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Tasmanian Anglican

October 2003

 

A Quick Word

by Paul Grayston

 

 

Against all the odds

We have become so used to the Sydney Opera House we forget what an extraordinary leap of creative imagination its design was. We also forget the unfortunate fate of the designer who gave us this wonderful structure.

The building was the creation of young Danish Architect Joern Utzon who spent most of the 1960s working on the mammoth project until he was hounded out of Australia with his work only half done. Utzon made the telling observation at the time, that as an artist he thrived on encouragement and appreciation and that in a positive atmosphere he could give of his best. To his dismay, he was found himself subject to mounting political interference, threats, interrogations, arbitrary deadlines and cost cuts and even raids on his office.

Utzon became a victim of small-mindedness and political opportunism in a smaller, meaner Australia and returned to Europe and to seclusion and obscurity. Fortunately, our country has in many ways grown up to match the stature of his Opera House, like a child who is at last ready for the two-wheeler bike. Indeed, the building itself was the catalyst for a leap forward in national self-confidence. It certainly propelled our building technology forward by fifty years. We should be grateful for Joern Utzon's remarkable gift to all of us, and ashamed of what it cost him.

What's all this leading to?

That the gentle art of Christian ministry is akin to architecture and the creative arts. There's intuition, emotional connection, the giving of oneself, vulnerability and self-disclosure. And creative ministry flourishes where there is support and appreciation, just as the other arts thrive wherever there is nurturing, appreciative and generous patronage - the support and encouragement Joern Utzon yearned for.

Confession time: Is it just me who shrivels up inside when people are grumpy and hostile? I play it safe. I don't say the things that really matter. I'm less able to open up or take risks. Creativity, innovation and excitement dry up. Yes, our worship is directed only at God but we are quite capable of wrecking the experience for one another. Sunday morning can be heaven or hell for those of us who lead worship.

So, please show appreciation to your priests, pastors and preachers. Their task is not as easy as it may look. Encourage your Bishop and leaders. And consider how many creative ministries in our churches may be held back by our lack of support and encouragement.

Against all the odds, the Opera House is there to inspire and delight us all. Our Anglican ministry and our leaders in the church need your encouragement and wholehearted support more than ever. Bring out the best in us and we will all reap the benefits.