Cosmic Walk
The Cosmic Walk at the University of Winchester is a theological attempt to place our feet in the unfolding story of the cosmos and from there to reflect upon that which we call the divine.
Introduction to the Cosmic Walk
The Cosmic Walk is located behind the University of Winchester's West Downs Campus, Romsey Road, Winchester.
Christian theology has often been slow to engage with the world in which it finds itself, being cautious that the ‘things of the world’ do not move it from the prime purpose of loving God.
In the 21st century we have never known so much about the world in which we live- and I am sure there is still so much more to know- but once again Christian theology engages at the edges of various disciplines hoping to impose its own set of mental maps on them.
The Cosmic Walk at the University of Winchester is a theological attempt to place our feet in the unfolding story of the cosmos and from there to reflect upon that which we call the divine. During the walk and the reflections created to aid this we hope that we all begin to understand more deeply our participation in the birth and unfolding of the universe. This walk will be accompanied not just by the mind maps and tools of theology but also with quantum physics, cosmology, mythology and each breathe we take. The theology that we are asked to engage with is in each cell of our body and all around us, it is incarnational theology. This walk offers an opportunity to understand ourselves and the cosmos in relationship and all to be the very stuff of the God we live and breathe.
A Holistic Approach to Education
From the educational point of view the garden offers a holistic approach to education.The garden embodies four interconnecting strands.
1. Cosmic Strand
Firstly there is the Cosmic strand. This strand explores the stories, myths and scientific evidence that tell of the birth and creation of the Earth. It provides the chance for pupils and students to investigate a range of material, from a variety of sources and traditions in order to begin to understand how humanity has tried to understand the world it lives in.
2. Earth Flourishing
The second strand deals with the Earth flourishing. It is the time when the earth begins to bring forth a myriad of flora and fauna. Again, it offers the opportunity to examine scientific data, as well as the myths and stories of how the world unfolded.
3. Reflection on the development on humankind
Strand three invites pupils and students to reflect upon the story of humankind’s development. The strand requires the study of the variety of cultures, races, histories, beliefs and societies, as well as their stories and myths.
4. The Individual
Finally the last strand is about you, the individual. It is asking that you consider who you are, your relationship with the natural world and other people. It is about your personal life story, your reflection upon existence, your sense of self.
As you will appreciate none of these strands stands alone, all have an interconnectedness, and it is this interconnectedness that the garden provides the opportunity to explore.
Elaine Bellchambers & Lisa Isherwood
Why a Cosmic Walk?
Full Text: Why a Cosmic Walk?