Lynne is Jack Somerville Senior Lecturer in Pastoral Theology at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. Her PhD (2017, Flinders University of South Australia) explored why previously unchurched Australians become Christians today, and she continues to be curious about how God is at work in the world (and how that is perceived and experienced). Lynne’s recent research investigates churches’ responses to the Covid-19 pandemic, exploring their mission, ministry, and pastoral care practices. Overall, her research is broadly focused on human flourishing, considering how chaplains, churches and Christians can support the holistic wellbeing of careseekers, congregations and wider communities. Prior to (and in conjunction with) her academic role, Lynne has worked and volunteered in pastoral ministry, and engaged in congregational and denominational research. She is married to Steve and they have two young-adult daughters.