Chicago - Catholic Theological Union, Christian Scholars Group and the International Council of Christians and Jews

Too many things going on in the past few days to capture complete reflections - so consider these thoughts as brief notes along the way.

• I'm impressed with the work the Catholic church is doing to effect change and shape peaceable conversation with and among Jews.
• I've never before realized how "small" the church of the Nazarene is as I've not only had to introduce myself personally, but denominationally to several persons in the past few days!  I realize I am not a minority, but I have felt something like it here.  Delighted to be here as one who adds a distinct perspective to conversations that are primarily among the largest groups - Catholics, Jews, and Lutherans.
• Had a delightful meal with an Conservative Jew who insured where we ate (a non-kosher restaurant), no one would notice (though she maintained a kosher meal herself!!) that someone at the table had bacon.  Thankful for her willingness to sit among "goyim" (gentiles) - and yet, found it curious and funny that in my own tradition I might have to feel the same way about sitting at a table where someone at the table might be consuming liquor.  Not sure what to say about it - just the curiosity that in our unique faith traditions we have different things that make us "unclean" or are perceived as "wrong/bad/sin" - and they are so very different.  Bacon or Liquor.  For different communities of faith, reading the same Scripture (!), these different things really do matter!
• Catholics "get" Christian art.
• Worshiped at a gorgeous, wonderful "cathedral" - the Rockefeller Chapel at the University of Chicago.  But, it "felt" hollow as a mere 40 people were there at the start of the service with perhaps another 20 arriving late.  The space - physically and with "choir" singing - literally felt empty.  What does it mean that some places of "aesthetic" beauty for worship lack vibrant communities to "fill them"?  I know I have experienced a greater "feeling" of "intimacy" and "spirit" among the equal number of persons I normally worship with - in a setting at my home congregation where most are poor, former addicts, and have been homeless. 
• Sitting earlier today (and will be again for next two days) among a room full of key, significant leaders of significant organizations in and around the U.S., Europe and Israel.  Not sure how I deserve the invitation - or if the invitation will come again - but feel humbled and honored to do my part to attempt to find my way to best advocate for others in advancing a peaceable future.

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(In)tolerance among clergy in the 21st Century

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U.S. Catholic Historian - Mary Christine Athans.pdf (2534 KB)

It is nearly the end of the 2010 – and we’re safely into the 21^st Century!

Consider these words: 

“Intolerance has been too prevalent as of late, and many clergy of different denominations are [responsible] with its growth.  The whole spirit and office of religion is to make [humans] merciful and humble and just.  If such teaching was preached by the pastors to their own congregations and the [responsibility] of others left to their own clergy, God would be better served and human society governed more in accordance to His holy commandments.”

The quote is from a respected Jewish woman in Philadelphia, written in 1844!  (I edited the words for clarity, “chargable” to “responsible” – “man” to “humans” – and “charge” to “responsible.”)

I am not certain that this quote applies equally in our time in all places in the U.S. – but I am certain it has continued applicability in all too many places in the U.S. today. 

It seems to me the spirit and ethic of the prophets of Hebrew Scripture and Jesus of Christian Scripture intends to create believers (Jews or Christian) who shape humans as individuals – and within society – to be “merciful and humble and just.”  Or, as the prophet Micah in chapter 6 writes the same words, in different order, “What does the Lord require of you?  To act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (6:8) 

I had opportunity today to explore these themes with Mary Christine Athans, B.V.M. -  based on her article just published in the U.S. Catholic Historian, Vol. 28, Spring 2010.  What a delight to be in the conversation with Christine – but how unfortunate that a disparaging note about U.S. clergy and denominations from the 19^th Century remains all too true as we proceed into the 21^st Century. And, even greater tragedy - that we may still not be able to discern the message of the prophets from two thousand seven hundred years ago! Or from Jesus two thousand years ago. 

Learning with & from ecumenical leaders at DUKE

I have spent a number of days, over a period of months - on retreat and in learning and fellowship with persons from a variety of faith traditions. In our shared program of learning through DUKE Divinity’s Faith and Leadership Program we have talked about many things! Too many to list!

We have shared ideas about traditioned innovation, vibrant institutions, reconciliation, adaptive leadership and thinking institutionally. We have played together and prayed together. We have read good books – and shared the knowledge we have gleaned together. We have shared meals and fellowship. We have learned the value of telling stories, while sharing our stories one with another. We have grown and learned from one another.

In the midst of it all – I am reminded of how “big” and vibrant the Church is in all its manifestations. I am reminded that the Kingdom embraces various aspects of leaders and leadership to cultivate and direct faithful institutions in the work of the Kingdom.

