2008

‘Reclaiming the Language of Faith’

“There’s a blaze of light in every word/ It doesn’t matter which you heard/ The holy or the broken hallelujah”

– Leonard Cohen, ‘Hallelujah’

Language – particularly the language of faith – can be a source of both joy and frustration for religious liberals. In many ways, our tradition affords us great scope for freedom and creativity in our use of language, yet the use of certain ‘loaded’ words can sometimes provoke ferocious reactions within our ranks. In the hope of guarding against such misunderstanding and conflict, we sometimes limit ourselves to using ‘safe’ language, avoiding altogether those words which seem to create distance, revulsion or fear. Each one of us has our own set of associations and thus will bring a different interpretation and understanding to everything we hear. How can we find a shared language which authentically reflects the richness of our inner worlds and our deepest values?

Over the course of the five theme talks, our speakers will explore how we respond to religious language as individuals, as a liberal church community, and in relation to people of all faiths (and none) in the wider world. Join us for a week of re-discovering shared meaning as we re-claim religious words and re-engage with the language of faith.

Engagement Groups

A: ‘Being Creative in Movement – Dance!’ with Dawn Buckle and Maggie (Lynne) Davies

Is it possible to express our spirituality through the medium of dance? Let's find out together throughout the week. We will be exploring the language of dance by creating movement patterns and composing group dances. Beginners and the more experienced are welcome. Each session will begin with reflection and close with relaxation.

B: ‘Poetry: The Language of the Heart’ with John Harley and Michaela von Britzke

Poetry has a remarkable ability to reach deeply within us. Where other words communicate thoughts and ideas, poetry seemingly bypasses the intellect and conveys feelings and spirit directly from one heart to another. In these workshops, we will explore poetry as a language of faith and spirit and an aid in our search for meaning. We will read poetry from diverse sources, reflect, and respond through dialogue and in our own writing. No experience with poetry is required whatsoever. Our goal will be to gain a new path to finding our wholeness.

C: ‘Beyond Words: Visions of the Holy’ with Jane Blackall and Sheena Gabriel

Art can provide a powerful means for reflecting on our personal spiritual experience. In this meditative workshop, we will explore a variety of religious concepts through visual art, using the language of colour, texture, shape, form and space. Participants will have an opportunity to consider some of religion’s ‘big’ - sometimes provocative - themes and will be encouraged to renew and expand their own understanding of these concepts by seeking deeper meaning through creative meditation and play. No prior artistic skill is required and the emphasis will be on process rather than finished product. There will also be space for sharing of personal responses as we encounter the diverse perspectives of others in an appreciative atmosphere.

D: Children’s Programme with Claire Maddocks and Eloise Williamson