Torch Trust: All Content: Recent Episodes
Torch Trust
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Inspired by our series on artificial intelligence, audio production coordinator James Brookman gives us us an insight into the AI voices behind some of the Torch audiobooks and how he tests their quality. He also reflects on how AI can never know and love us the way God can. And though it's nice to always be validated by AI, it's important for our growth to be challenged by God.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the sixth and final episode of our series focusing on AI, we thought it was time for the AI to take the microphone, so Linn Davies sat down to interview Chat GPT. They discuss why AI makes up things that isn't true, ways to use AI creatively, and whether AI can ever replace humans.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the fifth episode of our series on AI, we speak to Richard Powell who works with technology and rehabilitation for the disability charity Henshaw's in Greater Manchester. He shares how AI has changed what rehabilitation looks like, and some fascinating examples of how his clients are using AI to better advocate for themselves, as well as discovering new hobbies.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In part four of our series on AI, we sit down to talk to Reverend Canon Tim Bull about AI in a Christian context. He shares how AI has been adopted by the church, his thoughts on AI verses human creativity and on whether Jesus would use AI if he was here today?
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we continue the conversation between Hayley Boston and Linn Davies about more ways AI is assisting them in their daily lives, as well as some of their future speculations on how AI might evolve in the future.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the second instalment of our AI Series, Linn Davies is in conversation with Hayley Boston. They're both blind from birth and share how they use AI in some surprisingly practical ways.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the first episode of our six part Series on artificial intelligence, we hear from AI expert Mary Kemp. Mary breaks down the different types of AI, and shares the various ways AI is being used today as well as some future potential uses.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Sunday 21st June is Father's Day in the UK and we're hearing from Mark Chester founder of Who Let The Dads Out, who's providing some thoughts for us around being a dad. Plus, we've got the second part of our conversation with former double paralympian Darren Harris, who was one of the most capped players for England when he played for the blind football side. He’ll be sharing more about what he does now and gives some thoughts on the World Cup too as a former professional.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Our guest this week is Darren Harris; a double paralympian who has 10 world and european medals to his name, and was capped over 150 times for the England Blind Football Side - so who better to chat to as the World Cup football tournament gets underway?! Darren chats to us about his career in sport, life and shares more about the journey of losing his sight too.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this week's edition of Reflections, Torch's resources Curator Janette Sturgis recommends some of the latest arrivals in the Torch library. Marilyn reflects on the Bible story of Gideon, and in this thought of the week, James Brookman tells us a funny story about an inscription on a gravestone.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
For Volunteer Week, we're talking to Samuel Wilkins who edits and narrates audiobooks for Torch. Samuel talks about how he got into working with audiobooks, challenges with audiobook productions as a totally blind person, and shares how some narrators prepare their voices before reading to sound as good as possible.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this special Pentecost edition, Marilyn talks about what and who The Holy Spirit is, shares how The Holy Spirit has been working in her life, and we also visit the scriptures and hear a sermon from Torch's Vicki Bryson about how Pentecost is relevant to us today.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we're featuring an interview with Anne Phipps who has an interesting story both with regards to losing her sight as well as evolving from an Evangelical Christian to enjoying a faith where she finds comfort in not always having all the answers. The episode is part of the Blind Faith podcast also from Torch Trust which are hosted by Mark Madovan.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In part two of Linn's conversation with comedian and magician Tom Elliott and singer Charlie Green, we dive deeper into Charlie's story. He talks about coming to the public's attention on Britain's Got Talent aged eleven and how his journey has continued from there. Tom and Charlie also give more information about their upcoming Feeling Good tour.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This episode features the first part of an interesting conversation with comedian and magician Tom Elliott, and singer and former BGT finalist Charlie Green. In part one, we hear how Tom came to do comedy full time and how the two performers compliment each other.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode we meet Minister Jeryl Bayona, who is passionate about disability inclusion in the church, both due to his lived experience with a congenital eye condition and being the father of a non-verbal autistic child. Jeryl shares how he never set out to be a minister, differences of working in the UK and the Philippines and how he'd like better include neuro diverse people by offering alternative services.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this edition of Reflections, Marilyn reflects on God's impeccable timing and the deeper meaning of grace. We also hear from people who attend the Torch coffee morning and why they enjoy it. And for those who are unable to come in person, there is also one happening on Zoom
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this Episode, we join musician Kate Risdon as she goes on a tactile tour of Peterborough Cathedral and in Thought Of The Week, we hear Iain Lackie's reflection on busyness.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Easter is the biggest act of forgiveness there ever was, in that Jesus atoned for our sins. So in this Easter edition, we focus on stories of forgiveness and new beginnings. We hear reflections from some Torch staff, an interview with audio producer Elliott Frisby about forgiving his dad as well as forgiving himself, and an account of forgiveness in post war Rwanda.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Good Friday is an important day in the Christian calendar. So in this edition, we talk to Iain Lackie, who came to faith on Good Friday, and we reflect on why keeping the good in Good Friday makes sense, despite it being a painful day for those who live it as well as what it represent today.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This Palm Sunday edition explores the kind of king Jesus was through Bible readings and reflections. The fact that he came riding into Jerusalem on a donkey suggests that he represented servitude and humility, very different qualities to what's normally associated with a ruler.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode we hear a fascinating conversation between Marilyn and her ministry partner Tracy about how they work together when one is deaf and the other is blind. Author Emily Owen also talks about why she chose to learn sign language when she became deaf.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we're marking Mothering Sunday and looking at some of the mothers who are featured in the Bible. We'll also hear some poetry and of course have a Thought for the Week too.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this edition of Reflections, we hear from author Alex Banwell, as she talks about her life, her writing, and the themes explored in her books Just Benny and Releasing Janet.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this edition of Reflections, we hear more about the Passion for Life initiative, as Torch CEO Sarah Dawkins speaks to evangelist and author Rico Tice about its vision and purpose.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we revisit a selection of Marilyn’s reflections, exploring faith, hope and everyday life.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In honour of Valentine's Day on the 14th, we're exploring how weddings can be made more accessible and sight loss friendly with the help of two people who speak from experience: Niall, who got married 5 years ago and is visually impaired, and Linn who got married 4 years ago and is blind.
The 08th of February in 2026 marks Autism Sunday, and this week on Reflections we chat with the Sensory Healthy Church about how they're helping churches become more accessible for those living with sensory conditions like Autism and ADHD.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
We’re covering plenty in this week’s edition of Reflections, including hearing about some new technology for those living with sight loss to help them access live events, we've got the latest news on Torch Holidays which are taking place in 2026, and we’ll be marking national story telling week with a quick catch up with our torch resource curator and finding out what’s currently in the Torch library too.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
On Reflections this week, we’re going to hear the testimony of Doctor Trevor Stammers, a man of science, an expert in medical ethics, and a GP on the verge of total burnout, who in conversation with Mark Maddavan, shares the story of how in a single hour his world went dark, lost his sight, but found God.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
We've reached the middle of January, when Christmas seems like a distant memory, and spring is still far away. So in this episode, we speak to opera singer and psycho therapist Victoria Oruwari who gives us some tips on how to find joy in the middle of the heart of the winter.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Most of us has felt that God can seem far away sometimes, no matter where we are on our faith journey. In this episode, we hear from Torch CEO Sarah Dawkins who talks about how we can hold on to a bigger truth, that God is always with us no matter what. And Marilyn Baker reflects on how God have used people to give her practical help in her own life.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the first 2026 edition of Reflections, we dive into the journey of the three magi through a poem and a creative piece by our late friend and former Chair Of Trustees, Dr. Mike Townsend. Coptic Christmas is taking place the day after Epiphany. And we also hear from Phil Hanna about how itis celebrated.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In the final 2025 episode of Reflections, we revisit some of our favourite moments throughout the year. They include the new Torch initiatives, The Hopes Project and The Chaplaincy Service, the interview with deaf author and music lover Emily Owen, the Sound without Sight project, The Assante Twi Braille Bible and the amazing Beech Band invention by Carl Beech. There's also a heartfelt new-year message from Torch's CEO Sarah Dawkins.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this Christmas Day Special, we journey to Nigeria, Sweden and Norway to hear how Christmas is celebrated there. We hear the Nativity reading from Luke 2 1-20, Catherine Campbell's Christmas day reflection from her book Journey With Me Through Christmas and we hear from visitors to Sight Village London about what Christmas means to them.
