In the light of the current discussions on the nature of the “secular” in relation to religion in the public arena, particularly where government funding of religious programs in state schools is concerned, or even access of religious groups within the education system, it’s sometimes helpful to hear a voice from outside. See Thio Li-ann: ReligionContinue reading “Religion & the Secular State”
Monthly Archives: May 2011
A puzzling question about carbon taxes…
How come Cate Blanchett is vilified for speaking into the carbon tax debate and ever-so-much-more-wealthy mining barons are free to complain loudly while media companies sycophantly bend over backwards to ensure they are heard?
The Parable of the Abattoir Wall
This story told by an Aboriginal pastor illustrates well the connection between trusting relationships and truth as described in John 14:15-21, today’s gospel reading. The Parable of the Abattoir Wall For many years, the custom in one of the abattoirs had been to paint a coat of whitewash over the bloodstains on its walls. ThisContinue reading “The Parable of the Abattoir Wall”
Vegemite and Ice Hockey
Not often I endorse commercial products, but I grew up on this and I’m still a Vegemite kid! This is one of a series of marvelous ads that, like the spread, only Aussies could appreciate. The rest of the world scratches its head and wonders what planet we are from!
Churches where no wheelchairs go – Eureka Street
Here is a timely reminder for churches old and new: Churches where no wheelchairs go – Eureka Street. Universal access should be on the agenda of any community group that pursues compassion and hope as core values – and that surely includes church communities. It would be good for church board/ vestry/ management groups toContinue reading “Churches where no wheelchairs go – Eureka Street”
When saying and hearing “sorry” is hard work…
‘We need to forgive and be forgiven, every day, every hour — unceasingly. That is the great work of love among the fellowship of the weak that is the human family.’ Henri Nouwen Today is Sorry Day, which now commemorates and builds on the 2008 parliamentary apology to Australia’s indigenous people for past policies thatContinue reading “When saying and hearing “sorry” is hard work…”
Teach, don’t preach: how to do religion in schools – ABC Religion & Ethics – Opinion
I’ve made my own arguments along similar lines. Ronald Noone, chaplain at Melbourne Grammar, adds some interesting points that, in my view, have potential to de-polarise the debate and de-wedge the issue. Teach, don’t preach: how to do religion in schools – ABC Religion & Ethics – Opinion.
We should already know this…
… but sometimes it takes wisdom from outside to point out the obvious… AM – Human Rights Commissioner criticises asylum seeker policy 24/05/2011.
School chaplaincy – sacred or secular?
The wedge drives even deeper as the school chaplaincy debate continues. This morning’s Eureka Street article and the array of comments is illustrative. There was a time when “religious” and “secular” were complimentary terms, rather than opposed. Some of the rub off of this was seen in a letter in this morning’s West where anContinue reading “School chaplaincy – sacred or secular?”
Are you still here?
People are making rapture jokes like there’s no tomorrow!