This episode of Politics in the Pulpit is hosted by Eddie Boon, and features our special guest Dr Coco Parkinson-Huggins!

Dr Coco Parkinson-Huggins is a researcher and writer currently based at Theos Think Tank. She recently completed her PhD on UK benefit policy at the University of Cambridge, where she also lectured on issues ranging from the role of media and culture in policymaking, to the NHS and public health, insecure work and the gig economy in the Department of Geography. Her current research at Theos includes Christianity, nationhood and “Christian Nationalism” in the UK, as well as global experiences of motherhood. This is alongside her work on policy and impact.

This week, Eddie, Coco, and Thomas explore the lectionary readings for Sunday 6th September.

Timestamps

• 00:00 – Intro
• 07:11 – Exodus 12:1-14
• 12:21 – Psalm 149
• 21:53 – Romans 13: 8-14
• 29:22 – Matthew 18: 15-20

Mentions

Better Story, JPIT, Christian Aid and Fellowship of Reconciliation’s ‘Love Thy Neighbour’ conference (October 2026) - https://jpit.uk/love-thy-neighbour-conference-2026

Eddie’s volunteering in Kosovo was with the NGO Smile International - https://www.smileinternational.org/

1 John 4 – ‘God is Love’ and Ephesians 6 ‘The Armour of God’ - Mentioned by Coco as helpful companion passages https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%204&version=NIV

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%206&version=NIVEphesians 6 NIV - Children, obey your parents in the - Bible Gateway

The poem ‘Forbearance’ by Samuel Taylor Coleridge – Holding on to bitterness – the opposite to the Matthew passage! - https://www.poetry.com/poem/34248/forbearance

The life of Edith Cavell – her famous quote ‘It is not enough love one’s own people, one must love all men and hate none’ as a reflection on the bitter hatred of the First World War - https://livesofthefirstworldwar.iwm.org.uk/story/26080