Lent Talks

Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Religion & Ethics

Six people reflect on the story of Jesus' ministry and Passion from their own perspectives

Six people well known in their fields reflect on the story of Jesus' ministry and Passion from the perspective of their own personal and professional experience

BBC Radio 4 FM

Lent Talks: The People's Prayer - Forgive us as we forgive

The People's Prayer - Forgive us as we forgive

BBC Radio 4 - Lent Talks, The People's Prayer - Forgive us as we forgive

Six people well known in their fields reflect on the story of Jesus' ministry and Passion.

Mike Haines' brother David was killed by ISIS in 2014. Last year, he did something remarkable. He forgave David's killers. This is a personal story of forgiveness.

Mike Haines brother, David Haines, was a British aid worker who was beheaded by ISIS. The family had always known the risks but news of his brother’s death left him angry, filled with hate for the killers. But something changed… Mike realised that hate is what they wanted so started on a path to promote tolerance and unity in schools. However, he still didn’t forgive those who had taken David’s life. Last year Mike was invited, along with others, to offer a Family Impact Statement at the trial of ISIS leaders in the States. He read the statement, and then, completely unplanned he added “I forgive you”. He says a weight lifted from his shoulders as others in the court that day were inspired to do the same. 

In this series six people reflect on Jesus' ministry, teaching and Passion from a deeply personal perspective focussing on words from The Lord's Prayer. Their life experience is echoed by the words of The Lord's Prayer. These are words shared across Christian denominations but they go further; they are part of our culture and tradition. They express universal themes that speak to the hopes and dreams of humanity, bringing together both spiritual and physical needs. 

It could really be thought of as The People’s Prayer. 

Producer: Katharine Longworth

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Lent Talks

The People's Prayer - Forgive us as we forgive

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4