30 May 2025, 08:50
Dealing with Today’s Giants: BUC Hosts Joint PARL, Communication and Stewardship Day 2025
In an inspiring display of unity and purpose, the British Union Conference (BUC) hosted a dynamic joint Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL), Communication, and Stewardship Day at the North England Conference’s Camp Hill church in Birmingham on Sabbath 17 May. Themed ‘Dealing with Today’s Giants (Part 2)’, the event built upon the momentum of last year’s impactful retreat in Hinckley, continuing to address the pressing moral, theological, and societal challenges confronting the Church.
This year’s event, a rebranded expansion of the traditional PARL and Communication retreat, included Stewardship and featured a hybrid format: an in-person Sabbath programme at Camp Hill and interactive online breakout training sessions in the afternoon via Zoom and YouTube.
The morning commenced with a stirring Sabbath School lesson led by Dr Sam Neves, Associate Communication Director of the General Conference (GC). Dr Neves unpacked the theme ‘The Foundation of Prophecy’ with depth and relevance, setting the tone for the day. The divine service message was delivered by Dr Patrick Lowe, North England Conference PARL Sponsor, who passionately challenged attendees to “keep watch while waiting,” emphasising spiritual vigilance amid today’s societal distractions.
Central to the day’s theme was a courageous exploration of contemporary issues – including gender identity, freedom of belief, and the ethical debates surrounding assisted dying. These “giants” were addressed through thoughtful presentations and dialogue aimed at equipping members to be articulate and compassionate ambassadors of truth in their communities.
In the afternoon, the PARL programme continued onsite at Camp Hill, while the Communication and Stewardship segments transitioned to a Zoom meeting. Tailored breakout sessions enabled targeted learning and practical training by experienced facilitators.
The Stewardship segment was titled, Mission in Motion find a detailed report here while the Communication segment, led by Dr Sam Neves (GC) focused on Adventist Branding.
A highlight of the PARL segment was a compelling presentation by Dr Kevin Burton of Andrews University. Dr Burton addressed the rise of Christian Nationalism, offering a historical and theological critique. He reminded attendees of the Adventist Church’s longstanding commitment to religious liberty and the vital need to resist the fusion of church and state.
Dr Brighton Kavaloh, South England Conference PARL Director, followed with a deeply engaging presentation on the topic of Legalising Assisted Dying. His sensitive exploration of the legal, ethical, and pastoral dimensions of end-of-life decisions resonated deeply with the audience, inviting reflection on how churches can uphold both compassion and moral conviction in an evolving cultural landscape.
The day culminated in a live panel discussion moderated by BUC President and PARL Director Pastor Eglan Brooks. Attendees posed thoughtful questions to the presenters, demonstrating a collective hunger to understand and respond to complex issues with scriptural fidelity and grace.
In his closing remarks, Pastor Brooks expressed heartfelt appreciation for the speakers’ courage and clarity, highlighting the importance of open and respectful dialogue within the Church on challenging topics. “It is through conversations like these,” he remarked, “that we become better equipped to face our giants – not with fear, but with faith, wisdom, and love.”
In an inspiring display of unity and purpose, the British Union Conference (BUC) hosted a dynamic joint Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL), Communication, and Stewardship Day at the North England Conference’s Camp Hill church in Birmingham on Sabbath 17 May. Themed ‘Dealing with Today’s Giants (Part 2)’, the event built upon the momentum of last year’s impactful retreat in Hinckley, continuing to address the pressing moral, theological, and societal challenges confronting the Church.
This year’s event, a rebranded expansion of the traditional PARL and Communication retreat, included Stewardship and featured a hybrid format: an in-person Sabbath programme at Camp Hill and interactive online breakout training sessions in the afternoon via Zoom and YouTube.
The morning commenced with a stirring Sabbath School lesson led by Dr Sam Neves, Associate Communication Director of the General Conference (GC). Dr Neves unpacked the theme ‘The Foundation of Prophecy’ with depth and relevance, setting the tone for the day. The divine service message was delivered by Dr Patrick Lowe, North England Conference PARL Sponsor, who passionately challenged attendees to “keep watch while waiting,” emphasising spiritual vigilance amid today’s societal distractions.
Central to the day’s theme was a courageous exploration of contemporary issues – including gender identity, freedom of belief, and the ethical debates surrounding assisted dying. These “giants” were addressed through thoughtful presentations and dialogue aimed at equipping members to be articulate and compassionate ambassadors of truth in their communities.
In the afternoon, the PARL programme continued onsite at Camp Hill, while the Communication and Stewardship segments transitioned to a Zoom meeting. Tailored breakout sessions enabled targeted learning and practical training by experienced facilitators.
The Stewardship segment was titled, Mission in Motion find a detailed report here while the Communication segment, led by Dr Sam Neves (GC) focused on Adventist Branding.
A highlight of the PARL segment was a compelling presentation by Dr Kevin Burton of Andrews University. Dr Burton addressed the rise of Christian Nationalism, offering a historical and theological critique. He reminded attendees of the Adventist Church’s longstanding commitment to religious liberty and the vital need to resist the fusion of church and state.
Dr Brighton Kavaloh, South England Conference PARL Director, followed with a deeply engaging presentation on the topic of Legalising Assisted Dying. His sensitive exploration of the legal, ethical, and pastoral dimensions of end-of-life decisions resonated deeply with the audience, inviting reflection on how churches can uphold both compassion and moral conviction in an evolving cultural landscape.
The day culminated in a live panel discussion moderated by BUC President and PARL Director Pastor Eglan Brooks. Attendees posed thoughtful questions to the presenters, demonstrating a collective hunger to understand and respond to complex issues with scriptural fidelity and grace.
In his closing remarks, Pastor Brooks expressed heartfelt appreciation for the speakers’ courage and clarity, highlighting the importance of open and respectful dialogue within the Church on challenging topics. “It is through conversations like these,” he remarked, “that we become better equipped to face our giants – not with fear, but with faith, wisdom, and love.”
