Map of the islands of Nova Guinea and Nova Britannia by Emanuel Bowen, 1744 The earliest Christian missions in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands Part One of Five By Rod Benson The history of Christianity in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands is often told through celebrated landings, missionary pioneers and denominational anniversaries. Such …
Ryu Murakami (1952–2026): Literary modernity, alienation, and a theology of hope
By Rod Benson The death of the Japanese novelist and filmmaker Ryu Murakami on 17 October 2026, aged 74, brings into focus one of the most unsettling and inventive literary careers of the past half-century. Across more than four decades of publication, Murakami joined formal experimentation to a sustained examination of violence, estrangement, consumer culture …
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35 online resources for prayer and worship leaders
Finding words to express your heart for God By Rod Benson Leading congregational prayer, regardless of how many people are present, is an act of pastoral and theological responsibility. The words we choose help a faith community to understand and articulate the greatness and goodness of God, recognise and engage with fellow worshippers, express grief …
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When mercy crosses the road
A biblical response to Ross Clifford on conversion practices By Rod Benson What is required of faithful Christian ministry when someone seeks pastoral help in relation to their sexual identity? Sydney Baptist leader Ross Clifford’s recent reflection on Tasmania’s proposed conversion practices legislation highlights the principle of religious freedom. I share his concern for freedom …
Eight barriers to sharing your faith (and how to overcome them)
By Rod Benson Many Christians find it hard to share their faith. We want to talk to others about the difference Jesus makes, but struggle to begin. We speak freely about almost everything else, then grow hesitant when conversation turns to God. Recognising what holds us back can help us take a modest first step. …
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