All excerpts from Journey With Me Through Christmas are featured with the explicit permission of the author and IVP books.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
On the final Sunday in Advent, churches around the world light the candle that symbolises love. In this episode we hear from Catherine Campbell, the author of Journey With Me Through Christmas as she reflects on who has shown her Christlike love and what love in action looks like to her. We also talk about the different Greek words for love and hear a reflections from Torch's head of comms Zoe Byron n how Jesus has given us a command to love people in the way God loves us.
All excerpts from Journey With Me Through Christmas are featured with the explicit permission of the author and IVP books.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
For the third Sunday in Advent, we focus on the theme of joy. In this episode, Torch Together Coordinator Becky Davies reflects on what makes her feel joyful and Chair Of Trustee tony Brown shares a funny story about Billy Graham, a Limousine and a very surprised police officer.
All excerpts from Journey With Me Through Christmas are featured with the explicit permission of the author and IVP books.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
The second Sunday in Advent is all about peace. In this episode, Torch's head of Production Paul Rhodes reflects on how the fact that he never worries about anything makes him experience peace, the peace the shepherds must have felt when the angels revealed the news of the birth of Jesus and we hear a few more bits from last year's carol service.
All excerpts from Journey With Me Through Christmas are featured with the explicit permission of the author and IVP books.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
It's the first Sunday in Advent, and in churches all around the world, one candle is being lit to signify hope. So this episode features a hopeful reflection from Vicki Bryson, a snippet from last year's carol service and a excerpt of the book Journey With Me Through Christmas by Catherine Campbell, which focuses on the theme of hope and waiting.
All excerpts from Journey With Me Through Christmas are featured with the explicit permission of Catherine Campbell and Inter-Varsity Press.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
It's easy to talk about the more challenging aspects of being blind. And although it's important to do so, to improve quality of life for blind and partially sighted people, it's also important to stop and appreciate when being blind can give you advantages in life. In this episode, we're hearing from Stephanie Sergeant about the many ways she feels being blind has blessed her.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
With so many things going on in the world today, from wars and famines, to increased costs of living, it's easy to feel anxious and perhaps a little sad and confused. Today's episode reflects on how we can still turn to God's promise of hope in these confusing times. We hear from Marilyn Baker herself, as well as torch staff member Sarah Brookman.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Remembrance Sunday is marked on the closest Sunday to Remembrance day itself and features many of the same rituals, including the wearing of poppies and the two minutes silence. This week's episode features a conversation between Producer Linn davies and former staff member Matthew Horspool, taken from our Insights podcast, about things blind and partially sighted might find tricky around this day and how churches can support them.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Client Services is the first point of call when you get in touch with Torch, and this week's episode features new team leader Julie Jones. Julie talks about differences between life in South Africa and the UK, her sight loss journey and the main areas she'd like to focus on in her new job.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
It's nearly the end of October. And since this is the first Sunday after the clocks have gone back, Marilyn reflects on different aspects of time, from how Jesus always made time to heal those who needed it, to how time is a love language.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This episode features some reflections from Marilyn's personal podcast Hope For The Heart. She touches on how different people in the Bible dealt with the huge responsibilities and blessings they were entrusted, including Mary, who became the earthly mother of Jesus. She also shares a real life story about the positive effects of love and forgiveness.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this week's episode we give you a special edition celebrating Sight Loss Sunday. This is Torch's invitation to churches to wake up to the gifts of blind and partially sighted people. We hear this year's sermon by Phil Bryson and reflections on what it's like to be blind and partially sighted and in leadership roles.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Today Autism and neurodiversity is something we're getting a much better understanding of, though, if you've met one Autistic person, you've only met one. When author Robert Noble was growing up in the 50s and 60s however, his conditions were not well understood, landing him in a variety of different situations from the funny to the frustrating. In this episode, Robert talks about his book, I'm Autistic, get me out of here! and what it was like growing up Autistic and with a Christian faith. He also talks about his passion for music and his work with street children in Kenya. The sale of his book will go towards this work.
To learn more about his work, visit neemasociety.com.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week, we're sitting down to speak with Revd Canon Michael Mitton, writer, speaker and director, who is going to lead the upcoming 2025 Torch Retreat. We talk about how he got into writing, and dig deeper into the subject of God through the four Seasons, which he will be talking about at the retreat.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Angels appear frequently in the Bible, and many of us probably have an idea of what angels might look, feel or sound like. This episode features an interview with Stephanie Sergeant, who shares the many ways she believes angels have come to her aid. Marilyn also shares a remarkable angel encounter of her own.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we'll hear from Torch Churches Partnership Coordinator Vicki Bryson about some of the events Torch has participated in recently. This episode also features a devotion by Zoe Byron, Torch's head of comms, which was first featured on Pure 24 7 breakfast bites.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Sight Loss Sunday is an annual event in which Torch is encouraging churches to focus on blind and partially sighted people and their gifts and presence in church life. This year's Sight Loss Sunday takes place 12 October. In this episode, we first speak to Torch CEO Sarah Dawkins about how her awareness has evolved regarding issues blind and partially sighted people face since she started working for Torch. We then speak to Torch's Churches Partnership Coordinator Vicki Bryson, who brings some practical steps both church leaders and blind and partially sighted people can take to ensure better inclusion and fuller participation in church life.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week, Marilyn chats with author and friend Tracy Williamson about her book 'Unashamed', which is a powerful exploration of how we can experience restoration from life’s hurts with God’s help.
Tracey's book is also available from Torch in a variety of formats for people wishing to find out more. To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week Marilyn Baker sits down to talk to Reflections producer Linn Davies-who is a trained journalist, Afrobeats singer and writer. Linn talks about working for the BBC, growing an online platform, writing thrillers and the inspiration behind the featured songs.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Accessible Christian literature remains at the heart of Torch's mission. And this week we meet the new resources curator, Janette Sturgis, whose working on expanding our library and bookshop offerings. She talks about her love of working in retail, her evolving understanding of disabilities, and shares details about some new discipleship books which she's particularly excited about.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we sit down to a conversation with Torch's newest trustee Philip Rice. He talks about his love of the Torch Holidays and his passion to bring children and young people to torch-making the client base more age diverse.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode we talk to Sarah Brookman, the visionary behind the new Torch Chaplaincy telephone service, which aims to support people going through life changes relating to sight loss. We also hear from Heinrich Barth, one of the chaplaincy volunteers who lost his sight following an brain aneurism in 2019. The conversation with Heinrich is taken from season one of Torch's podcast Walking By faith.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week, Christian Vision For Men's Carl Beech chats to us about living with Early Onset Parkinson's, and shares how his struggle to live with the disease turned into a remarkable innovation to help battle his Parkinson's symptoms. Carl demonstrates the device he's developed during the programme, which when he turns it on demonstrates just how effective it is as his symptoms disappear - he hopes that with its release this year it will change the lives of millions of people worldwide.
