Sir, Theology is not a mere study of comparative religion but an approach to a subject with dedication (letters, Feb 2). We clergy are often the only ones around outside comfortable working hours to help folk or bring solace into troubled lives.
Yes, something beyond ourselves motivates us and we enjoy a peace from finding deeper meaning in our lives. The first careers of both my wife and I are very much part of our continuing ministries, as indeed was my second career when I retraced those steps as an army padre.
If people put more value on what they benefit from free, at all hours and in all stages of their lives, and if our heritage of fine buildings did not consume so much of our free will offerings, maybe we could afford our second degrees, but for the present we give up much to serve others.
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The Rev Toddy Hoare
Oxford
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Sir, The debate concerning the teaching of ordinands prompted one of your correspondents to question the value of Christian theology as an academic discipline. Yet theology requires exacting and rigorous analytical reading of texts, a broad grasp of philosophical, historical and ethical questions, and the capacity to maintain dialogue with all of these while studying the central thinkers of Western culture. Theology, furthermore, encourages the acquisition of ancient and modern languages in order to develop understanding of cultures, peoples and beliefs.
If these elements of academic pursuit no longer merit university level study, not only theology but also all the humanities must fall under the axe.
Nicholas Jackson
Jesus College, Cambridge
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Sir, Only two weeks ago I was one of almost 200 higher education chaplains who heard Bill Rammell, the Minister for Lifelong Learning, highlight the importance of chaplains in enhancing multifaith understanding, promoting social cohesion and combating violent extremism in our educational establishments. Presumably, to do this we will need clergy who have a good understanding of Christian and other religious beliefs and — given the Government’s concern for accreditation — academic qualifications in theology.
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Now we are told, by the same government department, that state funding for trainee clergy to study for theology degrees is to stop.
Perhaps the left hand might benefit from knowing a little more about what the right hand is doing?
The Rev Philip Hobday
Broadstairs, Kent