Forming a theological Imagination

The diocese of Waiapu is currently exploring the development of a formation track for any and all members of the parishes of our diocese that may be interested. The desire is to establish a space in which the essential heart of theology and of our practices as a church can be discussed and embedded, especially for those involved in ministry. This will see offerings of study in the areas of theology, biblical studies, ecclesiology and church history, alongside smaller papers in pastoral care and the leading of worship.

As this is developed, we are looking to trial two of these courses - Reading the Bible and The Prayer Book: Rubrics, Rites and Reasons. Reading the bible is a 15 week course, while The Prayer Book is 5 weeks. They will be delivered by the Reverend Deborah Broome and by Alan Burnett.

These courses have an expectation of approximately 2 hours of study a week, broken down into 45 minute lecture and a fortnightly gathering with others to discuss the teaching and content. There are minimal assessments, primarily geared at helping you to wrestle with the content.

While there is still more information to come about these, we are seeking expressions of interest from those that may wish to participate. In the first instance, this will be a Hawkes Bay initiative as we work through the development and teething problems we will inevitably have. If you are interested in participating, both for the content you will receive and to help us develop this programme, please contact the church office to register your interest. When emailing or calling, note that you are interested in taking part in the Waiapu Certificate.