kindness during the festive period. We visit the Hare Krishna ‘Atma Café' in central Cardiff which gives out free vegan food to those in need. We hear from Father Dean Atkins and Salvation Army chaplain John Stark who have organised a memorial service at St. Mary's Butetown to remember those who have died homeless. The service is accompanied by the ‘Choir with No Name', a choir which builds joyful singing communities with people impacted by homelessness and marginalisation.

Advent is a time of reflection and of waiting in expectation. Roy Jenkins talks to four people with very different experiences of waiting. They include Timothy Cho, one of very few people to successfully escape from North Korea, although not before experiencing some terrifying times in a North Korean and a Chinese prison. Tanya Marlow is a bedbound mother and writer who has had to think deeply about waiting, having suffered from a chronic health condition (ME) for many years since her teens. Retired solicitor and vicar Lindsay Ford talks about the vision he received in a Caerphilly church whilst he was going through a long period of waiting. And children's charity worker Neil Davies talks about the plight of the children whom few people wish to foster or adopt, and who may wait up to two years for their forever home.

As part of the BBC “Be Scam Safe” campaign, Rosa Hunt and guests examine the impact the growing scale of scams has on the way we see the world around us. A recent survey by the Good Faith Partnership and the University of Birmingham's Jubilee Centre found that honesty is the most important virtue for all religious groups, yet on a daily basis we are encouraged to be suspicious that the text messages, phone calls or emails we receive could be fraudulent. It's estimated that in the UK ten billion pounds each year are stolen by fraudsters. But what impact does learning to be distrustful have on us? Are people of faith more susceptible to being scammed? Rosa is joined by three guests: Professor Keith Jones leads the national research into financial fraud and scams with the Trading Standards Institute and their National Scams Team. He's a Christian, has a background in social work and specialises in the safeguarding vulnerable adults. Katharine Gray is the founder and director of Friends First, a Christian dating agency, and she shares insights into how to prevent romance fraud. Phil Swann explores the theology around honesty and trust. Phil is the pastoral director of the Evangelical Movement of Wales and the pastor of Llanelli Free Evangelical Church.We hear from Trading Standards officer Sarah Thomas-Grant who shares the current scams identified in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Steve Bumford, a Safeguarding officer in the Major Investigations Team in the Vale of Glamorgan, offers insights into a case of romance fraud. Reverend Mae Christie shares her personal experience of con artists stealing £138, 000 from her church in South London.

At the end of this month, MP's will debate and vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Kim Leadbeater, the Labour member behind the proposal, says that the current ‘status quo is not fit for purpose' as it leads to people ‘having very harrowing, very distressing deaths – both for themselves and for their family.'But, is the legalising of assisted dying the best answer to this dilemma? Would there be adequate safeguards? And when traditional Christian teaching has always affirmed that human life is sacred, how much of the argument is still swayed by religious faith? In the studio to discuss these issues are Dr Idris Baker, a palliative medicine consultant in Swansea and a Church elder; Kathy Riddick – Wales coordinator for Humanists UK; and Rev Simon Walkling – a United Reformed Church minister and former hospice chaplain.

Jonathan Thomas looks at the history and work of the Salvation Army in Wales as it celebrates 150 years since its first mission to Cardiff, followed later by missions to Merthyr Tydfil, Aberdare and many other towns around Wales. Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts is the Army's current leader in Wales, and he gives his account of some of the movement's early days, as well as outlining its work today. Captain Canon Kathryn Stowers is the Army's Ecumenical Officer for Wales, and she talks about the organisation's radical views on the empowerment of women - it was women who led the Army's early missions to Merthyr, for example. Professor Paul O'Leary of the University of Aberystwyth has studied street processions in Wales, and explains why evangelising on the streets was such a provocative initiative that challenged Victorian notions of respectability. Historically the Salvation Army's uniform has been a huge part of its identity, but as Jennifer Le Zotte explains, there is more to this than meets the eye: in reusing secondhand clothing there was something challenging about this uniform. Even more intriguing is the special uniform for the so-called 'Slum Sisters' who tended to the needs of the very poor. She describes this as 'cross-class drag'! For many of us the Salvation Army is synonymous with brass bands, and Jonathan visits the band of Canton Cardiff Corps to speak to their bandmaster, and to make his own practical contribution!

