Kia ora e te whanau
Of late I’ve found myself getting increasingly agitated that the direction our own country, and the world order in general, seem to be taking. Feeling unable to do anything to change what I see happening, I find myself in sometimes tense and contentious dispute with people I love.
I’m sure this is not happening to me alone. And it would feel inappropriate for me to vent my concerns on this platform – it’s not my role. I felt the same constraints in the Parish. Most would have known which way I leant, yet I never felt free to violate the pastoral tie that kept me in a place of effective neutrality on some of the big issues facing society and the world. This may have been a cover for cowardice, an unwillingness to put my employment on the line. While that may have, and continues to play a part, the bigger part is attempting to be one providing a safe space for people of all perspectives – even though I may have found some of them (the perspectives, not the people) personally abhorrent. Sometimes the rage, often driven by a sense of powerlessness, rises to the top. Where does one go with it? What does one do with it?
The first of the articles in particular that I’ve posted today, offers some way forward.
Our Kings Birthday Forum is looming larger. I’ve attached a simple poster to this news update calling for people to register. Please distribute it widely.
Leadership and Personal Development
5 ancient habits from Socrates to help you think more adaptively
This helps us step back from beliefs that are deeply held and affect the way we see the world and engage with what we see happening around us. It was very apposite for me as I reflected on my sense of absolute powerless at what I see happening in the world – both here in our own country, and abroad. This very insightful article can be read here: https://www.fastcompany.com/91264595/socrates-ancient-habits-think-adaptively
This type of leadership style leads to burnout
Another one that cut close to the bone. I may not be alone in feeling responsible for everything – especially when it goes wrong. Yet I suspect there will be others that benefit from this. The article can be read here: https://www.fastcompany.com/91269718/this-type-of-leadership-style-leads-to-burnout
Homilies & Preaching Resources
Trevor Hoggard is here using the 2nd set of readings from the Common Lectionary. His texts for 9 February are Hosea 1 vs 1-11, Colossians 1 vs 1-22, and Matthew 5 vs 13-16. His sermon can be engaged with here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHGlmXScBek
My response to the Gospel text of Luke 5 vs 1-11 for 9th of February – reflects on the context of Jesus speaking from a floating pulpit. I’ve titled it ‘Sermon on the Boat’. It can be experienced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Usxygi_uy8E
Gospel Conversations – (out of the Dunedin Anglican Diocese) hosts a conversation of 4 Theologians and Practitioners at the beginning of each week around the Gospel lectionary text for the coming Sunday. The site with all its options can be accessed here: https://www.calledsouth.org.nz/gospel-conversations/ . This coming Sunday’s offering focuses on the Feb 9 gospel reading of Luke 5 vs 1-11. It can be accessed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsWv3rQA5ZQ
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Ngā manaakitanga
Andrew Doubleday
UCANZ Ministry Facilitator