Torch Trust: All Content

Reflections Podcast 05.04.2026 – Easter Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 03.04.2026 – Good Friday

Torch Trust — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 29.03.2026 – Palm Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 22.03.2026 Sign Language Week

Torch Trust — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 15.03.2026 – Mothering Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 08.03.2026 – In conversation with Alex Banwell.

Torch Trust — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Torch News Spring 2026

Torch Trust — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 01.03.2026 -Rico Tice and A Passion For Life.

Torch Trust — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 22.02.2026 – Refreshment and Reflections.

Torch Trust — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 15.02.2026 – Accessible Weddings

Torch Trust — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 08.02.2026 – Autism Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 1 2026

Torch Trust — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 01.02.2026 – GiveVision

Torch Trust — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 25.01.2026 – Trevor, Mark and God

Torch Trust — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 18.01.2026 – Beating The Winter Blues

Torch Trust — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 11.01.2026 – God Is Present

Torch Trust — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 04.01.2026 – Epiphany and Coptic Christmas

Torch Trust — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 28.12.2025 – End Of Year Highlights

Torch Trust — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 25.12.2025 – Christmas Day Special

Torch Trust — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

The Torch Issue 1 2026

Torch Trust — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 21.12.2025 – Advent Love;

Torch Trust — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 14.12.2025 – Advent Joy

Torch Trust — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 07.12.2025 – Advent Peace

Torch Trust — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Torch News Winter 2025

Torch Trust — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 30.11.2025 Advent – Hope

Torch Trust — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 23.11.2025 Blessings Of Blindness

Torch Trust — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 16.11.2025 In Confusing Times

Torch Trust — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

The Torch Issue 4 2025

Torch Trust — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:35:32 +0000

Reflections Podcast 09 November 2025 Remembrance Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 4 2025

Torch Trust — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 02.11.2025 Julie Jones

Torch Trust — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 26.10.2025 Time

Torch Trust — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 19.10.2025 Love And Faith.

Torch Trust — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 12.10.2025 Sight Loss Sunday Special

Torch Trust — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 05.10.2025 I’m Autistic, get me out of here!

Torch Trust — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 28.09.2025 Michael Mitton

Torch Trust — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 21.09.2025 In The Presence of Angels

Torch Trust — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 14.09.2025 Torch Exhibitions

Torch Trust — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Torch News Autumn 2025

Torch Trust — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:15:46 +0000

Reflections Podcast 07.09.2025 Sight Loss Sunday.

Torch Trust — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 31.08.2025 Author Tracy Williamson

Torch Trust — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 08:15:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 24.08.2025 In Conversation With Linn Davies

Torch Trust — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

The Torch Issue 3 2025

Torch Trust — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:34:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 17.08.2025 Resources Curator Janette Sturgis

Torch Trust — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 10.08.2025 New Torch Trustee Philip Rice

Torch Trust — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 3 2025

Torch Trust — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:27:58 +0000

Reflections Podcast 03.08.2025 Torch Chaplaincy Service

Torch Trust — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 27.07.2025 Carl Beech

Torch Trust — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 08:15:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 20.07.2025 Torch Together Volunteering

Torch Trust — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 13.07.2025 Partially Sighted And Ordained

Torch Trust — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 2 2025

Torch Trust — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:15:09 +0000

The Torch Issue 2 2025

Torch Trust — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:10:57 +0000

Reflections Podcast 06.07.2025 Walking By faith.

Torch Trust — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 29.06.2025 Ghana Bible Society

Torch Trust — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Torch News – Summer 2025

Torch Trust — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 09:09:00 +0000

Reflections – Trinity Sunday and Father’s Day

Torch Trust — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 09:07:59 +0000

This week on Reflections we mark 2 special occasions - Trinity Sunday, and a special Father's Day sermon from Rev John Beauchamp too.

Reflections Podcast – 25th May 2025 – Dr Krish Kandiah and Foster Care Fortnight

Torch Trust — Sun, 25 May 2025 08:15:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 18.05.2025, Growing up blind in South Korea

Torch Trust — Sun, 18 May 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 11.05.2025 In conversation with Tony Brown

Torch Trust — Sun, 11 May 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast – 27th April 2025 – Archdeacon Pete Spiers

Torch Trust — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 08:14:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 2 2025

Torch Trust — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:08:00 +0000

Reflections 06.04.2025 Emily Owen

Torch Trust — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 30th March 2025 – Mothering Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 08:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 23.03.2025 Fitness and Community

Torch Trust — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Torch News – Spring 2025

Torch Trust — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:08:33 +0000

Reflections 16.03.2025 Healing And Miracles

Torch Trust — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Preparing for Lent

Torch Trust — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

All things Torch

Torch Trust — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

from Finance to Disability Champion Part 2.

