Articles

Marketing Myths and the Art of Unmasking Truth

Art has long held a prophetic voice in society—a voice that does not merely echo the status quo, but challenges it. Through brushstrokes, sculpture, song, or spoken word, art has the potential to pierce the veil of everyday life and reveal the deeper truths often obscured by power, tradition, or economic interest.

One artist doing precisely that is Philip McCulloch-Downs, whose work Marketing Myths strips away the cheery façade of the meat industry to expose the haunting reality of animal suffering. By highlighting how marketing campaigns distort our understanding of the animals we consume, McCulloch-Downs calls us to see the world—and our relationship with animals—with unclouded eyes and compassionate hearts.

Food and Lifestyle

‘Give us this day our daily bread’: What does the Lord’s Prayer imply for Christian food ethics? – David Clough

What does it mean for Christians to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread”? In this thought-provoking reflection, Professor David Clough explores the profound ethical implications of this familiar petition. Drawing on scripture, theology, and contemporary food justice concerns, he challenges us to consider how our food choices impact our human and non-human neighbours.

Animal Issues

How the Media Shapes Our Perception of Animal Suffering: Challenges and Opportunities for Vegan Campaigns

How does the media shape the way we think about animals? Why do we see some as food and others as companions? This article explores the hidden power of media in reinforcing societal norms that justify animal exploitation—and how vegan campaigners are using storytelling, activism, and strategic messaging to challenge these narratives. By uncovering the ways media obscures animal suffering and examining how advocacy can reframe the conversation, we explore the opportunities and challenges of shifting public perception toward a more compassionate world.

Books and Literature

Interpreting Meat – Teddy Duncan, Jr

What if meat were more than just food—what if it were shaped by cultural, economic, and psychological forces that influence our relationships with animals? In his book, Interpreting Meat: Theorizing the Commodification and Consumption of Animals, professor Teddy Duncan Jr. challenges us to rethink meat as a commodity deeply tied to cultural practices and beliefs. In this interview, Duncan explores the language surrounding meat, the values that shape human-animal relationships, and how understanding these dynamics can lead to a more compassionate and reflective engagement with the world around us.

Books and Literature

Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan

It’s rare to encounter a book on veganism that doesn’t feel like a rallying cry for restraint or an exercise in moral chastisement. Yet, in Hungry Beautiful Animals, philosopher Matthew C. Halteman presents an entirely different narrative. This book is an invitation—a love letter to life in all its forms—that reframes veganism not as a sacrifice, but as a path to abundance, joy, and flourishing.

Hungry Beautiful Animals positions itself as a ground-breaking contribution to the vegan movement, challenging both vegans and non-vegans alike to rethink how we approach this lifestyle. Halteman’s premise is simple yet radical: veganism should not be defined by what we give up, but by what we stand to gain. For too long, the vegan message has centred on suffering, shame, and scarcity. Halteman flips the script, focusing instead on the beauty and joy that a plant-based life offers—for humans, animals, and the planet.

Christianity and Animals

Stewardship is Not Good Enough – The Revd Dr Jan Goodair

In this thought-provoking piece, the Revd Dr Jan Goodair challenges us to rethink the language we use to describe our relationship with animals. Moving beyond the limitations of ‘dominion’ and ‘stewardship,’ she invites us to embrace new models rooted in fellowship, companionship, and hospitality. With theological insight and practical vision, Jan explores how these concepts can transform the way we value and care for the other-than-human members of God’s creation.

Books and Literature

Animals in Heaven? – Fr Terry Martin

In this insightful interview, Fr Terry Martin, a vegan Catholic priest, discusses his latest book Animals in Heaven?. Drawing from his pastoral experience and Catholic teachings, he reflects on the spiritual significance of animals, their place in creation, and how Christians can integrate compassion for animals into their faith practices. Fr Terry shares personal stories and theological insights, inviting readers to reconsider their relationship with God’s creatures.

The Natural World

Championing Change: Duncan McNair on Saving Asian Elephants

Duncan McNair, CEO of Save The Asian Elephants (STAE) and Co-ordinator of the Low-Welfare Act Coalition, has been named “Legal Hero of the Year 2024” by the Law Society of England and Wales. In this interview, McNair reflects on the significance of the award and how it strengthens his mission to protect animals from exploitation in unethical tourism. He discusses the challenges facing Asian elephants and other species, the global impact of STAE’s work, and how individuals can make more responsible choices to support animal welfare. Guided by his faith, McNair offers insight into the urgent need for change and how we can all help.

Christianity and Animals

Animals in Church: Non-humans and Cultures of Prayer and Worship in Twentieth-century Britain

The role of animals in Christian worship has undergone significant changes in the twentieth century, reflecting a broader shift toward compassion and stewardship. This article, written by Dr Joseph Hardwick, Associate Professor of British History at the University of Northumbria, examines the evolving presence of animals in British church practices.

Dr Hardwick explores how historical events and cultural shifts have influenced the inclusion of animals in church services. His research sheds light on the growing recognition of animals as integral to faith communities and the ethical implications of our relationships with all living beings.

Christians in Leadership

From Pulpit to Protest: Christian Leaders Speak out Against Bullfighting

Animal cruelty is an issue that transcends cultural, geographical, and religious boundaries. It is a moral issue that calls for a united response from people of all faiths and beliefs. Among the voices calling for an end to such cruelty is Father Terry Martin, a vegan Catholic priest from West Sussex, England. Father Martin has gained attention for his outspoken stance against bullfighting, a tradition he views as inherently cruel and incompatible with Christian values. His advocacy highlights the importance of Christian involvement in the fight against animal cruelty and underscores the potential benefits of working alongside secular groups to achieve common goals. This article also includes the voices of other UK vegan clergy who are speaking out against bullfighting, adding to the growing chorus of religious leaders demanding change.

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