THEOLOGIAN REQUIRED

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30221, 28 August 1963, Page 14

THEOLOGIAN REQUIRED

“Someone To Stir Us Up” IX2 Press Association) WELLINGTON. August 27. “It is a terrible thing that Methodism has become so small and cautious." the Rev R Thornley told the Wellington Methodist Synod today “If we don't open up something serious will happen to us.” The synod was discussing the appointment of a tutor in theology for the Trinity Methodist Theological College A report from the college’s council said the Methodist conference had to decide whether to appoint a New Zealander or a person from overseas

The report said an overseas appointment had advantages and risks associated with it and recommended a New Zealander for the position. "Why are we frightened as a church of bringing in new blood?” asked the Rev W F. Ford. “The church is poorer because of lack of vision in this case.” “We are living in a challenging age,” said Mr Thornley. "I wouldn't mind if a chap from overseas went off the rails a bit to stir us up.” Mr Ford agreed. He said he would like to see someone other than a Methodist teaching theology “One of those piercing theologians from Asia would be the answer, whether he was a Methodist or not This sort of thing is done overseas. Why can't we do it here’" The synod decided to frame a resolution on the matter to the Methodist conference. Canada is training cadets for Nigeria’s armed services.