A Lent Course for Small Groups
This course draws on the intriguing true-life story of mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, as portrayed in the film: The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015), starring Dev Patel and Jeremy Irons. I believe it is a unique Christian Lent course in that the film’s chief protagonists are an atheist and a Hindu, making it both intriguing and challenging.
The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on a true story about two mathematicians of very different backgrounds and outlooks, who struggle to understand each other and work together. Dev Patel is the intuitive genius, Ramanujan, and Jeremy Irons the Cambridge don, G H Hardy, who believes nothing unless it is backed up by rigorous proof. They must learn to work together to achieve their goal and share in the thrill of discovery.
It depicts the Cambridge of 1914 as being highly competitive, intellectually elitist, and in part racist. Yet one of the film’s characters remarks ‘knowledge sometimes comes from the humblest of origins’. Prejudice and anger are major themes in the film; the course encourages exploration of these in today’s Church.
This five-week course offers a thought-provoking engagement with the fundamental issues of life, love and faith. The film is brought into conversation with biblical themes: journeying in faith, exile, the nature of truth, friendship with God; and the longing for home.
Week 1: Setting out
Week 2: Life in a foreign land
Week 3: What is truth?
Week 4: Bridging the gap
Week 5: Homeward bound
How the course can be run
The material is suitable for use in any Church or Christian ecumenical gathering. The three basic marks of the faith – incarnation, cross, and resurrection – are woven into the course, making it suitable for use at any time of year, not just during Lent. It will appeal to anyone who enjoys films and wants to explore how the issues raised bear on Christian faith and discipleship. No great knowledge of, or indeed interest in, mathematics is required. There is ample material for five two-hour sessions. Background information, discussion starters, simple liturgies, and questions for personal reflection are provided.
Arrangements should be made for all course participants to see the whole film prior to the start of the course. In a homegroup setting, the weekly film clips can be watched on television from a purchased DVD or accessed via a streaming service. In larger groupings, projection equipment will be needed. If this is too demanding each week, then a leader, who is familiar with the story should set the scene, reminding group members of the salient points.
Where to purchase the course book
Andy Colebrooke 