The first study weekend for the CHIPS Fellowship took place at Mark and Tamsin Cuthbert’s home in Birmingham on 18-19 November 2006.
We followed a loose timetable, beginning on Saturday morning with a time to introduce ourselves to each other. We then made shared agreements about our time together and had a short time of prayer. Those present were Mark and Tamsin Cuthbert, Tom Baker, Jane Gibbs, Jamie Bird, Ken Gichu, Andrew and Rebecca Cuthbert, and Georges and Lydia Kisombola.
Reflecting on the weekend
Tom led our first session on “Definitions/theories of peace, just war and forgiveness” which brilliantly got us in the ‘zone’ and gave us a chance to reflect on the words we use in talking about working for peace.
After a break for drinks, Mark led us in a somewhat experimental session on “Discovering the God of peace: a biblical journey” where questions were raised as to what the bible reveals about God’s character. Since not enough time was given to get into the bible passages properly this at least posed some intriguing questions and pointed in the direction of resources for further study.
Lunch was next after which we got out for a walk to blow away the cobwebs and have a good natter. In the third session entitled “God Is Love: perspectives on developing an appropriate spirituality for peacemaking”, Tamsin and Mark explored a spirituality centred in God’s love and its potential role in peacemaking.
After another chance to drink tea and eat cake (or fruit!), Mark showed the new CHIPS film which gives a bit of background to the work of CHIPS, followed by some slides which he used to give an overview of CHIPS principles, the CHIPS Uganda project and the future of CHIPS.
After a good days work we all went out to sample the local cuisine at a nearby Balti house before retiring to our beds.
On Sunday we worshipped together using the CHIPS Peace Eucharist (slightly modified for the occasion) which included a chance to light candles as a focus for prayer around specific issues anyone in the group wanted to share.
The last session gave a chance for everyone to fill out a session summary and evaluation form and then we had a general discussion about the future of the group and the format of subsequent meetings.
A thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile weekend – thanks to all concerned and we look forward to many more!
Mark and Tamsin