thinking honestly about life and faith
‘Hope has two beautiful daughters: Their names are anger and courage. Anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.’ This quotation is widely attributed to St Augustine of Hippo … Read More »
I have never forgotten the declaration by a much esteemed teacher of theology to me, a student: ‘This is the age of thin books and thin theology’. True, I came to love the theology contained in large volumes, such as … Read More »
It’s a very encouraging experience when you read some notable author who says exactly what you think or, in my case, have also taught. I came across this quote, on Twitter, from the wonderful spiritual teacher and guide, Richard Rohr. … Read More »
Many of us are enjoying immensely the collection of conversations between Nick Cave and Sean O’Hagan, Faith, Hope and Carnage. (Melbourne: Text Publishing, 2022). Recorded over a couple of years, while Cave was forced to remain in Britain, during lockdowns and other … Read More »
One sense of the word ‘reflection’ is an image cast back to us, perhaps in a mirror or pool of water. I’d like to look back at the years of ministry since I was ordained 46 years ago today. From … Read More »
Chris Womersley’s latest novel, The Diplomat (Picador, 2022) is a superbly written but gut-wrenching tale. As the cover blurb says, ‘Shot through with grief and dark comedy, The Diplomat is a powerful story of love and recovery—and a stark evocation of … Read More »
I have so enjoyed The Lincoln Highway. Towles is a fabulous story-teller with a superb insight into the human condition. Having really appreciated his A Gentleman in Moscow, I am amazed by this author’s skill in evoking the social and … Read More »
A week after surgery, here are a few thoughts on the experience and on the idea of patience. (BTW, I am recovering well. Thank you.) There are many interesting bon mots about patience. For example, Saint Augustine (354 – 430 ) … Read More »
I don’t know how many times someone has asked, ‘Have you got a minute?’, when of course they meant 30 or 40 minutes at least. Sometimes a conversation ensues about a person’s concerns, perhaps wanting guidance or support, or maybe … Read More »
I thought to share the reflections I offered recently when we had a mini launch of my biography of my biography of Mervyn Himbury, at the Collins Street Baptist Church, Melbourne. Simon Holt has kindly invited me to share with … Read More »