Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Meaning to live
The NZ Methodist Conference decided, last November, to commit to a ten year journey focused on implementing the theme “Let the children live”. We live in a land where many thousands of our children live in poverty, and our youth suicide rate is amongst the highest in the world. Last year, in Aotearoa-NZ, 69 young people under the age of twenty committed suicide. The youngest of these was ten years old. All our Churches are increasingly called to advocate strongly for a society which meets at least the basic needs of children and young people. The teaching and actions of Jesus provides strong theological and moral justification and support for the “Let the children live” plea . Jesus said, "Let the little children come unto me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." (Mt 19 : 14)
To allow the current situation to continue, where so many of our young people are living in poverty is unacceptable. A theology of compassion is driving all the programmes and initiatives within the Methodist Church and other Churches as we seek to intentionally respond to the desperate cries for help of so many young people. Some of these cries for help from our tamariki are stifled, and are not being heard within families, schools, Churches and communities. Those of us who have the privilege of having “enough” to live on need to attend more consciously to, and respond in practical ways to the cries for help which come to us each and every day in both spoken and unspoken ways. Sometimes it can be a fleeting look of despair in the eyes of a child which can trigger our inquiry into their situation. Sometimes it can be a request for advice from a solo mother or father who have just been told by their child’s school teacher that their child has (during class time) declared their intention to commit suicide.
Sometimes it can be responding to the need of hungry and anxious families by taking food to them, or making sure they know where the food banks are. Sometimes it will involve going with, and being an advocate alongside, solo parents at the local WINZ office to ensure that every benefit they are eligible for is able to be accessed. Sometimes it will be officiating at funerals or memorial services for young people who have committed suicide, and agonising with family and friends of the deceased who are struggling to accept the reality of the death of their child. Sometimes, when we have the opportunity and motivation, it will involve attending suicide prevention workshops.
There is no higher incentive to attend a suicide prevention workshop or conference than having recently lost a loved one to suicide, or to have recently ministered to families who have lost a child to suicide. Everything within us cries out, “No more!” and we do all we can to identify the risk factors and take appropriate action to preserve, protect and nurture precious life.
In Dunedin there is a wonderful service for young people called Chatbus. There are two buses now which travel around local schools. Chatbus counsellors are available to chat with young people, during school hours, about whatever is troubling them. This is a great example of a community care service which helps build resilience in the lives of young people and enables them to generate and sustain a sense of meaning in life. Sunday schools, youth groups and Church families also play crucial roles in creating a sense of community. When young people feel genuinely included in a community of faith, life is experienced as being more worthwhile and meaningful, and the chances of suicide are reduced. The impact of failures in some areas of life, such as relationships and academic performance, can be “buffered” by being loved and valued by a community of faith for who we are , not for what we do, or do not achieve.
Most suicides are triggered by an accumulation of negative life events such as being consistently on the receiving end of violence, emotional abuse, relationship break ups, trouble with the law, financial stresses, and unemployment. Negative life events and adverse life experiences put people at risk of suicide. Suicide prevention for people of all ages therefore needs to focus on reducing the frequency and intensity of negative life events and helping people build emotional resilience to cope with those adverse life experiences which are inevitable. Compassionate and effective mental health services are essential if we are to let the children live. However, mental health services alone are insufficient. Sometimes we hear of unfortunate outcomes of medical interventions such as the overuse of anti-psychotic and anti-depressant drugs, which can have negative long-term side-effects. Acknowledging and ministering to the spiritual dimension of young people’s health, as advocated by the “Te Tapa wha” model (Durie, 1982 ) ensures a more holistic approach to caring for the young people of our land, whatever the their culture, religious background, faith, lack of faith or socio-economic status. The four cornerstones of Māori health are whānau (family health), tinana (physical health), hinengaro (mental health) and wairua (spiritual health). All people can benefit from applying the insights which flow from this holistic understanding of health.
The PERMA Model was developed by the respected psychologist, Martin Seligman, and was widely published in his influential 2011 book, "Flourish." "PERMA" stands for the five essential elements that should be in place for people (including young people) to experience lasting well-being, and hence reduce the likelihood of suicide. These are positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, meaning and achievement/accomplishment
For us to experience well-being, we need positive emotion in our lives. Any positive emotion like peace, gratitude, satisfaction, pleasure, inspiration, hope, curiosity, or love falls into this category. For young people it’s really important for them to know that they are loved, both by their families, their friends, their communities and (ideally) by God.
