In what way is Greenbelt like heaven?

You end up meeting all kinds of friends in unexpected circumstances.

To that end I have shared a Cumberland Sausage (cheap and good), a pint of beer (good and expensive), and a beer-garden hymn sing (bizarre and… bizarre) with Sam Norton.

Good beer, good food and good friends. The only difference between Greenbelt and heaven is the nearer presence of the Lord.

“Anything that is worth believing in goes beyond the available evidence.”

Alister McGrath

Travelling to Greenbelt this morning, I discover a fine and generous recommendation of Kill George from Simon Marsh, a priest in Chester diocese:

JUSTIN LEWIS-ANTHONY’S “If you see George Herbert …” has been a great read. A breath of fresh air. A challenge to rethink the living out of priestly ministry: everyone’s priestly ministry. The book tackles some of the dangers inherent in “mythos” – the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves – head on.… I’m recommending it to any and all, clergy and laity alike.

He also says something nice about this blog:

3 Minute Theologian contributes a great deal to clarity of thought and purpose.

Thanks verymuch Simon!

In a moment, I’ll be packing my sunscreen, buzz off and cagoule, ready for Greenbelt. If anyone is there, say hello. I’ll be speaking on Being Human with Hieronymus Bosch in the Hub at 1 pm on Monday. Come and listen and tell me what you think.

Another 3MinuteTheologian appearance on the Guardian’s Comment is Free: Belief website, this time on their “Question of the Week” feature.