How do I live the future I long for in the present moment? - In conversation with Dr Ruth Patterson - 6th June 2021 (S11E29b) (SS102fm programme excerpt)

SS102fm was delighted to welcome Dr Ruth Patterson to this weeks programme to share on her faith journey and thoughts on maintaining hope in these uncertain times.

Ruth Patterson is a Presbyterian minister, and for the last 21 years has been Director of Restoration Ministries, a non denominational, Christian organisation committed to peace and reconciliation.

In 1976 she was the first woman to be ordained in Ireland. She was the recipient of the Alumna of the Year 2000 award (Edinburgh University / Royal Bank of Scotland). In 2001 she was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Presbyterian Theology Faculty of Ireland, and in 2003 was awarded an OBE for her efforts in reconciliation.

She has written four books and numerous articles stemming from her commitment to unity and peace. She produces annual scripture guidelines for Faith and Friendship.

This "daughter of the manse" joined John and Shane on this weeks programme to reflect on faith in this uncertain time. Ruth reminds listeners that the church of Christ has to work where people live their real lives and that to be christian and human as part of that church is to remember that our primary identity should be our identity in Christ. 

Reflecting on her own faith journey, Ruth makes the point that faith is a journey which never ends and which makes the Christian journey so exciting.

Reflecting on our experience of covid-19 Ruth shares her hope, but that her hope is not an easy option. We must weep if we must but we can't complain as the Way chooses us. We need to live out a domino effect of living simple acts of compassion. What happens to us in life is always a gift - no matter what. The key thing is that we need to alter the way we react to it. 

And ultimately, the question we need to ask ourselves is how do I live the future I long for in the present moment?

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