A new book dealing with Martin Bryant, the murder of 35 people at the historic Port Arthur convict settlement in 1996, found significant coverage in this anniversary week of 28 April. The horrendous tragedy profoundly affected those directly involved. In … Continue reading
It started as the worst nightmare, “Oh, no! The public address system isn’t working!” I was at the podium to lead the Ceremony of Remembrance at the Cenotaph on the Domain in Hobart. Thousands of people had followed the marchers … Continue reading
(post title from Miranda Wilding) I was still upset by the plight of the recent ‘boat people’ incident and the lack of concern among Australians for these ‘underdogs’ when I heard coming from the family computer Susan Boyle singing, ‘I … Continue reading
In a book published last month I argue for public policy to be developed by focusing on core values of Australian society. (‘Religious Policy, Multi-Faith Dialogue and Australian Values’ in ‘ISLAM: Human Rights and Public Policy’, David Claydon (Editor), Acorn … Continue reading
There’s something about Death Notices. Consider Tasmanian Sir Marcus Loane, an outstanding Christian and leader of the Church. So, what would be included in his Death Notice? I appreciated the family Death Notice being so thoroughly Christian, as befitted the … Continue reading
Having contributed a chapter on ‘dialogue’ to an Australian book seeking to engage in a healthy way the vexed issue of religion and public policy formation in Australia, I was delighted to read Christopher Bantick’s review on page 6, Sundaybooks, … Continue reading
I am currently writing a prayer for Pentecost. (The Day of Pentecost: last Sunday of Easter, also called Whit Sunday. Readings Acts 2:1-21; Psalm 104: 26-36; Romans 8:22-27; John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15) The prayer is to be part of an inspirational … Continue reading
My Easter celebrations have been terrific and I am strengthened and inspired to continue in the steps of Jesus. I am encouraged by what Easter has accomplished, challenged to keep going when the going gets tough and rejoice in living … Continue reading
On Good Friday the Tasmanian print media publish Easter reflections written by church leaders. The reflections themselves provide an interesting theological smorgasbord for BBQ conversation. (I cannot find them on the Mercury, Examiner or Advocate websites this Saturday!?- I guess … Continue reading
Britain is suffering because we have been too willing to forget what made us who we are, writes Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali. “I have resigned as Bishop of Rochester after nearly 15 years. During that time, I have watched the nation … Continue reading