In addition, the variety of ecclesial traditions and theological approaches represented in the book ensure that this volume will become a resource for those involved in the conversation between the various traditions. The challenge to develop a Christian practice of dialogue, of solidarity and of a renewed sacramentality in the midst of 'our risky, mistake-ridden, very complex world' is reflected in the message and the spirit of these discussions. They take us beyond a 'thin' consideration of large questions and offer us a rich Christian wisdom on faith in the public forum today. This book points to a new found maturity on the part of both religion and Australian society. Religion has found the courage to step out of the private domain and to participate in the conversation about the common good.
Australian society is more ready to consider the big questions, the faith questions.
From the background of their respective disciplines the contributors to Faith in the Public Forum draw us into a thoughtful consideration of some of the major questions that currently face Australian society. This book should be required reading for both undergraduate and postgraduate students of theology. First, the collected essays are together evidence of the resurgence of the public discussion of 'God' amd faith in a manner that attempts to contribute to the common good. Second, the discussion is thoroughly Australian in its scope, wherein important local economic issues are treated with some depth. Third, the discussion is global rather than provincial, the tone is ecumenical, and the contributors represent diverse disciplines such as economics, literature, and theology.