The more that young people engage with a creative project or a sport, the more likely they are to experience well-being and find meaning in life. Experiencing meaning is greatly enhanced by creativity and appropriate accomplishments. We need therefore to encourage young people to nurture themselves in some way, whether it is mastering a new skill, achieving an academic goal, or participating in sport . A healthy sense of accomplishment when realistic goals are met, contributes to our ability to flourish and will reduce the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and attempts. Ultimately of course, it is not about being loved for what we have achieved, but accomplishments do enhance our self esteem and provide satisfaction. I see this at University and other Graduation ceremonies. To be justifiably proud of having reached a challenging goal, bolsters our confidence, builds emotional resilience and buffers the negative self-image which can contribute to suicidal thoughts when under stress, or under the influence of alcohol and other drugs.
As humans, we are social beings. Good relationships are vital to our well-being. Time and again, we see that young people who have meaningful, positive relationships with others, are happier than those who do not. The Church can play a crucial role in creating the context within which good relationships can be formed and be nurtured.
Meaning comes from serving a cause bigger than ourselves. Young people need meaning in their lives to have a sense of well-being. To have no sense of meaning is to be at increased risk of suicide. What is the point of carrying on in life if there appears to be no meaning in life ? To be assured of being loved is the spiritual antidote for a loss of a sense of meaning. When young people are valued and consistently told they are loved , meaning and purpose are instilled. It is especially important for parents and whanau to show tolerance and patience when young people rebel and push the boundaries. During the teenage years, it is normal for young people to make mistakes, some of them which inevitably lead to the destruction of property and the injury of themselves and others. The teaching of Jesus in the Parable of the Prodigal son needs to be applied here. Forgiveness needs to be offered if the offending young person is not to retreat into a shell of guilt and rebellion. Restorative justice procedures in many cases lead to a better outcome for young people than exclusively punitive measures.
There is a story about an African tribe who, whenever a member of their community is found to be guilty of an offence, surround that person for days. Members of the tribe bombard the offender with reminders of all that is good about them. Eventually the offender gets the message and will do their best not to re-offend against their community, a community which has cared enough to put considerable time into reminding them of how inherently good they are.
Each and everyone of us has the opportunity to encourage and resource the wellbeing of the children and young people around us. We will be good news to our younger ones, to the extent that we show acceptance, empathy, compassion and understanding of their struggles. We can be the good news by praying for and working together for a world where all children and young people have access to everything they need to reach their full potential. Being there alongside young people, in a way which enables them to experience meaning and hope for the future expresses the heart of the gospel , which is that all of us are loved by God. May God enable us all to be channels of that transforming and healing love. Let the children live !
http://www.careers.govt.nz/educators-practitioners/career-practice/career-theory-models/te-whare-tapa-wha/
http://www.amazon.com/Flourish-Visionary-Understanding-Happiness-Well-being/dp/1439190763
Monday, December 12, 2011
Overcoming violence
Overcoming violence
This article was published in the Otago Daily Times Faith and Reason column during 2011
There is a great deal of violence in our world. In response to this, the World Council of Churches (WCC) designated the decade from 2000-2010 to be a Decade to overcome violence. During this period, the 349 national member Churches ( made up of 500 million or so members ) intentionally attempted to make a difference, to move our world in the direction of peace and justice. Hundreds of projects were established by Churches all over the planet to address and overcome violence . The ecumenical accompaniment programme of the WCC in Israel and Palestine was one initiative which is ongoing. Economic injustice and violence against creation were also on the agenda of the Decade to overcome violence, giving expression to the opposition of the WCC to economic exploitation of the poor and the desecration of God’s world. Many of the projects were designed to address and deal with the root causes of violence, poverty and injustice. In May of this year the WCC organised an eight day International Peace Convocation on the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies, Kingston Jamaica. One thousand delegates attended from over one hundred countries. We gathered to report back on the Decade to Overcome violence and to plan together for the future.
Unlike here in Dunedin where we can walk without restriction from our city onto our University campus, security is high at the interface of city and campus in Kingston. Access is via guarded entry points. The entire campus is surrounded by fences topped with barbed wire. Each hostel is similarly encased. Kingston is a violent city, which is why the decision was made to hold an international peace conference there, so that we could see at first hand what the Churches are doing to address the root causes of violence and to overcome violence in their communities.
On the first day of the Convocation we all had the opportunity to visit Church and community based “overcoming violence” projects in the city. I chose to visit Boystown, an educational and employment training community established by the Methodist Church in the 1940’s . This project is located in the midst of a poor and disadvantaged area of the city. It is an oasis of peace and hope. It was inspiring to meet with some of the students and staff. This project is one of many in Kingston which is helping to build peace and to give young people hope and prospects for the future.