I have developed friendships with Adrienne, Herb, Wes, Kirsty, Rob, Keith, Phil, Sarah, Kate, Laura, Nicole, Kevin, Sharon, Kiely, and Elizabeth – not to mention leaders from DUKE including Bill, Tamara, and Dave.

I have come in direct working relationship with key persons from various institutions and from places around the U.S. including: Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, Nehemiah Christian Center/Apex School of Theology, Reformed Church in America , First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte, Presbyterian Church (USA), General Assembly Mission Council, Western's Center for Continual Learning Western Theological Seminary, North Avenue Presbyterian Church, Columbia Theological Seminary, Hope College, Massachusetts Council of Churches, United Church of Christ, Iowa Conference, Calvary Baptist Church of Denver, CUE (Chicago-United-Eden) Seminaries, Bethany Theological Seminary, and the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts.

Together we have discerned the following list of things that constitute the most vibrant issues for vibrant, engaged, living, institutions. As you will see from this comprehensive list – the responsibilities for faithful institutions is not simple or easy. But, vibrant institutions can become reality and I hope to be part of vibrant institutions and vibrant communities of faith for my entire life’s journey.

Our list (in no particular order) – What makes a Vibrant Institution:

Empowering
Wooing/Inviting
Provide a place to stand/foundation
Longevity
Spirit-led
Strong individuals
Generational
Perseverance in darkness
Clear mission
Articulated purpose
Insight
Clear values
Practical application
Action oriented
Disciplined – communal participation
Vision bigger than self
Nurturing
Embody Trust
Connecting
Diversity
Cast articulate clear vision
Rhythm/order
See beyond self
Accessible
Clear communication patterns
Clarity of mission
Connect to history but not bound by it
Process of initiation
Welcome newcomer with open arms
Stories of success
Dependability
Room to be vulnerable
Clear expectations
Initiation
Sense of history
Marks of distinction from other institutions
Sharing burdens
Clarity about what institution is not
Owning brokenness
Mentoring
Nurture, Challenge
Agents for transformation
Access to things
People to encounter
Ritual
Extravagant welcome
Spirit
Makes demand on and for
Forms my lifestyle and habit
Commitment
Fun
Laughter
Encourage people to improve
Evolution and Adaptation
Equality
Listening
Teachers of tradition bearer of ritual
Rethink power structures
Mobility
Portability
Engaging physically, emotionally intellectually and spiritually
Hospitality
Accountability
Clear communication patterns
Relational vitality
Trust
Ability to resolve conflict
Grace
Reconciliation forgiveness experienced
Love and care
Laughter and playfulness
Honor word
Ritual symbols
Training preparation learning
Nurture
Bearers of traditions
Laboratories for learning
Incubators for leadership
Forms and structures our traditions
Cultivate thinking communities
Mentors and disciples
Clear vision
Right people
Acquired wisdom
Healthy turnover
Space for innovation
Places of reconciliation hope and lament
Foster relationships
Build on and pas on knowledge across generations
Convey a craft culture around along with their ends
Broaden and add to the lives of those they serve
Exists for more than themselves
Inspiring trust
Outwardly focused
Innovative

Sense of joy
Emerging leader focused
Activists
People oriented
Leadership form among
Challenging
Pushing
Community identity voice
Holding place
Transition
Ask questions
Purposeful
I felt empowered
Afforded a voice
Life giving
Autonomous
Financially support
Flexible
Sustainable
Dialogue
Everyone has a place at the table
Know my name
Institutional memory
Dream makers – spread and sending
Forward thinking
Personal
Inspire loyalty and stewardship
Sense of well defined identity
From the shadows to the future
Raising leaders from within
Accountability - mechanisms in place
Encourage change, risk
Admit brokenness
Atone – take action
Connect to context in ways that work for them
Portability – transcendent
It has a story – compelling narrative. If you can’t tell the story of your organization in a way that is compelling, it will die – not thrive.

**

Now I must journey on with these insights!

Former Students, Future Friends, Fantastic Life

Several months ago I gathered with my colleagues from the School of Theology and Ministry at SNU to meet with the class, on a weekend retreat - "Introduction to Ministry."  The class, taught by one of my colleagues and offered every Fall to incoming students (freshmen and transfers) is an orientation to what it means to think about and be a minister in the various capacities that constitute Christian Service and discerning one's vocation in ministry.

