Chaplain

Across all curriculum areas, Redlands instils a culture of thinking. This encourages students to use their skills in thinking and learning from one subject area into another. In the Christian Studies classroom, this is actively encouraged. Currently Yr 8 has been reflecting on the way in which Science and Theology (the study of God) relate, integrate or dialogue. Students initially began the unit with perspectives that polarises these two ways of knowing; placing them as combative opposites. However, as they have been able to explore further, they begin to see that there is a far more dynamic interaction and complexity that may at first meet the eye.

This week the students have explored the basis of the Big Bang Theory. They looked at what the theory proposed and the evidence supporting this theory. Students considered the development of this theory in the early 1900s and which scientists were involved in this. In particular students looked at George Lemaitre’s contribution, who is considered the Father of the Big Bang Theory, who was also a theologian. With this, students investigated the constants of the universe (gravity, cosmological constant, etc) and the precision required for the existence of a life permitting universe. Students were challenged to think outside their original perspective. This saw students question and wonder the intricacies of our universe. 

As I reflect on the wonders, discoveries and theories that science has brought us, I am delighted at the complexity of the world. I am also grateful for enquiring minds and erudite processes that have shaped much of our scientific endeavour. I am also delighted by the mind behind these wonders, the designer. I am humbled that in such a vast universe, God values each of us so much. I am reassured as God did not just set the universe in motion and forget us but has persistently intervened in history to reveal himself so we can know him. I am full of wonder as I realise that this creator, God, has himself become human at a set point of time in history, in a set place in the world.

Having just visited Israel and Jordan, I was fascinated at seeing the places that Jesus lived, which astounded me at the amount of archaeological support there is for the biblical accounts. However, that is all about the connection of History and Theology and needs to wait for another day.

Parents Who Pray

The final meeting to pray for our school community will be on Friday 23 November beginning at 8.30am on the Senior Campus room B.1.1. Please make note of this. Even if you have not attended before, if you would like to pray then you are welcome.

Ms Bronwyn Lihou
Senior Campus Chaplain
blihou@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9830