In this weeks episode we hear from Gareth davies who's married to Torch Together coordinator Becky Davies. He talks about what makes a good Torch holiday volunteer and shares part of one of the talks he gave on one of the most recent holidays.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode we speak to Phil Bryson who is a vicar at St Dionysius Church in Market Harborough. He shares how, after becoming partially sighted, he lost his self-confidence and how he now sees it as a strength in his job. He also talks about his long and prayerful way towards fulfilling his calling in church leadership.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Calling all podcast lovers! We are pleased to let you know that season 2 of our podcast Walking By Faith is coming out. This episode features the first of the Walking By Faith conversations, and a conversation with Torch friend and client Bernie Warren. And former Reflection's producer Linn Ball reflects on what she'd like to have written on her plaque should she ever get a bench in her honour.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode, producer Linn Davies is in conversation with Revd Samuel Affel from the Ghana Bible Society about their cooperation with Compass Braille to launch a Braille Bible in Assante Twi. As well as talking about the importance of accessing scripture in ones native language, Samuel also talks about what education and employment is like for blind and partially sighted people in Ghana.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week on Reflections we mark 2 special occasions - Trinity Sunday, and a special Father's Day sermon from Rev John Beauchamp too.
As Foster Care Fortnight draws to a close, we’re chatting to Dr Krish Kandiah, the founder of the Christian organisation ‘Home For Good', a charity dedicated to finding a home for every child who needs one.' Krish is a also a Foster Carer, as well as being a government advisor, and his insight into this area is second to none.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260, email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week Producer Linn Davies talks to Nayoung Lee, a clarinettist from South Korea who now lives in the UK. Nayoung shares her experiences of school and church life growing up, why she chose to come to the UK and how climbing mountains made her appreciate life and God in new ways.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Tony Brown has been acting Chair of Trustees for Torch for some time now. And in this episode, we get to know the man behind the role. He talks about how he got involved with Torch and shares some highlights of his recent cruise along the west coast of Africa.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we hear from the Archdeacon of Sefton and Knowsley, Rev Pete Spiers, who chats about his disability, identity, and reflects on his love of God, finding faith and the Easter story too.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode of Reflections, we hear the fascinating story of Emily Owen, a Christian author who has had to learn to navigate the world with deafness after NF2A caused her hearing loss. She shares how becoming deaf has impacted how she worships God, and how her journey gave voice to her writing and the project she's currently working on.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we hear a special sermon from Rev Canon (Emeritus) Steph van der Toorn that explores the peaks and troughs of motherhood, and considers the struggles that so many can battle with too.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode, we meet weight lifter Ines Higgins as well as park runner and volunteer Alison Evans who are both blind. They both share how they've found great communities through their fitness journeys and give some tips on how to get moving.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode of Reflections, we take a closer look at healing, which is a controversial topic in the disabled community. We hear from blind priest Melissa Carter who gives us her take on the subject, and delve deeper into the story of the bleeding woman.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode of Reflections, Linn talks to Torch's Becky Davies about what to expect for this year's online Lent group. We also hear an extract from At home in Lent by Gordon Giles, the book the group will be discussing.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode, we hear from Vicki Bryson, Torch's new Church Partnerships coordinator, who talks about what she thinks may be some barriers to including blind and partially sighted people in Church. We also hear from Marie McCarroll who attended Torchs Northern Ireland convention.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
This week we hear the second part of Hardeep Rai's story. And how he rebuilt his professional life after leaving finance and setting upkaleidoscope.group to help disabled people find meaningful work or start a business.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In 2006 Hardeep Rai was living a good life. He was at the pinnacle of his career in finance and he was about to become a dad. What he didn't know, was that the birth of his son Eshan, who was severely disabled, would turn his life in an unexpected direction, including becoming a Christian and starting an enterprise to help disabled people in work and business.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode, we hear the second part of Linn's interview with blind sound engineer and musician Peter Bosher, who reflects on how faith inspires his music and talks about the Elizabeth Eagle-bott Memorial Fund, an exciting opportunity for blind and partially sighted musicians. We also get another teaser from Blind faith, Torch's newest podcast which feature stories of blind and partially sighted people.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
In this episode, Linn Davies interviews blind musician and sound engineer Peter Bosher, who shares how he got into working with sound. He also talks about sound without Sight, an initiative for blind musicians and sound makers. Visit soundwithoutsight.org to find out more. There's also a teaser from Torch's newest podcast Blind faith, which features stories of blind and partially sighted people
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
For many, January can feel like a long, cold month. So in this episode, we speak to laughter workshop leader Ian Macdonald about how we can incorporate more laughter in our lives.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Bookings for the Torch Together Holiday programme 2025 opens on 13 January. In this episode, Torch Together Coordinator Becky Davies talks about this years offerings and we chat to Colin and Lesley Palgrave about what you can expect as a guest on a Torch holiday.
To contact Torch Trust with any comments or feedback, call 01858 438260 email info@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org.
Braille was invented 200 years ago. And this episode looks at how Braille continues to be significant today both in the UK and abroad. New producer Linn Davies first talks to Jake Kyle from Compass Braille about the new NIV Braille Bible translation and then to Matthew Horspool about how Braille enables him to be pard of Coventry Cathedral Choir.
Marilyn Baker sits down with Torch Trusts' Sheila Armstrong to chat about friendship and disability, and how the two go hand in hand.
Join Marilyn and the Torch Trust team as they bring you readings, messages and a Christmas special sermon. We're also joined by comedian Paul Kerensa for the tale behind one of the greatest Christmas songs too!
Podcasters, authors and social media starlets Jade and John Reynolds join Chris Byland to chat faith, disability and their latest book 'Able To Laugh' in this is the extended edition of Reflections.
The second part of our chat with Paul hears him chatting about eye sight, WW1, his book Hark! The Biography of Christmas and the history podcast, The British Broadcasting Century, and much more!
Paul Kerensa travels around the UK constantly on tour with his various shows, currently it’s carols and comedians visiting churches which is a whole heap of fun and gets you in the mood for Christmas, but away from that he’s written for top TV shows like Miranda, Not Going Out, Top Gear, TFI Friday, The Royal Variety Performance. Over the next couple of weeks, Paul chats with us about his health, faith and of course Christmas!
We hear once more from Fiona MacMillan, who shares with us her role within the Church of England’s General Synod, and what it's doing to help churches become more disability aware.
This week on Reflections we hear from Fiona MacMillan, a member of the Church of England’s general synod, trustee of Inclusive Church, and chair of the Disability Advisory Group at St Martin-in-the-Fields in London.
We hear from a charity that is on a mission to connect churches with people who have a learning disability by breaking down the barriers of accessibility and helping people to understand the bible and Jesus.
We hear once more from preacher and author Kate Nicholas, who continue to share her journey with God, writing and cancer.
Preacher Kate Nicholas takes us on her unusual route to finding God, and shares the journey that she’s been on with cancer.
Freelance Theology of Mental Health Specialist, Rachael Newham, talks about how she’s been helping churches, her books and specialist degree.
Freelance Theology of Mental Health Specialist, Rachael Newham, shares her incredibly candid, powerful and honest journey of living with mental illness and God.
Join us as we mark and celebrate Sight Loss Sunday 2024 with a special church at home service
Sarah Dawkins, CEO of the Torch Trust looks ahead to 2024's Sight Loss Sunday with Marilyn Baker and shares just why it's so important.
Disability Awareness Sunday, organised by Christian charity Through The Roof, share how they are helping churches to become more disability aware.
We hear from online support network YouBelong to find out how they are supporting Christians living with chronic illness and disability.
British Paralympian Kare Adenegan takes some time out at Paris 2024 to talk to us about her life in sport and with God.
Rev Augustine Tanner-Ihm shares what life was like growing up in Chicago, and how living with borderline personality disorder, dyslexia and dyspraxia have all impacted his faith.
