A message from The Rev’d Keith Adlam, Associate Priest.

Posted by Admin on 4 November 2010, 12:00 am

 

There has been talk recently about what books should be used in the National Curriculum – “classical or modern” however that phrase is defined. I heard a brief interview on the subject in which one person said that if you start with the classical authors you get youngsters to see what makes a good book; the other speaker who was an enthusiastic English teacher said the opposite. His experience showed that given 20th century authors many of his students found it easier to go “backwards” to the classics. So the debate goes on. In Desert Island Discs the guest is told he/she will be given the Bible and the complete works of Shakespeare plus one book of their choice. Dare I say it, I might be inclined to decline the offer of Shakespeare and take a few more books of my own choice. However, since his works cover so many different aspects of human nature and history you might persuade me to think otherwise. Let me know. As you might expect, I would take the Bible because I don’t think I would ever exhaust all it has to offer.

On the subject of reading the Bible many people are put off doing so for various reasons: too dull, too long, irrelevant, not an easy translation etc.  Some readers may make such comments as: “I’ve read bits but I don’t know how they all fit together” or “I’ve never read the Bible much but I’m interested in finding out more” or “I love the Bible but I’d like some help to understand it better and how it applies to my life.” If you have time let me know your thoughts on this one.

In the parishes we now give a Bible to all babies and young children being baptised. Not your standard King James Version leather bound with close-printed words but in one volume, a day-by-day version of the great stories and wise words from the story of creation in Genesis to the dramatic visions of the end of time in Revelation. Here are stories of friends and enemies, of war and peace, of love and hate, of wickedness and holiness. Through each one shines the faith that has inspired generations. There is an episode for every day of the year, each with a prayerful reflection to highlight the emotional and spiritual dimension of the narrative.

I’ve no way of gauging the reaction of the children (or other readers), perhaps I never will. But if these stories are read, as I strongly believe they will be, then, to paraphrase a well-known advert: a portion a day may just help them work, rest and play.

God’s blessings on all of you.

Keith Adlam

Associate Priest

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Do you know of someone who would appreciate a visit by the church? Or would you, yourself, like to meet and talk with someone from the church? Please let Lyn know or contact one of the Churchwardens whose details are given in Northwood News and in the Parish Church Officers section of this website:

Parish Church Officers

We’re happy to meet with you, to bring communion to you if you cannot come to church – or to explore with you if you just want to know more about the Christian faith. We are always here for you – because that’s what we’re about!

Lyn McRostie

Rector of Northwood.

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