Tui Motu InterIslands monthly independent Catholic magazine April 2015 | $7 . . editorial guest editorial

easter is here! homeless in iraq Elizabeth Mackie op

ll through Holy Week we While the artists, Paul Cummins life sourced in the presence of God n January a small group of or sold their possessions . This had taken to gather up centuries-old archives of focus on the tissue-thin close- and Tom Piper, created a means for with us and celebrated again in the Dominican women and men from away all hope that they could ever return . the Dominicans’ presence in the region, ness of death and life in story, understanding the magnitude of the risen Christ in the evolving universe . the USA and England met with “They have every reason to be sad . keeping alive memories of the past; by Aritual and faith . We hear again scrip- fatalities, the visitors were connect- This Easter theme flows through Itheir Dominican sisters and brothers Families that have shared life together in the sign of peace that so many Christians ture stories of the people’s close shaves ing the poppies with contemporary the articles of the month’s issue . Helen and many others in northern Iraq . villages on the Nineveh plains have been offer, despite the violence around them . with death and of Jesus’ unjust cru- conflicts and loss of life around our Bergin begins the “golden pages” that They spent time among the 500,000 uprooted from their homes, their land, One of the visitors told of soldiers cifixion . At Easter we plump for life, world . They realised that life is fragile explore aspects of the Easter season . Christians, Muslims and Yazidis, driven their traditions — with no resolution in who came searching for weapons in rejoicing with light, singing, flowers — especially if you live in the wrong Joy Cowley captures the intimacy from the city of Mosul and other loca- sight ”. Even that position is insecure and a Christian home . When they saw a and bells when we hear again of Jesus’ place at the wrong time — as the faces and immensity of Easter love in tions by the “Islamic State” . not exempt from suicide bombings and Christmas crib in the house they said: rising . We sleep in the light of the full in the rivers of refugees testify . Knowing, placed alongside the poppies “The numbers and statistics are other violence . “Their suffering is hard “You are Jesus . There are no weapons moon and the southern cross . As much as death is with us, so too in the centrespread . It invites a contem- numbing,” they reported . The visitors for us to comprehend ”. here ”. And they left immediately . Last summer I joined the crowd is our hope and delight in life . Those plative pause — maybe over a cup of tea . were shocked by the situation of the Yet the visitors were inspired by the The Dominicans left with a fourfold at the Tower of London to see the who have experienced a birth, coming Wendy Kissel reflects on her displaced people . Shocked when they refugee familes . They were humbled by message from the Iraqi people: poppy installation commemorat- through the other side of chemo- pilgrimage with her daughter to El found whole families living in tiny the courage and commitment of those • “Tell your people the truth of what ing the UK and Commonwealth therapy, or waking from a coma, will Salvador to the shrines preserved in the spaces, including one extended family who chose to stay, even though they is happening ”. The truth is that this soldiers who died in WWI . As recognise the overpowering feelings of places where Archbishop Romero and of 26 persons living in a small cara- might have been able to leave Iraq for is a vast humanitarian catastrophe, you’ll see in this month’s cen- gratitude, relief and love for life . Those other martyrs of the civil war died . van and 400 families (nearly 2,000 other countries . They remain there in which is crushing millions of lives . trespread, over 800,000 poppies who watch their gardens dying back, Allan Davidson reminds us that persons) housed in cubicles within solidarity with those who have no way We should inform our politicians, flowed around the moat, each foliage dropping and composting and the centenary of Gallipoli is not a containers, set up on the concrete of escaping . They stay to serve others ask them to visit the area and to work signifying the life of a soldier . (The lettuces going to seed, will understand cause for celebration as much as floor of an unfinished mall . And this — Christian, Yazidi and Muslim — in for a negotiated solution . red river would have overflowed the hope for the regeneration of life . a challenge to increase our efforts in a particularly severe winter . “It is whatever ways they can . They remain • The people ask for our prayers . “We the moat and swamped the Thames Those who study climate change, con- towards neighbourliness and peace in beyond terrible,” they wrote . “We to preserve the remnant of an ancient must pray frequently and insistently if poppies had been planted for all serve delicate species, or try to live more our world . met a woman in this situation . She is Christian community, dating back for peace in Iraq ”. the dead of the countries who’d simply, appreciate the efforts made for And the last word is a blessing overwhelmed and sad . It is so cold . It almost to the time of Christ . • “Come [to Iraq], especially if you battled in that war .) In the crowd the continuance of life . Those who for all our readers from the Tui Motu is shockingly cold ”. The visitors were inspired by the have some skill that could help the I heard around me repeatedly: stand with the downtrodden, watch team . Enjoy your reading . n They were appalled too by the hope to which these displaced people refugees ”. “There are so many . . I can see their children and grandchildren play, poverty of the refugees, most of still cling, despite the bleakness of their • Contribute funds for the purchase of what the number means now ”. And or attend an accident, feel the intense whom had left all their possessions situation . As one refugee said: “Hope food, shelter, medicines . the concern: “But the killing is still urgency for the protection of life . All behind when they fled . Some had only means that I live now, whatever may While the world focuses on over- going on today ”. of these are aspects of the fullness of an hour or two to gather a few belong- happen tomorrow ”. They were inspired powering the Islamic State, may we ings and leave on foot or in cars . Many by the resilience of children, who ran to listen attentively to these voices of Editorial Poem: Knowing ...... 2 ...... 16–17 refugees told of the sense of betrayal they meet them with smiles of welcome; by the displaced . n Joy Cowley Guest editorial: Homeless in Iraq ...... 3 felt when they learned that their former the courtesy of women, who offered flat contents Elizabeth Mackie Joy Cowley’s story ...... 18–19 Elizabeth Mackie OP is the Shaun Davison Muslim neighbours and friends had bread freshly baked in difficult circum- Letters to the editor ...... 4 occupied their homes and appropriated stances; by the friar who took the time Assistant Editor of Tui Motu . An ecological reading of the gospel Domesticating Francis ...... 5 of Mark (part three) Jim Consedine ...... 20–21 address: Independent Catholic Magazine Ltd, Elaine Wainwright Tui Motu – InterIslands is an independent, Easter hope ...... 6–7 52 Union Street, Dunedin North, 9054 Centenary reflections of Gallipoli ...... 22–23 Catholic, monthly magazine. It invites its P O Box 6404, Dunedin North, 9059 Helen F Bergin Allan Davidson readers to question, challenge and contrib- phone: (03) 477 1449 ute to its discussion of spiritual and social Pull the tent pegs up again ...... 8–9 fax: (03) 477 8149 El Salvador pilgrimage ...... 24–25 issues in the light of gospel values, and in Mary Caygill email: [email protected] Wendy Kissel the interests of a more just and peaceful email for subscriptions: [email protected] Transforming new life ...... 10 society. Inter-church and inter-faith dialogue Resurrection of Jesus (and the disciples) . . . 26–27 website: www.tuimotu.org Amy Armstrong Kathleen Rushton is welcomed. TuiMotuInterIslands New life in ‘little Ant’ ...... 11 Book and film reviews ...... 28–29 Paul Armstrong The name Tui Motu was given by Pa Henare Tate. editor: Ann L Gilroy rsj Crosscurrents ...... 30 It literally means “stitching the islands together...”, Song of the Earth assistant editor: Elizabeth Mackie op ...... 12-13 bringing the different races and peoples and faiths Jim Elliston illustrator: Donald Moorhead Daniel O’Leary together to create one Pacific people of God. The culture of lying directors: Susan Brebner, Rita Cahill rsj, Philip Casey (chair), ...... 31 Divergence of opinion is expected and will normally Poem: Easter in the south ...... 13 Neil Darragh, Paul Ferris, Elizabeth Mackie op and David Mullin Robert Consedine be published, although that does not necessarily M K Joseph ISSM 1174-8931 honorary directors: Pauline O’Regan rsm, Frank Hoffmann A mother’s journal ...... 32 imply editorial commitment to the viewpoint Dialogue between Christians and Muslims Issue number 192 typesetting and layout: Greg Hings . . . 14–15 Kaaren Mathias expressed. Peter J Cullinane printers: Southern Colour Print, 1 Turakina Road, Dunedin South, 9012 Cover illustration: Painting Supper at Emmaus by He Qi. Used by permission of the artist. [www.heqiart.com] 2 Tui Motu InterIslands 3 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 letters to the editor comment a good dose of hope lack basic services and infrastructure . letters to the editor Unemployment remains high and the We have been receiving Tui Motu for We welcome comment, domesticating francis disruption of education, home life and some years and I always look forward discussion, argument, debate. Jim Consedine communal structures and relations has to it but this edition (February issue) But please keep letters under been horrific . is particularly excellent . I am encour- If you consider the 2003 attack 200 words. The editor reserves hen Francis of Assisi of Pope Francis? He has had an the poor, on climate change? The words aging everyone to read it . The articles worthwhile, it has surely failed to the right to abridge, while not burst on the scene in the unprecedented positive response to of Francis need to be fleshed out — and cover so many topical issues in such a bring democracy, peace and the defeat changing the meaning. 12th century, the Church his reform mission so far, from both not just remain newsprint . readable form . It is all so full of hope . of terrorism . Saddam Hussein and We do not publish anonymous Wbecame enamoured with his radical Catholics and people from the wider I sometimes get quite depressed with Osama bin Laden have been killed, but letters except in exceptional vision . While praying, he had heard community . They all love Francis . prophet for our time the economic reality we are forced Al-Qaeda grew larger and branched circumstances. Response the call from God: “Francis, repair my People with little interest in religion I think most of us will be tempted to to live in . It is wonderful to know out . It has been displaced by a more articles (up to a page) are church which has fallen into disrepair ”. talk about him in supermarkets, at domesticate Francis to one degree or others are similarly affected and able militant branch, that aims to create an welcome — but please, by The vocation of St Francis was to the pool, in the pub . Church leaders another . He is challenging us with the to voice their insights into other pos- Islamic State . Their command system negotiation. recall the Church to the radical simplic- are supportive of him in public utter- Gospel of Jesus at a very primal level . sible scenarios . of morality is only one interpretation ity of the gospel, to the spirit of poverty, ances . In public at least, he has found Most of us probably need to change . You have a powerful instrument of Islam, but it is a serious, albeit and to the image of Christ in his poor . almost universal acceptance . Change is usually uncomfortable . It there . I will work to increase your sales . fundamentalist one, something well His movement spread like bushfire . certainly is for me . It certainly has been Mary Engelbrecht rsj, Perth known among Christians and Jews . If we respond to the growth of Soon there were hundreds of friars com- for Francis over the years . Those religious minorities who feel terrorism by treating all Muslims like mitting their lives to his simple vision of He’s a changed man, widely our troops: who will benefit? persecuted, exploited and dominated potential terrorists, by profiling, moni- renewed Christian life . recognised as a prophet in our time . The Prime Minister asked, whose side by those who are irreligious or apos- toring or trying to recruit them, we add But then the problems began . He speaks about the gospel, from the are we on? Presumably we should all tate, will inevitably dedicate their lives harassment to the sense of persecution Many wanted to be part of this new heart, off the cuff . Previous popes have have the guts to join the club that has to regaining their ideal of the good and injustice felt by many Muslims . movement, but not as radically com- often been circumspect to the point gone to war with ISIS . However much society . Al-Qaeda was armed as an anti- The real challenge is how to reach out mitted as he envisaged . Soon there was of irrelevance . This man is not . He is we hate what Al-Qaeda, ISIS and Boko communist fighting force and has now to our Muslim communities to build dissent in the camp . Even in his life, the Spirit-filled, highly educated, open, Haram have done and are doing we morphed into a crusade to build an bridges of cooperation and make joint Franciscans were divided about how honest, and speaks to the topics of the must surely understand that the mili- Islamic caliphate that ultimately aims efforts to assure social justice . If we literally to accept Francis’ call to radical day . He seems fearless . However, history tary interventions by western powers to convert or defeat all enemies and permit fear and suspicion to dominate material poverty . shows that prophets are not welcomed, in the Levant and Africa have been infidels . Thus far western interventions our communal relations, we will effec- So what happened? As with many nor heeded, and are usually ignored, occurring for centuries and the 2003 against terrorism have done nothing tively allow the fundamentalist extrem- other religious orders, the process was one sometimes killed . invasion of Iraq boosted recruitment but inspire more recruitment to this ists to suck us all into the whirlpool of of “domestication” of the founder’s vision But where is the implementation Francis is not accepted universally to the terrorists and expanded conflicts holy cause . If such force is to be used conflict and violence . If we do nothing, and practice . Often followers cannot of the changes he is proposing? There by those who hold political and ecclesial throughout the region . again, we should be prepared for the we leave the field to those who are cope with the demanding nature of what are certainly internal Church structural power . Admired, yes; accepted, no . The questions that need answering loss of many lives and our troops will turning it into a battlefield . the founder is saying and what they are changes underway . But what about his Many can’t wait for him to go . Like are: undoubtedly be at risk . Rather than join the club, would expected to live . They respond by “pull- message to the wider world? Francis St Francis, he is being marginalised by • Will it succeed in bringing peace to The prospects for peace and prosper- it not be more courageous to play our ing the teeth” from the founder’s vision . constantly condemns war . We have just opponents every day, even from within the countries of the region? ity in the region would seem to be rather role as a nation of independent peace- The same thing happened to Jesus . Is committed to another in Iraq . How the Church — under cover, behind • Will it defeat terrorism or eliminate dim .The people displaced by warfare, by keepers? It was our nuclear-free stance this not what we often do in the Church? many Catholics have looked at their closed doors . Many feel threatened . organisations like ISIS or Boko the terrorists, by crop failures, by climate that showed our independence and Jesus sought to give dignity and positive financial dealings in the light of his They see their power eroding, their Haram? change and by economic developments that took real courage . When a nation affirmation to those excluded: the poor- repeated condemnation of corporate status under threat . • Will it contribute to the empower- that privilege the rich and displace the chooses sides in a battle that is not est, sickest and most marginalised in his capitalism and the accumulation of Francis presents the message of Jesus ment and well-being of the people poor, are growing in number as human theirs, they are aligning themselves in society, whom he described as “closer wealth in a hungry world? Or his calls for our time . It is our responsibility to who live there? poverty and inequality increase around a way that compromises their potential to God” than the leaders, and “first to stop trashing the environment? implement that message . As demanded The only people who have ben- the world . These factors play an even role as mediators and peace keepers . inheritors of God’s Kingdom and God’s He has repeatedly called for countries by the Conclave that elected him, he has efited thus far are the commercial and larger role here than in other areas, and We can be sure that the extremists will grace” . The powerful couldn’t accept to be more open to refugees fleeing war, already begun major reform within the financial corporations who continue they do so because of the interventions not fail to define the interventions of that . They had domesticated their violence, ethnic cleansing and poverty . Church . But he cannot do it all alone . to rip off the resources of third world as well as the terrorists they created . The this club as today’s manifestation of an own radical prophetic tradition . They A good portion of the New Zealand He recognises us, the People of God, nations . If the control of the region’s fact that there are now militants who are old imperialist tradition . had built a theology around their own Cabinet are Catholics . Where are the as the Church . He needs us to play oil resources was the motivating factor willing to use extreme violence to regain To try and sell this troop-posting lives and established status . This man moves from within government to our part . We cannot stand passively by, in 2003, it served mainly to drive control should come as no surprise . as a humanitarian exercise is a travesty . threatened their whole social structure . broaden our immigration policy, to wel- spectators in this moment . up the world price of oil and enrich Their vision of a unified Muslim state For the refugees and victims of the He had to go . come some of the poorest and most des- In supporting Francis, let us not the oil cartel and the multi-national may become increasingly attractive to ongoing violence, a contribution to perate, and not just the wealthiest? How domesticate him — nor his message . n corporations, who were given recon- young Muslims wherever communities UNICEF, Caritas, Oxfam or the Red the challenge seriously do they take his message on struction and security contracts there . remain divided by prejudice and injus- Cross would surely make more sense . Will we follow the same domesti- the evils of an unbridled “free” market, Jim Consedine is a priest of the From all reports, the Iraqi people still tices that can radicalise their youth . Paul Green, Wellington cation process with the teachings on structured inequality for women and Christchurch diocese.

