Greg Valerio

Hi I'm Greg and have walked with God since my late teens. I work as an activist in the jewellery and mining sector. My background is in human rights and environmental advocacy. Following trips to Tanzania (93') and Ethiopia (94') where I encountered Christ in the Poor, I started a UK agency Christian Relief Education and Development (CRED) where I worked to facilitate young activists in campaigning for justice. In 1996 I launched CRED Jewellery, Europe's first jewellery company that sold certified eco-gold and platinum collections to the consumer. I was one of the principle architects  of certified Fairtrade Gold and have co-founded The Alliance for Responsible Mining.I am currently co-founding Fair Jewellery Action as well as studying a part-time MA in Celtic Christianity at Trinity St David's University of Wales.

As a Contemplative Activist I recognise that the inner journey is the biggest challenge I face and the external work, is only an echo of Gods authentic work in my life. My passion is to see the indigenous Monastic Church of Britain rediscover its vitality and re-engage our post-modern, post Christendom culture with the person of Jesus. I have found a natural home in what is called Celtic Christianity and the discovery of the immanence of God in and through all of creation. As much as I am able I am discovering and seeking to walk in the way of St Columba, one of Britain's earliest indigenous apostles.

Alongside this is the recognition that 'activists' like myself need to reformulate their spirituality if we are to walk the walk God has laid before us. This spirituality requires a re-balancing of our lives and expectations and the intentional formation of 'Christ at the centre' of our daily practice. As Columba says 'Be naked in your imitation of Christ'. My personal blog can be found at www.chasingcolumba.com