Stylised line drawing of a peackock with the tail turning into the tree of life

We started A Beautiful Gospel to rediscover what a faithful life looks like

In a world that often distorts faith, reducing it to dogma, division, or mere ritual, we are on a quest for something more. We're here to rediscover the radiant and transformative power of the Christian message—a Gospel that is as beautiful as it is true.

We exist to explore the question: How can we live a faith that is intellectually honest, spiritually vibrant, and socially engaged?

A Beautiful Manifesto

We believe that at the heart of all existence is a God of boundless love and grace. This love is not earned by merit or lost by mistake; it is the unconditional embrace that welcomes us home, no matter where we have wandered. Love is the cornerstone of our community and the lens through which we interpret faith, scripture, and the world around us.

We believe that faith and reason are not mutually exclusive but mutually enriching. A robust faith is one that engages the mind as well as the heart, inviting questions, doubts, and exploration. We are committed to a faith that seeks understanding, that is open to scrutiny, and that finds richer meaning through ongoing learning and dialogue.

We believe that if the Gospel is not good news for all, it is not good news at all. Inspired by the teachings and actions of Jesus, we are committed to standing up for the marginalised, the oppressed, and the forgotten. Our faith calls us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly, recognising that spirituality is not simply a personal pursuit but a communal responsibility.

We believe that spiritual practices are pathways to the Divine. Whether it's through prayer, meditation, study, or service, these disciplines are not religious chores but life-giving activities that deepen our connection to God, enrich our inner lives, and equip us for daily challenges. We encourage a diverse range of spiritual practices, respecting the unique ways each person connects with God.

We believe that all are welcome in the embrace of God’s love, and by extension, in our community. Regardless of your background, beliefs, or identity, we aim to be a people where unity is found in diversity, and where each person's unique journey is honoured and supported. We are committed to being a safe space for all, where grace abounds, and love is the final word.

Our Ten Truths

We believe there's a more enriching way to live out our faith; one that results in a deeper connection with God, with others, and with ourselves.

Over the course of our journey, we're putting these truths to the test, allowing them to guide our lives and our community.

1


Grace is the transformative power that changes lives.

Grace is our starting point and our sustenance. It's the unconditional love that frees us to love freely.

2


Questions are the catalysts for growth and transformation.

Questions are not threats to faith but pathways to deeper understanding. Doubt is not the enemy; it's an invitation to explore.

3


Faith without works is dead.

Justice is the hands and feet of our faith, turning beliefs into actions. It's is the tangible manifestation of love in the world.

4


In a noisy world, the disciplines of silence and solitude centre us.

Contemplative practices are our sanctuaries for spiritual renewal. They allow us to hear the voice of God and understand ourselves more deeply.

5


We are not meant to journey alone.

Community is where our faith takes root and grows. It's the space where we learn to love and be loved authentically.

6


We seek wisdom from treasures both old and new.

Wisdom is the balanced application of knowledge and understanding in our lives. We find it in both time-honoured traditions and modern perspectives.

7


True spirituality is marked by humility.

Humility allows us to approach both God and each other with open hearts and minds. It's the foundation for lifelong learning and spiritual growth.

8


Open, respectful dialogue is the cornerstone of a vibrant community.

Dialogue is how we build bridges of understanding and empathy. We speak with love and listen with openness, enriching both ourselves and our community.

9


God is not mere doctrine but Presence.

Presence is about cultivating an awareness of heaven in our daily lives. It transforms ordinary moments into sacred experiences.

10


Joy is not a luxury but a by-product of a life well-lived.

Joy emerges from a life deeply connected to God, others, and our true selves. It's the natural outcome of living in alignment with our deepest values and purpose.