Progressive Christian Network of Victoria

PCNV February 2012 Newsletter Out Now

2012-02-03T16:39:00.001+11:00

The PCNV February 2012 Newsletter is out now with news and reviews of progressive book and personal journeys and details of upcoming events. Click here to download the newsletter [240KB; PDF].

Special Event: "Praying a New Story - How a new Christian worldview can be expressed for both adults and children"

2012-01-30T23:41:00.004+11:00

Following the success of a weekday early evening meeting last year, we are delighted that during a brief visit to Melbourne, Michael Morwood will speak at a PCNV meeting on Wednesday 7 March from 5.30 pm to approximately 7.00 pm.

VENUE: Ewing Memorial Uniting Church, Malvern East. Melway Map 59 H12

Jesus in the 1st Century - Jesus in the 21st Century

2012-01-25T10:30:00.000+11:00

3pm SUNDAY FEBRUARY 26 at Glen Iris Rd Uniting Church; Glen Iris

Panel:

Rev John Smith, “Discovering Jesus in the 1st century – the contribution of scholars”

Rev Dr Lorraine Parkinson, “The teaching the church forgot”

Rev Dr Chris Page, “Jesus in the 21st century”

Outline:

John Smith: “Discovering Jesus in the 1st century – the contribution of scholars”

In the last two and a half decades New Testament scholars, particularly those from the Jesus Seminar, historical Jesus, school of theology have provided many questioning Christians with the necessary tools for a faith search with intellectual integrity. Who are they? What is unique or valuable about their contribution? What impact has their contribution had on practical Christianity? Where are they taking us? From doubt to deconstruction to discovery – searching for a faith I can affirm.

Lorraine Parkinson: “The teaching the church forgot”

What was so threatening to the early church about the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth? What was it that led church leaders to give what he said a lower status than their own views about him as the Messiah/Christ? This section will pinpoint the difficult and dangerous teachings which have often been ignored or conveniently forgotten by the institutional church. What has been the effect of this? Why has the church acted in this way?

Chris Page: “Jesus in the 21st century”

In contemporary western society Jesus is far more popular than Christianity, the Christian church and perhaps even “God.” Virtually all religions and even non-religious societies seem to be unanimous in their view that the life and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth is fundamental to moving humanity forward. However significant questions remain: What is the role of the Christ figure so dominant in Christian theology for the last two thousand years? Can one encounter the historical Jesus without a sense of the mystical or cosmic Christ? And is a great teacher, moral inspiration and prophetic sage, enough to sustain and inspire the Christian experience in the 21st century?

Talking about Progressive Christianity to Denominational Lay Preachers...

2012-01-06T15:28:00.001+11:00

A voice of Progressive Christianity in Britain, John Churcher speaks to lay preachers from the United Reformed Church National Synod of Wales.

Text Files from "A Re-interpretation of the Gospel Healing Narratives"

2012-01-06T15:19:00.001+11:00

The text files from Andy Calder's and John Smith's presentation about Christianity and disability are now available. Click here to go to the website item about this event.

PCNV Program for 2012

2012-01-03T17:10:00.002+11:00

The information as it is currently known for a 2012 program for PCNV is as follows (many more details to come!):

FEBRUARY 26: Jesus in the 1st Century - Jesus in the 21st Century

Panel: John Smith, Lorraine Parkinson and Chris Page. Venue: Glen Iris Road Uniting Church - 3pm

MARCH 25 Easter Liturgy.

Venue: Kingswood College, Box Hill

APRIL 22: Religion Under Attack in Australia

Nigel Leaves. Venue: Glen Iris Road Uniting Church - 3pm

MAY 27: "Jesus in the 21st Century: Reading Christianity through the lens of myth and metaphor"

David Tacey. Venue: Glen Iris Road Uniting Church - 3pm

JUNE 24: “The role of the Bible for Christians and churches – facing the practical questions”

Bill Loader. Venue: Glen Iris Road Uniting Church - 3pm

JULY 22: TBA: Interfaith Dimension

AUGUST 26: “What do we mean by G-O-D?”

Panel - to be decided

SEPTEMBER: TBA

OCTOBER: Learning Festival with Dr Eric Elnes

More details TBA

NOVEMBER: TBA

The program will be updated during the year. Sometimes the situation of a presenter changes and arrangements made up to a year ahead are no longer convenient. Venues are being negotiated to suit the

requirements for each event.

More details about programs and presenters will appear on the website closer to the events. The starting time of Sunday afternoon events allows some of those living in country Victoria to drive to the venue after involvement in their local church.

Audio File from "A Reinterpretation of the Gospel Healing Narratives" Now Available

2011-11-28T16:18:00.000+11:00

The audio file from the Learning Festival on November 27, 2011 with Rev John Smith and Rev Andy Calder is now available. Click here to access the files.

Greg Jenks: Taking the Bible Seriously But Not Literally

2011-11-21T17:14:00.002+11:00

Attached to this post is a transcript of a dynamic presentation to the launch of the Westar Institute Bible Seminar in Berkeley, California by Australian Academic Rev Dr Gregory Jenks.

Here is a short excerpt from the address:

All of this has implications for theologians, for churches, and for everyday people of faith. The first and most far-reaching implication is that the Bible is simply not capable of sustaining all the demands made of it. The more we know about the Bible, the worlds from which it derives, and the dynamics of reading any text in our own time and place, the less the Bible is able to live up to our expectations. For its own sake as much as for ours, the Bible needs a demotion.

Click here to download the full transcript - [166KB; PDF].

PCNV November Newsletter Out Now!

2011-11-21T16:57:00.000+11:00

The PCNV November 2011 Newsletter is out now with news and reviews of progressive book and personal journeys and details of upcoming events. Click here to download the newsletter [240KB; PDF].

A Re-interpretation of the Gospel Healing Narratives

2011-11-17T15:36:00.002+11:00

The downloadable audio file from this event is now available.

Follow this link to go to the PCNV download store to access the recording.

The text files from this event are also now available.

Click here for Andy Calder's Presentation - [PDF; 239KB]

Click here for John Smith's Presentation - [PDF; 191KB]

The original details of the event are below....

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THE TOPIC

The New Testament Gospels contain at least twenty narratives of healings by Jesus. How we interpret them will not only define the person of Jesus, it will have implications for people with disabilities who are perceived as needing healing.

Two speakers with theological training and extensive experience with people with disabilities argue strongly that we need to bring together the movement for people with disabilities seeking inclusion in communities of faith with the recent work of scholars about the historical Jesus. They propose an approach that will have

intellectual integrity and provide an inclusive dimension to faith communities.