This week on Reflections with Marilyn Baker, we hear from the Reverend Shuna Body MBE, who wears a multitude of hats in her day to day life: she’s a vicar in Kent, works for the fire service, a school governor, chair of a charity, is married to a sheep farmer, she’s a fencing coach, a trustee for Wheel Power and has attended many Paralympic games in her role within sport. We hear about her life in fencing and find out how God plays His part too.
This week on Reflections Marilyn is in conversation with Craig Spence from the International Paralympic Committee ahead of this year's games in Paris talking about how the Paralympics have become one of the world’s largest sporting events, diversity and inclusion, what we can expect in 2024, and some of the positives and difficulties that surround the games too.
This week on Reflections Marilyn Baker is joined by Torch Trust’s Sheila Armstrong to chat about Sight Village Central 2024 that took place recently in Birmingham, an exhibition which offers a unique opportunity to discuss and engage with new innovations and technology for people living with any degree of sight loss.
How do you get on with getting out and about with sight loss? Hazel Dudley is a Liverpool football fan and regularly travels to games - she shares her experiences with me about her travels, enjoying sport as a fan, and the importance of Jesus in her life too.
Dave Clarke OBE is a former England and Great Britain Blind Footballer who captained sides during his 144 appearances for his country and also scored 128 goals. He has been entered into the English Football Hall of Fame for his achievements and is now the Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association and Paralympics GB . Dave is chatting to Torch Trusts’ Sheila Armstrong about the recent Euro's, England and Gareth Southgate, this years Paralympic games in Paris and about the future of E-Sports and Paralympic sports too.
With the Olympics getting underway very soon, we’re this week thinking about the Christian Missionary Eric Liddell, the famous Scottish athlete and devout Christian who during the 1924 Olympic games in Paris dropped out of the 100-metres run —his strongest event—because the qualifying heats were scheduled for a Sunday. Joining us to chat about Eric Liddell is John MacMillan, the CEO of the Eric Liddell Community in Edinburgh, a care charity and community hub founded in 1980 in memory of the inspirational Olympic gold medallist.
This week on Reflections, we’re hearing from another sporting voice - in fact, in the United States he’s got a notable standing as a national champion blind bowler, securing a top-10 national ranking! He’s also a drummer, and a marriage minister that seeks to help couples bring God into the centre of their marriages. His name is John Helton and is the man behind the Blind Fury ministries.
On Reflections this week we’re turning our attention to the tennis fortnight that’s now underway at Wimbledon and hearing from Carolyn Skinner of Third Space Ministries, a charity that supports the fans trying to get into the ground with a friendly smile, eye masks, and the love of God!
This week on Reflections is the second part of our inspiring special with Penny Melville-Brown OBE, a former Royal Navy Commander who lost her sight during her time serving in the Navy. But after losing her sight, she didn’t give up on life - she turned her hand to helping those with disabilities get back into work, has worked for the government and even ended up going around the globe talking about her other passion, baking!
This week on Reflections is the first of a 2 part inspiring special chatting with Penny Melville-Brown OBE, a former Royal Navy Commander who lost her sight during her time serving in the Navy. But after losing her sight, she didn’t give up on life - she turned her hand to helping those with disabilities get back into work, has worked for the government and even ended up going around the globe talking about her other passion, baking! In part one Penny is chatting with Torch Trust’s Sheila Armstrong about her life in the Royal Navy and sight loss.
Sunday 16th of June, marks Father's Day in the UK– a day where we pay tribute to dads and the roles they play in shaping our lives. The day however also brings with it hurt for some and we’ll be looking at the highs and lows of what Father's Day is about with the singer turned broadcaster, reverend Cindy Kent, who helps us to think about not just the role of our earthly fathers, but finding love and hope in God the father too.
Monday 10th of June, marks the start of National Carer’s Week. It’s a time to reflect on and appreciate the people across the UK who do such amazing work caring for others. Here on Reflections we’ve spoken to lots of people about the different forms caring takes and what it involves so today’s show is a little bit of a showcase of some of our favourite caring-related interviews from previous years.
Today we’re talking about loneliness – something that everyone has most likely felt at one time or another. To mark the upcoming Loneliness Awareness Week, we're chatting with Lucy from Marmalade Trust and exploring some wonderful resources that might be able to help. Learn more at https://www.lonelinessawarenessweek.org/
At the start of this year, Torch Trust had a change in leadership and we were joined by a brand new CEO. Her name is Sarah Dawkins and now that she’s nearly six months in to the role, we wanted to hear how she was finding it. Our producer Grace caught up with Sarah to learn all about her life, her faith and her vision for Torch…
On today's show we're observing and exploring Pentecost, the day that the Holy Spirit descended on Mary and the Apostles, with some lovely reflective pieces...
Torch's accessible lending library is one of our most popular and long-running services, and we recently discovered that one person has borrowed nearly 1000 braille and audio books from us! We caught up with Patricia to find out more about her life, experience of sight loss, faith and love of reading…
Global prayer movement, Thy Kingdom Come, invites Christians around the world to pray for more people to come to know Jesus. It starts on the 9th of May and runs until the 19th and we spoke to organiser Jean Kerr to find out more, & learn how their resources are being made accessible...
Scripture Union have been running Christian holidays for many years and this year they’re launching a new holiday called Families Inc which is aimed at younger children with additional needs. We thought it sounded marvellous so we spoke with Helen Vinter to learn more...
More and more places are starting to offer tactile tours so that blind or partially sighted people can really get a feel for a building or venue. We think these tours can be such a great way to get to know somewhere without needing to see it, so we joined Kate Risdon for a tactile tour of Peterborough Cathedral…
Today's episode is all about the joys of holidays and we're exploring some of the lovely Christian holidays that Torch runs for blind and partially sighted people!
On this week's episode, we're shaking off the cobwebs and focusing on fitness for spring. How can people with disabilities best find ways to get fit that work for them? Join us as we explore this topic!
Join us on this very special day as we celebrate the Resurrection with an uplifting show featuring a brand new retelling of the Easter story from the points of view of some characters we don't usually hear very much about...
Join us on the Reflections podcast for the start of Holy Week – a very eventful week in the life of Jesus which leads up to Easter Sunday. Today is Palm Sunday, which marks Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem. We'll also be taking a look at Maundy Thursday and exploring a very old tradition...
We're halfway through March and Spring is well and truly in the air so join us on the Reflections podcast for a lovely spiritually uplifting episode celebrating new life and all that that entails...
This week on the Reflections podcast, we're celebrating Mother’s Day by taking a special look at some of the mothers in the Bible!
Braille Bibles give blind people around the world the opportunity to read the word of God for themselves. But, just as important as having a Bible in a format you can read, is having it in a language you understand! Jake Kyle from Compass Braille joins us in this episode to explore this fascinating topic...
Fellowship has been an important part of Christianity right since the beginning but for some people it can be very difficult to find community: they may be isolated, unable to get to church or they may feel unwelcome even if they can get there. Well, the Disabled Christians Fellowship have a mission to help people with disabilities enjoy faith and fellowship together...
Two weeks ago we were joined by the wonderful Ella Abel who spoke about what it was like to begin losing her sight in her thirties. Today we’re catching up with Ella again as she takes us through the next part of her story, including how her faith has helped her along the way, as well as how sight loss has affected her church life…
Ash Wednesday is just around the corner and that means the start of Lent and time to begin preparing for Easter! So join us for this episode of Reflections as we explore what this important period of time means for us all...
Many people associate sight loss with aging, but it can happen at any time of life. In this episode we hear from Ella Abel who lost her sight in her 30s, Ella shares openly about what impact this has had on her life...
