Radical Abundance: Faith in the future
A programme of theology and reflection for 2009 at ChristChurch Cathedral
“Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise I may have too much and disown you and say "Who is the Lord?"' (Proverbs 30:8f)
One of the first things that becomes apparent in a time of financial crisis is how imaginary the economy is – not imaginary in the sense of fake, but in the sense that economic realities depend on how reality is imagined. Scarcity is self-fulfilling: in a culture obsessed with lack and loss, some hoard and some go without. In 2009, ChristChurch Cathedral presents Radical Abundance - a programme of theological education and reflection which invites us to re-imagine how we live together as a society. It also invites us to explore a theology of enough, which doesn’t become obsessed with either wealth or poverty but learns to embrace God’s abundance.
Radical Abundance is the umbrella programme for a series of events during 2009.
A Choice between Impossibles: Spirited Conversations for Lent
In March the Cathedral hosted a series of interactive Spirited Conversations for Lent entitled A Choice between Impossibles. The series was based on the work of Sr Joan Chittister, a Benedictine nun who writes about contemporary spirituality. As an antidote to 21st century values of materialism and individualism, she evokes the values of the 5th century St. Benedict: creative work, holy leisure, wise stewardship, loving community, humility and peace. The format involved a simple shared meal, a short presentation of material, and informal discussion and conversation.
The programme continues with:
“Faith in the Frame”
Films include A Crude Awakening (2007) and Maxed Out (2005) and Life without People (2008)
Venue: ChristChurch Cathedral. 7-9pm in The Francis Room
Thursday 18th June
Thursday 16 July
Thursday 13 August
An opportunity for theological reflection and spiritual renewal in the Canterbury High Country led by Bishop Victoria Matthews
Dates: 9-11 October
Venue and further details to be confirmed.
Based on a video conference that took place January 2009 in association with Trinity Church, Wall Street, New York, called Radical Abundance: A Theology of Sustainability.
All 2pm - 4pm in the Cathedral Chancel
Sunday 30 August
Sunday 6 September
Sunday 13 September
Sunday 20 September (this date may change)
Radical Abundance:A Theology of Sustainability
As we rethink how to grow, build, supply, consume, dispose, and recycle everything in our lives, we often fail at partnering with the marginalized and powerless, and thus adversely affect them. Building sustainable communities goes hand-in-hand with thoughtful building of infrastructures and physical spaces. Is there a theological basis for living abundantly while striving for justice and sustainability?
The aim explores sustainability through the lens of liberation theology, which views Jesus not only as redeemer but also liberator of the oppressed. It posits a vision of Christians working together toward social justice by considering all people as full partners in healing our planet and our communities, regardless of their social or economic status. Only in striving for sustainable relationships, rather than accumulating and consuming more for ourselves, can we discover true abundance.Is there a theological basis for living abundantly while striving for justice and sustainability? The conference will explore sustainability through the lens of liberation theology, which views Jesus not only as redeemer but also liberator of the oppressed. Keynote speakers include Tim Gorringe, David Korten, Majora Carter and Miriam MacGillis OP. Each keynote address ill be presented on DVD with opportunity for debate and theological reflection afterwards. For further details see http://www.trinitywallstreet.org/education/?institute-default
Majora Carter founded Sustainable South Bronx in 2001 to alleviate poverty, improve the environment, and reduce public health costs. She is a MacArthur "Genius" Fellow, was named one of the 25 Most Influential African-Americans by Essence Magazine for 2007, and is co-host of The Green on the Sundance Channel.
Timothy J. Gorringe's widely read book, A Theology of the Built Environment: Justice, Empowerment, Redemption, established him as a leader in the field of environmental theology. His academic interests focus on the interrelation between theology, social science, art, and politics. He serves as St. Luke's Professor of Theological Studies at the University of Exeter.
David C. Korten is a visionary proponent of a planetary system of local living economies. His now-classic best-seller, When Corporations Rule the World, was called "a must-read" by commentators ranging from Archbishop Desmond Tutu to London's Financial Times. Dr. Korten's most recent book is The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community.
Sister Miriam Therese MacGillis founded Genesis Farm, a learning center where people of good will are welcome to search for more authentic ways to live in harmony with the natural world and each other. In 2005 she received the Thomas Berry Award, and in 2007 was named among the planet's top 15 green religious leaders by Grist magazine.
The Cathedral Spring Debate Series
Costing the earth?
Is the drive for economic growth destroying the planet? If so, can we find ways to promote human flourishing that are also environmentally responsible?
100% Pure New Zealand – Yeah, Right
New Zealand markets itself as clean and green. How far does the reality live up to the glittering image? What are the aspects of our ecology, economy and culture that we don’t want the world to see?
More or Less? The Search for Sustainable Living.
How can the world develop in ways that are both sustainable and just? Is sustainability necessary for reducing global poverty?
Venue: ChristChurch Cathedral
Dates and Speakers: to be confirmed
A full programme listing for the year will be available soon. For further details please contact Lynda Patterson, Theologian in Residence
tel: 03 3660046