Global Crossroads - Ancient Paths

Bishop Steven Croft
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We are living at a global crossroads: a time of deep challenge, uncertainty and change. What kind of leadership is needed in this moment - not only in the Church, but in our communities, our nations, and our world? Bishop Steven draws on the wisdom of ancient Christian texts - and a few sage guests along the way - to reflect on how what it means to follow Christ in today’s world.

  1. JAN 21

    The vital importance of joy: lessons from St Augustine

    This second essay on the vital ministry of Christian formation and preaching in Epiphany draws on the wisdom of St Augustine, a Bishop and Doctor of the Church, in North Africa.

    11 min

  2. JAN 7

    Preaching in Epiphany

    A short reflection on preaching in the season of Epiphany, exploring the Church’s calling to invite others to come and see Christ. Drawing on scripture, tradition, and the rhythms of the Christian year, this address encourages clergy and lay ministers to preach with clarity, generosity, and hope as we journey toward Lent.

    7 min

  3. 11/26/2025

    The Advent Calendar

    Bishop Steven reflects on the unexpected origins of his 2006 novel The Advent Calendar - a chapter-a-day Advent story blending family narrative, biblical imagination, and the rich themes of Isaiah. He shares how a move to Oxford and a creative writing class sparked the idea, why the heroine is named Alice, and how each day’s journey through the olive-wood calendar reveals new guides - Abraham and Sarah, “Col” the prophet, John the Baptist, and Mary. Steven also offers behind-the-scenes insights into the writing process, the hidden Isaiah clues, and why the book still resonates with readers every December.

    8 min

  4. 11/17/2025

    Modern science and ancient faith

    "It’s getting harder for scientists not to believe in God" - The Spectator New discoveries are reshaping the conversation around science and faith. Bishop Steven's presidential address to Diocesan Synod today explores what the latest thinking in physics, biology and cosmology might mean for a generation hungry for meaning.Read online on Bishop Steven's Substack.

    15 min

  5. 11/05/2025

    The Lord's Prayer and mental health

    Where do we turn for simple, practical help to cope with anxiety, bad days and depression? Bishop Steven reminds us that help can be found in something simple and familiar, the Lord's Prayer.

    8 min

  6. 10/22/2025

    Will you get up and go?

    The final story in our Stories of Conversion series brings us to Caesarea, to Cornelius and Peter - two people transformed by the Holy Spirit in very different ways. Bishop Steven reflects on how Peter’s experience still speaks to us: calling each of us to fresh courage, humility, and joy in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with every person, without exception. Read on Substack.

    19 min

  7. 10/15/2025

    What can you do with just three days?

    From enemy to brother. Lives turned around in just three days. On the road to Damascus, Saul meets the risen Christ — and Ananias is called to do the unthinkable: welcome his persecutor. Bishop Steven reflects on radical grace, courage, and the God who still says to us, “Get up and go.”Subscribe and read via Substack.

    19 min
  8. The Ethiopian Eunuch and Philip the Deacon

    10/09/2025

    The Ethiopian Eunuch and Philip the Deacon

    An Ethiopian official. A desert road. A chance encounter that changes everything. Bishop Steven reflects on the first of three Acts conversion stories — a reminder that God is already at work in the most unlikely places, calling all kinds of people into joy and belonging. Read online at bishopstevencroft.substack.com

    17 min
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We are living at a global crossroads: a time of deep challenge, uncertainty and change. What kind of leadership is needed in this moment - not only in the Church, but in our communities, our nations, and our world? Bishop Steven draws on the wisdom of ancient Christian texts - and a few sage guests along the way - to reflect on how what it means to follow Christ in today’s world.

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