Hi
James,
My name is Meri. I came upon you by way of searching for Rowan Williams. I found him as holy fool with a delightful photograph of him
looking quite mad. If it were not for reading Rowan Williams "Writing in
the Dust" contemplations after 911, I would not have become the lonely
G-d botherer that I am. This kind of writing was nothing like the messages
in the church of my youth, Church of England. That kind of religion never
"took" on me and I left as soon as I was able. But, the biblical
narratives and Christian values are deeply embedded in
me.
Loneliness and loss has dogged me all my life, leading me to a love of literature and a life of the mind. Reality has disappointed. Fate
has not been kind. Now, I see myself as an isolated, literary and poetic
soul who has never found a place to fit in. Certainly not in
establishments.
I discovered theology through RW and it spoke to me, made
sense, was not simplistic. I am not an academic, but reasonably
educated, literate and thoughtful. If I am to untangle my mind, I need help. Where to find it? I believe my only option is to reach out on-line to those with similar interests. The idea of an on-line holy book
club is appealing. Have you heard of such a thing? Do you know of any
serious theology forums? and would they allow a novice in? (I am 82 years
of age) a little slower, but still teachable…… Do you think this is a
good idea?
I have a dog eared copy of "Open to Judgement" which has
been invaluable for my sanity. An essay on "The Abbe Huvelin" a theology for neurotic and suffering souls was written especially for me. I am
indebted. I used to follow Dr. William's web site when he was
Archbishop, and I miss it. Have you read any of his recent books, and
would you recommend one? Perhaps he has written another phrase or
paragraph especially for me………
My devotions are eccentric.
They are connected with a humming bird I feed and will help through the
winter. And with the barns I visit where the police horses live. Last
week Dalton, the horse, was all gussied up ready to visit a dying child at
the hospital. These kinds of things let in the light and help with the
untangling.
The photo of the heather is lovely,
best
wishes, Meri
What a
delightful letter, thank you! You are precisely the kind of person for
whom much of the blog is written. I'm glad it's of some help.
I too miss
Rowan Williams. The fact that some said he was too clever to be Archbishop says
more about dumbing down leadership to management, than it does about someone who
is chosen under God to be a spiritual leader. Have you had a look at his book
Tokens of Trust? Apart from his more substantial theological work, he writes
some books as a brilliant man whose intellectual power is used in the service of
faith seeking understanding. This is a really good introduction to the Christian
faith through the thick glasses of Rowan!
Can I also suggest you get a
hold of Benjamin Myers book Christ the Stranger. The Theology of Rowan Williams.
I think it will give you a lot to think about because it is what a good
introduction does – it gives you Rowan Williams rather than someone else's much
less interesting opinions about it!!
Now I haven't personally gone
looking for an online theological forum but there must be such things. An online
theological reading group – now that's a good idea though again not one I've
pursued, so can't help much there. You may see yourself as a novice, but someone
whose life experience is a rich tapestry of light and shadow, and whose
spirituality is formed in the hard places as well as the comfort zones, is no
novice in theology, if theology is to be lived as well as thought.
I
wonder – would you allow me to put your letter on the blog – I can remove your
name if you wish. I think it would encourage others who struggle with other
people's claimed certainties and closed timidity in the face of the mystery and
meaning of that Reality whom we name as God, and have come to know through
Christ. No pressure whatsoever if you feel hesitant. Just let me
know.
Shalom, and give dalton an apple on my
behalf,
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