Where Do We Find Our Meaning?

Futures Group of the Methodist Church of New Zealand, 1999. Good secondhand copy.

In 1998, sociologist Marg Gilling visited almost sixty informal Christian communities throughout the country looking at the diverse 'journeys' New Zealanders make in attempting to find meanings in their lives.

In a series of letters to a friend, she describes these spiritual communities, giving her personal response to their experiences. This is not a report of an independent observer, nor can it be. Instead the writer shares with the communities in their anger, their joy, and their aroha, their seeking Why?

This is a study which will be read from many perspectives; from those still in the established churches concerned with their falling membership, by those interested in the diversity of New Zealand social life, by those involved in thier own spiritual journeys. 'Where Do We Find Our Meaning' does not, of course, answer the ultimate question, but its account will enable its readers to go better on their way.