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.”
Saturday, June 11, 2011
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
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Friday, June 05, 2009
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Friday, September 07, 2007
Peace Lecture
Professor Abdullah Saeed came from Melbourne and gave our 2007 Peace Lecture on 5 September. It was excellent. You can read it (soon) via www.dunedininterfaith.net.nz
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Turning 50
I turned 50 on the 17th June. 50 family and friends gathered for a fun night at the Mornington Methodist Church.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Tertiary Chaplaincy Conferences
Dear Colleagues
I found this on the TCMA website
http://www.tcma.org.au/conferences.html
Conference venues have been decided for the next two years:
Melbourne, 24-28 September, 2007, Trinity College, University of
Melbourne, "Meeting, Meals, Mystery - Building Community"
Finland, at the University of Tampere, 30 June - 4 July, 2008 (global) -
"Reflecting Light"
See also
http://www.tampere2008.fi/
Greg
I found this on the TCMA website
http://www.tcma.org.au/conferences.html
Conference venues have been decided for the next two years:
Melbourne, 24-28 September, 2007, Trinity College, University of
Melbourne, "Meeting, Meals, Mystery - Building Community"
Finland, at the University of Tampere, 30 June - 4 July, 2008 (global) -
"Reflecting Light"
See also
http://www.tampere2008.fi/
Greg
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
chaplains @ the well
chaplains @ the well
Many thanks to Cathy Gordon and her Taranaki team for organising a wonderful conference for us this year.
Greg
Many thanks to Cathy Gordon and her Taranaki team for organising a wonderful conference for us this year.
Greg
Friday, September 02, 2005
Peace lecture
On Monday 12th September I am giving an Open Peace Lecture on campus here in Dunedin. You can read about it via www.otago.ac.nz/chaplain.
Greg Hughson's blog
Having appreciated the value of my daughter Johanna's blogspot I have decided to set one up for myself.
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