The Curiosity of Belief

Do you have a Belief? What part does it play in your life?

Perhaps this definition below can help you to articulate your answer:

“Belief is an acceptance that something exists or is true, especially one without proof.”

— The Oxford English Dictionary - https://www.oed.com

The definition explains the ‘jump’ to accept something. Patrick Melville sees the impact of Belief this in his mental work and is curious to dig deeper. This is not only in a religious sense, but as a mental interpretation of life - belief in: yourself, your contacts, information; or just a bus driver taking you to your destination…..

Throughout Patrick’s life, his beliefs have been tested; and in many different ways. Adopted as a child from an orphanage in Colombia, to growing up in the UK, working in marketing spending £0,000,000s of his clients’ money, to building his own business, to being married and then having kids.

His life paused abruptly, with a diagnosis of terminal brain cancer. He is now in remission and working to use his own understanding in life and his learning to help others. A good example of Belief is climbing a mountain. There are many paths to choose, and a few jumps to take. Patrick has found that with all these moments, it is important to stop, to look back and to review the tracks taken; and to enjoy the view.

Patrick also recognises the tracks of those who have walked with him. How they have pulled him up when he has slipped: his wife, his family, his friends and many more, including his own Christian faith.

How Patrick is applying his Curiosity of Belief.

Delivering workshops in schools. The current theme is “Why Belief Is a Good Mental Tool”. Patrick explores and explains how belief and faith are useful ways to build mental resilience in daily life. You can read some nice testimonials below.
A podcast series. The theme is exploring the meaning and interpretation of Belief. It is called “Growing from a Test in Belief”. Patrick uses his curiosity to interview people about their stories and to hear what have learned when tested.

Patrick’s work here is not about promoting a specific belief or persuading others, but about the role belief plays in how we live. Feel free to join the journey through your own Curiosity of Belief.

Click HERE to drop Patrick a message

Here are some lovely words where Patrick has done some work

“Thank you for sharing a thought on the idea of curiosity. You managed to give the pupils plenty to think about and linked your dress illustration with getting the pupils to consider different perspectives and be curious. In future, you may like to think about how to link your bible readings with your overall theme, and finish with something about Jesus. Thank you for making your way to Malvern!”

— Adam Wharton, Chaplain and Teacher of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Malvern College

“I thoroughly enjoyed it and thought that each point that was made was relevant to today’s world. What I would say is maybe go into a bit more detail on what prayer is and maybe have a bit more of a discussion around the different ways that people can talk to and hear God.”
”Patrick’s talk was truly inspiring, it offered a thoughtful perspective on faith and wellbeing throughout the sessions.”
”I found the sessions very valuable and appreciated the calm and welcoming atmosphere he created. Patrick engaged with us on a personal level. The discussions around Faith and Wellbeing were thoughtful and gave us a chance to reflect in a relaxed environment. Overall, I found the four sessions to be. Positive experience and I appreciated the time that Patrick took to speak with us and encourage open discussion.”

— x3 quotes from 6th Form Marlborough College students who attended Patrick's programme

“Patrick’s engaging and interactive talk to all our Y11 girls provided some helpful ways in to managing mental health through combining faith, curiosity and practical everyday methods. His gentle and inclusive approach was appreciated by the pupils and staff and opened up some helpful conversations.”

— Katie Windle, Chaplain, Sherborne Girls

“Patrick offered a very compelling address at our Sunday morning College Service. His passion for Mental Wellbeing was combined with a sound interpretation of the Gospel lesson for the day (Feast of the Holy Cross) and pupils were engaged and attentive throughout. His underlying message is that Faith is good for Mental Health and that a relationship with Christ is key to alleviating conditions like anxiety and even depression. I commend Patrick as a speaker who inspires conversation around these very important issues in our time.”

— The Reverend Tim Novis Senior Chaplain Marlborough College

“I joined the big Mid Test benefice in January 2025 and Patrick helped me to get into the different communities imcluding Stockbridge Primary School. He introduced me and co-ran events that he set up and runs. These are both in and outside the church and for all ages: 8 churches, prayer group, the local primary schools, town hall events and, even a men’s meet up at the local curry house. I have seen him use his personal and profession side with Diocese of Winchester and Mental Health work to give the right message to the right people at the right time. I recommend working with him”
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— Rev Joe Sweetham, Mid Test Benefice and runs local services