Cyndicate
From Ikon
Contents |
What is the Cyndicate
The term ‘cyndicate’ denotes two things. Firstly, it refers to the word ‘syndicate’. A syndicate is made up of an amalgamation of diverse individuals coming together for a common purpose. It is thus a specific type of group that shares a common vision while simultaneously acknowledging difference and diversity.
Secondly the term refers to the word ‘cynic’. In contrast to the way in which the word is used today this word today actually refers to the first major assault upon so called ‘civilised values’. The original cynics were a loose community of individuals who believed that what was being propagated as ‘moral’ and ‘civilised’ by the establishment was often corrupt and self-interested. The cynics (most closely associated with Diogenes) were wandering sages who gave up material wealth to travel the land and question the very things everyone else would take for granted (often teaching in cryptic and controversial ways). The greatest misjudgement made against the cynics was that their attack of dominant moral values equalled an attack upon all moral values. By looking closer it becomes clear that they loved morality so much they were compelled to attack society's crude and oppressive versions of it, often suffering greatly as a result.
Consequently our playful use of the word ‘Cyndicate’ refers to our makeup as a group of disparate individuals who question religion precisely because we love religion so much, questioning our understanding of God only because we love God and we critiquing our views of God’s kingdom because of our deep passion and longing for it. Our cynicism is thus the outworking of prayers, tears and a passion for the incoming of God. Hence, alongside the great Miester Eckhart we can say, ‘I pray therefore, that God rid me of God’.
The Ikon community is deeply indebted to the life and thought of many kindred spirits who have dwelled where we desire to be and who have walked the path that we attempt to crawl. Some of them have long since died, many would no doubt be critical of what we do and most will never have even heard of us, but we are indebted none the less. However, of particular importance to Ikon is the sacrificial commitment of those through whom these influences are embodied and expressed: the ones who are actively involved in the community.
In particular there are a number of individuals who have volunteered their time and expertise to help nurture this embryonic movement. This group is called The Cyndicate and they meet quarterly to plan events and discuss the ongoing development of Ikon.
Who are the Cyndicate
Peter Rollins
Jon Hatch
Kellie Turtle
Cary Gibson
Jonny McEwen
Ben Jones
Shirley Milburne
Sarah Williamson
Stephen Caswell
Michael Davis
Chris Fry
In addition to this there are a number of individuals who are involved with helping out, setting up and/or running various events/groups.
Hall of Fame
In the short space of time that Ikon has been running there have been many who have left their unique mark on the community. Their commitment and expertise has helped to make Ikon what it is and direct it toward what it may one day become. These people include:
Joan Alexander, Tim Edgar, David Gibson, Ewan Gibson, Tony Hayes, Amanda Ireland, Hanna Lee, Treena Lenthall, Mervyn McCullagh, Paul McFarlane, Stu Mullan, Rodney Neil, Bryonie Reid, Mark Schultz, Julie Shelton, Keelan Downton, Michelle Ford, Mike Blythman, Gareth Higgins, Kyle Leitch, Jayne McConkey
