(Apologies for online absence - been in places and
circumstances these last few weeks where access or mailing list or both have
been unavailable. Expect that I'll make up for it! JBF)
NORMAN FORD SDB ADMITTED TO ELITE THEOLOGICAL
FELLOWSHIP
MELBOURNE: 30th April -- On the evening of
Friday 27th April, Fr. (Dr.) Norman Ford was admitted as a Fellow of the
Melbourne College of Divinity, one of only a maximum of 20 such who can be
members at any one time. Fellowships of the MCD are awarded to former
members or academic staff of associated theological institutes who have
distinguished themselves by their contribution to theological education or who
have rendered exceptional service to the College. Fr. Ford qualified on
all counts!
The citation which admitted him to the College
recognized the oustanding contributions that Fr. Ford had made, especially in
the fields of ethics and philosophy. He had also been President of the MCD
for three years, during which he signed the memorandum of affiliation between
MCD and the University of Melbourne. He had also been instrumental in
setting up a double degree option at Monash University: B.A -B.
Theol.
Fr. Ford has contributed widely to ethical issues
in Australian society, in particular where the debate has focused on the
Melbourne scene. Issues associated with genetics and with euthanasia have
been prominent amongst these. The MCD recognized his dialogue with
academic disciplines, especially health ethics, and his commitment to Christian
ecumenism. In fact. Fr. Ford has been widely acclaimed for his
contributions to these areas, including by those who do not share his Christian
and Catholic convictions.