At Torch we love a good story – in fact we have more than 3000 books available for people with sight loss to borrow from our accessible lending library! So, it’s a good job that it's National Storytelling Week, because that gives us the perfect opportunity to share some of the best books joining our accessible library or online bookshop...
This week on the Reflections podcast, we speak with Julia Chapman, a Torch trustee who became partially sighted due to retinal dystrophy. This interview was first recorded a couple of years ago for our previous CEO Tim Jeffrey’s Sight Loss 101 series, but it’s a great conversation about what it’s like to lose your sight as an adult...
Tim Jeffrey has finished his time as Torch's CEO - and while he's been with us he's made some fantastic contributions to Reflections! With that in mind, we couldn't let him go without asking him to share his reflections on faith, sight loss and where God is leading him next...
On the 6th January, people around the world marked the Feast of Epiphany, or the Day of the Three Kings. But how is this special period celebrated in different places? We decided to find out, as well as enjoying some lovely spiritual reflections related to this time of year...
It's time for our New Year's Eve extra long special! Listen in as we prepare for the year ahead and cast our ears back on on the year that has passed with our 'Reflections on Reflections' retrospective...
It's Christmas Day and the Reflections team are ready and waiting to celebrate with you. Join us for an extra long episode of beautiful, uplifting faith-filled interviews, thoughts and more as we explore what Christmas really means for us all...
Join us for a festive celebration of Christmas Eve, featuring a lovely interview with Rosalie Dias about what Christmas was like for her growing up in Tanzania...
In the final episode of the Insights podcast, Matthew Horspool sits down to have a chat with outgoing Torch CEO Tim Jeffery. They talk about Tim's time at Torch, how the organisation has evolved under his leadership and the immediate future of both Tim and Torch. To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
The third Sunday in Advent has a wonderful theme: JOY! So join us for a fun-filled, cheerful festive episode of Reflections as we prepare for Christmas and feel the joy of knowing Christ the Lord...
In this penultimate episode of the Insights Podcast, we hear from Reflections Sheila Armstrong and Marilyn Baker what makes good Christmas gifts for the blind and partially sighted people in your life. Marilyn also offers a lovely reflection on how the best gifts aren't things, but relationships.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
The second Sunday in Advent is known by some as the Day of Peace so that's our focus for this week's episode! Join us for a peaceful time of spiritual reflection that we hope will leave you feeling surrounded by God's love - and a little more ready for Christmas!
Christmas cards. You may love them, hate them or feel completely neutral. This week we revisit Linn and Matthew's discussion on this topic.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's Reflections, we're marking the first Sunday of Advent and exploring the theme of hope that the day is centred around. Join us for some beautiful spiritual preparation for the beginning of the Christmas season
As Christmas is approaching many churches are probably planning events both online and face-to-face. This episode revisits Linn and Matthew's tips and advice on how to make online events inclusive and why blind people aren't always a fan of keeping the camera on.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Festive online events revisited (Insights Episode 92)
Heinrich Barth lost his sight when he had a brain aneurysm several years ago. He and his wife Irene join us on Reflections to share how their love and faith got them through a terrifying time and how God has blessed them via a return to one of Heinrich's passions. See Heinrich's photos and buy his calendar for 2024 from: www.shotwhileblind.co.uk/
This episode features Becky Davies talking about this year's advent books with Reflections producer Grace Dawson. And if fiction is more your thing, there's also a recommendation for you.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week we're chatting to the lovely Rosalie Dias who we met on a Torch holiday! Rosalie shares her experiences with having Stargardt Disease, being a Christian, and having a passion for poetry...
Linn is joined by Torch trustee Sheila Armstrong as they talk about things that might make it harder for sighted people to approach blind and partially sighted people in their church and what can be done to make things easier.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's show we mark Remembrance Sunday by celebrating the work of SASRA. SASRA, which stands for The Soldiers’ & Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association, have a mission to introduce soldiers and air force personnel to a practical experience of the Christian faith by living and working alongside them, and sharing scripture with them.
At Torch, we help blind and partially sighted people with their spiritual needs, but how about the practical ones? Linn is joined by Torch volunteer James Hassall who works for The Royal National Institute of Blind People as a community connection officer. They talk about how someone like James can help people in a practical way and how Torch and the RNIB can collaborate to give great support.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week on Reflections, we're thinking about fireworks and we're exploring the wide possibilities of Advent reading. Yes, it may feel a little early still to think about anything festive, but it's the perfect time to start planning our reading for the season, helping us prepare for the joy of Christmas.
Lay preacher Wendy Coxhill is back to share how she celebrated Sight Loss Sunday on 15 October 2023 at her church. She talks about her multi-sensory prayer stations and also gets reflective with Linn about how much of a blanket sense sight is.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week on Reflections, we're exploring the realities of being a carer, having a disability or experiencing illness. We're joined by author Bernadette Meaden who wrote a book which faces up to all of these topics and explores how the Bible can be a source of support.
Matthew is back for his final regular co-host duties in this episodes. He and Linn discuss whether blind children can join the Scouts or Guides and reflect on presenting Insights together.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's Reflections show, we're joined by Anthony Cooper, recently appointed MBE, who dreamed of a life in the military from a young age. When he joined the army, the unexpected happened and changed his life forever. Join us for his story of sight loss, faith, doubt and God's transforming love.
In this episode Linn continues her exploration of this topic with ordained Anglican priest Melissa Carter. Melissa shares how she approaches prayers for healing with people who ask her for them and they even get into the theology around what healing may look like in heaven.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week we're celebrating Torch's annual Sight Loss Sunday event! The event is designed to wake the church up to sight loss and empower blind and partially sighted people to share their giftings in their church communities. Don't forget: you can celebrate any Sunday of the year, find our resources to help you at https://torchtrust.org/sight-loss-sunday/
This intriguing topic was one of the first to be discussed when Insights came out. But Linn was interested in exploring it with Melissa Carter, an earlier guest on the podcast who is an ordained anglican priest and registered blind. In part one, they talk about why they consider themselves to be healed already and how church could take a more inclusive approach to looking at healing.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's Reflections show, we're doing some serious myth-busting as Marilyn, Sheila and Jan explore some of the misconceptions often held about blind and partially sighted people.
In part two of Linn's interview with Ella, Ella shares how her faith saw her through transitioning to a life with sight loss, how sight loss has impacted her interractions in church and some advice on how churches can support people in her situation.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week we're wishing popular British TV show 'Songs of Praise' a very happy 62nd birthday as we chat with conductor Paul Leddington-Wright about his many years of work on the show!
Many people associate sight loss with being elderly, but it can happen at any age. In this episode Linn talks to torch client ella Abel who lost her sight in her 30s and what impact that has had on her life.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week's podcast takes us all the way back to 7th century Scotland as we explore the life and legends of St Nathalan...
In the second part of Linn's conversation with Colin Dowling from Compass Braille, they talk about how the merge with Torch came about and how it can potentially benefit both organisations.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Have you ever found it difficult to take part in church services? Do you discover barriers to participation in church life? At Torch we often hear from blind and partially sighted people who are facing these challenges, so we set up Sight Loss Sunday. This is a day focused around waking the church up to sight loss and supporting church communities to become truly welcoming, inclusive spaces. Listen to Reflections now to find out more! Get resources at https://torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church/sight-loss-sunday/
Over the next two episodes Linn is interviewing Colin Dowling from Compass Braille, an organisation which provides Braille bibles in over 60 languages to blind people world wide. They are also in the process of merging with Torch. In part 1, Colin talks about how he got involved with Compass Braille and what impact the Braille bibles are having on the recipients lives.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Today we're speaking with Tracy Williamson about her new book, Unashamed, which aims help us all live lives free from feelings of shame and past hurts, and to show us how transformative the healing love of God can really be. Get copies in standard print at https://www.unashamed.org.uk/ or in braille and large print from Torch Trust https://torchtrust.org/living-with-sight-loss/books/
Making your church more sight loss friendly doesn't have to cost much and even little things can make a huge difference. Linn chats to Gill Bradley from St Frideswides Church and Jane Sellers from Spurgeons Baptist church, who share a church building, about the steps they have taken to improve their building's accessibility. This has benefitted more than the people with sight loss.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Continuing from last week's episode, we're focusing on two more aspects of encountering Jesus as Christians, led by Bible studies from Torch CEO Tim Jeffrey, and Rev Chich Hewitt who has sight loss and is a long time friend of Torch. The show will still make sense if you missed last week's, but you can also catch up below!
