Without a strong emphasis on prayer, churches risk losing their connection to their spiritual source, resulting in a weakened sense of purpose and power.

In South Asia, human rights issues remain a persistent and deeply troubling concern. The region, vibrant with cultural diversity and rich history, unfortunately, also bears the scars of human rights abuses, ranging from poverty and inequality to political repression. The solution to these problems lies not only in pragmatic policy-making but also in a profound engagement with theological and ethical perspectives.

In recent years, Southeast Asia has witnessed a disturbing rise in extra-judicial killings, disappearances, and acts of torture, with the Philippines standing out as a particularly egregious example. This surge in human rights violations not only demands a political and legal response but also a profound theological reflection. Drawing upon the insights of Radical Orthodox Theology, Liberation Theology, and the concept of Imago Dei, we find a unique lens to examine and respond to these crises.

In the intricate tapestry of South Asia, the human rights landscape presents a labyrinth of challenges, each thread representing a different issue, from socio-economic disparities to political strife. This complexity demands a thoughtful, profound approach to untangling these threads, and here lies the indispensable role of research.

In the heart of South Asia, a region steeped in vibrant cultures and historical grandeur, lies a somber truth – the persistent shadow of human rights violations. As I reflect on the narratives that have shaped our understanding of this region, I am compelled to underscore the critical need for development and implementation of comprehensive research strategies to confront these injustices.

Not long after chatting to my old boss Don Witts, he got back to me about the possibility of pursuing a Bishop's certificate with Southwark Diocese.

So began a period where I was ricocheting about, getting advice, pursuing leads and slowly, sometimes imperceptively feeling a way forward. It was a difficult time, with lots of dead ends and lots of ideas. It was knowing that the journey had begun but not knowing the shape or length of the journey to come.

She looked into the mirror, turning sideways, as is her routine.  "I think I am getting fat.  I'll wear the other one." Standing behind her, I looked into the mirror.  She was getting fat; without a medical reason, a sure sign of greed and sloth. We both will need to drink more water and go swimming, I thought.  We had no excuse.  The pool was less than 100 meters from our house. We reverse the process, and she is now putting on the uniform skirt/Chinese top combo. "How do I look in this?" As always on the third change, I am over-enthusiastic.  I tell her she is beautiful, and after throwing down the mobile and giving her my undivided attention, I tell her this is my favourite.

But the bagel experience is more than just a bagel. It's wrapped up in my DNA, however much I might want to overcome it or have attempted to deny it in the past. I am one-half a Londoner and an East Londoner at that. I need to live with it. With folklore about the docks, the dance halls, old China-town from before the Blitz, tailors, cigar rollers, Jews, prostitutes, the old maid's chemist, Ginger Marks flyover, Catholic processions, loan clubs, black shirts, gangsters and boxing.

I knew the importance that the effects of mobility would have on my life and understandably I was pretty nervous.  Gordon Bachelor, my instructor, coached me week after week and prepared me for this day.  The sun was shining, and the morning was hot.  I don't know how, but I passed, and with only one or two exceptions, it stands out as a good thing I have done.