The opening plenary address of the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation was delivered by Canon Paul Oestreicher. Paul received an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from the University of Otago a few years ago. His address was entitled “A new world is possible”. He declared that Christians must dare to implement the teaching of Jesus, to love our enemies. He presented a vision of a world where war, like slavery is internationally condemned and rendered illegal. A world where war is no longer an option for solving conflicts. An inspiring vision.
Each day we explored a different dimension of Peace – peace in the community, peace among the peoples, peace with the earth and peace in the marketplace. One hundred and sixty workshops were on offer. I attended workshops on the re-unification of Korea, on the importance of interfaith awareness in theological education, on respectful mission in a multi-religious world and one on addressing economic and ecological violence in Tanzania. Each day we divided into fifty groups of twenty for Bible study. Each day we worshipped together in a huge tent on campus, and heard inspiring addresses from peace-makers from all around the world. We heard inspiring “overcoming violence” addresses from the Congo, from Iraq, from Indian women, from Martin Luther King III, from a Christian Palestinian doctor, from an Orthdox bishop from Baghdad, from the former Prime Minister of Norway and from many others.
Coming back to Dunedin I wondered what difference I can make, and what difference our local Churches here are making or could be making to overcoming violence in our community ? First and foremost our Churches , if they are being true to their faith, will be modelling a lifestyle based on justice and peace within their own faith communities. Secondly our Churches will be seeking to influence the wider community for good by addressing the root causes of violence in our community. I see this happening in many ways. As in Kingston, the Churches here in Dunedin, and individual Christian people are involved with a wide range of community groups, working at every level of society to overcome violence and to model more peaceful and respectful ways of living. This is happening institutionally through the work of wonderful organisations such as the Methodist Mission, Anglican Family Care, the Salvation Army, Presbyterian Support and Catholic Social Services. Working towards and expressing a commitment to peace and justice is also happening when tertiary students and others march down George St to protest against sexual violence. It is happening through the Sophie Elliott foundation. It is happening through the Dunedin Night Shelter. It is happening through our New Zealand Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies based at Otago University. It is happening when the Muslim community invite people who are not members of their faith to join them at the Mosque to share an evening meal during Ramadan. It is happening whenever we care for creation, whenever we choose ethical investments, support Trade Aid, and prioritise spending on early childhood education and nurture. Overcoming violence is happening whenever we choose to reach out compassionately to support and care for our neighbours, whoever they are, wherever they come from, whatever they are doing and whatever they have done. Overcoming violence is happening whenever and wherever we dare to model, nurture and encourage more peaceful and just ways of living.
Further information about the WCC can be obtained via www.oikumene.org and about the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation from www.overcomingviolence.org
Rev Greg Hughson Ecumenical Chaplain, Otago University
This article was published in the Otago Daily Times Faith and Reason column during 2011
There is a great deal of violence in our world. In response to this, the World Council of Churches (WCC) designated the decade from 2000-2010 to be a Decade to overcome violence. During this period, the 349 national member Churches ( made up of 500 million or so members ) intentionally attempted to make a difference, to move our world in the direction of peace and justice. Hundreds of projects were established by Churches all over the planet to address and overcome violence . The ecumenical accompaniment programme of the WCC in Israel and Palestine was one initiative which is ongoing. Economic injustice and violence against creation were also on the agenda of the Decade to overcome violence, giving expression to the opposition of the WCC to economic exploitation of the poor and the desecration of God’s world. Many of the projects were designed to address and deal with the root causes of violence, poverty and injustice. In May of this year the WCC organised an eight day International Peace Convocation on the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies, Kingston Jamaica. One thousand delegates attended from over one hundred countries. We gathered to report back on the Decade to Overcome violence and to plan together for the future.
Unlike here in Dunedin where we can walk without restriction from our city onto our University campus, security is high at the interface of city and campus in Kingston. Access is via guarded entry points. The entire campus is surrounded by fences topped with barbed wire. Each hostel is similarly encased. Kingston is a violent city, which is why the decision was made to hold an international peace conference there, so that we could see at first hand what the Churches are doing to address the root causes of violence and to overcome violence in their communities.
On the first day of the Convocation we all had the opportunity to visit Church and community based “overcoming violence” projects in the city. I chose to visit Boystown, an educational and employment training community established by the Methodist Church in the 1940’s . This project is located in the midst of a poor and disadvantaged area of the city. It is an oasis of peace and hope. It was inspiring to meet with some of the students and staff. This project is one of many in Kingston which is helping to build peace and to give young people hope and prospects for the future.