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is “the most powerful religious For web enthusiasts, organisations the gift we have been given to nour- easter hope symbol of what is truly possible such as avaaz .org invite the global ish us on our weekly journey . as the future, the future which has community to engage in petitions, Each Eucharistic celebration has already ‘de facto’ commenced in including the present-day freeing of potential to remind us of all that has The author discusses how the gift of hope is the Easter promise of Jesus Christ ”. Schillebeeckx sug- economic slaves, offering moral sup- brought life during the week, as well gests that resurrection belief invites port to displaced communities and as the “deathly” moments and the rec- life in our world. individuals and communities to be standing against the desecration of onciling encounters or moments of reconcilers with one another and Earth . Through each response, the joy . Eucharist invites us more deeply with creation . Since it is through human community offers a gift of into the journey of Jesus . We some- Helen F Bergin op Jesus that God re-directed the hope into this world . times come with disappointments world towards fullness of life, it is and experiences “too hard to bear” in Jesus’ life, death and resurrection eastering at eucharist trusting that Jesus will accompany us recall one Easter Sunday when simply a “holy day” bringing respite urged to tell this news to the disci- that Christians look for founda- When Christians gather on Sundays into the promise of resurrection . At a guest asked to “raise a toast” from daily concerns . It honours a ples, including Peter, and to go to tions of hope . in local Eucharistic communities, least, this is our hope! before lunch . Imagining that momentous experience within the Galilee where they will see Jesus . In his life, Jesus sought both the we remind ourselves of the reason theI toast would be either to the Christian story when life conquered In this gospel, one feels little of the company of friends and solitude for our hope . Globally, thousands easter people of hope hosts or to “the risen Jesus” I was death . It is the feast of hope . enormity of the women’s experi- with God . Jesus rejoiced among of communities gather on the first Above all, Sunday Eucharist has the astonished when it was Winston ence as they move suddenly from tax collectors yet felt the fear of day of the week to remember Jesus potential to remind us that as disciples Peters who was receiving the toast! from grief to amazement grief into amazement . No wonder God’s abandonment . In approach- of Nazareth who lived and died for of Jesus we are indispensable par- Peters had just succeeded in intro- In the Easter Vigil gospel (Mk 16:1- that artists such as Chinese He Qi ing death, with faith in God, Jesus all and who was raised to new life as ticipants in Jesus’ mission of bringing ducing the Gold Card and the pro- 7) we meet three bereft women — have expressed the mixed emotions entrusted himself to the One he God’s ongoing gift for all . Jesus is the hope to all . The resurrection is about poser of the toast had just become Mary of Magdala, Mary the mother of these women — perhaps fearful called “Abba”/Dad . Ultimately, Living One! people being sent out with joy and a beneficiary! Today, thousands of of James, and Salome . They visit of hoping for too much! thanks to the experiences of these courage for the sake of God’s mis- New Zealanders receive that gift as Jesus’ burial site to anoint his body . John’s gospel on Easter morn- first women and men, Christians Jesus raised to new sion . As inheritors of the resurrection, senior citizens . Their world suddenly changes when ing (20:1-9) also includes Mary believe that Jesus was raised to new Christians witness to the greatest gift However, our focus here is on a young man addresses them: “You of Magdala . On discovering Jesus’ life and lives now through his Spirit life lives through his of all time, namely, death is not the another gift — Jesus’ resurrection . are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, empty tomb Mary informs Simon working among those who try to Spirit working among end . God has conquered death . The celebration of Jesus’ having who was crucified: he has risen, he Peter and friend that Jesus’ body create a better future for planet those who try to Despite the above, many of being raised from death is not is not here ”. The women are then has disappeared and must have been earth and all its life-forms . us live with deep paradox . While removed . The two disciples rush to create a better future Eucharist recalls Jesus’ death and the tomb . We then learn that the easter people everyday for planet earth and resurrection for “the world”, many unnamed male disciple who enters Being “Easter people” is a challenge all its life-forms. family and friends feel unable to the tomb after Peter and encounters met by communities and individu- participate . In such circumstances only cloths, “saw and he believed ”. als — annually and daily . Christians each community experiences deep Both Easter gospels attempt to believe that Jesus has been raised In gathering at Eucharist, absence while trusting in the hope express an unimaginable experience . from death and therefore that he Christians gradually come to grasp of resurrection . The Easter story describes a accompanies all who bring life to that God, revealed in Jesus, is not a So, might there be a point to movement from sadness and confu- others . Christians also know that stranger, our wicket keeper, or our the Easter “toast” with which this sion to joy and faith . The listener despite everything, death opens judge . God is love! reflection began? The Aotearoa is enveloped in bewilderment and into eternal life . Easter people are In listening to our Hebrew and Gold Card and many other gifts delight . Jesus’ resurrection is fun- grounded in hope . So what might Christian stories, we remember Jesus have been given to some people for damental to Christian faith and this gift of hope look like? who reached out to all, drew in out- a limited time . Most are grateful . while celebrated solemnly at Easter Here in Aotearoa NZ, we are siders and challenged self-appointed Yet, all Gold Cards pale before an it is honoured weekly at Sunday graced with thousands of people who “superior” persons . We learn about eternity of joy . It is the gift and Eucharist . Easter lays the founda- offer life and hope to others . For TV God’s vision or reign which includes practice of hope which enable tion for Christian hope since, viewers, there are Sunday evening the children, the broken-hearted, the Christians to live as people open despite everything, life triumphs . “Good Sorts” who willingly place ostracised, the repentant and all seek- to God’s future . And, it is Easter their gifts of tutoring, carpentry or ers of the good . We are challenged which keeps such hope alive! n towards the fullness of life sports coaching . . . at the service of personally to respond to God’s vision “Hope” is sometimes depicted as others . For newspaper readers, there when each Sunday we hear biblical wishful but unrealistic yearning . are regular accounts about generous stories expressing Jesus’ desire to Helen Bergin, OP teaches theology at The Yet, hope as the fruit of Easter is locals such as the recently deceased bring life to all humans and to all University of Auckland and is the editor neither “wishful” nor “unreal” . Wanaka helicopter pilot lauded not creation . of a series of books published by Accent Noli Me Tangere by Nik Helbig. Used with permission. [www.nikhelbig.com] Resurrection hope, according to for “doing great acts but rather for In coming to the Eucharistic table Publications. theologian Edward Schillebeeckx small individual acts of kindness ”. we are fed, enlivened and amazed at

