thinking honestly about life and faith
Charlie Chaplin (1889 – 1977) was one of the greats of the twentieth century: His contribution was made through comedy, acting, musical composition and as one of the most influential figures in the film industry. Like so many comedians, he … Read More »
I am heartily fed up with our lock-down situation, as so many people are—though I know we must do it. I believe we are doing the right thing. Except that some people aren’t, so very few—and their selfish actions threaten … Read More »
I’ve just received a copy of the more recent version of Dag Hammarskjöld’s personal journal, Markings. Though I have read and returned to it many times, it is so good to hold it in one’s hands at this time. After … Read More »
Living with the questions. My colleague Lina Toth has written a challenging piece about the tasks of theological education in increasingly secular contexts. It’s a valuable piece, but I am especially interested in this affirmation: ‘During their theological studies, students … Read More »
Recently I read this little summary of Henri Nouwen’s ideas of ‘lies of identity’: these are common social and cultural assumptions by which we evaluate who we are, what our lives are worth—and so often the only way they really … Read More »
It is 50 years today since the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. He is one of the heroes of my life. He died in what was my first year at University. He was already a hero of the Baptist … Read More »
Today I read a short paragraph that I found deeply challenging simply because of its pithy succinctness: Bad religion has always favoured escape, passivity, irresponsibility. By dint of fixing one’s eyes on heaven above, one does not see what takes … Read More »
Many a parent or partner has uttered those words: Are you listening to me? The frustration inherent in the question reflects the fact that we can be ‘hearing’ what someone says but not really listening. In the political arena it … Read More »
The clever one-liner is an art form we can all admire, but Chesterton excelled not only with wit but also wisdom. A lot of people are quoting one of his best, just now—and it is really needed amidst the Christmas … Read More »
It’s not difficult to say what makes a bad pastor or priest: plenty of evidence there. But what makes a good pastor? I mean someone we can really respect, value and appreciate as a pastor? Here I am not talking … Read More »