God, Justice and Society – Book Launch 2011
February 27, 2011 by jonathanb
Filed under Blog, God Justice & Society
Jean Hasse, Jonathan Burnside, Kristian Potter and Sanda
The launch for the paperback edition of God, Justice and Society took place in Bristol in the beautiful nineteenth-century surroundings of the Warden’s House, Wills Hall, by kind permission of the Warden, Prof. Julian Rivers. This paperback edition is exclusively available from the Jubilee Centre, priced £19.99, plus P&P. The evening was attended by around 80 guests, representing the law, the church and the academy.
Michael Naughton addresses the gathering
It was opened by Dr. Michael Naughton, who commented that he would be taking a copy of the book on the holiday because, with a title like God, Justice and Society on the cover, he could be sure of no-one bothering him by the poolside!
The book’s author, Jonathan Burnside, explained how biblical law was at the heart of everything interesting about law, society and human experience, since it tells the story of a God who binds Himself to our problems, so we can be bonded to His promises. 
Douglas Hamilton commended the series of ‘Seeking Justice’ podcasts, whose production he had overseen. These were given away free on CDs to attendees on the night. Carol Simmons read the poem “Light”, by Rachel Barenblat, which reflected the theme of the cover of the book. This features a painting by Marc Chagall, of Moses holding the Ten Commandments. She also gave the traditional Hebrew blessing of thanks to God for the Giving of the Torah. Clare Thompson, from Love Bristol spoke about the ‘season of justice’ that she was co-ordinating and which formed the spiritual context for the launch of the book. 
Finally, Julian Rivers closed the evening, describing his experience as a reader of the book during its many drafts and stages, and commenting that it was a book which, in the spirit of the prophet Micah, helped its readers to “do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God.” 
This was followed by a book-signing session, with copies available at discount price, and further celebrations at the Marriott Hotel, Bristol. Thanks to all who came and helped out on the night to make the evening a success.