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part of for a season, holds within it pull the tent pegs up again the seeds of creative purpose . Here and now in this new place, so close The author describes her Methodist congregation’s nomadic journey around to where we have been before, we can if we will, sense, hear, see and the city after their church was destroyed in the Christchurch earthquake experience anew the living contours and the Easter hope towards which they keep journeying. of a city emerging, rebuilding . It is Mary Caygill a new physical entity flexing itself, feeling for itself its outer and inner When we set up camp and settle destruction of the physical build- remnants and memories spaces in a new and living way . to avoid love's risk and pain, ing of Durham St Methodist . And On this Sunday we have reminders in its collapse to the ground we of our travels especially in words lenten journey ending you disturb complacent comfort, remember the tragic ending of the and symbols . Lying before us are The liturgical words call us to atten- pull the tent pegs up again; lives of three men working inside remnants from our old church — tion in the here and now, to the keep us travelling in the knowledge dismantling the pipe organ . our “portable tabernacle” . We have Lenten journey of metanoia . It is the you are always at our side; After four years as nomads, we the brass cross and the oversized seasonal call to openness and move- give us courage for the journey, return to the inner city, not yet offertory plate unearthed from the ment within and without . Christ our goal and Christ our guide. to our “own” rebuilt home on our earthquake rubble . The chalice and Here is the journey that moves beyond Joy Dine historic church site, but no more plate snatched from the overturned where we are now. than five minutes’ walk away . We’re communion cupboard, are placed Come, trust the God whose journey it is. his year the first Sunday of resident in the Knox Presbyterian on our new sanctuary and commun- Come, and trust in the steadfast love of Roses and other tributes cast into the river Lent found the congregation Centre hall . We’re enjoying the hos- ion table for this Sunday . A purple God. of the Christchurch Central pitable embrace of the Knox con- cloth purchased and hastily sewn to This is Lent. This is the journey. MethodistT Church (Durham St gregation and also that of another size the day before, covers the table . the richness of the three red roses Lift up our hearts and set us free Methodist) on the move again . It inner city neighbour, the St Luke’s The fun and laughter in getting it all connects life and death — the lives From wild alarms and trembling fears; was our sixth shift from one side of Anglican Church community, who ready expresses a wonderful creativ- Here is the journey, for all who long to lost and our own . In memory they In your strong hand eternally travel. the city to another since the begin- have their temporary home in the ity of adaptation in making this new remain part of our community and Rests the unfolding of the years. ning of the earthquake events of Knox Centre . space as “at home” as it can be for all Come, for God makes known love’s path, they are the community of those September 2010 . The liturgical sea- Collectively we know well the who gather . And invites us to follow, trusting in the who have gone before us . Though there be dark uncharted space, sons certainly have a new resonance physical movement and emotional And alongside all of this is the steadfast love of God. Later in the day we’ll take the with worlds on worlds beyond our sight, for us these days . upheaval associated with “pulling up simple, stark reminder of the fragility This is Lent. This is the journey. red roses and with countless other How appropriate that this of tent pegs” yet again . We know the of life and power of nature . A vase tributes of love and remembrance still may we trust your love and grace, year the first Sunday of Lent also need to pause and gather ourselves in holding three red roses symbolises we’ll throw them into the river and wait your word: “Let there be light.” marked the fourth anniversary the new surrounds before making a the three who lost their lives when Here is the journey that takes us farther where they’ll join the flow in the than we have been before. of the earthquake of 22 February settled “home” in them for the next the earth’s foundations heaved vio- river making its way onwards and We have journeyed from death 2011 . We remember the total stretch of time . lently, dismantled, and disturbed Come, for God leads the humble into outwards to the sea and beyond . to life . We are part of the new life our complacent comfort . We are what is right, arising in the city around us . We one faith community — human life Surrounded by the steadfast love of God. moving into easter are experiencing the living reality within creation . This is Lent. This is the journey. We sing our faith as we Methodists of resurrection . We sing it loudly as do almost instinctively when we our affirmation of faith . We know back in the inner city We light the first Lenten candle gather . Elisabeth Havens Burrowes’ that Good Friday in all its forms The air is alive with muted excite- remembering Jesus’ journey towards words say it for us as with one voice can never be the last word . For us ment . We’re back in the city again . Jerusalem . We’re like the somewhat we fill our new space and place with God’s yes of resurrection resounds After the months of sharing with bewildered and unsettled disciples sound: as an unwavering promise of new another Methodist community yearning for a sense of permanence God of the ages, by whose hand life and new beginnings . Easter in unfamiliar territory in the and settled times again . The simple through years long past our lives were led, is our sharing in life — and we’re city’s western neighbourhoods, act of lighting marks a new phase in give us new courage now to stand, rejoicing to the full even with our today we’re a single congregation . our journey, never alone, always in hands still full of tent pegs . n We’re smaller in number too since the company of others . new faith to find the paths ahead. our nomadic travels began after We light the second candle Rev Dr Mary Caygill is the September 2010 . remembering that we’ve been You are the thought beyond all thought, minister of Christchurch This stage of our journey, nomadic for four years . That jour- the gift beyond our utmost prayer; Central Methodist Church. though unnerving and unsettling, ney has held the fragility and uncer- no farthest reach where you are not, tinged still with grief, marked with tainty of the way to Jerusalem . The Rev Mary Caygill and congregation in Knox hall, Christchurch no height but we may find you there. farewells to those we have been purity of the flame illuminating

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Parents Amy and Paul reflect on the new life and the new experience of God the unexpected birth of their son brought them. Amy Armstrong Paul Armstrong

face anew . As I watch each exploration itting on my window sill in and discovery in his development he the lounge is my old teddy “He has an effect shows me the joy of new life offered to which tonight provided me on more than my us each day . If only we too could delight Swith insight and rearsight to my as a child in the simple gifts set before us . world as it is today . My Mum five senses. He has In all my journeys from death to life brought my teddy down from inhabited my soul.” I have found comfort and wisdom in Auckland last March so that there Jesus . He struggled with letting go at might be a little of my past at my soul . I cannot explain his presence . times: “Take this cup from me ”. “My son’s baptism . My teddy has seen Just as Thomas Aquinas was at a loss God, why have you forsaken me?” We some serious mileage . None of his for words for his ultimate experience know the ending to his story . Jesus per- facial features are original . His eyes of God, so I have never had an expe- severed . He transcended . He rose again are blue blotches hastily sewn on, rience of love as profound as my son, to offer new life to us all . His story his nose a dash of black wool and Anton . We found when googling his becomes our story if we let it . Jesus his mouth a stitch of happy red- name its approximate meaning in shows us the journey of transformation . ness . He wears tight, red shorts and Spanish is, “beyond praise” . It is our faith to take up our cross . It is a raffish, brown shirt . When I look He is the smallest person in also our faith to be graced inexplicably at my old teddy it is real, solid, here our house and exhibits the greatest hen thinking about new life 40 years old I found myself pregnant with new life bursting forth, if we have to stay and part of my history . influence on my heart — even more at Easter I cannot help but for the first time . What a gift, blessing courage to say “yes” to the journey . It’s Those adjectives describe exactly than Jesus . Why? Because for me he rough week . As he sat on the couch, think of death as well . Our and joyful surprise! not an easy road but life comes after the presence of my wee son except is the face of God incarnate . I know head in hands, “Little Ant”, (as his Wfaith shows us that death and life are And the cycle started all over death . This is the age-old story and that he inhabits me internally also . some may baulk at my asserting cousin calls him), plain as day picks linked inextricably and somehow between again . Death came in many ways even promise of the Paschal mystery . Jesus He has an effect on more than my my son is on a par with experi- up Dad’s slippers from one side of the two, transformation is possible . We amongst the news of this miracle . I was has risen within each of us . Alleluia. n five senses . He has inhabited my ences of God directly . I would have the lounge, walks over to Dad and need only to look to Jesus to see how . dying to my life as I knew it . Many questioned too until, a little later in plonks them on the coffee table in We have our own transforming things changed for me — when I had life than most, it happened to me . front of him . He then gets down journeys to new life . One of mine thought they never would . (And believe me, I’ve had some real on the ground at his Dad’s feet recently, perhaps the biggest in my life, And my body — I watched in awe whopper Godly experiences along and with the gentleness of Jesus, was the birth of our son, Anton . This as it changed and morphed in ways I the path!) proceeds to untie both laces on his was a long journey that started many never dreamed physically possible! It Dad’s running shoes . If that didn’t years before his conception . was uncomfortable to move, eat, sleep . a wee incarnation make me weep, what would? As a young woman I discovered my It may sound petty but for me these Every time I get angry, rant, cry, chance of having a child was unlikely . were small dyings to the life and person or just feel real “weirdy beardy”, knowing god Health issues had caused infertility . I I was, all the while making room for Anton walks into the room (of my That simple action of profound gen- started a long road of grief and hard the new . And this was before the birth! heart) and changes everything . He tleness, complete absence of words, work . However with time, faith, trust is right and just! I get overwhelmed along with a smile of utter love from and support I found my peace in the new life by his sparkling eyes, his profound little one-year-old Ant, (my mini- knowledge that my life would involve Oh the blessed, painful, joyful, excru- actions of love; and the greatest Messiah), showed me the purity and birthing God’s unique plan for me . I ciating birth of a baby . I have never thing is, they are so pure, he doesn’t profound humility of God’s limitless knew I could be happy doing other experienced what felt like life and death know he’s doing them! grace . Now I know God, for I know generative work in my life . This was my so closely together . Eventually he came, Here’s one of the best examples . Anton Paul Armstrong and it is one great gift of life “after death” . As a young our precious gift of new life in all his This past week has been a bit rough in the same . n couple Paul and I were content, enjoying glory, changing our lives forever . in the “work” area of life . Dad here, the children of our friends and family New life has continued every day had had enough and decided to Amy and Paul Armstrong are and our calling as tertiary chaplains . with Anton . Each morning as I walk walk out the door and do a walking partishioners of Holy Name Church, Our story could well have ended into his room it’s as if I am seeing him circuit of the block to get himself Dunedin. there . But as a not-so-young couple for the first time . I am overcome with right . He thought it was the best new life came to us in another way . At awe, love and gratitude when I see his thing to do, as after all, he’d had a

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is God’s incarnate presence in nature song of the earth from the very beginning, the second is the full, final and definitive incar- From the Good News of Easter Day, everything is born anew. What once seemed dead nation of God in Jesus Christ . bursts into life as spring enfolds the northern hemisphere. A crocus in the mud can Easter in the South easter energy transform our understanding of God — this evolving planet is his body and our true home. The stirrings of life in the darkness Daniel O’Leary of the earth fill Pope Francis with a Inverted on the other side of the earth unique insight into the meaning of alking home with my does the colour and perfection come or other, in the end, all is harvest . Easter energy . He senses the impulse Easter and Lent, its harbinger, take new meaning. shopping one dark, chilly from?” he asked . “And what else is The spirit of Easter is utterly free, that runs through all creation . The Are not the wheeling festival of birth and death evening in early March, I down there? What else am I walking utterly beyond our control . It is the mystic in Dylan Thomas recognised Wwent through a small park in Crosby . on? To me, to inhale the fragrance of deepest meaning of all our experiences, these invisible connections too: In spring, but ripe and round in autumn’s waning? Impossible to miss, I stared at the sudden a primrose, down to the soles of my of everything that exists . It is in the The force that through the green fuse appearance of the crocuses — violet, feet, is a Eucharist . Only then can I harshness of war, in the tenderness drives the flower white and blue — translucent in the walk beautifully on the earth without of touch . It lives in the darkness of Northern spring miraculous lifts with feeble fists Drives my old age … shadows, staked out like a rosary between hurting it . Right here in our own hill despair, in the glimmer of hope . It Of shoot and budding leaf the stone from the frozen tree trunks . Overnight, from drab meadow, I can walk in paradise ”. parts the veil, it rolls away the stone, it The force that drives the water through patches of lifeless leaves and muck, changes the focus, it transforms our the rocks Sepulchred heart of the earth, the embalmed air pours in gusts, something beautifully fragile and way of understanding ourselves and Drives my red blood … Bird-call and shock of wind cry, Christ is risen. life-giving had soundlessly emerged . our world . It points away from the Pope Francis was sensitive to perfection of angels to the damaged What begins in the soil is completed this phenomenon of early spring . beauty of the human miracle . in the soul . Nothing that happens is Our Easter comes pontifically in purple and gold It mirrored something of Easter for “The fact that the Risen Christ unimportant or irredeemable . Even in him . In one of the loveliest passages returns to embodiment tells us that With grape on vine and corn in field, the wine and bread the most neglected and most desperate in Evangelii Gaudium he writes: salvation is first of all in this world victims across our planet, the seeds Feeding the hollow mouth, warming the body filled “When all seems to be dead, signs and that embodiment is good,” of an Easter lie hidden . Resurrection of the Resurrection suddenly spring writes Richard Rohr OFM . “He At last, the sacrament of flesh and blood. is what we were created for . But we up . It is an irresistible force … In meets the disciples back at their perennially celebrate it and perennially the midst of darkness something jobs, the women in their very forget all about it . We remain blind new always springs to life and sooner To walk in paradise in our own human grief, two men walking along to its wonder, deaf to its transforming — M. K. Joseph or later produces fruit . On razed land, fields . Pope Francis asks whether we can a road, and first of all a very human harmonies . Bad religion worships itself . life breaks through, stubbornly yet carry this treasure of insight safely in our friend, Mary of Magdala . He does not But grace goes on . Irrespective of invincibly … Each day in our world distorted perception — that Heaven is leave this world . He re-enters it as it is religion, God’s energy flows through beauty is born anew . Such is the power here, always present, growing like the and reveals its radiance ”. everything . The landscape does not of resurrection” (276) . seed, struggling to flourish anew in an change but our eyes do . We watch for indifferent environment? God is always where life is, God is the small hourly miracles deepened walking in paradise coming to be in everything that happens . Everywhere accessible but contained and defined against eternal meaning . In his challenging book Nostos, Irish And in a statement that points to his next nowhere, God cannot be confined Easter perennially emphasises the utter mystic John Moriarty reflects on the work, he writes: “All of these [epiphanies] any more to people of a certain race earthiness of divinity, and the divinity unexpected epiphanies he noticed encircle our world like a vital force-field . or religion . Where life itself is, God of each daily act . Was the poet Pauline around him as he walked through The resurrection is already secretly woven is . The energy of being is the breath Matarasso pondering the “paschal muddy patches in the meadow near into the fabric of history ”. of God . Incarnate in the heart of mystery” when she wrote this? his Kerry home . He wondered how flesh the divine heart beats . “There is those “hints of heaven” could emerge earth is God’s body no Catholic God,” said Pope Francis . Reaching her arms so high from such a drab place . “How could Easter is not about escaping into “There is God, and I believe in the she thrust them through something so yellow as a buttercup Heaven; it is about recognising this incarnation . This is my Being . And to peg love’s laundry in the sky. come up out of soggy, brown earth? evolving earth as God’s body and our there is a spark of it in everyone ”. And white against the blue he asked . “How could something so true home . Resurrection does not And in everything . When contem- her banners flew.n purple as an orchid and so perfect as sweep us away to a painless place but plated lovingly, a crocus in the mud a cowslip come up out of it?” reveals the redemption in our suffering can transform our understanding of Fr Daniel O’Leary’s website is Clearly for him this was a spiritual now . The lost paradise is regained in the God . Thomas Aquinas said that if www.djoleary.com From: Imaginary Islands. Whitcombs & Tombs, Christchurch 1950. experience, a call from his own isola- soil of our fields and in the seasons of we get creation wrong, we get God This article is republished courtesy of [Used with permission of Whitcoulls.] tion into the creative mystery below our souls . There is no sin, loss, betrayal, wrong . The magnificent Easter Vigil The Tablet . www .thetablet .co .uk the surface of the ordinary . “Where shame or despair that is final . Somehow celebrates two revelations — the first

