THINKING OUT LOUD

Once a week, a member of the CPX team "thinks out loud" in public - offering not conclusions, but launching-off points for conversation about what's going on in the news right now, or in our cultural "moment".

As with everything CPX does, the goal is to reframe things - to edge our way together towards a more expansive public imagination when it comes to Christian faith and the contribution it has to make to our shared life.

Here's a collection of these columns. They are usually posted each Tuesday on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Latest

Lockdown, life, and Ted Lasso

By Justine Toh | 23/07/2021

Justine Toh writes about why we need Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso in lockdown – and why we might need God as well.

Football, faith, and the common good

By Simon Smart | 21/07/2021

After the EURO 2020 final, Simon Smart ponders the “religious transformation” taking place in football (and elsewhere) in the UK.

Creating space for new

By Anthony Segaert | 16/07/2021

CPX Intern Anthony Segaert on scrolling through old photos, the desire for a fresh start, and why the story of grace is freeing.

Patriotism vs Nationalism

By Tim Costello | 13/07/2021

Tim Costello reflects on Ash Barty’s historic Wimbledon win, the EURO final, and the important difference between patriotism and nationalism.

Sad endings are almost inevitable

By Barney Zwartz | 09/07/2021

Barney Zwartz reflects on the legacy of outgoing Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson, and the personal impact Clarkson had on his family.

Acknowledgment of country

By Natasha Moore | 06/07/2021

Natasha Moore reflects on the use of traditional place names on weather maps and Australia Post letters this NAIDOC Week. 

Winning for Good

By Mark Stephens | 02/07/2021

Mark Stephens on the New Zealand cricket team’s success – and how they play with humility, dignity, respect, and civility.

The COVID blame game

By Anna Grummitt | 29/06/2021

Anna Grummitt on the latest COVID lockdowns across Australia – and what might be a better response than blaming others.

No superiority

By Tim Costello | 25/06/2021

Tim Costello on the debate over Bruce Pascoe’s ‘Dark Emu’, and the need to recognise the image of God in everyone.

“Bring them home to Bilo”

By Justine Toh | 22/06/2021

Justine Toh on how the Murugappan family has found a home in our hearts and is reminding us of our shared humanity.

Sorrow in statistics

By Emma Wilkins | 18/06/2021

After taking part in a survey on child abuse, Emma Wilkins reflects on the importance of scrutinising our failings, and where her hope lies.

Time and tide

By Simon Smart | 15/06/2021

Simon Smart reflects on his enduring love for the ocean, and the awe and wonder he feels when faced with the ravaging beauty of the sea.