It was a great pleasure to speak at this year’s LSHTM Carol Service – on the “Big Steps” in the new Pumphandle Social Space. Over 150 attended. Thank you to my colleague and co-Chaplain Fr David Peebles for introducing the service, the University of London Chamber Choir for the fantastic music, to Ian Carter and the Student Support Services Team for providing the refreshments and to Godfrey from the Catering Team for serving them. During the service I gave the short reflection below:
A few weeks ago the LSHTM was ranked second in the world for
public health in the Shanghai Ranking of Global Academic Subjects. It’s a
great accolade and a reflection of the hard work of so many staff and students.
The international outlook of this place is in its DNA. From its
early work researching the transmission of tropical diseases, to understanding the
health impacts of climate change today. The LSHTM operates across the globe – a
fact reflected in the diversity of those sitting on these “big steps”
now.
There can
be no doubt that the LSHTM is a world leader.
One of the
many joys of being Honorary Chaplains here –
thanks to the privilege of living and working in this neighbourhood – is our
ability to help facilitate connections between this global community and the
hyper-local.
This might
take the form of 1-2-1 conversations with people asking big questions about
life and their place in the world - which can come to the fore especially at
times of change. Or it might involve practical support - putting individuals in
touch with local faith communities or volunteering or research opportunities
with the local charities with whom we work – like the Hygiene Bank, which
aims to address hygiene poverty — and Shower Box – which
offers showers and wrap-around support to 200 rough sleepers every Saturday morning, just down the road.
Our regular
walks and tours of the neighbourhood have proved very popular - highlighting
where great fish and chip shops or secret gardens or the best places to dance
are. Signposting people to the great cultural capital that this part of London
has to offer and revealing some of the fascinating innovations in health and
hygiene that started right here on our doorstep. Rooting the important global
work that takes place here at the LSHTM within the story of the local
community, just beyond these walls. We’re running our ‘public health history
walk’ again in February – do sign up if you missed it this term.
The story
of the Nativity, which we have heard told through the readings and music during
this carol service, is a narrative that connects the universal to the
individual. The beginning of time to the end of time. Through the birth of a
child. A child that Christians believe is Jesus Christ - God in human form.
For those who do not or cannot share that belief, perhaps thinking
of that child – that connection - as embodied love might have some value? A
love that we all feel - down to the very core of our being.
When we
feel sick to our stomach when confronted with injustice, abuse and suffering of
our brothers and sisters around the world. That gut feeling - that compassion –
is the love within us at work.
A love for
each other and for the world which is, perhaps, the reason we have all been
drawn here, together?
A love
which in this festive season we are reminded can – and is – embodied.
Remember
that you are loved! That we each embody that love - and that sharing it is the
greatest gift of all.
Reverend Phillip Dawson,
Honorary Chaplain, LSHTM
Links
We are here to support LSHTM staff and students and can be contacted at any time. Get in touch using the details on the Chaplaincy Page on the LSHTM Portal. Click here to sign up to receive details of LSHTM Chaplaincy events by email
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