The Boat Races and a bomb

Boat Races between Oxford and Cambridge have taken place on the Thames since 1829.

An annual event since 1865, yesterday's race was the 163rd in the series. But the race almost didn't happen. On Saturday a passing sailor reported seeing a WW2 bomb near the start point. The situation was resolved early on Sunday morning and the race went ahead. 

A national tradition with a long history, this annual competition between teams from the England's two top universities has held the public imagination. There have been changes - since 2015 The Boat Race has become The Boat Races. Television coverage, sponsorship and the addition of the women's race to the main event have altered the shape but not the main focus of the competition. Adaptability to an ever changing context has ensured the longevity of this very British annual event.

When it comes to religious belief, change and adaptability are equally important but are often controversial. In our time, the Christian Church has struggled to accept both the ministry of women and changing views on marriage. In first century Palestine, Jewish religious leaders were concerned to ensure the keeping of the Sabbath and adherence to The Law. Their inability to see beyond these external marks of faith to what lies behind was the main point of conflict with Jesus.

Christians in today's secular west face similar challenges to the Jews of Jesus' time. Traditions that developed in a context where a single religion was central to national identity are no longer fit for purpose.

Like the WW2 bomb removed from the Thames yesterday perhaps some relics of the past

should be removed to prevent damage to the faith that lies behind.