Complementary Therapies and Christianity
This edition of Chrism is about our understanding of complementary and alternative therapies, and examines the extent to which selected examples are compatible with Christianity. First the Revd Dr John Spring, from Australia, addresses a very important theological question. If we truly believe in one God, ’maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen’ (Nicene Creed in Common Worship) why are so many Christians highly suspicious of alternative or complementary therapies? Following this, Leslie Maynerd, a Guild Council Member and Aromatherapist and then the editor’s yoga teacher describe their therapies and make clear how they are compatible with Christianity. Liz Smith’s article, from CSTH, is equally challenging of conventional wisdom but in:‘Freeing our Theological Imagination’, she explores of some of the metaphors we inhabit, that constrain or liberate our experience of church.
Contents
Fighting against God? 2
Aromatherapy as a Christian ministry 5
Yoga Therapy 8
Book review 7
Meditation for Autumn & Winter 11
Centre for the Study of Theology & Health
Summary by the Director 12
Freeing Theological Imagination 15
Information about the Guild 16