12 Tui Motu InterIslands 13 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 christian-muslim dialogue

For a long time Christians believed engaging both . Reason does not chal- change . Ridiculing others’ ideas ran dialogue between christians salvation was not possible outside the lenge revealed faith, but challenges us the risk of offending, but the real aim Church, effectively consigning every- to examine our interpretations of it . Is was to change opinions . Mockery, with and muslims one else to hell . Today we accept that it good enough merely to quote from disregard for causing hurt, does not win no one has the right to make that judg- the Qur’an — ignoring the require- over hearts and minds . As it is unlikely to ment, and that God offers all people ments of hermeneutics — when the bring about change it is hardly true satire . the possibility of being saved . same can be done by others to justify If freedom of expression includes Sometimes we relied on overly literal violence and murder? a right to mock or insult, then what is interpretations of the scriptures . We meant by respecting other people’s right quoted words and sentences without Renewal and reform to practise their sincerely held religious allowing for their historical, cultural and convictions without harassment or literary contexts . Now we realise that it are part of God’s persecution? It shows that secularism is the meaning of scripture that God has agenda for all of us. has its own form of intolerance and inspired, and that to know the meaning totalitarianism . we must take seriously the historical, The question facing both Muslims Peter J Cullinane cultural and literary contexts . Any religion that is afraid of honest and Christians is how to respond to Bethlehem skyline For hundreds of years it was questions is insecure, living in fear that ridicule in this environment . Jesus assumed that the State could impose it might be found wrong . Nothing that taught his disciples to regard them- he Second Vatican Council upon Islamic authorities to “go more dignity and a more humane world? Christian beliefs and punish dissent . God has revealed can be found wrong, but selves as “blessed … when people spoke for all Catholics when deeply into the question of why some Notwithstanding a tradition of We now realise that all persons have the our human interpretations can be found hate you and revile you and speak all it said the Church looks upon Muslims, especially young ones, are so respect for education, it is fair to ask: is right to follow their conscience freely partial, incomplete or wrong . Whether manner of evil about you on account of MuslimsT “with esteem” . Inter-faith susceptible to such an extremist and it something within Islamic faith, or is and to practise their beliefs . The role of we are Muslims, Jews or Christians, we my name ”. The prophet Muhammad dialogue is a blessing . Its aim is not misanthropic understanding of their it a cultural phenomenon, that leads to the State is to create the conditions in are not immune from the limitations personally reacted without violence proselytism but to better understand own religion” . the oppression of women and excludes which this can happen without enforc- of human understanding . Only God is when he was insulted . and respect each other . However, them from education? ing religious beliefs or practices . perfect . Renewal and reform are part of The “je suis Charlie” campaign was it needs to go deeper . A tranquil worthwhile questions And, even though the Prophet God’s agenda for all of us . liberal democracy’s way of protest- relationship between us should not One former jihadist, now an advisor himself allowed the practice of other muslim journey now? ing against violence and defending depend on not asking the questions to British security authorities, has faiths within Islamic countries, is there The Church has come to realise that call to mutual respect “freedom of speech” . Freedom is people need to ask; a kind of stand- said that the savagery and cruelty something within Islamic religion that there is no place for exclusiveness, If this suggests that the leaders and fundamental to human living . But off — respectful, but afraid . A deeper shown by extremists are really coming allows governments today to forbid coercion, violence, fundamentalism or scholars of Islam have work to do, so too freedom itself is diminished when it level of trust, mutual esteem and from sociopaths, who interpret their religious freedom for others? killing in the name of God or religion . do Christians . We have our own act to is misused . Respect for other persons genuine dialogue, depends on and faith as giving them permission for This requires openness to other people’s clean up, as zealous Muslims don’t hesi- is just as essential to human living . generates deeper friendships . violence, even giving it heroic and christian journey thinking and to the discoveries of the tate to remind us . It is well known that Gratuitous insult provokes violence, However justified it may be to meet virtuous status . So, while acknowledg- Christians can ask these questions sciences . We used to think we had noth- Muslims feel offended by both the secu- and so is itself the beginning of vio- jihadist force with force, ultimately, ing references to mercy and peace in humbly knowing we have been guilty ing to learn from others because we saw larism and the neo-paganism in modern lence . Jean Vanier’s comment on the military action does not deal with the the prophet’s teaching, it is still fair on all counts . Our history shows that our Catholic faith as complete . But, life . A culture that places a low premium “je suis Charlie” campaign was right: root causes of the problem . It is neces- to ask: is there within Islamic religion we have been non-inclusive, oppressive, through interaction with others we learn on honouring God, as ours does, invites “instead of the protest that infuriated sary to engage at the level of ideas, and in something that suits the purposes of fundamentalist, coercive and violent . to interpret our own faith better . The criticism from a religion that places a many Muslims, there should have respectful dialogue between mainstream people with a disposition for violence, These things always start at the level of Spirit guiding the believing community high premium on honouring God . been a call to mutual respect” . Christians and mainstream Muslims . coercion and punishing others? ideas, including misunderstandings of from within is also at work in the world Some offending against Muslims It is wrong to think of freedom and Christians readily identify with Similarly, allowing that the radi- our own faith . Aberrations we have had around us . Discovering God’s presence today comes from deliberate insult . self-restraint as being opposed to each devout Muslims who object to the vio- calisation of young Islamists has been to correct include the following: within creation and within human The claim that “freedom of expression” other, or needing to be balanced against lence committed by jihadists claiming fuelled by oppressive foreign policies For centuries it was assumed that history involves no disloyalty to God’s includes a right to insult and mock is each other . They belong to each other . to be honouring “the prophet” . Many by some Western countries, it is still “error has no rights” . It was then presence within one’s own community . symptomatic of a culture that has lost its Freedom for everybody depends on Muslims regard their religion as being fair to ask whether Islam’s apocalyptic assumed that people in error had no Is this a journey that Islam has yet to sense of connection between rights and self-restraint and self-restraint comes damaged by the atrocities carried out in tradition leads them to expect and rights, which justified torture and per- make? Has the memory of persecution duties . A civilized culture recognizes that out of free choice . They both presup- the name of their religion . Christians, welcome confrontation . secution . The crusades against Islam, and of grave injustices on both sides left rights and duties go together, and that pose respect for others . too, have sometimes felt embarrassed While making a distinction persecution of the Jews, and some- Muslims reluctant to engage with the respect for persons, civility and common For Christians, deep respect for the and un-represented by narrow and even between Islamic faith itself and cul- times of fellow Christians, followed . wider human community? Does their sense provide the common ground on dignity of every person is a require- bigoted interpretations of our faith by tural aberrations practised in some We now realise that to say “error has understanding of “God’s word” allow which true satire, and honest, robust ment of discipleship . n some of our own . predominantly Muslim countries (e g. . no rights” is meaningless because it is for the fact that when it is received by debate and dissent belong . When these We can, however, also identify female genital mutilation, etc) it is persons who have rights, even persons human beings it enters the processes aspects of civilization go missing, so does Bishop Peter Cullinane is a theologian with Cardinal Reinhard Marx, still fair to ask: how effective is Islam perceived to be in error . The Church of human understanding which can satire and genuine dialogue . and the former bishop of Palmerston president of the German Catholic in purifying cultures within its own now repudiates every form of persecu- err? God is the source of both reason The traditional aim of satire was North. In “retirement” he continues his Bishops’ Conference, who has called territories in accordance with human tion against anyone . and faith, and we honour God by to bring about some social or political pastoral ministry.

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Knowing You knew it would make you wide open to pain, yet you took the risk and gave up the heart of stone for a heart of flesh that had no horizons; so that when he taught you how to love with a love that was like no other, you saw his presence in everything. A sparrow was like an angel. A stone was a gift from God.

You didn't know you would lose him. How could you be prepared for that? Your heart of flesh echoed the pain of thorns and scourges and nails and then the temple of your body ripped in two as darkness descended. He was gone, and your tears fell on the ground outside his tomb.