THE SPEAKERS

John Smith is a recently retired Uniting Church minister who has had a varied ministry including welfare management for 27 years, chaplaincy and parish ministry. As a trained social worker John is best known for his pioneering work with children, especially those in need of care and protection including young offenders. He has also worked with adults who have intellectual disabilities. He is a founding member of the Progressive Christian Network of Victoria and continues as a member of the Committee.

Andy Calder is a Uniting Church minister who has worked for the past 15 years in the area of disability inclusion. He has been chaplain at Prahran Mission and most recently was Senior Chaplain at Epworth Healthcare for six years. Prior to ministry he worked in a range of community settings, as well as both local and state government. His involvement with community groups includes being a Director on the Board of Wesley Mission Victoria and service on the Boards of Collingwood Community Health Centre and Road Trauma Support Services Victoria.

WHEN

Sunday 27 November 2011. 3.00pm to 5.00pm

WHERE

Glen Iris Road Uniting Church, 200 Glen Iris Rd. Glen Iris - near the corner with High St (Melway Map 60 A9)

Parking in church grounds and nearby streets.

Address from Rev Dr Lorraine Parkinson: The World According to Jesus

2011-11-07T16:22:00.001+11:00

Lorraine Parkinson recently addressed the Council of Christians and Jews in Melbourne, basing her address on her recent book The World According to Jesus: His Blueprint for the Best Possible World.

An excerpt from the address:

Christians ever since can only be grateful that the actual teachings of Jesus himself were included in the gospels and therefore passed down through the generations. Whenever the church has remembered Jesus teachings and tried to carry them out, it has been a force for good in the world. When it has forgotten the teachings and proclaimed an all conquering Messiah/Christ, it has promoted division and exclusiveness.

You can download and read the whole address by clicking here - [PDF; 235KB]

Audio Files from Margaret Mayman and Greg Jenks Learning Festival Now Available

2011-10-27T16:27:00.000+11:00

The audio files from the Learning Festival on October 15, 2011 with Rev Dr Margaret Mayman and Rev Dr Gregory Jenks are now available. Click here to access the files.

Rise of Progressive Christianity "Inevitable?"

2011-10-06T16:02:00.001+11:00

Author and blogger John Shore has written recently of the "inevitability" of the rise of progressive Christianity in the US context. He writes:

In the old days, it was easy for the vast majority of American Christians to believe that, say, Jews and homosexuals (to name but two of the many, many groups Christians traditionally so destine) are going to hell. And what made it so emotionally and spiritually comfortable for so many Christians to assert that? Because none of them knew any Jews or homosexuals. No Jews or gays had a nearby farm; no Jews or gays were at the county fair; no Jews or gays attended the local PTA meetings; you never ran into either at the hardware store. The Jews were (however involuntarily) sequestering themselves in places like New York City; and while you may have interacted with a gay man over in the pipes department, that was his secret.

If this woman wrote the Bible....

2011-10-06T15:50:00.000+11:00

Writing for the Patheos faith portal, academic Monica Coleman reflects on the effects of male authorship of biblcal stories about women. She writes...

If women wrote the Bible, it might mention how messy the enterprise of not having children really is. It might mention the girl children the women loved. It might talk about how the men were in the temple, while the bleeding women gathered somewhere else. If women wrote the Bible, we would have more than these solitary scenes where a woman pours out her heart to God, and God fixes it by "opening her womb."

October 2011 Newsletter Out Now

2011-09-28T11:04:00.000+10:00

The PCNV October 2011 Newsletter is out now with reflections on the first five years of PCNV, a call for ideas for wider participation, a review of Greg Jenks' The Once and Future Bible and information about the upcoming learning festival......and more. Click here to download the newsletter.

Podcast for "What can Progressive Christians Learn from Progressive Judaism?" now available...

2011-09-24T00:13:00.000+10:00

The podcast from the August 28, 2011 address by Rabbi Fred Morgan to the PCNV is now available by visiting the event page (clicking here).

PCNV Local Discussion Group List

2011-09-23T16:52:00.000+10:00

PCNV (as at September 2011) has compiled a new list of small, local discussions groups - mostly in and aroud Melbourne. You may view the spreadsheet of groups in Google Docs Spreadsheet by clicking here.

A Compassionate Future: An Interview with Karen Armstrong

2011-09-22T15:40:00.001+10:00

Three and half years ago, religious thinker and author Karen Armstrong created a Charter for Compassion, a document that sought to activate the Golden Rule around the world and restore the principle of compassion to the center of morality and religion. Since it's launch in November of 2009, more than 76,000 people have signed and affirmed the charter.

Ray Barraclough: Australians Need A Progressive Christian voice

2011-09-22T14:31:00.000+10:00

The Rev’d Dr Ray Barraclough says Australians need a progressive Christian voice, as the strongly conservative Australian Christian Lobby does not speak for many Australian Christians.

Read the full story at this link

A Learning Festival with Rev Dr Greg Jenks and Rev Dr Margaret Mayman

2011-09-16T22:47:00.006+10:00

Audio files from the Learning Festival with Greg Jenks and Margaret Mayman are now available.

Files are available from all lectures:

Rev Dr Greg Jenks: “Unholy Use of the Holy Bible” (note: due to a recording glitch the quality of this recording is poor. It is being made available at zero cost for those who wish to attempt to listen to it. You will need to "purchase" the file as normal, and the system will act as if you have had a charge made to you (possibly including a follow up e-mail some weeks later to alert you to the charge coming to your card), but no charge will appear on your credit card.

Rev Dr Greg Jenks: An Exercise in Critical Imagination: "From Ash Heap to Golgotha” $4.00 AUD

Rev Dr Margaret Mayman: "Progressive Religion: Nourishing our hearts for the work our hands must do" $4.00 AUD

Rev Dr Margaret Mayman: “Dirty Hands: Faith communities engaging in community politics” $3.00 AUD

Follow this link to go to the PCNV download store to access the recordings.

The original details of the learning festival are below....

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A Learning Festival

With

Rev Dr Greg Jenks

Academic Dean & Lecturer in Biblical Studies at St Francis’ Theological college Brisbane

and

Rev Dr Margaret Mayman

Senior Minister at St. Andrew’s on The Terrace, Wellington NZ

Saturday 15thOctober 2011

10.00am – 4.00pm (registration opens at 9.15am)

At Kingswood College Senior School Centre, 355 Station St, Box Hill

(Melway Ref: Map 61, C1)

Parking and Entry: Enter from Piedmont Street, near the corner of Station Street or park on Piedmont Street. Then enter through the college grounds via the walkway from that car park. The senior school centre is the set of buildings closest to that car park.