The opening plenary address of the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation was delivered by Canon Paul Oestreicher. Paul received an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from the University of Otago a few years ago. His address was entitled “A new world is possible”. He declared that Christians must dare to implement the teaching of Jesus, to love our enemies. He presented a vision of a world where war, like slavery is internationally condemned and rendered illegal. A world where war is no longer an option for solving conflicts. An inspiring vision.
Each day we explored a different dimension of Peace – peace in the community, peace among the peoples, peace with the earth and peace in the marketplace. One hundred and sixty workshops were on offer. I attended workshops on the re-unification of Korea, on the importance of interfaith awareness in theological education, on respectful mission in a multi-religious world and one on addressing economic and ecological violence in Tanzania. Each day we divided into fifty groups of twenty for Bible study. Each day we worshipped together in a huge tent on campus, and heard inspiring addresses from peace-makers from all around the world. We heard inspiring “overcoming violence” addresses from the Congo, from Iraq, from Indian women, from Martin Luther King III, from a Christian Palestinian doctor, from an Orthdox bishop from Baghdad, from the former Prime Minister of Norway and from many others.
Coming back to Dunedin I wondered what difference I can make, and what difference our local Churches here are making or could be making to overcoming violence in our community ? First and foremost our Churches , if they are being true to their faith, will be modelling a lifestyle based on justice and peace within their own faith communities. Secondly our Churches will be seeking to influence the wider community for good by addressing the root causes of violence in our community. I see this happening in many ways. As in Kingston, the Churches here in Dunedin, and individual Christian people are involved with a wide range of community groups, working at every level of society to overcome violence and to model more peaceful and respectful ways of living. This is happening institutionally through the work of wonderful organisations such as the Methodist Mission, Anglican Family Care, the Salvation Army, Presbyterian Support and Catholic Social Services. Working towards and expressing a commitment to peace and justice is also happening when tertiary students and others march down George St to protest against sexual violence. It is happening through the Sophie Elliott foundation. It is happening through the Dunedin Night Shelter. It is happening through our New Zealand Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies based at Otago University. It is happening when the Muslim community invite people who are not members of their faith to join them at the Mosque to share an evening meal during Ramadan. It is happening whenever we care for creation, whenever we choose ethical investments, support Trade Aid, and prioritise spending on early childhood education and nurture. Overcoming violence is happening whenever we choose to reach out compassionately to support and care for our neighbours, whoever they are, wherever they come from, whatever they are doing and whatever they have done. Overcoming violence is happening whenever and wherever we dare to model, nurture and encourage more peaceful and just ways of living.
Further information about the WCC can be obtained via www.oikumene.org and about the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation from www.overcomingviolence.org
Rev Greg Hughson Ecumenical Chaplain, Otago University
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Editorial for Otago Daily Times Easter Saturday 2011
Editorial for Otago Daily Times Easter Saturday 2011
Today, in-between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is a day to pause, reflect and pray. As evidenced by the news reported today and every day , suffering continues to be the experience of millions in our world. We live our lives surrounded by suffering and yet hoping for a better future. The Easter story reminds us that in the midst of suffering and death there is always hope. As we journey through life each station of the Cross can be linked to a station of our soul. We can be surprised by hope even in the midst of death and despair. For our University and Polytechnic Chaplaincy teams the most challenging aspect of our ministry is responding with love and compassion when a student or staff member dies. Sudden, unexpected tragic death forces us to reflect on the deeper significance of life. As we officiate at funerals or memorial services we are challenged to the very core of our being. At such times we offer a distinctive type of spiritual support. Often, even in our supposedly secular society, it is the Church which will provide a funeral service and ongoing pastoral care for grieving people. The Church at its best is a servant community, here to minister to all people not only its own members.
When Jesus died , Matthews gospel tells us that there was a violent earthquake (Matthew 27:51) . Jesus’ death was a very dramatic event. So too was the recent earthquake in Christchurch. The response of the Churches to the Christchurch earthquake continues to be very significant in helping people to recover from earthquake induced trauma. The Salvation Army for example have visited 24,000 homes offering practical support and a listening ear. Lianne Dalziel , Labour MP for Christchurch East and other politicians have expressed gratitude for the practical work being done by members of many Churches and other religious groups. The Church is comprised of a great variety of communities of people, “wounded healers” who may have lost their Church buildings and their own homes, but who are nevertheless willing and available to help others. People who have had their hearts strangely warmed by a gospel which affirms that the power of God’s love is stronger than the power of death. People who believe that God’s love can sustain us through tragedy and its aftermath. People who affirm that nothing in all of creation can separate us from the love of God. People who know that God’s love is available to us all as a powerful experiential reality flowing to us from the source of all love. Those people who are open to the transforming love of God become channels of compassion in a suffering world, intentionally working alongside all people of goodwill (including people of other faiths) to bring restoration, forgiveness, peace, justice, healing and political change to individuals and whole communities.
