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Tue 09Tue 09Tue 09Exploring Theology: Exploring Modern Developments in Theological Conversations
Tue 9 March, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pmMeet the Academic Staff
Jayme Reaves
Director of Academic Development, Coordinator, Centre for Encountering the Bible, Short Courses and Programme Leader for Exploring Theology Read more
Sonia Woolley
Scholar in Residence Read more
Karen O’Donnell
Coordinator, Centre for Contemporary Spirituality Read more
All academic staff

- This event has passed.
Can These Bones Live? Pioneering Mission in Post-Christian Britain
- Course Dates: Fri 25 November 2016, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

A number of theologians have used exile as a metaphor to explore the place of the church in contemporary western society.
Exile describes not primarily geographical dislocation but a loss of the symbols, landmarks and identity that made life possible in the past. Exile requires an honest confrontation of reality as well as a creative reassessment of the core promises and structures that form the basis of communal life. For Israel exile brought perhaps the most creative and fruitful period of theological reflection and communal rediscovery.
Many would argue that exile is a reality for the church in the UK as the long twilight of Christendom enters perhaps its final phase. Exilic literature is therefore a wonderful resource for the church in these uncertain and rapidly changing times.
This day will explore the prophecy of Ezekiel and in particular Eze 37:1–14 (the valley of the dry bones). We will see how exile illuminates the issues of identity and purpose for the church in our age. We will also explore the nature of mission and the place of pioneer ministry for the church in a post-Christian society.