Torch Trust — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

From Finance to disability Champion Part 1.

Torch Trust — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 02.02.2025 Sound Without Sight Part 2.

Torch Trust — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections 26.01.2025 Sound Without Sight Part

Torch Trust — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

The Torch Issue 1 2025

Torch Trust — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:35:12 +0000

Reflections From Torch Trust 19.01.2025 Choose To Laugh

Torch Trust — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 1 2025

Torch Trust — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 10:08:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 12.01 Torch Together Holidays 2025

Torch Trust — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast The 5th of January 2025 All About Braille

Torch Trust — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 29th December 2024: Disability and Friendship

Torch Trust — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 09:20:00 +0000

Marilyn Baker sits down with Torch Trusts' Sheila Armstrong to chat about friendship and disability, and how the two go hand in hand.

Torch Trust Reflections Christmas Special 2024

Torch Trust — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:01:00 +0000

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!

Reflections Podcast 22nd December 2024: Jade and John Reynolds – Able To Laugh – Extended Interview!

Torch Trust — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 09:21:00 +0000

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.

Torch News – Winter 2024

Torch Trust — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:08:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 15th December 2024: Comedian, Writer and Podcaster Paul Kerensa – Part 2

Torch Trust — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 09:20:00 +0000

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!

Reflections Podcast 08th December 2024: Comedian, Writer and Podcaster Paul Kerensa – Part 1

Torch Trust — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 09:20:00 +0000

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!

The Torch Issue 2 2024

Torch Trust — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:42:32 +0000

Reflections Podcast 1st December 2024: God, Disability and Justice – Part 2

Torch Trust — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 24th November 2024: God, Disability and Justice – Part 1

Torch Trust — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 09:20:00 +0000

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.

What’s New Issue 4 2024

Torch Trust — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:08:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 17th November 2024: Count Everyone In

Torch Trust — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 09:20:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 10th November 2024: Kate Nicholas – Part 2

Torch Trust — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 09:20:00 +0000

We hear once more from preacher and author Kate Nicholas, who continue to share her journey with God, writing and cancer.

Reflections Podcast 03rd November 2024: Kate Nicholas – Part 1

Torch Trust — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 09:20:00 +0000

Preacher Kate Nicholas takes us on her unusual route to finding God, and shares the journey that she’s been on with cancer.

Reflections Podcast 27th October 2024: Mental Illness and Faith – Part 2

Torch Trust — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 09:20:00 +0000

Freelance Theology of Mental Health Specialist, Rachael Newham, talks about how she’s been helping churches, her books and specialist degree.

Reflections Podcast 20th October 2024: Mental Illness and Faith – Part 1

Torch Trust — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 08:20:00 +0000

Freelance Theology of Mental Health Specialist, Rachael Newham, shares her incredibly candid, powerful and honest journey of living with mental illness and God.

Reflections Podcast 13th October 2024: Sight Loss Sunday 2024

Torch Trust — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 08:25:00 +0000

Join us as we mark and celebrate Sight Loss Sunday 2024 with a special church at home service

Reflections Podcast 06th October 2024: Torch Trust CEO Sarah Dawkins

Torch Trust — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 08:15:00 +0000

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.

Torch News – Autumn 2024

Torch Trust — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:25:00 +0000

Reflections Podcast 22nd September 2024: Disability Awareness Sunday

Torch Trust — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:15:00 +0000

Disability Awareness Sunday, organised by Christian charity Through The Roof, share how they are helping churches to become more disability aware.

Reflections Podcast 15th September 2024: Chronic Illness and Faith

Torch Trust — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 08:20:00 +0000

We hear from online support network YouBelong to find out how they are supporting Christians living with chronic illness and disability.

Reflections Podcast 08th September 2024: Kare Adenegan

Torch Trust — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 08:30:00 +0000

British Paralympian Kare Adenegan takes some time out at Paris 2024 to talk to us about her life in sport and with God.

Reflections Podcast 1st September 2024: Rev Augustine Tanner-Ihm

Torch Trust — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

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.

Reflections Podcast 25th August 2024: God and Fencing

Torch Trust — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 06:30:00 +0000

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.