Program

9.15 am Registration Opens

10.00 Introduction

10.05 Lecture: Rev Dr Greg Jenks: “Unholy Use of the Holy Bible”

This lecture will explore some of the ways that the Bible is abused by those who claim to care about it deeply. In response to that misappropriation of Scripture, how might religious progressives reclaim and redeem the Bible so it functions as a source of spiritual wisdom for shaping holy lives in the twenty-first century?

11.00 Morning Tea/Coffee

11.30 Lecture: Rev Dr Margaret Mayman: "Progressive Religion: Nourishing our hearts for the work our hands must do"

The work of deconstructing the inherited theological tradition has provided a crucial foundation for progressives. However, progressive Christianity has moved beyond liberalism and secular Christianity in its recovery of spiritual practices which empower the living out of the ethic of Jesus. If progressive theology is to be more than ‘right thinking’ or a new theological orthodoxy, it needs to engage deeply with liberation theology and to take seriously the claim that another world is possible through active compassion."

12.30 pm Lunch (A light lunch will be provided)

1.30 Workshop: Rev Dr Margaret Mayman: “Dirty Hands: Faith communities engaging in community politics”

The next stage for progressive people of faith is to engage in our communities in light of our theological reflection and celebration. Churches involvement in communities has usually taken the form of service, but charity leaves the causes of social inequity unaddressed. An unexamined possibility of progressive faith communities is their potential as incubators of broader social engagement. In a recent work, American Grace: how religion unites and divides us, sociologist Robert Putnam (of Bowling Alone fame) found that people who belong to faith communities are more generous (to both secular and religious causes), and more likely to be involved in public life. What would it mean if we saw ourselves as communities that fostered citizens who engaged actively in community politics? How might we begin to do that? Can we risk dirtying our hands? The workshop will involve case studies, conversations, sharing our visions and dreams.

2.30 Afternoon Tea/Coffee

3.00 An Exercise in Critical Imagination: Rev Dr Greg Jenks: "From Ash Heap to Golgotha”

Reading with Critical Imagination invites participants to imagine a conversation between Job and Jesus. Freed from the western obsession with the question of what really happened, how can we work with an imaginary conversation between Job on his ash-heap and Jesus on his cross? Can we move into the open space of post-critical naiveté to exercise our imaginations in our reading of the Bible?

4.00 Close

Speakers

Margaret Mayman has been senior minister at St. Andrew’s on The Terrace since February 2002. Margaret has studied at Victoria and Otago Universities in NZ and completed a PhD at Union Theological Seminary. Her doctoral dissertation was titled “Raising Voices: Re-Visioning Moral Agency in Intimate Violence Discourses.” She also taught feminist theology and ethics at Maryknoll School of Theology, and undergraduate Religious Studies at the New School for Social Research. During her ministry in Christchurch, Margaret came out as lesbian and has been involved in working to promote the inclusion of gay and lesbian people in the Presbyterian Church. She founded Christians for Civil Unions and advocated for the passage of the Civil Union Act.

Since 2006, Margaret has been working with the Kettering Foundation in the United States, a non-partisan foundation which fosters citizens’ participation in democracy. She has undertaken training in deliberative democracy and now applies this in interfaith dialogue and community justice work.

Gregory C. Jenks is Academic Dean at St Francis Theological College, Brisbane and Adjunct Lecturer in the School of Theology, Charles Sturt University, Australia. A long-time Fellow of Westar Institute, Greg is also a Co-Director of the Bethsaida Excavations Project in Israel.

He is the author of “The Once and Future Bible: An Introduction to the Bible for Religious Progressives” (Wipf & Stock, 2011) and editor of “The Once and Future Scriptures: Exploring the Role of Scripture in the Contemporary Church” (Polebridge Press, in 2012).

August 2011 Newsletter Out Now

2011-08-15T10:52:00.001+10:00

The August Newsletter of the PCNV is out now with news of a coming presentation on progressive Judaism, an article by Diarmuid O'Murchu and more. Click here to download the newsletter - [PDF; 297KB]

What Can Progressive Christians Learn From Progressive Judaism?

2011-08-03T13:47:00.002+10:00

Below are the details of the PCNV event held on Sunday 28 August 2011. You can purchase the podcast of the address by Rabbi Fred Morgan by visiting the PCNV Product Download store by clicking here.

=========================================

The next PCNV meeting has special interest as it explores insights from Progressive Judaism and features an outstanding speaker.

TOPIC: WHAT CAN PROGRESSIVE CHRISTIANS LEARN FROM PROGRESSIVE JUDAISM?

SPEAKER: Rabbi Fred Morgan, Senior Rabbi, Temple Beth Israel, St Kilda, one of Australia's largest Progressive Synagogues.

WHEN: Sunday 28 August, 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm

WHERE: Glen Iris Uniting Church, Glen Iris Road, Glen Iris (Melway Map 60 A9)

Core of Christianity: A Homily..

2011-07-21T16:01:00.000+10:00

Friend of PCNV Peter Robinson sent us some of his perspectives from a recent homily to a Liberal Catholic congregation in Queensland. We offer them here to add to the conversation about emerging Christianity. You can download Peter's perspectives here - [PDF; 85KB]

July 2011 Newsletter Out Now......

2011-07-21T15:45:00.001+10:00

The July Newsletter of the PCNV is out now with news of new books on the market, a coming presentation on practical mysticism and more. Click here to download the newsletter - [PDF; 245KB]

The World According to Jesus: His Blue Print for the Best Possible World

2011-07-15T21:13:00.000+10:00

This is the title of Rev Dr Lorraine Parkinson's new book. The website of her publisher says: Through her intriguing explanation of the teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, Parkinson sets out compelling reasons why a real commitment to following the vision of Jesus of Nazareth can bring to reality the best possible world.

In another age the author of this book would have been convicted of heresy at the very least. Her case for a 21st century new Reformation of the church is a must for all who have doubted or rejected the old Christianity and are looking for the way forward.

View more about and buy the book by clicking this link.

Characteristics of Progressive Christianity

2011-06-24T14:05:00.001+10:00

In typical non-dogmatic form, PCNV has crafted a set of "characteristics of progressive Christianity" that might be helpful but are certainly not finite in their pronouncement! Click here to download the characteristics document - [PDF; 14KB]

Progressive Christianity Today: A Widening Current

2011-06-17T15:39:00.000+10:00

Jim Burklo writes on this topic for the new Patheos Progressive Christian Portal . Jim writes:

Christianity is a long, wide river stretching back 2,000 years and beyond, fed by many cultural tributaries, containing countless currents and eddies, leaving behind oxbows and abandoned channels, and forming new channels and sand-bars all the time. Progressive Christianity is one of the channels flowing from the very beginnings of the faith, but this current began to take a distinctive form a few hundred years ago.

See the rest of Jim's article by clicking here.

