Whilst I was studying for the ministry my Tutor (on the Oxford model) was Gordon O’Brien. Gordon moved away from theology to Philosophy of Science and Psychology and inspired me to see the relevance of the Philosophy of Science to my theological understanding.
This discipline was in its infancy at the time, with its first Chair at the University of Melbourne a newly appointed Ormond man, Rod Holme. Since then I have continued my journey in theology through also reading in the Philosophy of Science.
Gordon’s influence on me as an Ormond tutor and friend was a core part of my tertiary life and preparation for ministry. He invited me to be a groomsman at his wedding and went on to America for his doctoral studies, returning to an appointment at Flinders University. He was also a very talented footballer and was invited to train at North Melbourne but refused as he had no wish to be a footballer at that level.
After Gordon sparked my ongoing interest in Philosophy of Science and through regular engagement with the Oxford Ramsay Institute for the study of Science and Religion I was invited to Oxford as The Crawford Miller Visiting Fellow in 2012. While regrettably I lost contact with Gordon many years ago, I would have loved to discuss this experience with him as he was the early catalyst for my ongoing study in this area while I was a ‘theolog’. The outcome was indicative of the value and significance of a University College tertiary experience as afforded by Ormond.
Tell us more
Every Ormondian has their own unique experience of College life, and their own story to tell. Do you remember a particular tutor at Ormond? Share your story with us.
Recent Comments