In the life, death and resurrection of Jesus we encounter God at work, calling us back, opening the way for us to respond in awe and gratitude to the invitation to share Christ’s compassionate love and resurrection life internationally with all people.
The faith proclaimed by the Christian Church is not an otherworldy faith. We follow a Lord and Saviour who inspires us to “earth” the good news here in Otago, reaching out in love to support all in need. The way of Christ is a journey through suffering and pain to healing, joy and eternal life.
The women who discovered Jesus’ body was no longer in the grave were amazed. What had appeared to be the end, was in fact only the beginning. The death and resurrection of Jesus planted the Christian Church which continues two thousand years later to reach out with compassion and love .
Please take the opportunity this Easter to pray for all who suffer and to let those near and dear to you know how much you love them. Life is precious. We all face many challenges in this life. We need to hear and believe how much we are loved.
In the words of a popular hymn composed by my dear friend Professor Colin Gibson, “He (Jesus ) came singing love, he lived singing love, he died, singing love. He (Jesus) arose in silence. For the love to go on we must make it our song. You and I, be the singers.”
Today, in-between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is a day to pause, reflect and pray. As evidenced by the news reported today and every day , suffering continues to be the experience of millions in our world. We live our lives surrounded by suffering and yet hoping for a better future. The Easter story reminds us that in the midst of suffering and death there is always hope. As we journey through life each station of the Cross can be linked to a station of our soul. We can be surprised by hope even in the midst of death and despair. For our University and Polytechnic Chaplaincy teams the most challenging aspect of our ministry is responding with love and compassion when a student or staff member dies. Sudden, unexpected tragic death forces us to reflect on the deeper significance of life. As we officiate at funerals or memorial services we are challenged to the very core of our being. At such times we offer a distinctive type of spiritual support. Often, even in our supposedly secular society, it is the Church which will provide a funeral service and ongoing pastoral care for grieving people. The Church at its best is a servant community, here to minister to all people not only its own members.
When Jesus died , Matthews gospel tells us that there was a violent earthquake (Matthew 27:51) . Jesus’ death was a very dramatic event. So too was the recent earthquake in Christchurch. The response of the Churches to the Christchurch earthquake continues to be very significant in helping people to recover from earthquake induced trauma. The Salvation Army for example have visited 24,000 homes offering practical support and a listening ear. Lianne Dalziel , Labour MP for Christchurch East and other politicians have expressed gratitude for the practical work being done by members of many Churches and other religious groups. The Church is comprised of a great variety of communities of people, “wounded healers” who may have lost their Church buildings and their own homes, but who are nevertheless willing and available to help others. People who have had their hearts strangely warmed by a gospel which affirms that the power of God’s love is stronger than the power of death. People who believe that God’s love can sustain us through tragedy and its aftermath. People who affirm that nothing in all of creation can separate us from the love of God. People who know that God’s love is available to us all as a powerful experiential reality flowing to us from the source of all love. Those people who are open to the transforming love of God become channels of compassion in a suffering world, intentionally working alongside all people of goodwill (including people of other faiths) to bring restoration, forgiveness, peace, justice, healing and political change to individuals and whole communities.
In the life, death and resurrection of Jesus we encounter God at work, calling us back, opening the way for us to respond in awe and gratitude to the invitation to share Christ’s compassionate love and resurrection life internationally with all people.
The faith proclaimed by the Christian Church is not an otherworldy faith. We follow a Lord and Saviour who inspires us to “earth” the good news here in Otago, reaching out in love to support all in need. The way of Christ is a journey through suffering and pain to healing, joy and eternal life.
The women who discovered Jesus’ body was no longer in the grave were amazed. What had appeared to be the end, was in fact only the beginning. The death and resurrection of Jesus planted the Christian Church which continues two thousand years later to reach out with compassion and love .
Please take the opportunity this Easter to pray for all who suffer and to let those near and dear to you know how much you love them. Life is precious. We all face many challenges in this life. We need to hear and believe how much we are loved.
In the words of a popular hymn composed by my dear friend Professor Colin Gibson, “He (Jesus ) came singing love, he lived singing love, he died, singing love. He (Jesus) arose in silence. For the love to go on we must make it our song. You and I, be the singers.”
Friday, March 05, 2010
Blair and Jen engaged
Blair and Jennifer Hancox are engaged to be married. Blair popped the question on Monday 1st March during a celebration dinner at Luna restaurant in Dunedin. And Jen said yes ! What a great night !