Westar Institute to Launch Bible Seminar

2011-06-14T17:30:00.000+10:00

From the Westar website: The Bible is deployed today in every conceivable debate and dilemma, from gay marriage to Middle East politics. But seldom are the insights of biblical scholars taken up in these discussions. The Bible Seminar aims to coax critical scholars out of the library and into the public square because basic critical scholarship can make a difference. What is the Bible? How did we get it? What does it really say about sexuality, the role of women, and family values? At the Fall 2011 meeting, under the leadership of John Dominic Crossan, Pamela Eisenbaum, Mark George and Stephen J. Patterson, scholars and Associate members alike will begin framing the questions that will form the agenda of this exciting new seminar. Click here to read more at the Westar website.

News Flash: Eric Elnes Visit Cancelled

2011-06-10T11:30:00.000+10:00

Due to circumstances beyond PCNV’s control, the visit to Australia by Eric Elnes has been cancelled.

The PCNV learning festival “What progressive faith communities can look like in practice” with Eric Elnes, planned for Saturday 23 July, has therefore been cancelled.

People who had booked places for this event have been refunded their payments. The promotional leaflet has been removed from the PCNV website.

Song of Songs: A multi-faith exploration of Divine passion and love

2011-06-06T15:48:00.000+10:00

PCNV member Rev. Anneke Oppewal has developed a sermond series that has turned into a book with the above title. Amazon's description of the book is as follows:

The Song of Songs is a biblical gem that is not often read or talked about. Using startlingly explicit imagery and language it is a book about love both human and divine. In five sermons Rev. Anneke Oppewal explores a world where the physical and the spiritual, faith and desire, love and beauty meet. Contributions from the Jewish and Muslim traditions open vistas that connect present day Christian, Jewish and Muslim practice, spirituality and mysticism with a history that goes back thousands of years. Inspired by the Song of Songs, this book is part of a multi-media project offering reflections, contemporary poetry, beautiful illustrations, music and even recipes. Supported by a website at http://www.songofsongs.com.au/, it provides an opportunity to hear, see, smell and taste what the Song is about. "......for love is stronger than death, passion fiercer than the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. Song of Solomon, 8: 6-7

You can purchase the book at our PCNV bookstore by clicking here.

Audio re Climate Change and Progressive Christianity Now Available

2011-06-05T16:36:00.000+10:00

Rev Morag Logan's May 2011 presentation to the PCNV The Brewing Storm. Eco-justice, Climate Change and what Progressive Theology has to do with it is now available at the PCNV download store. You can click here to access the information.

June Newsletter Out Now...

2011-06-03T14:50:00.005+10:00

The June Newsletter of the PCNV is out now with news of new books on the market, a coming presentation on practical mysticism and more. Click here to download the newsletter - [PDF; 299KB]

May Newsletter now available....

2011-06-03T09:00:00.000+10:00

The PCNV May Newsletter is now available with exciting information about coming events, the April Easter liturgy and more! Click here to download the newsletter - [PDF; 459KB]

Easter liturgy now available as a document...

2011-06-03T08:59:00.000+10:00

The PCNV Easter liturgy experienced on April 3 2011 is now available in document form. Click here to access the document.

The Brewing Storm. Eco-justice, Climate Change and what Progressive Theology has to do with it

2011-05-14T09:56:00.002+10:00

This event was held on Sunday May 15, 2011. You can purchase the audio file from the event by visiting the PCNV download store here.
=====================================

TOPIC: "The Brewing Storm. Eco-justice, Climate Change and what Progressive Theology has to do with it"

SPEAKER: Rev Dr Morag Logan. Dr Logan is a biblical scholar who has also worked on international climate change projects in Europe and brings a special perspective to big issues that confront us. $5 members, $7 non-members

WHEN: Sunday 15 May, 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm

WHERE: Glen Iris Uniting Church, Glen Iris Rd near High Street, Glen Iris.

Environmentalism Ignores the Power of Religious Communities At Its Peril - Let's Change That

2011-03-31T10:41:00.000+11:00

Click here to read Treehugger's introductory article - to the series PCNV introduced in a previous post about Hinduism - where the series discusses links between major religous faiths and environmentalism. Here is a snippet:

The fact of the matter though is that, consciously or not, we have largely shied away from highlighting how communities of faith are going green, how religious values can and are being a force for furthering ecological awareness.

Christianity: A Gated Community or Just One House on the Block and the Consequences of our Answer: Text and Audio of Val Webb's address are now available...

2011-03-30T17:00:00.000+11:00

Click here to access links to the text from Val's February 2011 address to the PCNV: Christianity: A Gated Community or Just One House on the Block and the Consequences of our Answer.

All of Existence Should Be Revered: Hinduism & The Environment

2011-03-30T13:53:00.000+11:00

Click here to read Treehuggers first article in a series about the links between major religous faiths and environmentalism, relating to Hinduism. Here is a snippet:

When it comes to traditional Hindu views on the environment, one statement for the Ishavasya Upanishad sums up the reverential attitude Hindus are urged to take. In English it reads, "The entire universe is to be looked upon as the Lord." That means that there is everything in existence is essentially, practically and metaphorically, connected together. Everything is seen as aspects of Divinity--humans, animals, plants, rivers, mountains, the Earth, the Universe and everything in it. Scripturally, these are seen as parts of God's body.

Links: Faith and Reason

2011-03-21T22:28:00.000+11:00

Progressive Christianity Now: The D.L. Dykes, Jr. Foundation created FAITHANDREASON® to nurture learning opportunities for spiritual growth, but not at the expense of critical thinking or historical accuracy. Through our seminars and educational resources, we offer individuals and church groups a way to strengthen their faith and look beyond their personal experience to meet the challenges of the larger human community.

Click here to access FAITHANDREASON

List of PCNV DVD/CD Resources as at March 2011

2011-03-21T22:17:00.001+11:00

PCNV has just updated its list of all available CD/DVD resources. Click here to download it - [PDF; 57KB]

Don't forget that all downloadable audio addresses (including those from John Dominic Crossan) are available at the PCNV Download shop by clicking here.

PCNV March 2011 Newsletter Now Available

2011-03-21T22:08:00.000+11:00

The March 2011 PCNV Newsletter is now available with news of:

The first two gatherings of 2011 including the presentation from Val Webb and the session considering "what next" in progressive Christianity.
Activities from several institutional members of PCNV.
The easter liturgical experience coming up in April.

Click here to download the newsletter - [PDF; 682KB].

Coming Home: An Integral Christian Practicum

2011-03-21T14:12:00.000+11:00

From the Coming Home site:

Coming Home: An Integral Christian Practicum is a 12-week web course designed to lead you through a Christian practice that includes everything you are now and everything you are becoming. This self-directed curriculum includes teachings by Leslie Hershberger, individual meditation practices, loads of ancillary readings, videos and audios by some of the most noted progressive Christian teachers and a private Facebook community for participants to share their common experience.

