thinking honestly about life and faith
On this International Women’s Day, I write in praise of ‘Macrina the Younger’, who lived from 327 to 379 in Cappadocia, and was the sister of Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa. Gregory wrote a biography of her, lauding … 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 »
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 »
We were fortunate recently to have two very restful weeks at Mission Beach, in far north Queensland. We had been there before but knew nothing of what I am about to relate. This holiday involved a lot of walking around … Read More »
Well, not exactly, though the broader culture does not go along with the nicety that is Advent. If ever we needed to spend time reflecting on the travails fo the human community and reaching out for the hope of new … Read More »
I’m working my way through Barack Obama’s presidential memoir A Promised Land. Actually it is just the first volume and 712 pages plus index it’s a big read. He set out to write the whole thing in one 500 page … Read More »
We are enduring a rude awakening to realities our everyday life in Australia allows us to ignore. We are discovering things that much of the ‘majority world’ knew all along and lives with all the time. We are realising that … Read More »