The Kirk was influenced by the theology of the Reformers , and in particular John Calvin . However , this Reformation acknowledged its deeper historical roots going back beyond the great medieval scholars to the work of the Augustine and the Patristic and Apostolic Fathers . These historical roots are deep , long lasting and satisfying .

However , the foundation of this movement and thus of this school is Jesus Christ . While the temptation to put Jesus Christ aside and focus solely on the values and virtues he espoused always exists , we maintain as paramount the importance of the historical Jesus – his life , teaching and sacrificial death . To throw Jesus out with the bathwater would eventually lead to a bland , powerless and Christless Christianity that offers the world no hope and provides no challenge .

Whether in society , education or even the Church , we are privileged to stand on the shoulders of the giants of the past . These giants of history were as flawed as we are , yet it is imperative that we acknowledge our roots and refuse the pressure to cut ourselves off from the past , and be destined to be stuck eternally in the present with no solace from the past and no reason to build for the future .

Guest speaker at the 2022 Scotch Family Easter Breakfast will be Associate Professor Alan Gijsbers , a specialist physician in Addiction Medicine , and an Honorary Clinical Associate Professor with the Department of Medicine at the Royal Melbourne Hospital , University of Melbourne .

Alan was the first Medical Director of the Addiction Medicine Service at the RMH , and Medical Director of the Substance Withdrawal Unit at the Melbourne Clinic , Richmond . He is a Foundation Fellow in the Chapter of Addiction Medicine of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Alan is the immediate past President of ISCAST , a group of Christians interested in the interaction between science and religion . He has lectured in science and faith at Ridley College and the Bible College of Victoria .

Alan has received the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry , Victorian Chapter ’ s 2020 Meritorious Award , granted to non-psychiatrists who have contributed to the mental health of the Victorian community ,

Alan was the first National President of HealthServe Australia , an organisation of health professionals who seek to provide health and development overseas in the name and spirit of Christ . Alan has published extensively in neuroscience and theology . We look forward to welcoming Alan to speak at the 2022 Easter Breakfast .

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