You didn't know he had risen. You didn't know he was behind you until he said your name. Mary, he said, Mary. As he always said your name. And that's when you knew that all your weeping and cries of pain had been turned into a love song for the world. Joy Cowley

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embedded in the Catholic Church . My commitment is joy cowley’s story contained in Mary's words to the servants at the mar- riage in Cana: "Do whatever He tells you ". This means New Zealand writer and poet, Joy Cowley, shares her being guided by the inner voice I have always known . spiritual journey with the interviewer. Shaun Davison These directions have found expression in writing and retreat work and while I may appear as the “front” cannot remember a time in my Jesus . I read about the Christian mys- fast for my Anglo ears, I had a sense of person, everything comes from the team of Terry and life when I didn't have a relation- tics and a significant book was The coming home . This was it — even if I me . We both relate strongly to the second person of ship with Jesus . My mother was Cloud of Unknowing. could not explain to myself what "it" the Trinity . “IBrethren, my father old Scottish was . After that I travelled around the Presbyterian, and in those traditions I see the Catholic South American continent, sitting in still being surprised children are brought up with a focus on Church as a very wide on masses in each country, feeling that Terry and I went on a thirty-day retreat late last year . I the second aspect of the Trinity . Jesus I was an outsider on the inside . Joy and Terry had done the thirty-day Ignatian Exercises nine years was the children's friend and that rela- umbrella of faith with before and wasn't expecting significant results a second tionship meant a lot to me . It is still piv- room for people at all finding the mystic tradition parish priest and instruction began . In July 1982 I was time . It was Terry's first long retreat and I thought otal to my faith . In my youth I explored stages of formation ... In 1980 I was in Madrid and wanted received into the church and came home to stay . he would find it life-changing . Actually the graces of Christianity in a number of churches . to go to Toledo . I got on the wrong For me the Catholic Church is "wholeness" . I love November 2014 were huge for both of us, thanks to I didn't consider the Catholic church, a pilgrim church always bus and found myself with a group of the mystery, that feeling of being at home with God and Ignatius and the wisdom of our directors . I realise now because it seemed to be in isolation, moving to a larger place Spanish pilgrims heading for St Teresa's myself . I love the idea that we are a church of sinners and that I had gone in with the feeling that I had "arrived" shut off from other Christian churches . and always growing. convent at Avila . I was annoyed at my I feel comfortable with human messiness . If the church in my faith . How wrong I was! I felt that a dam of From each church I attended, I mistake; but once again God had were perfect it would have no room for me . I sometimes insecurity was broken and I was flooded with God's gained something but not enough to hijacked me . When I entered the think of the Catholic Church as a ship that has been love in a way I could not have predicted . For Terry, the satisfy the hunger . I fed that hunger mass for the first time convent, I was wrapped in ineffable sailing on a sea of light for 2000 years . In that time it has effect was similar . We came into a new freedom that with scripture, especially the St John In 1978 I was staying with a family silence and had the extraordinary collected a lot of barnacles, experienced some interior both releases us and directs us . It is too soon to say gospel . Looking back now, I realise on Easter Island and I went to my experience that I ceased to exist in division, but it is still the same boat launched by Jesus where those blessings will take us, but we absolutely that this beautiful Gospel was my first mass . It was at 6 00am. and they'd that place and was instead a part of and still has him at the wheel . trust what will be ”. n ongoing sacrament . taken me to a party the night before . I everything and everyone . Do I have any concerns? Well, yes . I believe that In my 30s, the search extended to wanted to sleep but they kept knocking Back in New Zealand, I attended mandatory celibacy for priests is detrimental . The Shaun Davison is the Director of Religious Studies at other religions and I discovered that the on my door: "Senora, la missa! la missa!" some interfaith lectures at Victoria apostles had wives, and the tradition of married clergy Pompallier College in Whangarei. mystical traditions of world faiths were and my response: "Soy protestante!" had University and met a Ramakrishna came into the early church . The rule of celibacy was all saying the same things . Cultural no effect . I dressed, was given a scarf to monk from Fiji, Swami Damodaranada . made to protect church property — and financial references aside, they all talked about wear on my head, and was led across He had an extraordinary breadth interests do not make a good foundation for spiritual God as love and light beyond division, the road to the church . Exhausted, of faith and as a Hindu, had a par- structures . Besides, when we walk away from nature and the "knowing" of the heart . It con- head aching from bad local brandy, I ticular devotion to the Sacred Heart it tends to pursue us and cause all kinds of problems . nected with my sense of "otherness" stumbled into that little church, and of Jesus . His view of God was "The and my relationship with my beloved although the Spanish liturgy was too Divine Mother ." He said something what’s important that summarised my search: "The Essential aspects of my faith are most importantly prayer, Divine Mother is calling you to be a and the sacraments especially Eucharist, community Catholic . You are like a hen, scratch- worship, seeing the church as "home" and "family,

ing here, scratching there . That is no hospitality around the dinner table, the importance of Far Louise way to dig a well ." forgiveness, scripture as lectio divina and prayer . Terry is part of all of this and an essential part of Addressing the taking the first step causes of poverty me . I feel that everything I do comes from a person Advocating It seemed that the Catholic Church called "us” . against injustice was closing around me, and I actually I see the Catholic church as a very wide umbrella Supporting felt quite oppressed . One evening, I of faith with room for people at all stages of formation . emergency relief was at a cocktail party and unable to While I don't agree with some of the political elements, join the light-hearted talk . Eventually, I also accept that it is a pilgrim church always moving Evangelii Gaudium: I said to our host who was Catholic: to a larger place, always growing . I rejoice every time Joy of the Gospel "How can I become a Catholic?" It I see or hear the words of Pope Francis because they was a bit of a conversation stopper but invariably draw us back to the Gospels . Has there ever the wise man took me into his office been a pope who has had so much attention and respect To make a donation, visit us online and phoned Fr Grahame Connolly at from the secular press? I have heard conservatives call at www.caritas.org.nz An appeal on behalf of the New Zealand Joy, the writer. Futuna, who came to see me the next him "left wing ". Yes, he is . So was Jesus . Catholic Bishops Conference. day . He in turn took me to see the local My own Christian journey has become deeply

18 Tui Motu InterIslands 19 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 reading mark ecologically

namely that the earth and other order to take hold of Jesus . This is a express that critique is the Hellenistic an ecological reading of the planets revolve around the sun in an physical response — one body meets world view of demon possession . elliptical orbit . another, either forcibly or not; the They accuse Jesus of “having” gospel of mark verb leaves the ambiguity in place . Beelzebul, the ruler, the one with to evolutionary cosmology They verbalise their reason . The power over all demons . Jesus is said The second is that which is currently bystanders in the narrative hear it to be possessed by the most powerful In this third article in the series the author explores Mark 3:20-27 and the unfolding: a universe that can be and so do the readers of the story — of demons, those powers who inhabit New Testament worldview as a way of understanding demon possession. traced back to the Big Bang around he is out of his normal state of mind the sub-lunar realm of the Hellenistic 14 billion years ago . Planet Earth or one could say, out of his normal world view . The scribes go further to Elaine Wainwright is estimated to be approximately way of being human body in a socio- interpret the work of Jesus that freed 4 .5 billion years old, with the first political context . In a world in which people from the power of demons signs of life emerging on this planet kinship was the foundation of society, as being informed, empowered by ast month’s ecological reading middle, and the underworld or Sheol out the sublunar realm while the between 2 and 3 billion years ago and the family’s criticism of Jesus points Beelzebul . This language of power article closed with Jesus cast- below . God, or the gods, inhabited other planets and stars made up the human life only in the last two mil- to his profound revisioning of the demonstrates one of the arenas in ing out demons (Mk 1:39) the heavenly realm, the human com- superlunar realm . The cosmic space lion years . All these processes are part fundamental socio-cultural structure which demons and demon possession L— “many demons” in an earlier verse munity the earth and those humans that constituted the sublunar realm of a creative unfolding . and belief system . This is augmented functioned — in the realm of power . (1:34) . We gave this demon theme who had died, the underworld . was populated not only by humans It is with this scientific knowledge in the story by the later verse about In this instance, the power being brief attention yet it is one of the as earth-dwellers but also by powers and worldview, or cosmology, that Jesus’ family in 3:31-35, a short text constructed and attacked is primarily key characteristics of Jesus’ ministry to hellenistic worldview and spirits, including the demonic . contemporary readers approach the that you might want to read here . religious and then political . in Mark’s gospel . Jesus named his In the Hellenistic period there was It is this shift in worldview which gospel narrative with its world of As the encounter between Jesus ministry as the basileia/kin[g]dom/ a significant shift in cosmology as a led to the significant presence of the demons and demon possession . As It is with this and the Jerusalem scribes continues, empire of God being near at hand result of the insights of philosophers, demonic in the gospel narratives . ecological readers we know we are Jesus uses two parables that draw in (Mark 1:15) . I suggested that we astronomers and other ancient think- not reading with a Hellenistic lens . scientific knowledge material and socio-political language might express that metaphor today ers . They taught that while the earth to copernican worldview We use the lens of contemporary and worldview, or and imagery (that of a kingdom and as God’s dream or God’s transforma- was at the centre of the cosmology, As contemporary readers, we know ecological justice, informed by the cosmology, that of a house) to speak of the demonic . tive dream for the universe and for and it was surrounded by seven of two further cosmological revolu- gospel’s socio-historical context that Divided within they will destroy the Earth community within that planetary spheres or orbits . The tions since the Hellenistic . The first has left its traces in the text . contemporary themselves . Clearly Jesus cannot universe . In light of this, how then moon, as the closest to earth, marked was the Copernican or heliocentric, readers approach belong to that world if he casts the might we re-read demon possession order is disturbed the gospel narrative demons from their places of power in and the casting out of demons? The Returning to the Markan gospel, that world . The segment closes with text which I’ve chosen as a focus is we find Jesus in Mark 3:20 in his with its world of language and imagery of power but Mark 3:20-27 . house after having called twelve demons and demon here it is the imagery of a householder Jesus’ proclamation of the basileia followers to share his ministry . possession. As who would defend his property from of God has been characterised by Crowds have formed spontaneously the thief unless he was himself tied healing or the restoration of right seeking his healing and liberating ecological readers up . Jesus’ casting out of demons, his relationships with/in human bodies ministry . They disrupt any attempt we know we are power as spirit-infused restorer of (1:29-31, 32-34, 40-45; 2:1-12; to withdraw, even time to eat . The not reading with a right ordering in the universe (1:10- 3:1-5, 10) . It is also characterised by Greek draws into the narrative the 11), is understood in relation to the the confronting of unclean spirits or material substance, bread, in the Hellenistic lens. right order of the cosmic sub-lunar demons which were said to possess concluding phrase “not able to eat realm through a Hellenistic cosmo- human persons (1:21-28, 32-34, bread” (3:20) . The ecological reader The second response to or inter- logical lens . The contemporary -eco 39; 3:11-12, 15) . The interpretation notices the materiality of the bodies pretation of the crowd’s acclamation logical reader can read it in relation of aspects of first century sociality of those gathering as “crowd” around of Jesus’ ministry comes from ‘the to the restoration of right ordering as demon possession was character- the physical structure of the house . scribes’ (3:22) . They are described in of/on planet Earth . istic of a cosmology that we do not Traces of all these elements remain relation to place, but a place other During the Lenten and Easter share today . However, we need to in the text . As the narrative unfolds, than that in which Jesus’ ministry season, this language, imagery and understand this cosmology so that we the reader encounters two responses has unfolded . They have come down cosmology take on an even more can do an ecological reading of the to this summary description of Jesus’ from Jerusalem . Previously in the profound hue . n Markan theme of demon possession . ministry . story (1:5) people from Jerusalem The first is the response of Jesus’ came to John to be baptised, and Elaine Wainwright, a Sister of Mercy and from classical worldview family (3:21) . They hear things about they came from Jerusalem to Galilee scripture scholar, recently retired as the Much of the Hebrew Bible or Old Jesus . Their senses are alert as infor- (3:8) as a result of hearing what Jesus foundation Professor of Theology at the Testament reveals a classical cosmol- mation is conveyed . They respond was doing . In 3:22, the scribes come University of Auckland. She continues to ogy, namely a three-tiered universe: The Hellenistic cosmos by going out into the public forum down from Jerusalem to critique research and write. [from Hellenistic Religions by Luther H Martin, Oxford University Press 1987] the heavens above, earth in the where the crowds are gathered, in Jesus . The worldview in which they

