From a series of photographs I created in 2002-2004 whilst studying for a Diploma in Contextual Theology.

For my dissertation, I looked at symbolism in artworks depicting The Last Supper, shared between Jesus and his disciples before his crucifixion and resurrection.

I then responded with imagery of my own.

I think I called this one something like ‘the pouring out’, responding to Jesus’ metaphor that those who ‘drink my blood’ will be saved.

Yesterday I was asked why I stopped going to church. The question blindsided me, to be honest. I can’t say I’ve ever even given myself a satisfactory answer!

But thanks for the question.

The answer is partly to do with expression of faith, in a world sometimes divided by expressions of faith.

But that’s only part of my answer.

As for my faith? I was always attracted more to the mystery of Jesus’ identity and, for me, his seemingly unfathomable teachings. That kept me exploring.

What faith I had, weak despite my studying, ‘probably’ and ‘possibly’ still remains. In fact what I learned as a Christian continues to be a motivation for my work in the charity sector, supporting community development and social mobility.

But I’ll still leave that big question mostly unanswered, for now.

Jerome