Why is Sight Loss Sunday important? With Wendy Coxhil
15 October sees Torch marking the third Sight Loss Sunday which celebrates and raises awareness of blind and partially sighted people in church. Linn talks to lay preacher Wendy Coxhill who reflects on why Sight Loss Sunday is important to her and suggests a few different ways churches can get involved.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week's episode features thoughts by blind friends of Torch which use Biblical stories of people encountering Jesus to reflect on how we today can encounter Christ ourselves in a very real way.
First broadcast on Reflections, this is the incredible story of Emma Meade whose life was turned upside down when her flat caught fire. Talking to Marilyn Baker, she recounts the moment she felt something was off while cooking and how her church family came to the rescue in more ways than one until she was back on her feet. You can listen to Reflections on RNIB Connect radio, on our website, or anywhere else you get podcasts.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's episode we're celebrating blind and partially sighted Christian athletes Sarah Leiter and Janice Tillet. Sarah will be representing Team GB in goalball at the IBSA World Games between the 20th and 27th August. To follow the games go to: https://www.ibsagames2023.co.uk/
First broadcast on Reflections, this is an interview with David Arthur who leads the Torch Fellowship Group (TFG) in Southwark in London. He talks about how he got involved with the group and how the group is thriving today. It's also currently the most ethnically diverse TFG out there. You may listen to Reflections on RNIB connect radio, our website, or wherever you get your podcasts.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week we're exploring IBSA World Games with a great chat with Alaina McGregor, the CEO of British Blind Sport before the games begin on Friday 18th! To find out more about the games, including how to get tickets and follow the events, visit: https://www.ibsagames2023.co.uk/
Linn talks to colleague Becky Davies about how the Torch together holidays are going one year after they launched. What has changed, what has stayed the same and how they have had a positive influence on both participants and volunteers.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's Reflections, Sue Richards shares her and husband John's beautiful story of love, faith, sight loss, and running a Torch fellowship group in Milton Keynes for an amazing 30 years - and counting!
In this episode, Marilyn Baker talks to Linn Davies about how and why she got in to journalism. This interview was originally broadcast on Reflections, Torch's radio show on faith and disability in today's world which can be found on our website, smart phone or smart speaker. It's also broadcast on RNIB Connect Radio every Sunday morning at 9AM.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's episode, Suzie James catches up with author, priest and retreat leader Michael Mitton for a great chat about encountering Jesus, and the retreat Michael will be leading at Torch House this October...
there are many ways in which blind and partially sighted people can actively participate in church ministry. However, there might be questions around whether they can safely carry out certain types of work. Using practical examples ans scenarios,Matthew and Linn unpack the different types of risks and how best to address them.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week we speak with Baluji Shrivastav OBE about the Inner Vision Orchestra, an orchestra made up entirely of blind and partially sighted musicians from around the world. Learn more and find tour dates at: https://www.balujimusicfoundation.org/
Blind people are just as capable as anyone else of being on the church council. However, there are ways to ensure they are fully included which are being discussed on this episode. Matthew and Lin also talk about how to cope with any challenges both the blind person and other council members might face and the best ways to address them.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
We speak with two Torch clients about their own individual experiences with faith, sight loss and using Torch's various offerings and services.
In case you've ever wondered whether there are different types of Braille, you will get this question answered in this episode. Matthew and Linn discuss the differences between grades 1 and 2 and their merrits as well as diving into what Unified English Braille, or UEB is and why it's slightly controversial.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
We catch up with Laura Neal who founded the online Christian community YouBelong in response to her own experiences with disability and chronic illness. Find YouBelong at https://twitter.com/YouBelong_2019
In the final Insights Live episode, on this occasion, church elder Anthony croft asks how he can make the screens as easy to read as possible for those in the congregation who have low vision and who prefer to use the screens. As well as answering this, Matthew and Lin also talks about how sight loss can fluctuate which can mean that what someone can see clearly one week, might be harder to see the next.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's episode, we take a running leap into all things sporty in celebration of the upcoming International Blind Sport Federation World Games which will happen this August in Birmingham. We're joined by Greg Morgan from Christians in Sport and Steve Jones from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to explore accessibility and faith through the lens of sports! Find out more about... IBSA: ibsagames2023.co.uk Christians in Sport: christiansinsport.org.uk Fellowship of Christian Athletes: fca.org
In the second instalment of Insights Live, Minister Mike Payne asks how he can spread the word about sight loss friendly church, particularly in South Wales, and help make churches more inclusive.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to learn more about our Pathway bible players.
On this week's episode, we're joined by Charlotte Carson from LOOK who shares about how this amazing charity is supporting young people with sight loss in a variety of incredible ways!
In the first of the Insights Live episodes, lay minister Wendy Coxhill, who is herself blind, asks what can be done about churches telling some people that their visual impairments and the tools they use to lead a service are too distracting for the congregation. And as a consequence, they're told to step down
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week's Reflections is all about Fathers' Day! In the show we explore God as the Father and his all-encompassing love for each of us, his children, as well as chatting with some visually impaired earthly fathers!
In this episode, we revisit church building accessibility. It's a lot easier and cheaper than you may think. And Paul puts his sighted spin on it.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
This week's theme is Celebrating Torch Groups, featuring a great chat with David Arthur who runs our Southwark Group along with his wife Sheila. The group has been going strong since 2007 and is a lovely, diverse, welcoming space.
You may have been wondering whether churches have any legal obligation to make their services accessible to blind and partially sighted people. Linn and Paul discuss what churches have to do and what they ideally should be doing to provide an inclusive environment.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
This week's theme is "Church Family" and we're sharing the story of how Emma Meade, who is blind, experienced a very frightening fire at her home, but has come through the experience with a new outlook on life thanks to the love poured out around her by her church family.
By law, you can't deny a guide dog in church, but what do you do if the guide dog poses a health and safety risk because it's ungroomed and the hair gets everywhere? Linn is joined by colleague and former sight loss friendly church advisor Paul Rhodes to unpack this scenario.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
On this week's episode we're celebrating Pentecost and catching up with our lovely book reporter Suzie James who has more wonderful accessible Christian literature to share with us...
In this episode Matthew and Linn discuss what to do if you have a blind person in your congregation who won't accept any practcal help, perhaps because they have yet to come to terms with their sight loss, or because they're finding the subject difficult for any other reason.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
This week we're asking 'is seeing really believing?' and we're learning more about two very different people named Thomas: so-called 'Doubting Thomas' and Tom Burditt, one of Torch's newest staff members!
In the second part of the conversation with Ordained priest Melissa Carter, Melissa and Linn talks about the spiritual side to studying theology as well as Melissa's passion for children's spirituality.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
On this week's podcast, we share personal spiritual reflections and life lessons we've learned. Join us to be comforted and uplifted by these tales of love and faith.