Book Review - Beyond contempt
Book Review for Touchstone
Beyond Contempt by Tony Stroobant
This book has already received considerable publicity, and justifiably so. It deals with the crucial issue of Christian attitudes towards the Jewish community , spanning almost 2,000 years. It is tragic that throughout the entire history of the Christian Church, “anti-Jewishness” has been evident in both implicit and explicit ways. This very important and easy to read 103 page book represents a concise summary of many years of academic study and respectful interfaith activity. Tony is someone who is “walking the talk”, serving as co-President of the NZ Council of Christians and Jews. Early on in the book he explores the Jewishness of Jesus and the relationship of Jesus with “the Jews” of his day. The role of “the Jews” in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus is carefully explored, and traditional interpretations critiqued. Many common assumptions and attitudes are challenged , including the idea of “supersessionism” - the belief that Christianity has superceded Judaism and that members of the Jewish community are thereby to be regarded as in some way spiritually deficient. Tony goes on to explain the many ways in which Christians continue to perpetuate anti-Jewishness and anti-semitism, often unintentionally via our presuppositions, actions, and worship practices. The source lies within our subconscious, planted deep within us since our childhood, inherited from hundreds of years of oppressive attitudes. We are reminded that the tragic fruit of such conditioning over hundreds of years was the holocaust.
Church history, world history, biblical studies, psychology and psychoanalytic theory are drawn upon to help us become more aware of what we need to change. A comparison is made with the dynamics of changes in our attitude to inclusive language, changes which took place over many years and are still in progress. Insights into the richness of Judaism are provided and we are all encouraged to grow in respect and understanding. One thing that could have been suggested was that we be more intentional in making friends with members of the Jewish community, perhaps by joining (or forming) a local interfaith group.
The book is presented in seven easy to read sections with study questions and a psalm after each chapter - an excellent resource for a Church study group. Further reading and helpful websites are provided to assist us to explore the topics in greater depth.
“Beyond Contempt” is a vitally important work endorsed by Wendy Ross, co-President of the Auckland Council of Christians and Jews. It should be made available far and wide, within both Church and Synagogue. I suggest each Parish purchase copies of this book and also give copies to their local Jewish community. This will enable our Jewish friends to be more aware of attempts being made within the Church to move “beyond contempt” of Judaism to greater understanding and respect. The next step would be to use the book as a study guide (over seven weeks) for a Christian-Jewish dialogue group in your area. Shalom.
Beyond Contempt by Tony Stroobant
This book has already received considerable publicity, and justifiably so. It deals with the crucial issue of Christian attitudes towards the Jewish community , spanning almost 2,000 years. It is tragic that throughout the entire history of the Christian Church, “anti-Jewishness” has been evident in both implicit and explicit ways. This very important and easy to read 103 page book represents a concise summary of many years of academic study and respectful interfaith activity. Tony is someone who is “walking the talk”, serving as co-President of the NZ Council of Christians and Jews. Early on in the book he explores the Jewishness of Jesus and the relationship of Jesus with “the Jews” of his day. The role of “the Jews” in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus is carefully explored, and traditional interpretations critiqued. Many common assumptions and attitudes are challenged , including the idea of “supersessionism” - the belief that Christianity has superceded Judaism and that members of the Jewish community are thereby to be regarded as in some way spiritually deficient. Tony goes on to explain the many ways in which Christians continue to perpetuate anti-Jewishness and anti-semitism, often unintentionally via our presuppositions, actions, and worship practices. The source lies within our subconscious, planted deep within us since our childhood, inherited from hundreds of years of oppressive attitudes. We are reminded that the tragic fruit of such conditioning over hundreds of years was the holocaust.
Church history, world history, biblical studies, psychology and psychoanalytic theory are drawn upon to help us become more aware of what we need to change. A comparison is made with the dynamics of changes in our attitude to inclusive language, changes which took place over many years and are still in progress. Insights into the richness of Judaism are provided and we are all encouraged to grow in respect and understanding. One thing that could have been suggested was that we be more intentional in making friends with members of the Jewish community, perhaps by joining (or forming) a local interfaith group.
The book is presented in seven easy to read sections with study questions and a psalm after each chapter - an excellent resource for a Church study group. Further reading and helpful websites are provided to assist us to explore the topics in greater depth.
“Beyond Contempt” is a vitally important work endorsed by Wendy Ross, co-President of the Auckland Council of Christians and Jews. It should be made available far and wide, within both Church and Synagogue. I suggest each Parish purchase copies of this book and also give copies to their local Jewish community. This will enable our Jewish friends to be more aware of attempts being made within the Church to move “beyond contempt” of Judaism to greater understanding and respect. The next step would be to use the book as a study guide (over seven weeks) for a Christian-Jewish dialogue group in your area. Shalom.
