A recorded lecture by Professor John de Gruchy on doing theology in South Africa

I am still at the Joint conference for academic societies in theology and religion that is taking place in Stellenbosch.  It is such a joy to catch up with old friends.  And, it is always a pleasure to have the opportunity to be challenged, inspired, and stretched by the research, passion and insights of others.

Last night (22 June 2009) Prof John de Gruchy, one of the most prominent theologians of our age, and certainly a top theologian in South Africa, delivered the opening keynote address to the societies.  As always John's thoughts were clear, his insights keen, and his research meticulously done and well communicated.  John de Gruchy is best known for his work on Dietrich Bonhoeffer and also his work on deconstructing the theology of apartheid in South Africa.

This lecture is entitled 'Transforming traditions:  Doing theology in South Africa today'

It has so many exceptionally challenging insights (listen out for his very keen observation on the work of Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens among others!)  Of great interest to me is the manner in which John 'deconstructs' the compounding effect of tradition on theology.  In short (if I understood it correctly) tradition has a way of enforcing itself with time.  This is good for good traditions, but it is also bad for bad traditions.  The longer something is accepted the more entrenched and unquestioned it becomes, and the more difficult it is to engage and challenge.  A lot of contemporary theology (and theological methodology) goes unquestioned because of tradition.  This is neither helpful nor wise!

I would also encourage you to give some thought to John's notion of the Christian Humanist...  I am still wrestling a little with this one and will need to read his book to get a clearer understanding.

Here's the lecture, it is a 13MB MP3 file.  If you should use it please remember to reference Prof John de Gruchy (22 June 2009, Stellenbosch) and also please offer a linkback to me here at http://www.spirituality.org.za

Click here to download the file:  http://www.spirituality.org.za/files/podcast/John_de_Gruchy_22_June_2009TSSA.mp3

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I'd love to hear your thoughts, feedback and insights either in the comments below or via email!

I shall upload more lectures as I record them, so please check back in when you have a chance.