On retreat we have a Q&A session when the students get to ask anything.  At the end, my colleague asked us if there was anything supplementary that we would like to share.  Looking out at a group of some 40 (or so) students in all their unique diversity and with all their special gifts and talents I said something like this, "Some of my best friends in life - and the people I most routinely converse with on Facebook or through other social networks are former students.  I look forward to the fact that in the next decade - some of you will go on to church ministry, academic pursuits or various world regions - and you will become my best friends."

I note that because I'm at DUKE in Durham, N.C. as I send this post.  Yesterday I had the opportunity to be with Megan Pardue and her husband Keith - and we spent a great full day together - eating pizza, going to the beach - sharing our lives together in ministry thoughts, family conversations, jokes, travel, and just "nothing."  In fact, I joked with Keith throughout the day that he kept trying to make our conversation have a telos and we didn't need one!  We had a GREAT day!  See the pics here!!  I could not be more proud of who Megan & Keith are - for their contributions, for their conversation, for the way they think about being Christian in vibrant and meaningful ways!

Though I was not with him yesterday or today - as he's out of town - I am right now co-writing a paper with another former student - who is also at DUKE, Logan Kruck.  He and I will present our paper together in the Spring at the Wesleyan Theological Society meeting.  What a thrill to be working in harmony and synchronicity with former students who have competence and skill!

And today, I'll worship with a friend from my shared and collaborative work through Duke's Faith and Leadership Program - Herbert Reynolds Davis.  Then, I'll share coffee with a  mentor in my own life - my former teacher - W. Stephen Gunter.  He taught me many things when I served as his Graduate Assistant many years ago - and I continue to learn from him as he, many years ago - transitioned from being "just my teacher" to becoming *also* my friend.  And, he remains someone I learn from and glean from.

And, I anticipate wrapping up the day with dinner or dessert with Amber Gingerich Crispell - who was a "child" when I was a Children's Pastor in Colorado Springs.  She and her family - and her extended family - were key members - witnesses and workers! - in the church where I served.  Amber and her husband, who I have yet to meet, Dave - are finishing their program of study here at DUKE where he will complete his M.Div this academic year.  Amber's cousin, Kevin, also a former "child" when I was Children's Pastor in Colorado Springs - was a student at SNU - and lived with us off and on in between and before and after semesters on occasion. 

My life is filled with key relationships of meaning - that give me vitality, hope - from former students - and from my own former student days!

What a blessing to see the hope and possibility of former students who become future friends - as meaningful relationships are developed, and shared friendship is extended in open and hospitable ways!

And, what an absolute thrill to be a participant with others - these particular and specific others - as we attempt to do our best - together - to reflect and embody the life of God's Kingdom!

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Participating with Scholars - Jewish Christian Relationships

I am delighted to have received invitation to meet this Fall with the Christian Scholars Group for their biannual meeting in Chicago.

Though the invitation comes simply to be a kind of external participant to how this membership group works, I am thrilled.

The Christian Scholars Group (CSG) is an ecumenical gathering of Christian scholars that has been studying a wide range of topics pertinent to Christian-Jewish relations. Its members have written some of the most influential works on the subject. The CSG meets annually under the auspices of the Center for Christian-Jewish Learning to discuss the research being conducted by members and the latest developments in the field.

I had opportunity to meet Rev. Dr. Peter Petit, who has given me this invitation - while working at Oxford this past summer. Peter and I have separate but unique connections in several ways - personally and professionally - and I have been nothing but thoroughly impressed with who he is as a gracious person, a formidable thinker, and a clear communicator.

I will be traveling with SNU students to the land of Israel, Palestine, and Jordan again in early 2011. This gives me opportunity as a professor to engage students in unique ways – and gives opportunity for networks of relationships that can expand the scope of how SNU graduates collaborate with other programs, professors, and universities.

The purposes of the Christian Scholars Group include fostering scholarship concerning the relation of Christianity to Judaism, providing a forum for constructive criticism of work-in-progress on this relationship and engaging in collaborative projects that might also serve as a resource for others concerned with Christian-Jewish relations. While an invited membership is for scholars, the work of the Christian Scholars Group takes place for the church as the group seeks to assist churches in reconsidering and reformulating their teaching regarding Jews and Judaism, and the Christian-Jewish relationship.

While meeting in this extended way with the CSG, seeing how they work and who they are, I will also participate in a consultation meeting with the International Council of Christians and Jews (ICCJ) including Chicago Theological Union’s annual Shapiro Lecture, being presented this year by the ICCJ president, Debbie Weissman of Israel.

Only God knows how these relationships can help foster my personal and professional growth - as I continue to try to nuance and discern in my life how to embody and reflect a life that extends good to the all, extending justice and peace.