In Memoriam
The
Rev. Dr. Michael Prior, CM
Professor of New Testament, St. Mary's College, University of Surrey
1942-2004
A
visionary scholar whose work inspired many from Jerusalem to North America,
a devoted priest who understood that personal faith requires commitment to
social justice, a loving brother, uncle, friend whose humor was as refreshing
as his intellectual acumen was impressive,
a founding member of the Board of Directors.
"Only when 'the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, poor people are evangelised' (Lk 7:22) can the Church be at peace with its founder, the Nazareth preacher, and its Lord."
Michael Prior, Jesus the Liberator: Nazareth Liberation Theology Luke 4:16-30. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1995, p.201
Michael was the epitome of the scholar-activist...His
scholarship and “moral critique” were outstanding and prophetic.
His faith placed an emphasis on the humanity and equality of all people. For
me the loss of Michael is devastating. His passing will also sadden scores
of his friends around the globe.
Dr. Nur Masalha, St. Mary’s College,
London.
...those of us who knew him well will never forget
his sheer physical and spiritual presence--a visual memory of Michael the
human being and Michael the priest that will linger on. Michael was someone
you were always happy to have on your side, especially against the endless
struggles against the evils of this world, and in my particular case, against
the wrongdoing in Palestine...We can only hope that the younger generation
will follow Michael's courageious journey.
Ilan Pappe, University of Haifa
Michael's passion for justice was unflinching and
unshakable. He was compelling and provocative in his writings. He sought to
expose the lies and deceptions that underlie the Zionist project and that
led to the conquest of Palestine. He is 'still speaking' through his books,
lectures, and various publications... His strong prophetic message will reverberate
until justice for the Palestinians is done and peace and reconciliation are
achieved.”
The Rev. Dr. Naim Ateek, Sabeel Liberation Theology
Center, Jerusalem
