Author Archives: wonderingpilgrim

Paradox of Spring

Today sees the installment of arguably Australia’s most conservative government ministry. It is also the eve, in the same city, of the Progressive Christian Common Dreams Conference. The juxtaposition of these two events creates a tension reminiscent of the paradoxes described by Parker Palmer when he explores the tug of war of life bursting forthContinue reading “Paradox of Spring”

The Wars Over Christian Beards | Christianity Today

I’ve not had negative feedback on any of my variations of facial hair over the decades – starting with my clean cut afro in the 60’s, through to full face Ned Kelly and my current Colonel Sanders. Who would have thought prickle faced preachers to be such an interesting ecclesiastical subject for scrutiny. The Wars OverContinue reading “The Wars Over Christian Beards | Christianity Today”

Vocational Wisdom

My peers agreed it would be an excellent focus for our small discussion group – Living the Questions: Essays Inspired by the Work and Life of Parker J. Palmer, Sam M. Intrator (ed.), (Jossey-Bass, 2005). I had not previously heard of Parker J Palmer, but was attracted to his deliciously alliterative name. Google led me to discoverContinue reading “Vocational Wisdom”

Behold, the six types of atheists – CNN Belief Blog – CNN.com Blogs

A fascinating, if brief taxonomy, that surely has counterparts amongst the vast spectrum of theists. Although running the usual risk of “boxing” people in rather than focusing on engagement in open conversations, such categorising can, ironically, help guard against simplistic assumptions. Behold, the six types of atheists – CNN Belief Blog – CNN.com Blogs.

When churches confer nationally – NCCA 8th Forum

Theologies confessed conservative and progressive views. Ancestries bore Asian, Anglo-Saxon, Indigenous and Middle Eastern perspectives. Close to one hundred delegates gathered from city and country, together with observers and invited guests. Daily worship drew on the full range of traditions present and held all together. Conversations were honest, bold and respectful, enabling discernment between convergingContinue reading “When churches confer nationally – NCCA 8th Forum”

Originally posted on BordertoBeachKayakSolo:
The Final day arrived!! After a harrowing day on Thursday…the 13kms paddled on Friday was a different story with light winds and milpond conditions as Des made it to Clayton with only 23kms to go!! it was great to share an encouraging phone call from IGF Chief Admin John Paul and…

See a wrong and right it

My brother-in-law, Des, is preparing a 665km kayak trip down the River Murray.  It’s not just his love of kayaking that prompts this venture; there’s been a fire in his belly ever since he visited Kitgum, Uganda, with my sister Janet, who had previously delivered relief to the school and orphanage there, a place ofContinue reading “See a wrong and right it”