Questions you may wish to consider (Or you may choose to totally ignore these questions and make up a new set that suits you and your context. Be brave.) • As a group, discuss what you know about Mary Magdelene and the other women who were part of the life and ministry of Jesus and the early church. If you don’t know very much, do some research. It’s a fascinating area of study. • Jesus always seemed very open to talking with, affirming and calling people from marginalised groups. Have you noticed this? What were those groups? Why do you think he did this? What was he teaching us through his inclusive approach? • There are still many cultures in which men largely relate to men and women to women – especially as friends. Is this part of your culture? Is it generational? What is your experience of deep friendship across gender divides? • What do you believe about the Resurrection? There are many ways in which people understand the return of Jesus after those three days. Without judgement, listen to what others have to say. (For those who are interested, the physical Resurrection is crucial to my understanding of our faith, but I am fascinated by what others believe.) • The risen Jesus proclaimed peace and enacted forgiveness (with Peter and Thomas and others). In what ways might the Resurrection be seen as the template for Christian living? • What changed because of the Resurrection? Could there be a Christianity without it? In what way do you draw strength – if you do – from the story of the Resurrection? • If you could have a picnic with Jesus, what would you talk about? 128
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