In this episode, Linn chats to Melissa Carter who is an ordained priest for The Church of England. and registered blind. Melissa talks about her calling to the priesthood at the age of 17, how working in conveyancing prepared her for the role and then the practical aspects and challenges of the training itself.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
On this episode we speak with the lovely Viola Thompson about faith, sight loss and her uplifting new album 'Grateful'. Viola is a real inspiration, and if you'd like to get hold of her album just go to beracahmusic.bandcamp.com/album/grateful
On this weeks episode, Linn is joined by Jean Kerr from Thy Kingdom Come. They talk about its history, what Thy Kingdom Come done to include blind and partially sighted people and how they're hoping to further improve their accessibility. Please email jean.kerr@lambethpalace.org.uk with your feedback and suggestions.">
">To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
On this episode, we're exploring the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, which will be only the second-ever televised British coronation! Tune in for our usual uplifting spiritual content, reflections and thoughts from the Torch team.
Saturday 6 May sees the coronation of King Charles III and for many, this is the first and in some cases the only coronation they will witness. in this episode, Linn talks to Keren Mallinson, head at client services at Torch about two coronation related resources Torch has produced to mark the occasion.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Please click here to register for Insights Live.
Sunday April 23rd was the date of the London Marathon 2023 - and on Reflections, we've been talking to one of the runners! Hazel Groves, longtime friend of Torch, discusses running as a visually impaired person, and how running gives her space to get closer to God. If you'd like to support Hazel as she races for the Kent Association for the Blind, just go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hazel-groveskab
One of your congregation members are blind and would like to take on a leadership role and they have all the skills required except technology skills. In this episode we discuss why that might be, ways they can get training and workarounds that can still insure their full inclusion and participation.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
A new blind or partially sighted person has just started coming to your church. You have a very helpful congregation member who goes out of their way to welcome them and give them all the help they need. However, the help seems to be more of a hindrance to them. In this episode we discuss how to deal with this scenario.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week's episode is an extra long one as we celebrate Easter and the hope it brings! Featuring Mercy Ships and some really uplifting reflections, come and celebrate with us.
You are an SLFC and a blind or partially sighted person came to visit, only to complain that their access needs weren't properly met. In this episode we discuss how a church can be proactive so that this is less likely to happen as well as how visitors can prepare to get the best possible experience.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Imagine if you're running a prayer group and one of your members who happens to be visually impaired, is taking over the group with their personal issues and this having a negative effect on other group members as well as the leaders. In this episode we discuss what may lead a person to behave like that and how to deal with it effectively, yet tactfully so everybody in the group gets heard.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week's Reflections podcast is all about the Goodness of God as we reflect on the blessings he brings into our lives and the amazing ways he thinks of us.
With several platforms offering easy tools and templates, building a website has never been easier. In this episode we offer up some tips and tricks to make sure your church website is as user friendly as possible.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this week's episode we're feeling holiday-ready and focussing on Torch Together 2023. We'll be exploring the fantastic Christian holidays and retreats that we have on offer, specially designed for blind and partially sighted people.
In this episode we discuss challenges and top tips for making palm crosses if you have little or no sight. We also give tips on how to include blind and partially sighted people in your Palm Sunday parade.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
All age services happen across many churches and because they tend to be different to regular ones, there are things to keep in mind when making them inclusive for all. You'll also get to hear how Linn and Matthew feel about Action songs.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Easter bonnets, arts and crafts and Easter egg hunts are popular activities associated with Easter. Listen to this episode to learn how to make these activities inclusive to blind and partially sighted children.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Many churches include drama in their activities and may even have a dedicated drama group. We talk about ways to make this inclusive so that everyone can enjoy it to the fullest.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode we discuss how communion varies in different churches and how this impacts both giving and receiving communion as a blind or partially sighted person.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Services like Lent and Mourn day Thursday often have periods of silence within them, be it in the middle or at the end. This episode discusses how to effectively help blind and partially sighted people so that they too can enjoy these periods of silence, knowing their practical needs are met.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Prayer activities can be a great way to make it easier to engage with prayers. In this episode we discuss how to make them as inclusive as possible so that all congregation members can enjoy them regardless of visual acuity.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Putting our foot in our mouth is something we all do at some point. In this episode we discuss what to do when that happens as well as things to avoid saying that can be difficult to swallow, or offensive for blind and partially sighted people.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
We always talk about ways churches can support blind and partially sighted individuals whether they're newcomers or members. But today we're taking a look at what visually impaired individuals can do to make it easier for churches to support them.
It's a brand new year and you may have decided on some new year's resolutions. If they involve spiritual growth, or reading more interesting books, Torch has you covered.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
For the final episode of 2022 Linn talks to Sheila Armstrong, former Torch employee and guide dog owner about what to do if a church isn't happy about someone bringing a guide dog.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Have you ever wondered what blind people really think about Christmas cards? We give you our views and also discuss tips on making them more accessible.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Online events are a valuable supplement to in person ones. And around Christmas times, there might be many good reasons why your church might like to do them. We talk about things to remember in order to make it accessible to visually impaired paticipants and also have a discussion about why some blind people prefer to stay off camera.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Knowing how to guide is essential when working with blind and partially sighted people. But what's the most effective way of doing it? We unpack the dos and don'ts on guiding sprinkled with funny anekdotes.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode we talk about how churches can effectively co-operate with schools for special services like Nativity and Christingle to include children with sight loss.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
It's that time of year when churches are starting to plan for carol services and we discuss the most important things to think about. Spoiler alert, the song words. And if you need Braille or large print, Torch has got you covered.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
More and more churches use social media to communicate. In this episode we give hints and tips on how to make sure any visual content can be enjoyed by blind and partially sighted people.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode Linn is reunited with former co-host Matthew Horspool. They talk about things to keep in mind for remembrance service, including having a reminder to buy a poppy and how to assist visually impaired people who'd like to remember someone special.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode Linn is in conversation with Alan Inger who is both a church elder and a home group leader. Alan has severe sight loss and shares his tips for succeeding in both roles.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
More and more churches use social media to communicate. In this episode we give hints and tips on how to make sure any visual content can be enjoyed by blind and partially sighted people.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode Linn talks to Janice Tillett who is part of the worship team and an admin at her church Christian Celebrations. Janice is also deaf-blind and talks about how the attitude of the church leadership was key to getting her involved.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode Linn talks to Rev Chich Hewitt about how he adapted to continuing as aminister after he lost most of his vision and the various ways he has adjusted his approach.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode Linn is joined by Torch's newest trustee, Dr. Ifeolu Akintunde. They talk about some of the differences between British and Nigerian churches, how church leaders from black and other ethnic minority backgrounds can make their churches more welcoming to disabled people and Ife also shares thoughts on his blind heros in the bible.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This episode features the second part of Linn's fascinating conversation with Marilyn Baker. They discuss navigating makeup and appearence as professional blind female singers. And Marilyn shares funny anecdotes from being on tour including running her ministry with a deaf person.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this episode, Linn is joined by Torch Trustee Marilyn Baker, a professional composer and singer. Marilyn shares her story of how she came to faith, became a composing and performing musician and she also talks about her ministry.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Have you ever wondered how Torch Trust is financed? Join Linn for an interview with Suzy James, supporter development coordinator to learn about the different ways Torch receive money, how it's spent and how you could help.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Did you know that Torch Trust actually evolved into the organisation it is today from one fellowship group? But although Torch today focuses on accessible Christian Literature, the felloship groups around the United Kingdom contiunes to play an important role for Torch as well as the clients. Join Linn for an interview with Leonard Campbell, TFG coordinator to learn about the fellowship groups and befriending services offered by Torch.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In this week's episode, Linn is joined by Niall Geddis from the finance department at Torch, who is himself visually impaired, to discuss the joys and challenges of being young, visually impaired and Christian.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This week, Linn is joined by Mike Townsend, the chair of Torch trust who has many years experience in preaching locally, nationally, internationally and on BBC Radio4 to talk about how to successfully preach and lead a church as a blind person.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Did you know that Insights is not the only podcast that Torch produces? Grace Dawson joins Linn on this episode of the podcast to tell us about Reflections, our weekly radio programme on RNIB Connect Radio, and Torch Tales, a podcast about the history of Torch.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
While we wait for a new co-host to join the Insights team, Linn sits down with her colleague Becky Davies. In addition to being the Sight Loss Friendly Church co-ordinator, Becky is also responsible for planning and delivering Torch's holiday offering, Torch Together. We find out more about this aspect of Torch's ministry, how it has gone so far this year and what to look forward to in 2023.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Following Matthew's conversation at the Methodist Conference, he sits down with Linn to compare both of their experiences of children's ministry. They share how this aspect of church life could have been made better for them and reflect on what they would have done differently if they knew then what they know now.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On 27 June 2022, Becky Davies, Sight Loss Friendly Church Coordinator, interviewed Matthew Horspool about growing up as a blind person and his Christian faith. The event was held in front of a live audience as a fringe event at the Methodist Conference in Telford, and recorded for this podcast.