Book Review - This is your time
BOOK REVIEW
MICHAEL W. SMITH, THIS IS YOUR TIME
In common with John Wesley, Michael W. Smith believes that we should make every moment count. We never know when our lives may end.
Inspired by the shootings at Columbine High School, Colorado USA in 1999, Michael presents a powerful testimony to the faith of Cassie Bernall and Rachel Scott, two students who confessed their faith in God immediately prior to their being martyred. Michael W. Smith, a famous contemporary American musician, was privileged to sing at their memorial service a few days later. He skillfully interweaves his own biography and his own faith into the story, which once begun, is very hard to put down. Michael, a father of five, presents a convincing case for the relevance of Christian faith today. Reading this book helped me to meet the man behind the music, and to encounter a father who has a sincere pastoral message to share.
Although there are some "Americanisms" in the text, this does not detract from the power and the relevance of this small, well-presented and easily read book. I believe This is your time would make a spiritually valuable gift for parents to give their teenagers, and for teenagers to give their parents. The discussion elicited within families, will be profound. This book will also be of value for ministers, pastors, youth leaders and school chaplains who have already, or who might one day be called upon to offer pastoral care in the context of tragedy. Michael W. Smith's testimony is a witness to the vital importance of music at times of bereavement, and the distinctive ministry-role musicians play within and beyond the Christian community.
This book rings true to human experience and is a courageous attempt to make sense out of disaster. Written from an evangelical perspective, portions of This is your time will be appreciated by people of all theological emphases. Michael calls us all to live our lives with a greater passion for God. Whether we are facing times of death, mourning, laughter or dancing we are challenged to make every moment count. Every moment of every day and every night is precious.
The first chapter is available on the internet at www.ThisIsYourTime.com
Greg Hughson (father of four)
MICHAEL W. SMITH, THIS IS YOUR TIME
In common with John Wesley, Michael W. Smith believes that we should make every moment count. We never know when our lives may end.
Inspired by the shootings at Columbine High School, Colorado USA in 1999, Michael presents a powerful testimony to the faith of Cassie Bernall and Rachel Scott, two students who confessed their faith in God immediately prior to their being martyred. Michael W. Smith, a famous contemporary American musician, was privileged to sing at their memorial service a few days later. He skillfully interweaves his own biography and his own faith into the story, which once begun, is very hard to put down. Michael, a father of five, presents a convincing case for the relevance of Christian faith today. Reading this book helped me to meet the man behind the music, and to encounter a father who has a sincere pastoral message to share.
Although there are some "Americanisms" in the text, this does not detract from the power and the relevance of this small, well-presented and easily read book. I believe This is your time would make a spiritually valuable gift for parents to give their teenagers, and for teenagers to give their parents. The discussion elicited within families, will be profound. This book will also be of value for ministers, pastors, youth leaders and school chaplains who have already, or who might one day be called upon to offer pastoral care in the context of tragedy. Michael W. Smith's testimony is a witness to the vital importance of music at times of bereavement, and the distinctive ministry-role musicians play within and beyond the Christian community.
This book rings true to human experience and is a courageous attempt to make sense out of disaster. Written from an evangelical perspective, portions of This is your time will be appreciated by people of all theological emphases. Michael calls us all to live our lives with a greater passion for God. Whether we are facing times of death, mourning, laughter or dancing we are challenged to make every moment count. Every moment of every day and every night is precious.
The first chapter is available on the internet at www.ThisIsYourTime.com
Greg Hughson (father of four)
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Mark's story of Jesus
Mark's story of Jesus
Touchstone article. October 2009
The gospel readings set down for October in the lectionary invite us enter into Mark’s story of Jesus. Mark’s gospel is the earliest gospel, written around AD 65-70. I suggest you sit down and read it all as one integrated story. This will enable you to put what you hear read in Church this month, in context.
An ancient tradition recounts that Mark was an associate of Jesus’ chief pupil Simon Peter. Around AD 140, Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis wrote that “Mark, being Peter’s interpreter, wrote down correctly all that he remembered of the things said and done by the Lord”. So, if we are to believe Papias, Mark is a reliable witness (via Peter) to the ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Mark’s story of Jesus is full of action. Jesus is always on the move. We see this in Mark 10. Jesus enters into the region of Judea. Immediately he encounters conflict in discussing the issue of divorce. This issue is still controversial. Jesus declares “what God has joined together let man not separate” , a phrase often still heard at wedding services.
