Rectors Update – June

As you may know, I’ve been completing my PhD through the University of Aberdeen on the Kierkegaard and his vision of the Triune God. Last week I attended the annual Postgraduate Symposium at Aberdeen, designed for distance students. It is for students to present research, connect meaningfully and practically work through issues. In addition, I went to the Scottish Dogmatics Conference and heard papers from some of the finest theological minds in Britain and North America. It was there I heard two of the best theological papers I have ever heard from Prof. John Behr and Prof. Bruce McCormack.

One of the great difficulties of distance learning at a research level is the lack of valuable interaction with wider students and faculty. It was through the course of presenting my research and many conversations with my supervisor and others that I was able to clarify the final work I needed to prepare my dissertation for submission and examination. The stimulation and productivity of the week have left me thankful to God for the ability to do this work which shapes and forms me for the pastoral work and teaching his word.

Now I am back, I am looking forward to ALPHA beginning this Sunday, how vital it is for us to open spaces for asking honest questions about faith. In addition, it was a joy to have a number of people at our house for the newcomer’s lunch in June, I am looking forward to continuing to embrace anyone who wants to find their way into the community at SHAP. I’ll also be continuing to deepen our connection with Kambala, I’ve been visiting RE classes this term to discuss the nature of human happiness as well as running some chapel service. In July, we’re also looking to restart our children’s ministry at the St Michael’s 10 am service, please pray for the team who are putting their minds and energy into this great work!