In the first half of the course, Leslie’s teachings will include: Four Perspectives of God, Re-imagining the Trinity, the Historical Jesus, Broadening Your Circle of Care, Exploring the Feminine Face of God, and Jesus in Contemporary Global Culture. The second half of the course will help you shape a new vessel for being Christian that reveals the kingdom of heaven within you now.

The course registration will be open for a limited time beginning March 21, 2011. To ensure that you don’t miss this limited time opportunity, you can fill out the email form in the right sidebar and we’ll keep you up to date.

Click here for more information.

Proceedings from First PCNV 2011 Meeting Now Available...

2011-03-13T17:03:00.000+11:00

What Next for Progressive Christians?, an interactive presentation by Lorna Henry and David Merritt was the first major presentation by the PCNV for 2011. You can now download a PDF file of the proceedings of the meeting including plenary presentation content. Go to information about the presentation by clicking here.

A harmonising model of science and religion....

2011-03-11T11:18:00.000+11:00

Our readership may find this article from Eureka Street of interest. The article focusses on the work of UK theologian and scientist John Polkinghorne and says, amongst other things...

Polkinghorne claims that the 20th century saw the death of a merely mechanical view of the world, and 21st century science has re-opened the possibility of a world that is random, unpredictable and cloudy at times; not because of the absence of God, but due to the fact that God designed a world with the ability to create and act freely, according to its nature.

Wanted: Aussie (or anyone really) with $1 million for progressive Christian scholarship...

2011-02-21T23:55:00.002+11:00

Following news (click here) of a gift of $1 million to the Chicago Theological Seminary (CTS) "to stir hope for the future of progressive Christianity" PCNV wonders which other private or foundation donors might have the capacity to give progressive Christian scholarship a shot in the arm. The gift apparently represents the largest unrestricted cash gift in the Seminary's 155-year history.

Links: Religious Tolerance.org

2011-02-21T16:45:00.000+11:00

The site of Ontario consultants on religious tolerance: http://www.religioustolerance.org/

Progressives, Emergents Find Common Ground at US Event

2011-02-17T10:05:00.000+11:00

This article from The Progressive Christian magazine highlights some of the learnings and outcomes from a "Big Tent Christianity" forum held in Arizona recently.

The article states:

The conference was marked by three unusual characteristics:

•Christian leaders under age 35 dominated the event preparations, coordinating almost exclusively through social media.

•Prominent Progressive theologians met with Emergent leaders in what is believed to be the first such national event.

•The conference used an unusual, if not unique, process method, in which keynoters spoke for 12 minutes, followed by eight minutes of response from other event presenters, followed by another 20 minutes or so of questions that emerged after conversation between members of the audience.

Read the article in detail here.

Yes, but what is progressive Christianity?

2011-02-16T14:35:00.000+11:00

Sparked by various critiques and equally by a desire to allow room for authentic selfhood, PCNV has been watching a number of polite discussions in response to the question: "Yes, but what is progressive Christianity?" What do readers think? How do they relate to the various defintions? Does the Wikipedia article do justice to the movement?

Let us know via comment, Twitter or FaceBook friend or discussion pages.

A Critique of Progressive Christianity...

2011-02-11T12:48:00.001+11:00

In the article at this link (requires Adobe Reader) Uniting Church in Australia aceademic Geoff Thompson offers a critique of streams of thinking in western Christianity labelled as progressive.

Geoff writes: It cannot be denied that much of what PC complains about is real and cannot be swept under the ecclesiastical carpet. Obscurantism, literalism, naïve supernaturalism and a graceless moralism are not phantoms imagined by PC. These are real issues in – and real problems for – the life and witness of the contemporary church. It is undeniable that many churches, many Christians, and many ministers have simply retreated from the challenges posed to Christianity from within modern culture. Complaints about theologically-trained ministers failing to engage their congregations theologically are heard too often from too many sources to be ignored. In fact, so significant is the lack of theological engagement within many churches that it could be said that the real threat to an intellectually-engaging Christian witness in this country is not the aggressive moral triumphalism typical of North America’s ‘Christian Right’, but a more pedestrian theological banality.

All of this can be granted, but is PC an adequate remedy for it?

"We are witnessing the seismic collapse of Western Christianity.What new birthing are be being invited to?” "

2011-02-07T15:59:00.000+11:00

This provocative statement is from Rev. Dr. J. Philip Newell, a leading scholar of Celtic spirituality who was the Warden of Iona Abbey and is a Church of Scotland minister.

He goes on: "How will Christians serve this moment? Will we take a humble place as part of the essential interrelatedness of the whole of life or will we react in fear with ever stronger ossified forms of fundamentalism?"

Newell goes on to suggest 4 key responses that will NOT serve the moment, and they are very much worth a read. See the whole article by clicking here.

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

A New Beginning: A Different Kind of Easter Liturgy

2011-02-04T14:55:00.002+11:00

The following event was held on Sunday 3 April 2011. The liturgy is available in written form. Click here to download the liturgy. - [PDF; 305KB]

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Participants will be involved in an observance of Good Friday and Easter Day designed to inspire new meaning and personal commitment.

At "The Arrow", 488 Swanston St Carlton.

Public Transport Available

Sunday 3 April 2011, from 3 – 5pm.

What next for progressive Christians?

2011-02-04T14:46:00.001+11:00

This event was held with the details as listed below. You can download a PDF file of the proceedings of the meeting including plenary presentation content by clicking here - [PDF; 135KB]

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An afternoon event with David Merritt and Lorna Henry

WHEN: Sunday 27 February 2011 3.00pm to 5.00pm

WHERE: Glen Iris Road Uniting Church, Glen Iris Glen Iris Rd. near the corner with High Street; (Melway Map 60 A9) Parking in church grounds and nearby streets.

THE TOPIC:

After the initial enthusiasm and sense of discovery from exploring Christianity that is informed but not restricted by earlier belief systems, what is next? Some progressive groups have been meeting for several years; PCNV is in its fifth year with a growing membership. Some of the focus to start with was on clearing away barriers and debris from ways of thinking developed in earlier and often prescientific eras. What should be the focus now? A widespread request is for a positive and practical approach to living. Is it time to change direction? If so heading where?

The process will offer stimulus for imagination through music, poetry and stories as well as reflection of the experiences of two local groups and what is happening around the world. The speakers will present proposals about “What next” for consideration by table groups.

THE SPEAKERS

DAVID MERRITT is a Uniting Church minister with a life-long focus on education. He is group leader of “Quest – Connecting spirit and life” at The Avenue Uniting Church, Blackburn. He has been secretary of PCNV since its formation in 2006.