A little later on Jesus takes children in his arms and blesses them. Soon afterwards he challenges a rich young man to sell all he has and give it to the poor. His disciples are amazed when Jesus declares that all things are possible with God and that the first will be last and the last shall be first . Then Jesus is on the move again. He leads his astonished disciples on the road up to Jerusalem, informing them what will happen next. He paints a frightening scenario. The shadow of the cross falls across the Markan narrative from Mark 8:27 onwards. On leaving Jericho Jesus enables Blind Bartimaeus to receive his sight. Bartimaeus joins the crowd and follows Jesus.
The story world of Mark is full of conflict and suspense. What will happen next ? It is a difficult story to put down. Mark portrays a Jesus intent on moving towards the goal God has set for him. It is made clear that Jesus is prepared to die as a consequence of proclaiming God’s loving reign. Jesus goes ahead of his disciples on “the way”. His disciples dare to follow, captivated by the uniqueness of this intriguing character from Nazareth. Following Jesus is not boring. Mark, throughout his gospel emphasises the humanity of Jesus, the importance of faith and the cost of discipleship.
As the disciples follow Jesus they are urged to take up their crosses, in a sense “losing” their lives in order to receive a great deal more (10:29-31) . As readers and hearers of Mark’s gospel story we are invited to do the same.
Mark is consistent in emphasising the faults and failings of Jesus’ disciples. Perhaps this was Mark’s way of reassuring his early Church readers that if there was hope for these very inadequate first disciples of Jesus, there was still hope for them. When we, many years later read or hear Mark’s gospel and identify with the disciples, we are graciously reassured that there is still hope for us also.
Jesus offers his disciples ongoing pardon and restoration in spite of their failures. This is good news indeed. Through Mark’s portrayal of Jesus we encounter a God - at work through Jesus - who never gives up on people (including us !) and we are encouraged to never give up on each other.
Rev Greg Hughson
Otago University, Dunedin
Touchstone article. October 2009
The gospel readings set down for October in the lectionary invite us enter into Mark’s story of Jesus. Mark’s gospel is the earliest gospel, written around AD 65-70. I suggest you sit down and read it all as one integrated story. This will enable you to put what you hear read in Church this month, in context.
An ancient tradition recounts that Mark was an associate of Jesus’ chief pupil Simon Peter. Around AD 140, Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis wrote that “Mark, being Peter’s interpreter, wrote down correctly all that he remembered of the things said and done by the Lord”. So, if we are to believe Papias, Mark is a reliable witness (via Peter) to the ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Mark’s story of Jesus is full of action. Jesus is always on the move. We see this in Mark 10. Jesus enters into the region of Judea. Immediately he encounters conflict in discussing the issue of divorce. This issue is still controversial. Jesus declares “what God has joined together let man not separate” , a phrase often still heard at wedding services.
A little later on Jesus takes children in his arms and blesses them. Soon afterwards he challenges a rich young man to sell all he has and give it to the poor. His disciples are amazed when Jesus declares that all things are possible with God and that the first will be last and the last shall be first . Then Jesus is on the move again. He leads his astonished disciples on the road up to Jerusalem, informing them what will happen next. He paints a frightening scenario. The shadow of the cross falls across the Markan narrative from Mark 8:27 onwards. On leaving Jericho Jesus enables Blind Bartimaeus to receive his sight. Bartimaeus joins the crowd and follows Jesus.
The story world of Mark is full of conflict and suspense. What will happen next ? It is a difficult story to put down. Mark portrays a Jesus intent on moving towards the goal God has set for him. It is made clear that Jesus is prepared to die as a consequence of proclaiming God’s loving reign. Jesus goes ahead of his disciples on “the way”. His disciples dare to follow, captivated by the uniqueness of this intriguing character from Nazareth. Following Jesus is not boring. Mark, throughout his gospel emphasises the humanity of Jesus, the importance of faith and the cost of discipleship.
As the disciples follow Jesus they are urged to take up their crosses, in a sense “losing” their lives in order to receive a great deal more (10:29-31) . As readers and hearers of Mark’s gospel story we are invited to do the same.
Mark is consistent in emphasising the faults and failings of Jesus’ disciples. Perhaps this was Mark’s way of reassuring his early Church readers that if there was hope for these very inadequate first disciples of Jesus, there was still hope for them. When we, many years later read or hear Mark’s gospel and identify with the disciples, we are graciously reassured that there is still hope for us also.
Jesus offers his disciples ongoing pardon and restoration in spite of their failures. This is good news indeed. Through Mark’s portrayal of Jesus we encounter a God - at work through Jesus - who never gives up on people (including us !) and we are encouraged to never give up on each other.
Rev Greg Hughson
Otago University, Dunedin
Sunday, January 03, 2010
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