Tai chi class falls foul of city church
A TOTLEY tai chi class has been given its marching orders because the local church claims its aims are incompatible with Christianity.
The exercise class is run by Activity Sheffield which aims "to lead the city to a more active, healthier and sporting future".
For five months 20 people have met for an hour each Monday to improve their fitness and learn the martial art. Now they have been told the class can no longer use All Saints' church hall.
Vicar, the Rev David Rhodes, said: "Our understanding is that the basis of tai chi is an Eastern religion and from the church's point of view that isn't something that we want to be involved in.
"Had we known that is what was intended, we wouldn't have taken the booking in the first place. Our first priority is to seek to be consistent with the Christian faith as we understand it."
Tai chi - roughly translated from Chinese as 'ultimate boxing' - combines deep breathing and concentration with slow, controlled movements aimed at developing strength, balance and calm. The Totley class started at Heatherfield Conservative Club but switched to a bigger space at All Saints' last October. Weekly sessions took place until church members raised doubts and the class was asked to make alternative arrangements.
"This is not my own personal decision," said Mr Rhodes. "It's something the church leadership team has considered. Matters like this are very much a local concern."
Jennie Street, a community leader, rang the vicar to protest. "The bigotry is appalling," she said. "Some of the older people were very upset about it. They say they're just doing exercises and being healthy, it's got nothing to do with religion.
"All Saints' has recently asked the local residents' association for financial support to help refurbish the church hall on the grounds that it is open to all. But it seems a cheek to be asking for help and then throwing people out."
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Wednesday 22 February 2012
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