For me, the highlights of today centered around two conferences held in Byrum Hall.
First, was the annual Doctrinal Dialogue sponsored by the School of Theology. I believe that these types of experiences are extremely valuable, and we need many more of these forums for exchange and discussion. This year's theme was on the biblical view of creation, and featured a paper presented by Dr. James Christoph of Warner Southern College. (Papers can be downloaded from the SOT website). The content was very good, but perhaps too sketchy because of the time available and I found participants all danced around the issue to some extent knowing the controversial nature of the subject matter and the emotional responses it generates.
Immediately following there was an open forum with Ronald Duncan and his recent paper on congregationalism. Obviously, with my recent blog coverage I was especially keen to see what kind of reaction he would receive. I was particularly impressed with Dr. Duncan's genuine interest to generate dialogue, and his passion for the church. Despite what some may say, this is no top-down pronouncement. There were good questions and comments from the audience, with almost everyone affirming his observations and concerns. My only disappointments were that the attendance wasn't great (less than 70), and the people who disagree with his paper didn't seem to be present or at least engaging the issues.
Today's speaker was Cynthia James, Area Administrator in Northern California. She brought an amazing combination of thoughtfulness and energy to her message based on Ephesians 4:11.
This year from Monday to Wednesday the same person preaches both services. There is some confusion among convention goers as to whether these are the same sermons, but at different times and worship experiences. Apparently this is not the case (even though they are preaching from the same text), but for the future this needs to be clarified.
A look at the gathering area in front of the Kardatzke Wellness Center:
All we need are some rides!
First, was the annual Doctrinal Dialogue sponsored by the School of Theology. I believe that these types of experiences are extremely valuable, and we need many more of these forums for exchange and discussion. This year's theme was on the biblical view of creation, and featured a paper presented by Dr. James Christoph of Warner Southern College. (Papers can be downloaded from the SOT website). The content was very good, but perhaps too sketchy because of the time available and I found participants all danced around the issue to some extent knowing the controversial nature of the subject matter and the emotional responses it generates.
Immediately following there was an open forum with Ronald Duncan and his recent paper on congregationalism. Obviously, with my recent blog coverage I was especially keen to see what kind of reaction he would receive. I was particularly impressed with Dr. Duncan's genuine interest to generate dialogue, and his passion for the church. Despite what some may say, this is no top-down pronouncement. There were good questions and comments from the audience, with almost everyone affirming his observations and concerns. My only disappointments were that the attendance wasn't great (less than 70), and the people who disagree with his paper didn't seem to be present or at least engaging the issues.
This year from Monday to Wednesday the same person preaches both services. There is some confusion among convention goers as to whether these are the same sermons, but at different times and worship experiences. Apparently this is not the case (even though they are preaching from the same text), but for the future this needs to be clarified.
A look at the gathering area in front of the Kardatzke Wellness Center:
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