Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Sifting Ashes

The fallout from the ECUSA's General Convention continues. Diocese are requesting alternative oversight, Churches are in disarray. The various blogs are teeming with opinion couched as fact and facts questioned as sophistry. A simple country Anglican is left adrift. It should come as no suprise that the author of this particular site is of a conservative bent. Not conservative from a political standpoint as much as from a theological tradition.
The election of the PB-Elect has resulted in more knee-jerk reactions than a neurologist sees in a lifetime of exams. While cooler heads may prevail and the 'middle' reign triumphant, it is unlikely. And it should be unlikely. These are serious theological issues that cannot be brushed aside in the quest for peace and equanimity. The differences are as deep as bedrock and as solid.
My lay reading of theology from Gnosticism to Panentheism, humanist to orthodox have left me with definite beliefs and opinions. In this authors humble opinion, a Schism is inbound and there is little anyone on Earth can do to avert it.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

In the Midst of a Whirlwind

The vast majority of the previous postings dealt with worldly matters that were quite important on that plane but pale in comparison to much more important subjects. While reading theology has always been a 'pastime' of mine, the recent events in the Episcopal Church (ECUSA) have brought casual reading to a new level. It is no underestimation to state that ECUSA is in a state of agitation that is almost, well, biblical. There are many in the fray that are absolutely assured of their correct position the theological spectrum. I too think that my stance is correct so don't assume that I am immune to the siren's song of righteousness. But one has to take a side if one is to continue to perform as an informed and thinking Christian. The middle of the road is where one gets hit by a fast moving vehicle.
Much of this may be inspired by Bishop N.T. Wright's writings. I started The New Testament and the People of God last month. It is quite a thoughtful tome and not for the casual reader. It is almost surely above my complete understanding but even a blind boar finds a truffle every now and then. Others have written erudite reviews of Bishop Wright and his work so there is no need for me to pen a rookie opinion. Suffice it to say that he is simply the clearest biblically honest apologetic that I have read since C.S.Lewis.
ECUSA could benefit greatly from Wright's input but it is unlikley that they will avail themselves of his scholarship. What is an American Anglican to do?