(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.
