Religion ancient and post-modern

Media Release: For immediate distribution. 17 November, 2005
St Andrew’s on The Terrace

Religion ancient and post-modern

St Andrew’s on The Terrace, a Presbyterian Church in the heart of Wellington, is this month sponsoring two events which invite Wellingtonians to reflect on the role of spirituality in the world. The first of these is a series of two lectures by renowned theologian, Professor Lloyd Geering. Helping us to understand the complexity of two societies which are currently central to our global future, he will speak on “What we owe to Ancient Iraq” and “What we owe to ancient Iran.” The lunchtime lectures will be given on Tuesday 22 November and Tuesday 29 November from 12:15 to 1 pm.

“With the Middle East often portrayed as an enemy of ‘civilisation,’ it is salutary for us to discover how much the rich cultures of Iran and Iraq have contributed to what we usually think of as ‘western civilisation.’ The St Andrew’s Trust for the Study of Religion hopes these lectures will enable people to think more carefully about the rhetoric directed at the culture and religion of Iran and Iraq,” says Dr Margaret Mayman, chair of the Study Trust.

The second spirituality event is a more informal “Spirited Conversation” which St Andrew’s church will host at The Dog and Bone (Bar/Cafe) on Lambton Quay. The monthly Spirited Conversations take discussions about meaning and spirituality out of the church to a more relaxed venue, where people can talk while enjoying food and drink and a relaxed atmosphere. This month the conversation starter is Professor Paul Morris of Victoria University who will be talking about "Kiwi Spirit” and asking if we really have a distinctive spirituality in Aotearoa/New Zealand.” The Spirited Conversation will take place downstairs at 132 Lambton Quay starting at 7 pm on Monday 28 November.

“Religion continues to play a major role in the world, for better and for worse, so it is important to have opportunities to talk more about it and the way it continues to shape and be shaped by the human community,” says Associate Minister, Paul Barber. “St Andrew’s is happy to be a place where such conversations can happen openly, respecting our varied understandings of spirituality.”

ENDS

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