Thoughts on faith, culture, and public life.
PART 1 George Henry Morling (1891–1974) was one of the most influential Baptist leaders in twentieth-century Australia. Serving as Principal of the Baptist Theological College of New South Wales from 1922 to 1960, he shaped generations of ministers through his teaching, preaching, pastoral care, and personal example. Although he published comparatively little, his influence extended …
Continue reading "G H Morling and pastoral theology (Part 1)"
Shocking as it may sound, one of the world’s great moral crises remains hidden in plain sight. I’m talking about slavery, the commodification of human beings, the theft of freedom through the coercion and exploitation of vulnerable people. This coming Thursday, July 30, is the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, reminding us that behind ordinary streets, workplaces, farms, …
Continue reading "Reflections for the World Day against Trafficking in Persons"
Modern depiction of St Augustine (354-430) at work. Self-identity and faith in contemporary Western culture Who am I? Earlier generations generally inherited much of their identity from family, church, occupation, locality, or nation. Today, personal identity is increasingly understood as something each of us must discover, construct, express, and renovate. The modern quest to discover …
Yarralumla Uniting Church, Canberra. A guide for Baptist ministers transitioning to the UCA (Part 12 of 12) Rod Benson, 19 July 2026 For Baptist ministers discerning a call to ministry within the Uniting Church in Australia, practical questions soon follow theological reflection. Every minister's journey is unique, but many of the same questions arise as …
Continue reading "FAQ for Baptists transitioning to Uniting Church ministry"
There are numerous reasons why an ordained minister may consider leaving professional ministry. A guide for Baptist ministers transitioning to the UCA (Part 11 of 12) Rod Benson, 19 July 2026 Ordained ministry is a profound vocation, but need not be a lifelong appointment in the same form or context. Ministers conclude placements for various …
Continue reading "Ten reasons why ministers leave ordained UCA ministry"
