Dunedin North Anglican Parish celebrated the opening of All Saints Church 150 years ago with a panel discussion entitled “Responding to the winds of change: How can the church raise its voice on ethics, justice and peace in Aotearoa today?” 

More than 80 people attended the event last Sunday (July 19) jointly sponsored by the Centre for Theology and Public Issues at the University of Otago. 

Panellists included Professor of Public Theology David Tombs, Marian Hobbs, Cabinet minister in the previous Labour Government, and Bishop Richard Randerson, former Social Justice Commissioner for the Anglican Church. Michael Wallace, Vicar of All Saints, chaired the discussion.

Recently back from work in the UK, Marion Hobbs shared concerns about the fracturing of Aotearoa New Zealand society. “We need to rebuild a sense of community by connecting people with similar concerns and learning again how to work together,” she said.

Richard Randerson noted that the church seems reluctant to speak out on contentious political or moral issues. All three panellists agreed that remaining silent leaves space for media ‘chatter’ that diverts attention from matters of real importance. 

David Tombs, recently arrived from Northern Ireland where he worked in reconciliation projects, says he has found an unexpected openness to theology in NZ. He aims to build the Centre for Theology and Public Issues as a site where people can deepen their understanding and respond to issues. 

David also identified climate change and the digital sphere as spaces where churches could make a moral difference.

He said access to online information was already defining who is included or excluded from public life. He urged the church to speak the Good News of the gospel in ways relevant to people’s lives today.  

Richard Randerson mourned how the church faces inwards, particularly when preoccupied with falling numbers and internal tensions, rather than serving the world. He identified the diminished role of the Anglican Social Justice Commission as a worrying sign. 

In his latest book, ‘Slipping the Moorings,’ Bishop Richard compares the church to a fine old ship that seldom goes to sea. He calls for the church to identify ‘points of pain and poverty’, and to advocate for people on the edge, as well as trying to meet their needs. 

Marian Hobbs pointed to an underlying Kiwi culture of looking out for your neighbour, which she believes has not been extinguished yet.

David Tombs agreed with the other panellists that young Christians’ involvement in social justice and social service mission is encouraging.

The conversation was one of challenge, frustration and hope; a fitting way to celebrate the past and look to the future.