In part 2, we hear questions from the audience. Matthew talks about Sunday school, why he doesn't own a guide dog, and what advice he would give to church leaders encountering a person with sight loss for the first time.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On 27 June 2022, Becky Davies, Sight Loss Friendly Church Coordinator, interviewed Matthew Horspool about growing up as a blind person and his Christian faith. The event was held in front of a live audience as a fringe event at the Methodist Conference in Telford, and recorded for this podcast.
In part 1, Matthew talks about school, early memories of church and the valuable part that music plays in his Christian faith.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
The word "blind" has many conotations. The Biblical meaning is not nnecessarily the same as the cultural meaning, and some people may not respond well emotionally to being referred to as "blind". However, this is not the case for everyone, and in many cases, "blind" is the best description. Join us this week as we reflect on this topic.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Matthew and Linn both sing. Other blind and partially sighted people may play instruments. This is a wonderful way in which people with sight loss can contribute to the worshipping life of the church. This episode shares some personal experiences of doing this and some tips on how churches can integrate blind and partially sighted musicians.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
With the use of screen readers and magnification software, they can! They can also use smartphones, tablets and smart speakers. We explain all of this in this episode.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
How do I get there? Can I introduce myself to anyone? What will the hymns be? What will the service order be? How will I find my way around the building? How will I get home afterwards?
These are all questions that a blind or partially sighted person might ask when thinking about attending a new church. Some of them are for the person to answer. In other cases, the church may be able to help. This episode discusses these issues in more detail.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Torch, of course! In addition, however, there are a few other major braille producers which mostly produce secular material, but which also offer a few Christian titles. Furthermore, some churches may wish to produce their own braille resources, especially if they are single use. This episode offers an introduction to all of these topics and describes the size of braille relative to print.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
In theory, whichever one they like best, or whichever one your church usually uses. However, it's true that some translations are more easily accessible than others. We talk about the various ways in which people with sight loss can access the Bible, including braille, large print, audio and online, and we explain which translations are available in which formats. We also introduce Operation Pathway, a new way in which people who are losing their sight can obtain an audio Bible for free.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Homegroups can be daunting for people with sight loss because, unlike church, someone's home is often an unknown location. We unpick this issue on this episode, and we also talk about how to effectively plan and prepare the resources in use.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Where is the coffee? Who is here? Who is available to talk to?
These are questions which people with sight loss ask on a weekly basis at coffee time. However, there are some simple things that you can do to make it more enjoyable for them. Join us on this episode to find out more.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
People with sight loss have unique gifts and abilities just like everyone else, and this episode explores how churches can encourage them to be used.
For registered Sight Loss Friendly Churches, this topic will be discussed in more detail as part of our "Focus On ..." series, on Monday 6 June 2022 at 1:30 PM.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Torch Trust is pleased to be partnering with Thy Kingdom Come, the global prayer movement, to offer the prayer journal in braille. Keren Mallinson, Client Services and Resources Team Leader at Torch Trust, joins us to tell us more.
Matthew and Linn then share their own experiences of using and obtaining accessible Christian literature.
To order the Thy Kingdom Come prayer journal in braille, call 01858 438260 or email info@torchtrust.org. For large print and audio versions, visit thykingdomcome.global.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Whilst not technically sacraments, funerals are nonetheless key life events in the Christian religion and present unique challenges for people with sight loss in terms of funeral planning, following and playing a part in the service, grieving and participating in the wake.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Weddings can be stressful occasions for anyone, especially the people getting married! For people with sight loss, there is even more to consider. However, with careful planning, people with sight loss can maintain their dignity when getting married and participate fully in the wedding services of others. In this episode, Linn shares her own experiences of getting married as a blind person, and Matthew shares his experiences of singing in weddings in the Cathedral choir.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Confirmation usually takes place in teenagers and adults, and often marks the point at which a Christian can begin to receive communion. In this episode, we discuss confirmation classes, the confirmation service and receiving communion for the first time.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
If you are christened as a baby, chances are you won't remember it! However, many people are baptised later in life, and we discuss this from the perspective of a person with sight loss. We also talk about people with sight loss attending the baptism of a friend or family member, especially as they may not be familiar with church.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
On this Good Friday, we talk about how to include people with sight loss in the vigils which lead up to Easter, and look ahead to Easter services. We share experiences of reading braille in the cold, handling candles, walking in procession and, of course, Easter breakfasts!
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Most church buildings are more sight loss friendly than people realise: steps do not exclude people with sight loss! In this episode, we explain why and offer some practical advice around tactile markings, colour contrast, lighting and signage.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This is a potentially controversial question, and many people with sight loss have strong personal opinions about it. Many people do, but equally many people don't. We explore both sides of the question in this episode, and discuss how to appropriately pray for people with sight loss who do not wish for their sight to be healed.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
If no one has an order of service, people with sight loss might not seem to be at a disadvantage. However, perhaps there is content on a screen, or perhaps people know to stand up and sit down by following the leader at the front. In this episode, we discuss some straightforward approaches to ensuring that people with sight loss do not miss out on these cues.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
Orders of service can be made available in braille or large print. We talk about this, and the nuances of following them. “Turn to face the west screen as the cross passes” is easy enough to understand, but hard for people to do when they can't see the cross!
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
“We don't have anyone with sight loss in our church.” If you agree with this statement, this episode is for you.
There are many people with sight loss in churches who go unnoticed. In this episode, we offer some tips on how to determine whether someone has sight loss, how to approach them and the most polite ways to offer them help.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
The short answer: loss of vision which cannot be corrected by spectacles or contact lenses.
In this episode, we explain this in more detail and discuss the connotations of the terms sight loss, blindness, partial sight and visual impairment.
To contact the Sight Loss Friendly Church team at Torch Trust, call 01858 438260, email slfc@torchtrust.org or visit torchtrust.org/sight-loss-friendly-church.
This interview is with singer/songwriter Marilyn Baker who is also a Trustee for Torch Trust.
This interview is with June Barnett, a lady who lives in Melton Mowbray and lost her sight in later life.
This interview is with Philippa Lomas, a young parent who has found blindness is no barrier to bringing up two small children.
This interview is with Chich Hewitt, a retired minister who supports the Sight Loss Friendly Church initiative in Manchester.
This interview is with Ifeolu Akintunde, who supports the Sight Loss Friendly Church initiative in Lancaster.
This interview is with Matthew Horspool, who works for Torch as a Sight Loss Friendly Church advisor.
This interview is with Sheila Armstrong, who worked for Torch as our Reflections radio programme producer.