Extended version of a Review published in Tear Australia Issue 4/2010
Where would you read a book titled, A Divine Society The Trinity, Community and Society? It almost begs for a quiet corner in a church or at least a discrete bedside table. However, my suspicion is that when Dave Andrews wrote this refreshing text he was hoping it would get some public airing.
I usually travel on public transport, a perfect setting for a good read. My copy of Dave’s most recent work was my traveling companion in the Roma Street Transit Centre, on local buses and trains and even on a Qantas flight.
This is one of those books with a cover you can’t ignore. The beautiful Icon of the Trinity by Andrei Rublev provided a visual contrast to the public transport advertising for personal satisfaction, economic wellbeing and social status. Dave’s theology of the Trinity contrasts these consumer values with an understanding of the divine as Creator, Liberator and Sustainer.
Throughout the book Dave invites the reader to explore a new language of community. He even reclaims an old aussie slang word, “Trey” and gives it new currency when exploring the dynamic that builds the base for community.( Anyone under 50 years of age may have to look up Google to understand this one!!!)
Dave Andrews is a storyteller and he brings his skill into theology making the often abstract and illusive Christian belief in the Trinity an invitation to live a commitment that builds community and transforms society. His modeling of these ideas at St Andrews’s in South Brisbane is a rich example of his innovative skill and pastoral sensitivity.
Dave’s theology, wisdom and practical advice are encouraging and challenging. He encourages good theology and praxis. He challenges our comfort zones if we believe we have found community.
A Divine Society The Trinity, Community and Society deserves a wide readership not only within faith communities but also among those who work in community development with people of faith. The text of the Declaration Towards a Global Ethic concludes the book and invites people of good will to build a new experiences of community in our fragile global village.
Tony Robertson is a blogger, photographer and community jester in Brisbane. He has lived in faith communities in Australia, the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. In recent years he has joined the L'Arche Community in Brisbane and is involved in school retreats and justice reflections.
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