LORNA HENRY is a teacher, musician and facilitator of “Something for the Spirit” at Ewing Memorial Uniting Church, East Malvern.

Cost is $7 ( $5 for members)

Val Webb talks about her new book and the future of Christianity....

2011-02-04T14:38:00.002+11:00

You can now purchase the audio presentation of this event or read the text of the event.

Click here to access the PCNV file download store to purchase the audio file.

(Don't forget you can click here to access the complete PCNV file download store with a range of audio resources, including presentations by John Dominc Crossan)

Click here to access Val Webb's website where you can read the text of the address.

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WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 16 2011: 5.00 pm to 6.30pm: “Christianity: a gated community or just one house on the block?” Val Webb will talk on the material in her new book, “Stepping Out With The Sacred”.

At Ewing Memorial Uniting Church, corner of Coppin Street and Burke Road, East Malvern 3145.

There will be a presentation by the author and time for questions. Copies of Val Webb’s books will be available for purchase.

"Old church" will die: Let's release those resources to create "deeper knowing" across the whole community.....

2011-02-03T11:16:00.000+11:00

In this article at her website Pigs Will Fly, community activist Gail Plowman explores the ways the resources of the church can be applied to generate "a deeper presence to one another" across whole communities, and she explores one interesting experiment attempting to so direct those resources....

Gail writes: I would love to see ....Church....helping grassroots groups across all community sectors innovate to help with renewal, continuing what many have started, and helping governments maximise scarce resources through presencing.

Click here to see the article.

How are we to find unity in a world of competing religions?

2011-01-31T16:14:00.001+11:00

From Val Webb's appearance on The Spirit of Things radio show: How are we to find unity in a world of competing religions? To Val Webb, author of Stepping out with the Sacred, it is about appreciating how humanity engages the sacred, in myriad ways, and yet never exhausts Divinity. As a Presbyterian, a scientist and a theologian, Val explores what it means to have a faith that moves and grows and changes with the times.

Click here to go to The Spirit of Things website and read and listen further.

But what does an evolutionary community of faith look like?

2011-01-28T11:23:00.001+11:00

The latest in the series of Advent of Evolutionary Christianity panel discussions features progressive clergy Ian Lawton, Gretta Vosper and Bruce Sanguin and emergent church activists Brian McLaren and Sally Morgenthaler. The conversation makes for interesting listening on the subject of what evolutionary faith communities look and feel like. Those interested in listening can register at the homepage to get free access to the download library.

Environmental sustainability requires full engagement of the human spirit...

2011-01-27T15:13:00.004+11:00

PCNV contributor Peter Robinson has prepared a small essay entitled Spirituality and the Environment. Peter writes:

There are both practical and spiritual dimensions of the way we relate to the world of nature. Is there an overriding philosophy that guides our personal theology and action?

You can read the full article by clicking here - [PDF; 16KB]

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

Talking to a man of rigid certitude...

2011-01-25T15:00:00.000+11:00

Biblical literalist Bill Muehlenberg included mention of the Progressive Christian Network of Victoria in this recent critique of Progressive Christianity. PCNV Committee members Chris Page and Adrian Pyle decided to try to practice the art of "liminal space making" rather than an attacking response to the critique. See how they got on with their efforts at Bill Muehlenberg's blog.

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

The more objectively and scientifically one tries to analyze contemplation, the more it's emptied of it's real content.....

2011-01-18T16:13:00.001+11:00

.....for this experience is beyond the reach of verbalization and of rationalization..." Thomas Merton

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

Christianity: a gated community or just one house on the block?

2011-01-17T13:09:00.001+11:00

Val Webb asks this question in promoting her new book Stepping out with the Sacred - Human Attempts to Engage the Divine.

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

The Jesus narrative is meant to call forth the authentic you, now...

2011-01-13T11:32:00.000+11:00

A friend of the network wrote this via e-mail: The Jesus narrative is meant to call forth the authentic you, now... Too often the narrative gets stuck in an ancient context, which, though important is meant to show us how to imagine a new way for our context.

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

The violent commission? The "Great Commission" might be the most misunderstood and hence the most dangerous passage of the Christian testament....

2011-01-12T22:42:00.000+11:00

The "Great Commission" might be the most misunderstood and hence the most dangerous passage of the Christian testament....

What do readers think? Which passages, when misunderstood, have the most dangerous implications. Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

"I want a religion that gets me involved in the life of my city and the world."

2011-01-11T15:57:00.000+11:00

A reader comment in response to the Living the Questions blog.

Does your religion or spirituality take you out into your neighbourhood? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

Is the future of faith, beyond belief?

2011-01-10T15:02:00.000+11:00

Is the future of faith, the end of belief? ...or do we need to broaden our understanding of belief?

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

"There's more spiritual development round the table at a cafe, than I see at most churches."

2011-01-07T12:58:00.000+11:00

A comment overheard by on of us at, of all places, a cafe.

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

Historical Jesus Course at Melbourne CAE

2011-01-06T12:30:00.000+11:00

Alex McCullie's blog has news of three courses he is teaching at the Melbourne Centre for Adult Education including one about historical Jesus research. Click here for the details.

What did Judas do?

2011-01-06T12:00:00.001+11:00

At her blog a member writes: Is the biblical disciple character of Judas an evil traitor or a necessary plot development showing the blurred lines between good and bad? ...or both? ...or neither?

What do readers think? Let us know via blog comments, our Facebook friends page, our Facebook page. our LinkedIn group or via Twitter reply.

Living the Questions Develops New Blog

2011-01-05T11:42:00.000+11:00

Click here to see the new blog containing information from Living the Questions interviews and reflections.

Newspaper Article: "Church needs to answer critics, instead it silences them"

2011-01-05T10:54:00.000+11:00

Retired priest Eric Hodgens writes in the Melbourne's The Age newspaper:

A vast crowd of priests and laity who passionately love the church are alarmed at the fundamentalism pervading the mentality of the Roman bureaucracy and many bishops.

They are alarmed at the bully culture of Rome - which surfaces in turn in the management style of so many bishops - and at the favoured status given to authoritarian movements including Opus Dei, the Legionaries of Christ (now discredited and under reconstruction) and the Heralds of the Gospel.

Click here to read the whole article

"The Once and Future Bible" - release date nears

2011-01-04T13:23:00.001+11:00

Australian progressive religious scholar Greg Jenks will shortly have his book The Once and Future Bible: An Introduction to the Bible for Religious Progressives released. You can click on this link to learn more about the book.

Common Dreams Addresses Now Available as Audio and Text Files

2010-12-21T12:38:00.000+11:00

Addresses delivered at the Common Dreams 2: Living the Progressive Religion Dream Conference are now available for purchase. The addresses are in text and audio files and can be purchased in file form either on compact disk or for direct download.

