The series of Contemporary Christianity events looking at economic issues continued with a chance to hear about a creative outreach initiative in response to the economic situation in Dublin.

Sean Mullan talked about Faith and the Social Economy: A Dublin Perspective. He’s the initiator of Third Space, a new social business initiative to create social hubs in the redeveloping parts of Dublin city. In November Third Space will be opening its first meeting and eating place in the Smithfield area of Dublin City Centre.

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Sean previously worked as a navigation officer in the merchant navy and as a church planter and pastor in Cork and Dublin. He continues to work with church planters and others on mission in the city. He was active in establishing Evangelical Alliance Ireland, was until recently the General Director, and still serves on the board. He is also on the boards of a number of community projects and faith-based initiatives. Married to Ana for 27 years, they have three adult children.

I left my office about 11pm after the Prayer Meeting. Some of our church members had stayed behind after the meeting to fellowship. The last two stragglers had gone out a few seconds ahead of me. As I was locking the door I heard shouting coming from the front of the Church. The two ladies were standing by their vehicles in the car park. Two young men on the street outside were screaming abuse at them. It was a particularly offensive form of racial abuse, full of liberal use of the ‘N’ word and threats of violence. (more…)