Beginnings and Endings
I have recently been to two Catholic funerals for dear friends and was once again struck by the older theologies that so often underpin such events. We were back in…
Inside Silence
A few weeks ago a friend and I set out to go to Ashburton to buy a new budgie, a companion for my other budgie, Sunshine. The day was glorious,…
Rethinking the Solemnity of Christ the King Part II
This reflection is a continuation from Susan’s June 26 article of the same title. Here the expression, “Cosmic Christ” can be helpful as it points to Christ’s care of, and…
Rethinking the Solemnity of Christ the King Part I
The coronation of Charles III last month, which drew the attention of much of the world, provides a timely moment to rethink Catholic devotion to Christ the King. Luke 2:7…
Anchored by Arctic and Antarctic Poles
I recently watched a television programme which was reflecting on Cyclone Gabrielle; this powerful, severe ‘weather bomb’ literally wiped out crops and vineyards particularly in the Gisborne and Hawkes Bay…
What’s in a Name?
There is much that Canada and New Zealand do not have in common. Canada is nearly 40 times larger than New Zealand area-wise and very different in respect of climate.…
“And There Was No Room For Them At The Inn”
In recent years, I have been more involved in working with politically and economically disenfranchised New Zealanders which includes in worrying rising numbers the homeless. Their situation is distressing and…
A New Mission in Napier, New Zealand
Baby swan plants being lovingly tended Laudato Si' challenges us to “care for the natural environment and all people …,” and so a new mission has started in Napier, New…
The Birds of the Air, They Will Tell You
As I write this, it is mid-October here in Aotearoa New Zealand and so half way through spring. It has certainly been the birds and bee season around our home…
Moving From a Team of 5 Million to a Divided Society
On 25 March 2020, the New Zealand government imposed a strict lockdown on people in an effort to keep us safe from the worst effects of what came to be…