Wellbeing and Salvation in Hospital and Church

Salvation, an idea that both languishes and flourishes in currents of contemporary Christianity, is first cousin to Wellbeing.

Both frame life’s meaning in its more emotional and thoughtful dimensions, each possesses roots in fear, carries its own anxiety, and is not ignorant of personal and cultural betrayal. Each entails social class and invites us to wonder whether the National Health Service now carries core cultural value and political interest more than the Church of England.

Professor Douglas Davies is an anthropologist, theologian and Professor in the Study of Religion at the University of Durham. His work combines theoretical and practical interests: among other things, he has written on Mormonism, Sikhism, Anglicanism, religious emotion and death rites. He was made an Academician of the Academy of Social Sciences in 2009.

This evening begins with a free public lecture from 7.15pm to 8.05pm. This will be followed by the launch of Douglas Davies’ recent book Mors Britannica: Lifestyle and Death-style in Britain Today and a short question and answer session.

Both the lecture and the book launch are free and open to all, advance booking required. To book your free place email info@sarum.ac.uk or telephone 01722 424800.

An optional supper is available before the lecture at 6.30pm for £10 per person.