Delyth Liddell meets writer, gardener and amateur ecologist Carwyn Graves at the heritage apple orchard at the Bishop's Park in Abergwili, Carmarthen. They discuss faith, Carwyn's passion for Welsh food and why it matters to preserve Welsh heritage apple varieties.'Tir: a History of the Welsh Landscape', Carwyn's latest book, explores Welsh history and landscape from the ffridd, or mountain pasture, to the rhos, or wild moorland. They discuss why rewilding has become such a divisive topic in Wales, and explore Carwyn's perspective that it is the human story that is crucial to the landscape of Wales.Carwyn shares his love of Welsh food with Delyth, from Lava bread to Welsh Cakes, and how this has inspired a new venture 'Cegin y Bobl' or the 'People's Kitchen.' He is a founding Trustee for the charity that launches this autumn, teaching cooking skills to community groups and primary schools. https://www.ceginybobl.co.ukRestoration of the Walled Garden and heritage apple orchard in the Bishop's Park is managed by the Tywi Gateway Trust, https://parcyresgob.org.uk

It's Prisons Week, when Christians are encouraged to pray for all those affected by the criminal justice system. But is prayer alone the answer to the problems facing prisoners, their victims, and those working in prisons? Rosa Hunt discusses some of the issues with a panel of guests, including Rev Nick Sandford, managing chaplain at HMP Cardiff; Julia Houlston-Clark, CEO of Wales Restorative Justice Partnerships; and criminal defence barrister Andrew Taylor.

The Bible is central to Christian worship and devotion throughout the year. But October is the month when many churches observe Bible Sunday, giving thanks for the Scriptures. This month also sees the publication of a 'Bible for young explorers', with surrounding text written by celebrity and adventurer Bear Grylls, and Cardiff based Andrew Ollerton. But do young people want a Bible? And if so, what kind? Roy Jenkins interviews Andrew Ollerton and others who are involved in helping young people engage with the Bible. We meet Arfon Jones who translated Beibl.net; Dave Kitchen author of 'Bible in Ten'; and Sian Rees the head of The Bible Society in Wales. We also go to Hope Teens youth group in Merthyr Tydfil to find out what the young people themselves make if the new Bible.

Jonathan Thomas's guest is the author of “Where the saints came from” published earlier this year. She's Anne Hayward, a retired teacher and former lay reader in the Church in Wales. Anne is also a very keen walker; so much so that each Easter she goes on solo pilgrimage from her home in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park to a holy place either in Wales or beyond. As we'll hear this year's pilgrimage was her second journey to Brittany, a place of strong Celtic ties with Wales and Cornwall.So far Anne has written three books about her thousands of miles on foot, travelling with a lightweight rucksack and tent, paper maps and a walking stick. During the programme recorded near the ruins of Llanthony Priory we hear extracts from the diaries she kept on her latest journey and she'll also retell some of her experiences en route.Anne's book titles: A Pilgrimage around Wales A Celtic Pilgrimage Where the saints came fromwebsite: www.pilgrimstreet.uk

Today, more people than ever before are using food banks in the UK, while rates of homelessness are also on the increase. These figures are predicted to grow as we enter the cold winter months. The last two decades have seen a huge increase in faith-based initiatives to support those in crisis, from churches running food banks to street pastors to charities offering support to the homeless. But to what extent do these initiatives work, and could it be the case that by offering sticking-plaster solutions like warm spaces we are actually perpetuating the underlying problem?Rosa Hunt speaks to Bonnie Williams, former director of Housing Justice Cymru and now CEO of Housing Justice UK. Jessica Foster, Head of Church Engagement at Trussell, the largest food bank charity in the UK and Jon Kuhrt, CEO of Hope into Action, a charity that enables churches to house the homeless. We hear from people who have been supported by charities in a time of crisis and we'll examine why, as one of the world's largest economies, people in the UK are in the position where they might be hungry or homeless.

