Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Continuing progressive mission
Minister Frederick Lipp (1980-1982)
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was marked by the fight for equal voting rights in Selma, Alabama. Amid the movement, Rev. Frederick Lipp of Beverly’s First Parish Unitarian Church became both a witness and active participant in this historic chapter.
Lipp later became minister at Mill Hill Unitarian Chapel in Leeds in 1980. Reverend Lipp stepped into a role steeped in social activism. His decision in March 1965 to join the voting rights demonstrations in Selma placed him at the epicentre of a movement that would captivate the world's attention. The events that transpired during his time in Selma, particularly after the tragic killing of fellow Boston Minister James Reeb, made Lipp committed to sharing his experiences.
In an article by Beverly Times reporter Paul Silverman, Reverend Lipp painted a picture of a city and a community that were deeply impacted by Reverend Reeb's death but still committed to their pursuit of peaceful protest (First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 2023).
Reverend Jo James
Reverend Jo James: Minister 2014-2024
An interview was conducted with Reverend Jo to inquire about the chapel's evolution and how he has facilitated its progression in alignment with modern times. Through this interview, the Chapel is depicted as an unwavering refuge, staunchly opposing religious persecution and acts of intimidation, offering sanctuary and aid to individuals in search of solace. This is reflected when Jo says:
"The emergence of the ultra-right in Hungary has posed challenges, leading to the displacement of Unitarian ministers and liberal individuals who found it increasingly difficult to practise their faith. . . In the face of [such] terrorism and religious intolerance, our church has stood firm, providing refuge and support for those who seek a space free from persecution."
The church's involvement in social activism transcends customary religious practices, epitomising a dynamic tradition congruent with the deeply-rooted values inherent in its spiritual community. Its proactive engagement in the Black Lives Matter movement stands as a tangible illustration of the congregation's steadfast dedication to principles of justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalised voices. As Jo put it:
"Beyond religious confines, our church has a rich tradition of social activism, resonating with causes that echo the values we hold dear . . . during the tumultuous events of 2020, our congregation actively participated in movements like Black Lives Matter, underscoring our commitment to justice and equality."
Bibliography
- First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church. (2023). The 1965 Selma March. [online] .
- Forster, G. (2019). Walkways to the north and south of Mill Hill Chapel: a timeline.
- James, Jo (2023). Interview with Leo Wright and Jessica Jukes.
- Tripadvisor. (n.d.). Mill Hill Chapel, Leeds. [online] [Accessed 14 Dec. 2023].
