Paul writes – Here is the 999th post on this later incarnation of the “ProdigalKiwi(s)” blog. Over the course of the last week I’ve been listening to the very thought-provoking UK theologian Timothy Gorringe, and to Eric Jacobsen (author of the excellent Sidewalks of the Kingdom). The talks were delivered at the 2006 Spring Institute for Lived Theology.
“The Project on Lived Theology is a research initiative housed in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia whose purpose is to understand the way theological commitments shape the social patterns and practices of religious communities.
The 2006 Spring Institute for Lived Theology was devoted to the theme "Spaces for Reconciliation and Redemption: Theology and the Built Environment". The Institute brought together 45 theologians, pastors and community builders from around the United States for three days of discussion and collaborative work with seminar speakers, Timothy Gorringe and Heidi Neumark, on the theological meaning and importance of the built environment.”
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them and have reflected much on the built environment in which I live – the suburban edge of small town NZ. You can download the Mp3’s from here.
If you want to read more I’d suggest Jacobsen’s book (above), and closer to home, Simon Carey Holt’s excellent new book, God Next Door: Spirituality and Mission in the Neighbourhood which I purchased from Koorong. My review of Simon’s book will appear in the next month or so. Also Simon has a great series of blog posts under the category “Life in the Suburbs” here. You can read Simon’s review of Jacobsen’s book here…
Bringing theology into conversation with the built environment whether that be suburbia, the inner city etc is a fascinating subject. Have a listen to Gorringe and Jacobsen; have a read through Simon’s blog, by category. Also, check out John Davies’ very good reflections here…for example, “An Approach to Listening and Learning in the Local Community.”
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