20 Tui Motu InterIslands 21 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 anzac

warfare with Muslims, reviving thereby the memories their men into a futile campaign . The illusive hope centenary reflections of gallipoli of bitter conflicts from the medieval past . of victory led to attacks and counter-attacks without enduring success . The author suggests that rather than making the Gallipoli a dreadful campaign centenary a cause for celebrating it should galvanise us to The invasion of Gallipoli was from the outset a dis- never again redouble our efforts for peace in our war-weary world. aster . The Reverend Charles Bush-King, an Anglican It has taken the passing of several generations and chaplain, referred to the “slaughter” as the troops the distance of time to begin to face the hard ques- landed . The question was even raised as to whether the tions about the disastrous Gallipoli campaign and soldiers should abandon the peninsula and re-embark the wasteful loss of life and immeasurable grief that less than one day into the conflict . The Ottoman it brought . Out of the successful withdrawal and the soldiers were defending their land; they held the high mythologising of the Anzac spirit we have often tried ground; the terrain was a mixture of precipitous cliffs, to turn a defeat into a near-victory . narrow valleys and ridges covered by rough, unforgiv- This critique is not to diminish the acts of brav- ing vegetation . The weather brought the extreme heat ery and courage, the strong ties of comradeship, of summer and the rain and snow of winter . Why the devotion to duty which New Zealand soldiers had these soldiers come to this place from the ends displayed one hundred years ago at Gallipoli, which of the earth? we still honour . Reflections on Gallipoli do, however, The Methodist chaplain, the Reverend John raise serious questions for contemporary citizens and Luxford, writing in mid-May from Gallipoli, told their government about both the reasons for going to of witnessing: “the wounded by hundreds”, “pil- war and the way that war is fought . grimages of pain and death”, reciting the burial Father Patrick Dore, a Catholic Chaplain, wrote Allan Davidson service kneeling with the dead bodies in the grave in June 1915: “I have seen any amount of war and “because of the bullets flying round”, seeing “men would not mind, for the sake of the boys and for the fall within a few yards of where I stood” . At the world’s sake, if peace were declared ”. His confrere on same time he testified to the soldiers’ bravery under Gallipoli, Father Joseph McMenamin, who in August igh above North Beach at still raise questions which resonate “club”, and sending young men to fire and instances of their self-sacrifice . Aware of 1915 “was up in the thick of it during those four Gallipoli, on the summit in our national consciousness . The fight in a war which originated out of “the tears of bitter sorrow” New Zealand has wept awful days” of fighting at Chunuk Bair, recognised of Chunuk Bair, with construction of the Anzac story from convoluted European politics . “because of the loss of her brave sons”, Luxford how “Our boys fought nobly”, but hoped he would Hviews of the Dardanelles in the the very beginning was embroidered “Imperial preference” locked New tried to make sense of the carnage by encouraging “never see anything like it again” . distance, stands the New Zealand by war rhetoric which mixed duty Zealand into an economic reciprocal New Zealand to “rejoice for their bravery, endur- The Gallipoli anniversary is not a cause for cel- Memorial . This stone monument to God, King and Country with the arrangement with military implica- ance and patriotism” . New Zealand has through ebration, but rather a time for humility and solemn carries the inscription: “In Honour language of sacrifice, honour, cour- tions, in which British imports were this, he claimed, “helped to cement the empire reflection on how we can pray and work for peace of the Soldiers of the New Zealand age, bravery, patriotism and heroism . received and New Zealand exports with her best blood” . and prevent conflict in our weary war-torn world . n Expeditionary Force 8th August Small New Zealand, far away from sent “home” to Mother Britain . The 1915 . From the Uttermost Ends of the theatres of war, was answering British Navy provided a protective difficulty of critiquing story Allan Davidson is a Presbyterian minister, a Church the Earth ”. the call of Empire, paying the price umbrella over the high seas, provid- In August, writing from his dug-out, Luxford historian and former lecturer at the Anglican St Johns’ Close by is the huge statue of of belonging to the British Imperial ing New Zealand with a maritime reflected that “the Empire’s call . . was for God, truth College, Meadowbank and at The University of Auckland. Kemal Atatürk, the Turkish com- security blanket . The ties of kinship and righteousness, and our men will be true to death ”. manding officer (and later President were still very close with the majority With hindsight, one hundred years later, this sacralis- of Turkey), who oversaw the repulse of Pākehā linked by DNA to England, ing of the allied cause meant that it was very difficult GLIMPSES OF HOPE of the allied forces from Chunuk Scotland, Ireland and Wales . to raise a critical voice either against the war itself or Theological Writings by Vincent Hunt Bair . Further memorials nearby are to The deifying of duty in the sup- the way that it was fought . Dissentient or alternative the Turkish casualties, and the “New porting rhetoric provided by churches voices were crowded out . The families of those killed This positive view of the Church from inside Zealand Memorial to the Missing” . meant that not only were men called in war did not want to hear that their sons, fathers, a lifetime of ministry will give every reader a New Zealand soldiers came “from to serve their nation but also to serve brothers, uncles, had died in vain . Death and injury sense of optimism for the future. the uttermost ends of the earth”; but God in what was seen as a righteous on a vast scale, bringing with it huge human suffer- Available from what on earth in God’s name were cause . Sacrifice, the giving up of one’s ing, required justification . In appealing to God or to ACCENT PUBLICATIONS they doing there? life for the sake of one’s country, or the righteousness of the allied cause, the supporters of even more significantly, for the cause the war were ennobling that death and suffering, but www.accentpublications.co.nz constructing the anzac story of Empire, was sanctified and blessed failing to question war itself . 16 Waterloo Quandrant, The narrative of Gallipoli is woven by churches . At the extreme end, war That was not surprising . For a chaplain, dealing Auckland 1010 into our national mythology . The cen- rhetoric invoked the ideals of a just with the overwhelming pastoral demands, brought by $30 plus post tenary of the landing at Anzac Cove war and righteous crusade, without what Luxford called an “Inferno”, was all-consuming . on 25 April 1915 and the invasion always appreciating the historical For the generals and politicians it was hard to admit of the Ottoman Empire at Gallipoli incongruity of Christians engaging in that they had made strategic blunders and launched

22 Tui Motu InterIslands 23 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 pilgrimage el salvador pilgrimage

The author tells of her long-held desire to visit the sacred places in El Salvador where Archbishop Oscar Romero and other women and men were assassinated during the civil war of 1979-1992.

Wendy Kissel

he recent announcement why go on pilgrimage? It was different for Clare . She that Archbishop Oscar Why did we go there? The seed was sown hadn't known of the martyrs but was Romero is to be beatified for me when, reading the Maryknoll happy to help me fulfil my long-held tookT me back to my experience in magazine, I discovered people who had dream . Also her Spanish is much better his homeland . responded to the call to serve suffering than mine for which I was grateful . In January 2006 I stood with and persecuted people — and had She told me: "I'll just get you to my daughter, Clare, in the Romero been killed . They knew the reality of the places you want to go, then come Oscar Romero mural, San Salvador. Centre in El Salvador, the former Romero's words: “Our persecution is back when you are finished ”. That home of the six Jesuits killed there nothing more or less than sharing in the was not what happened . struggle of our time: the struggle for that their guns were trained directly leads each day with no map and no alongside their housekeeper and her destiny of the poor ". faith and the struggle for justice that on the front door of the church . She clear weather, but rather fog and daughter in 1989 . We had been in the Each year these martyrs were standing on holy ground faith itself demands ." said: "So we used the side door ”. total trust ." memorial rose garden outside where remembered on their anniversaries so When we reached the Romero And Matthew 5:10: "Blessed As we walked the steep hill to the We had much to ponder on the they were massacred . Now we saw their presence was never far away from Centre we roamed the meeting are those who are persecuted in the cemetery Sister recalled the funeral bus-ride back to San Salvador where their garments, blood-stained by the me . When I read about a pilgrimage room with walls covered in post- cause of right . Theirs is the kingdom processions of Carla in August 1980, we farewelled Sister Terry . It was our assassins' bullets . We stood silently to El Salvador I wanted to go . ers . From then on Clare never left of heaven ." who had drowned after being swept privilege to share her memories and and we saw . It was beyond words . It wasn’t till late in 2005 my side . She copied the inspiring Then we moved into another away in a flooded river while her experiences of that time . The next day we stood in the when I was travelling in southern words of Romero, the Jesuits and room that took us beyond words . companion, Ita, survived . Then the chapel where Archbishop Oscar Guatemala with Clare on vaca- the gospels . Although she doesn't processions of Ita herself and Maura remembering Romero was assassinated in 1980 . tion from her Mexican university consider herself a religious person lives poured out in December 1980 . A park in downtown San Salvador Minutes after he had read John's exchange programme, that I realised she has a deep awareness of social Early the next day we travelled by At their graves we stood in was our final visit . Here the gospel: "Unless a grain of wheat falls we were only a few hours from El justice issues . She shared: "They are local bus to the Maryknoll Sisters' poignant silence before sharing Monument to Truth and Memory to the ground and dies, it remains Salvador . Unexpectedly, we made such courageous examples of living graves and were accompanied by Prayers at Martyrs' Graves, words stood in witness . It’s a long wall fea- only a single grain, but if it dies, it a series of helpful connections and what they believed . Their solidarity Sister Teresa (Terry) who was in El from each of them . turing the names of over 25,000 of bears much fruit," the assassin's shot arrived there . with people who have little and live Salvador when they died . En route, From Dorothy Kazel: "I came the estimated 75,000 women, men rang out . in a situation of violence, fear and Sister Terry pointed out the road to El Salvador thinking the people and children who had died or disap- We entered his small house nearby, The civil war in El Salvador from oppression is inspiring ." where Fr Rutilio Grande and two needed my help . Instead they have peared in the war years . The long lovingly kept as in his time, and we 1979-1992 led to the deaths and Romero's words, from a homily local people had been assassinated helped me to deepen my own faith lists of names etched on the wall disappearances of over 75,000 of saw his blood-stained garments . its people. The dead included: Fr not long before his death, captured in 1977 . It was that killing that and I suffer with them ." were a visible reminder of the extent Later, we stood beside his burial place Rutilio Grande on 12 March 1977; us: "I am simply the shepherd, the caused a radical change in the newly From Maura Clarke: "The poor of the suffering of so many people . in the cathedral of San Salvador . Archbishop Oscar Romero on 24 brother, the friend of the people, who appointed, conservative Archbishop really strip you, pull you, challenge We knew we were standing on Another burial place awaited us March 1980; Sr Maura Clarke, knows their suffering, their anguish . Romero . He became the voice of the you, evangelise you, show you God ." holy ground in El Salvador and that in Chalatenango, a two-hour bus Jean Donovan, Sr Ita Ford and Sr In the name of these voices, I raise persecuted by using radio to reach "It's a privilege to come to a it had touched our lives . n ride into the countryside . We stood Dorothy Kazel on 2 December 1980; my voice ." the people and report on the weekly Church of martyrs and people with at the graves of the three Maryknoll Jesuits at the Central American On another occasion he said: deaths and atrocities in the raging a strong committed faith," from Wendy Kissel has been an ESOL teacher Sisters who died in 1980 . One had University — Fr Ignacio Ellacuría, "The cry of liberation of the people war . He knew he was risking his life Ita Ford . in Christchurch for many years. Fr Joaquín López y López, Fr drowned accidentally and the other is a clamour that goes up to heaven but said: "If I die I will rise up in the Jean Donovan wrote: "Several Armando López, Fr Ignacio Martín- two were killed . We remembered Baró, Fr Segundo Montes, Fr Juan and which nothing and no one will Salvadoran people ”. times I have almost decided to leave the two other churchwomen also Ramón Moreno, their housekeeper, be able to stop ." At Chalatenango we entered the El Salvador . I almost could except for See also: killed with them . Again we stood Elba Ramos, and her 15 year old One of the murdered Jesuits had church where the Sisters had shel- the children, the poor bruised victims www.romerotrust.org.uk silently, remembering . daughter, Celina Ramos on 16 written: "What does it mean to be a tered refugees during the war . Sister of this insanity ." YouTube: Who was Msgr. Oscar Even today, years later, words are November 1989. Jesuit today? To be committed under Terry pointed out the army head- From Carla Piette: "The walk Romero? inadequate . These places are holy ground . the banner of the cross in the crucial quarters across the square, telling us continues and the Lord of the Way

