Poetry book wins top award for theological writing

Rev Oakley’s book, “The Splash of Words: Believing in Poetry” contains 40 poems, both contemporary and historic.

Each poem is accompanied by a reflection from the author. The winning book was chosen by a panel of five judges.

Rev Canon Mark Oakley said: “Theology is a language of love and poetry is the theologian’s native language. Poetry takes the difficulties of life seriously and it also feels a bit like home.

“I put down some poems that have meant a lot to me and did a reflection. It’s a full range across the centuries, not all of them are ‘religious’ but I do think within there’s this exploratory of the Divine.”

Very honoured to be awarded @MRamseyPrize today. Thank you to @JustinWelby and the judges and to all the other wonderful nominees. Thank you #gb19 too for a great festival. pic.twitter.com/dIEB2V9KkW

— Mark Oakley (@CanonOakley) August 25, 2019

The MRP was started by Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams in 2005.

It aims to encourage the most promising contemporary theological writing and share it with a wider Christian readership.

Awarding the prize, Most Rev Justin Welby said: “Mark Oakley’s work shines with an infectious love for poetry and for theology.

“Written with power and subtlety, Mark shows us how poetry can change our whole view of the world. He sees poetry not just as a tool for expressing faith but as a way…