The report, ‘Casting Long Shadows: The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on babies, their families and the services that support them.' published in 2022 revealed worrying statistics about babies born during the COVID pandemic, highlighting how many had delayed social skills. But two years on, as those children now start school, how are they doing? We speak to Dr Alison Prowle, a senior lecturer at the department for Children and Families, University of Worcester; Hannah Tuck, a children's worker with a national UK charity and a kids team leader at New Life Elim Church in Barry; from Hengoed Primary School we meet teachers Natalie McPherson, Claire Jones, and Janet Watkins; and we also speak to Dr. Matthew Williamson-Dicken, and Mrs ELin Johnson, from Panteg Primary School. Finally, we visit the Little Lounge community project based in Cilfynydd, near Pontypridd, to see what place faith has had in helping the pandemic babies.

Roy Jenkins looks at the life, work and continuing influence of Isaac Watts, the great hymn-writer who was born in Southampton 350 years ago. Of the six or seven hundred hymns he composed a good handful are sung each week in services across the denominations, and some have become fixed points in worship for Easter, Christmas and even Remembrance Sunday. Ironically, some have made their way into Anglican hymnaries, despite the fact that Watts and his family faced severe privations for not worshipping at an Anglican church - his father was imprisoned on several occasions for being a 'dissenter'. Certain hymns (notably 'Joy to the World') have been translated into many languages, including Cherokee, German, French, Zulu Welsh. Celebrated in his day as a profound thinker, poet and logician Watts' influence is felt far and wide for introducing the practice of making emotionally expressive hymns an integral part of worship.

In the final part of our series exploring aspects of Offa's Dyke, and Offa's Dyke Path, Rosa Hunt walks a part of the way in the company of five people with a passion for the outdoors, and asks the theological conundrum of whether God is a walker? There are many suggestions in both the Old Testament and the New that God does indeed walk, and it's possible - some argue - that we come nearest to Him not when we rush around but when we walk at a moderate pace. Even for people without a formal faith, the meditative action of walking can lead to a deep spiritual experience, regardless of whether or not they believe in a creator God. For Steven Carter, a retired Baptist minister, walking Offa's Dyke has a particular significance - despite his cancer prognosis, he is determined to walk as much of its 177 miles as possible in easy stages. In this programme Rosa joins him for a section of the Dyke at Hergest Ridge. For Llinos Metcalf easy stages are probably not what she is seeking, since over the last ten years she's signed up for and completed numerous arduous treks in places such as Patagonia, the Sahara and the Arctic, sustained by her faith and a mission to raise money for Velindre cancer hospital. Rosa takes a detour to Newchurch, near Gladestry, to speak to Ann Dean about the diaries of Francis Kilvert, the one-time curate of Clyro who was an avid walker in the district. Near Hay Bluff Rosa encounters Susan Langford-Johnson, a former Catholic chaplain who despite no longer believing in God, believes she has had a deeply spiritual experience whilst walking a pilgrimage. Finally, on a gentle stretch of Offa's Dyke path at Hay Rosa meets Rev'd Dr Mark Clavier, who has written about his own 'pilgrimage' whilst never having been on a 'proper' one to a religious shrine. Is God a walker? "Yes", he agrees, "God must certainly be a walker...or else a sadist!"

Azim Ahmed walks a section of Offa's Dyke, to explore what it has to tell us about our place in the world, and in the universe. This ancient archaeological wonder constructed by the Mercian King Offa has in some ways been the making of Welsh identity. But it also speaks of fascinating connections with Europe, and possibly the Islamic world. A visit to Knighton's Spaceguard centre, however, suggests that our planet, let alone Wales, may be but a mere speck in a vast and dangerous universe.