24 Tui Motu InterIslands 25 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 scripture

Jesus was not in the power of death resurrection of jesus (and the disciples) and was alive with God is that the We are not told that Jesus leaves or tomb was open and empty . departs. He has returned to his own. He Imagine Mary running to Simon never leaves, he will come and come Easter Sunday and Second Sunday of Easter — John 20:1-9; 19-31. Peter and the other disciple . Run with them to the tomb . The other disciple again. He is present and knows what waited for Peter to enter . The evange- happens in his community. Kathleen Rushton list tells us: “the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, [was] not lying with he story of John 20 is shaped the linen wrappings but rolled up in Repeating the gift of peace, Jesus the testimony of the Church: “We around giving a theological a place by itself” (20:7) . We are told commissions the new People of God have seen the Lord ”. Thomas refuses answer to the spiritual ques- the other disciple “saw and believed ”. as God had commissioned him . He this new structure of faith . He does Ttion: “Where is the Lord?” Although What is going on here? What did he “breathed on them” saying: “Receive not doubt . At that point, he refuses: “I this question is posed by Mary believe? The next verse relates that the Holy Spirit” (20:22) . The verb will not believe ". (20:25) . Believing or Magdalene, it is not presented as a “as yet they did not understand the “breathed on” is found only here in not believing and their implications are personal problem but a community scripture that he must rise from the the NT and three times in the Greek always a choice in this gospel . one for she answers in the plural “we dead” (20:9) . Possibly, not the empty Bible (of the early Church) referring Implications? The background do not know where they have laid tomb or the linen cloths led the other directly to creation . Jesus’ action, for comes into the foreground . As I am him ”. (20:2) . Mary represents those disciple to believe but the face veil . example, evokes God giving life to the piecing this together, Radio NZ’s Kim who have not understood the mean- This was not a normal burial cloth Earth creature (adam) who was formed Hill is interviewing Chris Clarke, ing of “the hour” of Jesus . She is seek- because the word used for face veil is from the Earth (ha’adam) with God’s World Vision NZ’s CEO, who visited ing Jesus whom she associates with his related linguistically to the face veil breath (Gen 2:7) . As the Holy Spirit is Iraqi Kurdistan and Lebanon recently corpse . Equating the person with the worn by Moses to protect the people poured into the hearts of the disciples, before the launch of the Syrian refugee body and body with flesh is precisely of Israel from the glorification of his the Church is founded . We are not appeal on 7 March . Some 3,500,000 what Easter faith must transcend . face when he encountered God on told that Jesus leaves or departs . He has refugees have left Iraq in the biggest Personified, in Mary, is the theological Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:27-35) . In returned to his own . He never leaves, movement of people since World War problem of how the earthly Jesus (the John, Jesus’ death is the victorious he will come and come again . He is II . About 2,000,000 refugees are in Word made flesh) relates to the glori- culmination of his life . “Exalt” or present and knows what happens in his Lebanon, a country about the size of fied and risen Jesus . Later, the scene “lift up” speaks of the lifting up of community as is seen in what follows . Northland, where one in three people with Thomas suggests this is precisely Jesus on the cross (e .g ., 3:14; 8:24; Where does the final scene, 20:24- are refugees . He quotes a woman refu- the problem for the disciples of Jesus The family tomb of Herod (37–4 BCE), Jerusalem. 12:32) . The word “glorify” describes 29, with Thomas, and the concluding gee who looked him in eye and said: for all time . Sandra Schneiders sums [Photo: Veronica Lawson rsm] the effect on Jesus of his “lifting up” 20:30-31 fit? Nothing suggests anyone “Go back and tell our story, make sure up this concern as: “The historical in crucifixion (e .g ., 7:39; 12:16; was missing on Easter night . Thomas, we are not forgotten ”. n experience (of the disciples) of the interaction with others, allowing one to be seen as a distinct person . 12:23; 13:31-34) . however, was “not with” the gathered nonhistorical reality (the glorified to be present, to speak and hear, to Third, the disciples could interact disciples and is one of generations who Kathleen Rushton rsm is a scripture Jesus) somehow mediated by the body touch and be touched, to interact with Jesus — they could see him, talk re-creation will know the Resurrection not through scholar and adult educator. (which is what we mean by the risen with others physically and spiritually . to him and touch him . The narrative enters its second phase, the experience of Easter but through Jesus) ”. What is the significance of the Fourth, the body enables each Fourth, the disciples found 20:19-29, not at the garden tomb, not body? What does body mean? person to be part of a network of themselves sharing in common their with the first disciple but on the evening relations among others . This means relationship with Jesus in the present . of the first day of the week “where the body as a symbol of the self that all of the people who relate to As they talked about their experience disciples were gathered” as a commu- The Easter Story In our materiality, the body is a symbol an individual in some way relate to with one another, they knew they nity . The focus now is a new question: by Joy Cowley of the self in four ways . First, the body one another . were talking about the same person . “How can the Risen Jesus be experi- With beautiful original colour illustrations grounds identity through change — Let us consider the post-Easter enced?” The centrepiece of Jn 20 is the by Donald Morrison complementing Joy Cowley’s text on the story of Easter and every cell is replaced every seven years . Jesus . All the differing biblical “saw and believed” verses 19-23 when Jesus “stood in the what it means for us. The stress is on love The same person, the same individual accounts of Jesus’ resurrection attest Gaze at the photo of the family midst” of the community . Two actions, and healing, on growing in prayer through is revealed through photos at aged ten, to the fact and significance of how tomb of Herod the Great (37-4 initiated by Jesus, unfold . His “Peace be talking to Jesus, leading the reader to twenty and sixty . The body holds both Jesus is present among his disciples . BCE) . Jesus may well have been laid with you” fulfills his promise to give a gratitude for “the wonderful Easter Story”. change and identity . First, the risen Jesus was recog- in a similar tomb by the well-to-do peace the world cannot give (cf . 14:27; $19.99 +$4.50 p/pkg Published by Pleroma Press Second, the body makes a person nised as being identically the same Joseph of Arimathea . Imagine Mary 16:33) . He shows them his hands and Freephone 0508 988 988 one in her/himself and distinct from person whom the disciples knew pre- Magdalene as she discovers the seal- his side . Even though glorified, his [email protected] all others . The embodied self is Easter in his earthly life . ing stone had been removed . For bodyself wears the marks of his paschal 38 Higginson Street, Otane marked off inwardly and outwardly Second, in the appearances of the Jews of Jesus’ time, the tomb, with mystery, continuity and discontinuity Central Hawke’s Bay from everyone else . risen Jesus, his disciples encountered its sealing stone, was the final sign with his pre-Easter body, his taking on www.christiansupplies.co.nz Third, the body is the ground of someone who was really present, able of being cut off from life . A sign that the flesh of all living creatures .

26 Tui Motu InterIslands 27 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 book reviews film review his words live on encouragement for family crisis on the piste

Glimpses of Hope: christians Theological Writings. Being Christian: Bible, By Vincent Hunt Eucharist, Prayer Accent Publications, Auckland, By Rowan Williams 2014. SPCK, 2014 Available from Epworth Reviewed by Damian books: epworthbooks.org.nz Wynn-Williams Reviewed by Patrick Mahony or nearly 30 years Vincent Hunt, an Irish priest who eing Christian has four chap- came to Auckland in ters covering four essential F1952, taught seminarians in New elements: baptism, bible, Zealand . For four years he served BEucharist and prayer . Force Majeure slow unravelling of family bonds that as rector at Holy Cross College symbol we cannot see things as they The author, Dr Rowan Williams, follows raises questions about commit- in Mosgiel . Glimpses of Hope was really are . “An important part of the a former Archbishop of Canterbury, Director: Ruben Östlund ment and loyalty, focussed sharply on a reward . We need it not because published shortly after Monsignor task of the poet and the artist is to theologian and pastor of many con- the husband’s traditional role as protec- we are doing well but because we Reviewed by Paul Sorrell Hunt’s death in 2014 . lead us to notice and pay attention gregations, expresses profound insights tor of the family . are doing badly . It is immediate, It comprises a selection of 12 to what we might otherwise only simply and clearly . illed as a black comedy, Force These questions are further played transforming and changes the way articles, most published previously . see in passing …” Tellingly, Hunt The meaning and significance of bap- Majeure might more accurately out through Tomas and Ebba’s interac- we see others and the world . They bear testimony to the wisdom observes that besides having a sound tism developed through the Church’s be described as a subtle, intel- tions with other guests at the lodge, Williams describes prayer as a and humanity of this exemplary knowledge of theology, the homil- ongoing reflection is explained as a Bligent film about gender relations and in particular through their friendship new way of talking to God gifted priest and teacher . The essays range ist “needs to be a poet, to know new expression of God’s creative work . family dynamics, notions of manliness with another Swedish couple, the to us by Jesus in teaching us to call over a variety of subjects — spiritu- the associations and overtones and It is life within the human condition and male pride . While the film does jovial, hirsute Mats and his sparky girl- God, “Our Father”, with him . It is ality, education, priestly formation power of language in a way that does as God’s sons and daughters with the contain moments of humour and even friend Fanni . It takes little prompting letting Jesus pray in us . Williams and moral theology . Despite his not concern the theologian as such ”. right to call God “Father” achieved by hilarity, director Östlund allows the from Fanni to stir up Mats’s guilt over summarises the teaching of three disposition towards philosophical Given that these essays were our being with Jesus . Christians are camera to linger over the action — often the young family he has left behind early Christian writers from the discussion, Hunt writes here with written over several years, it is not not a privileged elite insulated and simple domestic scenes such as a family in the care of his ex-wife as he enjoys third, fourth and fifth centuries: an attractive simplicity and clarity . surprising that several of Hunt’s protected, but rather are exposed to the tooth-brushing session — and extract a hedonistic weekend with a woman Origen, a teacher, St Gregory A dominant theme throughout examples are repeated several times, risks of daring to live the Christian life valuable information about the charac- almost half his age . of Nyssa, a bishop, and St John the book is the uniqueness of each with some repetition of the same of love in a chaotic world . ters and their changing relationships . Just when things seem to be getting Cassian, a monk . He makes three individual . To see the person prima- quotations . However, the effect is as Dr Williams says the story of the Tomas and Ebba are a Swedish bogged down in a gender war, a series conclusions: that prayer is essen- rily in terms of their social classifi- though one is engaged in a dialogue Bible is about God speaking and couple who decide to take their two of unexpected events allows Tomas to tially God’s work in us; that prayer cations and roles does not do justice with the author as he continued to humans responding . As it is an essen- young children, Vera and Harry, on a restore his threatened masculinity — at is linked to living justly; and that to their God-given uniqueness . refine his ideas . tial part of Christian life and wor- five-day skiing holiday in the French least in his own eyes . In the film’s final fidelity in prayer — keeping at it For example, Hunt suggests that A book should not be judged by ship Williams outlines an approach Alps for some family bonding time . scene, his macho swagger and acceptance and not giving up — is important . in the Church “concern for order its cover, but in this case, especially to hearing God’s voice behind and Although we are told nothing about of a cigarette (he doesn’t smoke) appear This excellent book is written and stability has at times gained for those who knew Vincent Hunt, through the diverse biblical material . their background, they present as a to signal his renewed self-acceptance with the general reader in mind . precedence over the demands of the cover is noteworthy . For me Ultimately and finally everything in model family — a clean-cut, attractive and restoration of male pride — a shift Questions for personal reflection dignity” to the detriment of people’s the photo of the author captures the bible points to Jesus, whose life, “Euro” couple with the regulation two in which Ebba seems to collude . or discussion are at the end of each sense of identity . “The awareness of magnificently his readiness to listen death and resurrection shed light on kids and the money and leisure to spend But have they really become the chapter . Suggestions for further who one really is, of one’s identity, and debate, with a quizzical twin- everything else . A Christ-centred read- on a holiday in an upmarket ski resort . perfect family once again? Has anything reading are at the end of the book . n and how it is to be expressed, is the kle in his eye . This book will be of ing and listening to the Scriptures is a However, a shadow falls across this been learned from their experience? foundation of all spiritual life; it is particular interest to all those who lifetime’s work . It leads to prayer and wholesome picture when Tomas briefly The film leaves us to ponder whether the guiding factor in the whole of knew Vincent as a teacher, a priest, to understanding who we are . abandons his family when a control- Tomas has truly been vindicated or is the person’s existence ”. a friend . n The Chapter on the Eucharist led avalanche appears to threaten merely deceiving himself so as to be Another dominant theme is contains many profound and beautiful the lodge . Disturbing the apparently able to resume his place as head and the importance of imagination insights . In Communion Jesus extends secure boundaries of their middle-class protector of this tight little nuclear and emotion in human behav- hospitality — an essential part of his existence, the snowslide opens up clefts family . Whatever the answers, Force iour, including prayer and liturgy . life . We are welcomed and we wel- in the couple’s relationship, fissures Majeure is well worth a visit to your Without imagination, memory, and come him . Communion is a gift not that threaten to become crevasses . The local cinema . n