•Use this link to download an order form to purchase audio and text files on CD - [PDF; 130KB] Prices on this form are in Australian dollars.

•Use this link to go to the Common Dreams online store where you can purchase files for immediate download, at reduced prices.

December 2010 PCNV Newsletter Now Available.....

2010-12-12T22:23:00.000+11:00

To download the final Progressive Christian Network of Victoria newsletter for 2010, click here - [PDF; 223KB]. It has been a year of significant developments. The feature article is about Jesus' birth stories in the Gospels - to stimulate our thinking about Christmas. And the topics and dates for the first two meetings for 2011 are listed.

The Evolutionary Christianity Teleseminar Series...

2010-12-06T15:52:00.000+11:00

Being heavily promoted at this moment is "The Advent of Evolutionary Christianity: Conversations at the Leading Edge of Faith" - an upcoming teleseminar series. The website blurb says:

Join thirty of today's most inspiring Christian leaders and esteemed scientists for a groundbreaking dialogue on how an evolutionary worldview can enrich your life, deepen your faith, and bless our world.

You can access the website here.

Exploring Open Christianity series now available to purchase online...

2010-11-30T22:54:00.000+11:00

PCNV's remarkable 5DVD series Exploring Open Christianity (more information by clicking here) is usable and playable in any country. You can now also purhase the series online in your own currency. To visit the Exploring Open Christianity online store, click here.

Problem of Evil audio presentation now available at our online store...

2010-11-30T22:47:00.000+11:00

Lorraine Parkinson's November 2010 address to the PCNV on the Problem of Evil is now available as a downloadable .mp3 file from our PCNV online file store. To visit the store click here.

Good God: Evil in a World of a Good God - address text now available...

2010-11-22T21:40:00.000+11:00

The text from the address by Rev Dr Lorraine Parkinson from the final PCNV gathering for 2010 is now available to download. The audio file will shortly be available at the PCNV download store. Click here to access the text download.

Religious Education Could Increase Christian Tolerance....

2010-10-27T16:27:00.000+11:00

Click here to read a reflection from Crystal Lewis with the above title. Crystal writes in part: The future of Christianity will only be realized when we begin to fully understand our past, and the path to religious tolerance will be paved for Christians with sound religious education. I hope that we will someday emerge beyond blind faith to contextual understanding.

Lyricist George Stuart: Events in Melbourne

2010-10-24T10:02:00.001+11:00

GEORGE STUART,WRITER OF ‘SINGING A NEW SONG’ BOOKS (New Century Lyrics with Traditional Tunes) is coming to Melbourne in November, and will be participating in Discussions and Song-writing exercises in the Eastern Suburbs.

Sunday 21st of November, 2010: Come and join Forest Hill Uniting Church, 333a Canterbury Rd, Forest Hill, as George Stuart leads, challenges and inspires us to embrace our theology in song. As our faith develops so our hymns and songs should keep pace.

Contact: Rev Deacon Chris Duxbury (9878 7586)

Worship- 9.30am

Workshop 11.15am to 12.30pm "Singing our Theology" Through the eyes of Genesis and Atonement

Shared Lunch 12.30pm to 1.30pm (bring a plate of food to share)

Workshop 2 1.30pm to 2.30pm "Writing Lyrics to Sing a New Idea"An opportunity to be creative as we write lyrics in a "progressive context".

Now Available for Download: Human Rights Campaigner Peter Norden on Compassion

2010-10-24T09:14:00.000+11:00

The audio file of Peter Norden's presentation to the PCNV is now available by clicking here.

October 2010 Newsletter now available...

2010-10-22T17:01:00.000+11:00

The October 2010 newsletter contains reflections on John Dominic Crossan's visit, the last PCNV gathering at which human rights campaigner Peter Norden spoke as well as other information about a range of resources and developments in the world of Progressive Christianity. You can download the newsletter by clicking here - [PDF; 357KB]

Does the historical Jesus matter?

2010-10-18T15:47:00.001+11:00

Click here to read an interesting artcile and response letters appearing in Religion Dispatches recently. The article is by Peter Laarman, the executive director of Progressive Christians Uniting.

Discussion Guides for Open Christianity Series Now Available for Download...

2010-10-14T16:28:00.000+11:00

Click here for information about the series and the newly available discission guides for the first three titles....

September 2010 PCNV Newsletter now online (sorry it's late)....

2010-10-12T17:03:00.000+11:00

The September 2010 version of the PCNV newsletter has been available for a few weeks, but we're only just getting to post it online. The newsletter includes reports on the "Healing the Earth" liturgy as well as John Dominic Crossan's presentations in Melbourne. You can click here to download it now [PDF; 279KB]

No Fixed Address: John Bodycomb talks to the ABC

2010-10-01T23:13:00.000+10:00

From the ABC Sunday Nights website: Author and retired Uniting Church Minister John Bodycomb on his confronting new book No Fixed Address.Sometimes referred to as "Australia's Jack Spong", his new book touches on science and cosmology, psychology, interfaith and the history of the church. He considers and challenges some fundamental tenets of orthodox Christianity. Click here to access the interview.

Link to John Dominic Crossan Radio Interview...

2010-09-13T11:12:00.002+10:00

While John Dominic Crossan was in Melbourne, he recorded a radio program for ABC Local Radio's Sunday Nights with John Cleary. To access the podcast of the interview, click here.

John Bodycomb's "No Fixed Address" Grows in Popularity as Small Group Resource

2010-09-08T17:03:00.000+10:00

PCNV member John Bodycomb's newest book is now available at our Amazon online store. The book description reads:

Fifty-four years ordained, with nothing to prove or to fear, Bodycomb answers questions many have been afraid to ask. Acknowledging that everyone is the product of a story, he sets his idea of faith as journey firmly within his own experience, dealing with who or what we mean by G-O-D, who Jesus is, and religious pluralism. Written in the avuncular style that marks his preaching and teaching, this book will appeal to both scholar and lay reader.

The book, which lends itself to small group work with included discussion questions, is rapidly being taken up for that purpose. The book was also the subject of an article in a recent edition of the West Australian newspaper (click here to download the article - [PDF; 158KB]).

You can click here to purchase the book at our PCNV online bookstore.

Exploring Open Christianity: DVDs and Guides: Buy Now!