Throughout July, All Things Considered will be coming from the ancient boundary between Wales and England – Offa's Dyke. Each week, we explore a different section of the border as we travel from Chepstow to Prestatyn, joined by voices from the borders sharing their stories of faith, encounter and identity.This week Jonathan Thomas explores the idea of ‘borders' and identity, starting at St. Mary's Capel y Ffin. Here Jonathan meets Father David Wyatt at the tiny 'chapel on the border,' a focus of pilgrimage for centuries and the source of inspiration for William and Dorothy Wordsworth. Jonathan walks a stretch of the Offa's Dyke route with vicar and pilgrimage leader Simon Lockett. Starting at the Gospel Pass they head past Hay Bluff towards Llantony to discuss identity in the border lands. Jonathan speaks to pupils at Clyro Church in Wales School to hear their perspective on living on the borders. The children explain that they see borders as a point of connection, a place to forge new friendships and to hear different languages. Canon Dr Manon James of the St Padarn's Institute shares insights into her research into Welsh identity and border lands. At the end of the Offa's Dyke path Jonathan meets Baptist minister Rob Beamish to discuss journey's endings.

Delyth Liddell in conversation with Grammy Award winning singer and songwriter Matt Redman. Matt is the writer of some of the world's most popular worship songs and regularly leads churches across the globe in worship. This summer Matt Redman will release his twentieth album, “Coming Back to The Heart," which revisits songs written or co-written by him over the last 25 years. He shares insights into these songs and reflects on his strong partnership with his wife Beth, with whom he has written songs, preached and planted churches, alongside raising five children. As a young man he was a worship leader for Soul Survivor church in Watford, a church which has recently been in the spotlight for serious safeguarding failures. Matt discusses his documentary ‘Let there be Light;' the harmful behaviour of the leader Mike Pilavachi, and the bravery of abuse survivors.

Azim Ahmed and guests shine a light on a collection of ‘Lost Hymns'; long forgotten Welsh-language folk hymns recorded by oral historians at St. Fagan's National Museum of History in the 1960s. When musician and composer Lleuwen Steffan came across these recordings she immediately realised that they were no longer featured in contemporary hymn books. She embarked on a decade long project to track down the descendants of those recorded, and to compose music inspired by these songs. Today she brings these recordings to modern audiences, joining the recorded voices with her own compositions on piano, guitars and synthesizers.Many of the hymns were composed as a response to the Welsh Revival of 1904, a period of intense religious fervour that swept across Wales, filling chapels, and bringing life-changing religious experiences to those part of the revivals. The songs are frank, down to earth and sometimes dark. They reflect the fragility of human experience. Emeritus Professor Wyn James, a Welsh hymnology expert from the School of Welsh at Cardiff University sets out the historical context of these hymns. Catrin Roberts, the granddaughter of hymn collector William Morris (one of the voices in the collection) shares memories of her grandfather, and his passion for the heritage of Wales. Lleuwen's work is made in partnership with Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru and supported by the British Council Wales.

Roy Jenkins reflects further on his broadcast career, and recounts some memorable moments in such diverse places as Russia, South America, South Africa, Hong Kong and Israel.

The first of two special editions of All Things Considered to mark Roy Jenkins' 50 years in religious broadcasting. Across his career, Roy has been involved in a vast number and variety of programmes. Today, he looks back on just a few which have made some kind of mark on him. We hear archive footage from across Roy's career, as well as the stories behind some of these memorable programme-making experiences.Join us again next week, when Roy will reflect on some of the fascinating encounters had had making radio in other countries.

On Sunday 26th May Llandaff Cathedral will host a service to remember people in the LGBTQ+ community who have suffered exclusion from Christian communities because of their sexuality or gender identity. The service is organised LGBTQ+ Christian Charity OneBodyOneFaith. In this week's 'All Things Considered' Delyth Liddell speaks to the charity's co-chair, Father Jarel Robinson-Brown. Jarel Robinson-Brown is vicar of St German's Church, Adamsdown, Cardiff but he hails from London. He was raised in West London by Jamaican grandparents and studied in Cambridge to become a Methodist minister, serving as an Ordinand at Clare College. In 2021 he left the Methodist church and began the journey to be ordained as an Anglican Priest. Jarel says himself he's a person who crosses many boundaries, calling himself “a Black, Queer British Christian minister of Jamaican and Cuban heritage.” His writing explores racism and homophobia in the church and how to better address these issues. He is the Martin Luther King Fellow at Regent's Park College, University of Oxford, and his research interests are early Christian history, Patristics and Egyptian Late Antiquity.