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Jesus Christ SuperStar Melbourne - A Review by Kevin Harper

Review: Jesus Christ Superstar – Melbourne, Saturday 29 March, 2pm Matinee Starring Michael Paynter as Jesus Returning to Jesus Christ Superstar after more than five decades, my last encounter being the original London production in 1972, I was eager to see how this timeless rock opera had evolved. Accompanied by colleagues from the clinic—avid followers who’ve attended various Australian renditions featuring renowned local talents—I approached the 2pm matinee at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre with a blend of nostalgia and curiosity. This production was undeniably spectacular, yet it cast a darker, more somber tone reminiscent of medieval mystery plays. This stood in stark contrast to the original’s lighter, more minimalist approach. The emphasis on shadow and symbolism added depth but also a heaviness that diverged from the narrative clarity I fondly remembered. Vocally, the cast delivered powerful and dramatic performances. Michael Paynter’s portrayal of Jesus was emotionally charg...
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Gabriel reflects on the easy YES of Mary

“Fiat” In the hush of ruined stone and lilies’ breath, He kneels—bare feet upon cracked earth, Not for conquest, nor for praise, But to bear a message older than time. She, cloaked in quiet blue, No crown, no veil, no trumpet sound— Only the steady gaze of a girl Who listens, and then says: yes . No questions. No falter. Just the unshakeable stillness of grace. And he—Gabriel— Stilled not by the words he delivered, But by the wonder of her reply. He looks upward, Bathed in the golden beam of his Master’s light, And knows: He has pleased the One who sent him.

Who will be the Next Archbishop of Canterbury?

Following the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby, the process to appoint the next Archbishop of Canterbury is underway. The Crown Nominations Commission (CNC), comprising 17 voting members—including representatives from the Diocese of Canterbury, the General Synod, the Archbishop of York, and five members from the global Anglican Communion—will oversee the selection. Several bishops are considered potential candidates for this esteemed position: • Stephen Cottrell : Currently serving as the Archbishop of York, Cottrell is the second most senior bishop in the Church of England. At 66, his age may be a consideration, but his experience and leadership are noteworthy. • Sarah Mullally : The Bishop of London and third in seniority within the Church, Mullally has a background as the NHS’s former Chief Nursing Officer. Her leadership in the diocese and public health experience make her a prominent figure. • Guli Francis-Dehqani : Serving as the Bishop of Chelmsford, Francis-De...

Proposed changes at the Ballarat Railway Station -Interview with Paul GordonSmith

Here is the link to my interview with Paul GordonSmith on the subject of the proposed changes to promote accessibility  at the historic Ballarat Railway Station. Podcast interview with Paul GordonSmith is here

Be Aware - Covid-19 Cases are growing - June 2020 compared to June 2024

The following was published today in Melbourne's The Age  newspaper.  "... There are 361   COVID-19 patients   in hospital, more than double the 170 patients who were hospitalised with the virus at the same time last month. Twenty-one of those patients are in intensive care, with eight on ventilators ." The first Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were introduced 0n the 16th of March 2020, further restrictions were imposed on June 20, 2020, followed by tighter restriction imposed on 10 Melbourne postcodes and a number of public housing towers on June 30,2020, following a rise is cases.  In Victoria: On 1 June 2020 there were:   6 cases in hospital 1 case in ICU  0 cases on  a ventilator On 20  June 2020 (when increased lockdowns and restrictions came in)  there were :  5 cases in hospital 2 cases in ICU  0 cases on  a ventilator However, the number of positive tests (at June 20, 2020) were spiking. On 1 June 2024 there are...

The arrival of Christianity in Rome in the 4th century AD would introduce another layer of complexity to the alternate history of Australia if the Romans had landed at Botany Bay in 55 BC

Here is the Second Essay for Australia Day The arrival of Christianity in Rome in the 4th century AD would introduce another layer of complexity to the alternate history of Australia if the Romans had landed at Botany Bay in 55 BC. The impact of Christianity on Roman culture and values, coupled with its eventual dissemination to Australia, would have profound consequences for the continent's development. I. Christian Influence in Roman Australia 1. Religious Transformation    The introduction of Christianity to the Roman colonies in Australia would lead to a transformation of religious practices. The construction of Christian churches, monasteries, and religious institutions would be an integral part of Roman settlements. Indigenous spiritual beliefs would potentially interact with and adapt to Christian teachings. 2. Cultural Syncretism    The fusion of Roman, Indigenous, and Christian elements would result in a unique blend of cultural practices, art, and beliefs. ...

Returning to Blogger after 10 years!

  It's exactly 10 years since I used Blogger as a Social Media Platform.  In fact I thought the site had been deleted long ago. I am pleased to have found it, complete with the archive from 2006. From 2014, until  recently,  I kept a website as well as the normal SM Chanels of:   X (formerly Twitter)  Facebook Instagram With the current flavour for small instant Reels - rather than discourses with meaningful interaction  - I have retired the website and  returned to the old, yet tested, Blogger.  Looking back,  I commenced on Blogger in 2006 when I joined the staff at the Cathedral and was licensed as Bishop's Chaplain. My contributions continued through my major car accident and unto  my leaving the Diocese in 2014 when I returned to a  full-time position in health, establishing my own Practice in 2018.  There is a wealth of old-stuff that I have temporarily disabled until I have a chance to edit and weed-out the ...