Priest will share views on courage

An Anglican priest known for his staunch opposition to apartheid in South Africa will lead a discussion titled "Christian Responses to Oppression: A Courageous Conversation" Monday at the Church of the Crossroads.

The Rev. Michael Lapsley, who founded the Institute for the Healing of Memories, along with Pastor Kyle Lovett of Church of the Crossroads and the Rev. Walter Brownridge of The Cathedral of St. Andrew, will take part in the conversation slated for 6:30 p.m.

Born in New Zealand and ordained in Australia, Lapsley went to South Africa in 1973 to serve as chaplain to both black and white students during the height of apartheid oppression. After using his public platform to speak out against apartheid, Lapsely was expelled from South Africa. He then served as chaplain to the liberation movement in exile and as a member of the African National Congress. In April 1990 Lapsley was the victim of a letter bomb attack. He lost both hands and the sight of one eye, and suffered severe burns.

Lapsley went on to serve as chaplain of the Trauma Centre for Victims of Violence and Torture in Cape Town, and he devised a "Healing of Memories" process through which South Africans could begin to address psychological, spiritual and emotional issues tied to the nation’s past.

In 1998 he formed the Institute for Healing of Memories, which works with victims of war, violence and genocide throughout Africa and around the world.

For additional information about the event — sponsored by Church of the Crossroads and The Cathedral of St. Andrew — contact Linda Rich at 387-7424 or lrich001@ hawaii.rr.com.