The Big Issue has just published Leap Of Faith, a story about the Christmas, long ago, when I fell down the steps outside church. It was the Christmas, I like to think a little too neatly, that God and I parted ways. It was not a dramatic falling out – only those few steps – but enough to seal my fate. And maybe my faith.

The Big Issue #575. Available from vendors from 16 November to 2 December. Look for Jon Bon Jovi on the cover. (His foundation is fighting homelessness.)