2010-09-07T12:16:00.033+10:00

PCNV has released the order form for its first set of Exploring Open Christianity DVDs and discussion guides (SCROLL to the bottom of this entry to download the discussion guides). The series features five quality DVDs and discussion guides with each DVD featuring a unique voice in the quest to improve the understanding of Christianity for a contemporary world. The DVDs are open format so are useable in any country. They are in PAL format so customers will need a multi-format player (most new players are this) or will need to view them on a computer. The series features:

Val Webb on Exploring Doubt and Faith
Sir Lloyd Geering on Exploring the Future of Religion
Peter Kennedy on Exploring the Future of a Faith Community
John Dominic Crossan on Exploring Jesus and Paul
Greg Jenks on Exploring the Future of the Bible

Click here now to go immediately to the PCNV Exploring Open Christianity Store and purchase the DVDs and conversation guides online in your own currency

Click here to download a form to order individual DVDs (at AU$40 each plus postage) or the whole set (at $AU150 plus postage). [PDF; 91KB]

Discussion Guides: Below you will be able to download each of the discussion guides for the five Exploring Open Christianity (Series 1) DVDs, as they become available:

Directly downloadable audio files now available from John Dominic Crossan's events in Melbourne

2010-09-07T10:02:00.001+10:00

Click here to purchase a range of resources related to Dom Crossan's visit to Australia including audio files from Dom's addresses, a video presentation from Dom's Friday night lecture and Dom's soon to be released book.

Purchase "The Greatest Prayer" John Dominic Crossan's Brand New Book from the PCNV

2010-09-06T15:20:00.001+10:00

Click here to download an order form to purchase Dom Crossan's brand new book The Greatest Prayer: Rediscovering the Revolutionary Message of the Lord's Prayer from PCNV [PDF; 68KB]

John Dominic Crossan: Disturbing the faith

2010-09-06T10:20:00.001+10:00

Click here to read the article in Melbourne's The Age about John Dominic Crossan's visit to Melbourne.

The One Project: Richard Rohr on Vulnerability

2010-08-28T17:30:00.001+10:00

The One Project explored the complex idea of meaning, harvesting thoughts from people across a range of religious and philosophical traditions. In the video at the following link, Franciscan contemplative Richard Rohr talks about vulnerability as a central plank of meaning and therefore "oneness." - http://youtu.be/5sQEB4qI4oo

Healing the Earth Liturgy for 2010 Now Available in PDF Document

2010-08-24T22:48:00.001+10:00

Click here to go to the entry for PCNV's 2010 liturgy event Healing the Earth where you can download a PDF file of the liturgy elements.

Chris Tse: I'm Sorry I'm a Christian

2010-07-30T09:31:00.001+10:00

Poetry slammer Chris Tse reflects on the challenging ways in which the Christian message has been delivered and interpreted through the ages. See the video of his "poetry slam" here.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EieFdXy_HwM

Things That Matter Discussion Group

2010-07-26T10:53:00.000+10:00

TTM 2010 – Things That Matter discussion group

A lively, interactive program focused on things that matter to all of us, here and now.

We ask the question: What on earth could religion in the 21st century possibly contribute to our contemporary concerns?

Views, visions and ideas to challenge our assumptions, disturb our complacency and stimulate creative thinking and constructive action.

WHEN & WHERE: 2nd Sunday of the month, St Michael’s Centre, 120 Collins Street, Melbourne

FACILITATOR: Julie Hall

ENQUIRIES: contact Julie Hall via St Michael’s Office: office@stmichaels.org.au; telephone: 9654 5120

Common Dreams Addresses Now Available as Audio and Text Files

2010-07-20T15:46:00.001+10:00

•Use this link to download an order form to purchase audio and text files on CD - [PDF; 130KB] Prices on this form are in Australian dollars.

•Use this link to go to the Common Dreams online store where you can purchase files for immediate download, at reduced prices.

July 2010 Progressive Christian Network of Victoria Newsletter Now Available

2010-07-19T12:17:00.000+10:00

The July 2010 Newsletter for the Progressive Christian Network of Victoria is now available. Click here to download the newsletter (PDF; 327KB) which includes news of upcoming rituals and the visit of John Dominic Crossan and reports of Peter Kennedy's visit in June.

Melbourne Seminar - Homosexuality, Christianity and the Church - Resolving the Conflicts

2010-07-16T11:01:00.000+10:00

Event Date: July 17, 2010 - 10:00am

Event Location: East Doncaster Baptist Church 47 Tunstall Rd, Doncaster East 3109

Homosexuality, Christianity and the Church - resolving the conflicts’ is a seminar that helps people find answers to one of the most controversial issues the church has faced in recent times by providing relevant information, insights and clarity. The seminar assists individuals and churches to be more informed about faith/sexuality issues by looking at underlying cultural influences, real and perceived barriers and practical models for change. Each topic is covered in one hour in a respectful environment with an opportunity for questions.

This seminar is relevant for:

1. LGBT people from Christian backgrounds

2. Heterosexual friends and family

3. Churches who want to be more informed and create a space of acceptance for LGBT people

4. Church leadership teams who want a safe space to explore LGBT issues

PROGRAM:

• Homosexuality and the Church – Why we got it SO wrong.

Ten reasons why Christ-loving Christians have been in error about sexual orientation. The enemy has been ignorance.

• Specific issues faced by LGBT people from faith backgrounds and how to resolve them.

LGBT people from faith backgrounds experience the usual issues of resolution, coming out, finding their place in the community and learning what it means to be gay or lesbian in a straight world. However they often experience these things with greater intensity and have additional issues to deal with.

• Sodom, Leviticus, Romans 1 and I Corinthians 6:9. What are they really saying?

Often referred to as the ‘clobber passages’, there are only six passages in the Bible that refer to same-sex activity and assumed to speak about a homosexual orientation. Looking at these few verses in the light of the historical and cultural contexts and the original languages, we get a very different picture.

• The times they are a changin’

There is a new climate of questioning in many Pentecostal and Evangelical circles. Creating a Space for Change is a model that is facilitating this process.

• Question time

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK ONLINE CLICK HERE .

Links: ABC Religion and Ethics Portal

2010-07-14T15:34:00.001+10:00

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation has launched a religion and ethics portal at its main website. The introduction to the site notes....

Similar to the Environment and Health portals, ABC Religion and Ethics will bring you the best reporting and analysis from across the national broadcaster - ABC Online, ABC television, ABC local radio and Radio National - of the many ways that religion continues to shape and agitate our lives.

You can access the portal by clicking here.

Printable booking form for John Dominic Crossan event now available....

2010-07-12T15:00:00.000+10:00

Go to the article about the John Dominic Crossan event (click here) to access the newly uploaded printable registration form.

Marcus Borg: faith in the Hebrew Bible is like a baby donkey calling out or crying for its mother

2010-07-08T16:08:00.000+10:00

This is the interesting way in which distinguished biblical scholar delivered a 1999 sermon to an Episcopal church in Tennessee. Click here to read a segment of the sermon.