28 Tui Motu InterIslands 29 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 comment comment Crosscurrents the culture of lying Jim Elliston Robert Consedine church diplomacy who speaks for the jews? million in the US . Netanyahu legiti- here was a hilarious book who try to uncover lies are often know exactly what he doesn’t want Both Presidents Obama and The controversial address of Israeli mately assembled a ruling coalition published after President damned for their efforts to seek the to hear . In fact some of his staff Castro thanked Pope Francis for PM Netanyahu in March to the US in 2009 and again in 2013 . It con- Ronald Reagan left office truth . They become (they are made out were deeply involved in the “dirty his part the US-Cuba reconcilia- congress stirred up a lot of negative cedes Netanyahu has expanded that Tcalled, Ronald Reagan’s Reign of Error. as) villains . politics” saga . tion . In a recent Tablet article the reaction among the Jewish commu- position to encompass a far greater The book recorded how Reagan lied Key, although not alone, used a • Perception Management: PR UK Ambassador to the Holy See, nity both in Israel and in the US . constituency abroad, and not just on to the American public on a regular number of well known “negative cam- firms exist whose sole role is to sell Nigel Baker, gave a background Forward, a paper founded a cen- what he considers the “existential” basis during his presidency . Reagan paigning” techniques . unpopular policies to the elector- to the Papal Diplomatic Service . tury ago to serve Jewish immigrants issue of Iran’s nuclear capabilities . was handsome, charming and cred- • Stay on message: This requires that ate . They originated to promote (Holy See is the usual translation of (mainly from Eastern Europe) to It criticises Netanyahu’s “rushing to ible and treated the White House as a you give the same pre-packaged American wars . Sancta Sedes = Holy Chair = formal the US, claims to “continue to carry Paris to march, lecture and promote Hollywood film set . answer regardless of the question . • Spin half the story: Key has done authority of the Pope .) on the founding vision of Abraham immigration to Israel after the ter- What the public didn’t see was his The current spin to persuade New this consistently about the gam- Francis summarised Holy See Cahan, serving together as the voice of rorist attacks in January (where) he dark side . Reagan, with a superficially Zealanders to support the war bling concessions and the SkyCity objectives in his first speech to the American Jew and the conscience rankled many of the Jews he osten- sunny disposition, had a ruthless politi- against ISIS is to call it a “human convention centre . Ambassadors in March 2013: of the community ”. sibly was there to help, by turning cal strategy . He was a pathological liar . rights issue” . In fact these wars are National Party strategist, Simon Lusk, “Achieving peace, ending poverty, In February Forward editors what should have essentially been a His answers to serious questions were about corporate profits and oil . sums up the success of “negative cam- respecting the human dignity of published a response to the ques- call to comfort the grieving into an often completely false . It is widely accepted that the growth paigning” for the National Party with people and protecting the planet ”. tion: “Who speaks for the Jews?” uncomfortable political exercise ”. None of this would have mattered if of ISIS is a direct result of the illegal a chilling quote: “It lowers turnout . It Baker summarises a speech given This arose from remarks made by The editors continue: “Let’s his Presidency had not been so destruc- invasion of Iraq by the American favours the right more than the left as by the then 2IC of the Papal Joe Scarborough, the conservative pause for a moment, put aside the tive for the majority of Americans and Government in 1993 . the right continues to turn out … Many Diplomatic Service, Archbishop morning talk show host on MSNBC, unforgiveable harm this invitation the world . • Demonise the critics: The Nicky Hager people stop participating in politics ”. Mamberti, last November as fol- who backed Israeli PM Benjamin has done to the crucial American- Reagan reduced all Government book, Dirty Politics, was dismissed One million New Zealanders lows: “It doesn’t have particular Netanyahu’s recent claim to that Israel diplomatic relationship and programmes designed to assist the poor- by Key as a left wing conspiracy . The did not vote in the 2014 election; commercial, military or political effect . Forward commented that given examine the deeper issue here . est Americans while increasing corporate book has now been fully vindicated by the lowest turnout in percentage aims to defend or pursue . Its diplo- how diverse and sometimes fractious Who does, indeed, speak for the welfare for the rich . He dismantled a the Inspector General of Intelligence terms in 120 years . This is surely macy is based on its primarily spir- Jews can be, prudence would judge it Jews? Can anyone? …moreover, by nationwide mental health system and and Security, Cheryl Gwyn . the response of people who are sick itual mission . It draws on its social a complicated question . claiming to represent all Jews in his environmental protection programmes • Attack the journalist/interviewer: of the lies or have come to realise teaching, especially as developed The editorial continues: “Well, plea to a GOP Congress to defy a and deregulated banking (which Accuse them of being wrong — with that democracy and elections are in over the past 200 years ”. Joe, ‘they’ are actually ‘us ’. We are the Democratic president, Netanyahu ultimately led to the Global economic no evidence . Witness the debate danger of becoming a farce . n The objectives include defence Jews that you claim are represented risks the ‘Israelization’ or even the crisis) . He cut taxes for the wealthy . about oil drilling and oil spills . of the Church’s rights and freedom, by Netanyahu . Perhaps we shouldn’t ‘Judaization’ of the debate over Iran’s Reagan used drug-funded insurgents • Plausible deniability: Key’s advisors [email protected] and of religious freedom generally, blame you for making the connec- nuclear weapons … Israel’s best hope to overthrow violently democratically the promotion of an ethical vision tion . After all, the prime minister to stop Iran is to persuade America elected Governments in Latin America . Subscribe to Tui Motu InterIslands in the various questions which affect himself has repeated that claim in his and her allies to stop Iran because it HeIf you broke know the a friend Unions who and might shipped human life, society and develop- defence for circumventing the White is in their interests, not just in Israel’s manufacturingenjoy reading jobs— and abroad maybe while he $33 for five issues (unwaged $28) Name ment, the defence of human dignity House to address a joint meeting of interests . And certainly not just in starvedsubscribing people to at Tui home Motu — to fill feed in the $66 for a one-year subscription and human rights, the promotion Congress in March at the invitation the interests of global Jewry ”. militarytheir details machine and . Hesend handed it to us much at: of Address 11 issues (unwaged $56) $132 for a two-year subscription of reconciliation and peace, the of the Republican speaker of the The editors conclude: “Scar- theFreepost national wealth97407 over to a few wealthy 22 issues promotion of integral human devel- House . ‘I went to Paris not just as borough said that unless you accept peopleP O andBox called6404 it “privatisation” . Post code Subscr No Overseas opment and humanitarian interests, the prime minister of Israel, but as the anti-Semitism displayed in DunedinReagan wasNorth a voice for the wealthy, Australia & S. Pacific $80 (1 yr) $160 (2 yr) Email the protection of the environment, a representative of the entire Jewish France as a pervasive reality, ‘you theDUNEDIN greedy and 9059 the lucky who worked All other regions $85 (1 yr) $170 (2 yr) and when requested, the mediation people…Just as I went to Paris, so I don’t understand what Jews are going for– private and we willinterests send them not athe free public back copy good . I am enclosing an additional donation to secure the future of Tui Motu...... of disputes . will go anyplace I’m invited to convey through’ . Well, he doesn’t understand I have included a cheque for $...... GST No: 68.316.847 Regarding mediation, Secretary the Israeli position against those who what Jews are going through . Not all brandName ‘key’ . . .— . . nz . . politics...... or, please debit my credit card (Visa/Mastercard) of State Parolin puts it thus: “The want to kill us . Those who want to our lives are consumed with terror WeAddress have just . witnessed ...... the. . .same . . . phe. - Card No: Signature

Holy See might build bridges; it is kill us are, first and foremost, any and hate . Not all our lives revolve nomenon ...... with...... the. . . . . John...... Key...... election. . . . . Name on card Expiry date for others to cross them ”. As a non- Iranian regime that says outright it around Israel . Editors at Forward win last year ...... voting member on international plans to destroy us’ ”. have been penning editorials for Most corporate media in New or, pay by direct credit to: BNZ, University of Otago branch, Tui Motu-Interislands, 02-0929-0277471-00. (Please use subscriber number and name, and confirm by bodies its ability not to take sides Forward claims there are about 14 more than a century, but we wouldn’t Zealand toe the Key party line . It is a email that payment has been made.) gives it an unparalleled advantage as million Jews world-wide, of whom presume to speak for all Jews . Neither measure of the power of the National post to: PO Box 6404 Dunedin North, Dunedin 9059 Email: [email protected] a potential honest broker . about 6 million are in Israel and 5 .3 should anyone else ”. n PR machine that the few journalists

30 Tui Motu InterIslands 31 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015 April 2015 a mother’s journal

each hoped to mark the Lenten period . black and white one right? I’m sorry, “I’m going to go totally vegetarian,” but I found her body lying on the path said our meat-loving 12-year-old son . beneath our house . It looks like she “I’m going to bath only with a was attacked by that pack of stray dogs bucket and a dipper,” said one 15-year- from the bazaar ”. old daughter who loves hot showers . Our lithe and lively little Allegretto/ by Kaaren Mathias “I’m going to try to take time to Legra who has been part of the Mathias spend an extra 10 minutes for prayer in family for the last two years . Who n Ashing service and a funeral . the mid-morning,” said Dad . equitably sleeps on a different bed each This month I have been feel- “I’m not going to night . Who is loved by ing so grateful for this family, watch any movies,” says all of us . andA a friend who is staying with us, as 6-year-old daughter . Twelve year old community with whom I can share the And so the circle came with me down daily rhythms and lilt of life . We’re all continued . Then Jeph the hill to bring her busy . We’ve all got to be out of the door marked each of our fore- body home . Six year by 7 45am. each weekday . But mixed heads with a grey cross, old helped me dig a in with action, work and responsibility ashes mixed with oil and grave for her in the I am anchored by times when we can water . We prayed . It was corner of the garden . share ritual and reflection together . It 7 34am. . By the time every- helps keep me on an even keel . one was home from Ash Wednesday we decided to Saturday activities it have our own early morning Ashing was well after dark . service as I couldn’t make the early We all felt very sad . evening church service . As we fin- As we ate dinner we ished breakfast we set the parameters talked about Legra when she was of engagement . a kitten who loved hiding under “I have to leave for school by beds . About her wounds and 7 40am. OK, so please can we be long convalescence after her fight finished by 7 35am. so I can brush with a pine marten last Maundy my teeth ”. Thursday . About how she ven- “For sure ”. tured long distances through the “Can I wash the ashes off my forest . About how she was such a forehead so kids in my class don’t We brushed our teeth and raced out good mother to her kittens . think I’m weird?” the door . My heart was warmed that we At the graveside service we held “Of course ”. could manage this short time of ritual candles and each read aloud a letter or So we sat together in a circle . Stilled together somehow and by the com- message for Legra . ourselves with some silent time . Not mitment by each to think and make We shared what we loved about this too long . Read a scripture . Shared space for God in some way during this cat . What she’d taught us . What a gift some thoughts about Lent as a time of Lenten season . she’d been for us in the last two years . preparation and turning . Talked about Then last weekend we were rung by We cried . We wished we’d brought what deserts and fasting can teach us . a neighbour who lives down the hill . hankies out with us . We each threw Went around and shared about how we “I think I’ve found your cat . It’s a dirt on her cold stiff body . We prayed together . We held each other . We cried a bit more . We went back inside . n May life Kaaren Mathias lives with her rise husband Jeph and four children vib waves in North India, where she in rant works in community health and from development. Her email address is: warm depths kaarenmathias@gmail .com

in you! From the Tui Motu team

32 Tui Motu InterIslands April 2015