Lucian Turcescu
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- April 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780195174250
- eISBN:
- 9780199835478
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195174259.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology
The concept of personhood is central to a wide range of contemporary issues, ranging from reproductive rights to the death penalty and euthanasia. We may think that the concept of person is a modern ...
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The concept of personhood is central to a wide range of contemporary issues, ranging from reproductive rights to the death penalty and euthanasia. We may think that the concept of person is a modern development. In fact, however, this idea does not originate with our discovery of human rights, consciousness, and individuality. This study shows that the fourth-century theologian Gregory of Nyssa developed a very sophisticated concept of the person in the context of his attempts to clarify the paradox of the Trinity—a single God comprising three distinct persons. The book offers the first in-depth analysis of Gregory’s writings about the divine persons. It shows that Gregory understood personhood as characterized by uniqueness, relationality, and freedom. He reasoned that the three persons of the Trinity have distinctive properties that make them individuals, that is, capable of being enumerated and circumscribed. But this idea of individuation, inherited from the neo-Platonists, falls short of expressing a clear notion of personal uniqueness. By itself it would suggest that a person is merely a collection of properties. Gregory’s great contribution was to perceive the importance of relationality to personhood. The three divine persons know and love each other, are in communion with each other, and freely act together in their common will. This understanding adds up to a concept of personal uniqueness much like our modern one. The book not only contributes to our knowledge of the history of Trinitarian theology but can be helpful to theologians who are dealing with issues in contemporary ethics.Less
The concept of personhood is central to a wide range of contemporary issues, ranging from reproductive rights to the death penalty and euthanasia. We may think that the concept of person is a modern development. In fact, however, this idea does not originate with our discovery of human rights, consciousness, and individuality. This study shows that the fourth-century theologian Gregory of Nyssa developed a very sophisticated concept of the person in the context of his attempts to clarify the paradox of the Trinity—a single God comprising three distinct persons. The book offers the first in-depth analysis of Gregory’s writings about the divine persons. It shows that Gregory understood personhood as characterized by uniqueness, relationality, and freedom. He reasoned that the three persons of the Trinity have distinctive properties that make them individuals, that is, capable of being enumerated and circumscribed. But this idea of individuation, inherited from the neo-Platonists, falls short of expressing a clear notion of personal uniqueness. By itself it would suggest that a person is merely a collection of properties. Gregory’s great contribution was to perceive the importance of relationality to personhood. The three divine persons know and love each other, are in communion with each other, and freely act together in their common will. This understanding adds up to a concept of personal uniqueness much like our modern one. The book not only contributes to our knowledge of the history of Trinitarian theology but can be helpful to theologians who are dealing with issues in contemporary ethics.
Richard Lennan
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- January 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780199271467
- eISBN:
- 9780191602108
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199271461.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
The present‐day situation of the Roman Catholic Church has been described as a state of ‘peril’. That fact alone, to say nothing of the challenges inseparable from faith in God, implies that the ...
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The present‐day situation of the Roman Catholic Church has been described as a state of ‘peril’. That fact alone, to say nothing of the challenges inseparable from faith in God, implies that the embrace of ecclesial faith is less likely today. Seeks both to account for the emergence of such a situation and to identify sources of possibility for the church. In order to do so, begins by examining both the internal life of the Catholic Church, especially what has occurred in the wake of the Second Vatican Council (1962–65), and the relationship between the church and the wider society, with a particular emphasis on the Western world. As the necessary foundation for expressing how the church might respond to its present situation and what might enable or support the embrace of ecclesial faith, the book focusses on a broad understanding of ‘the church’, one that highlights its multiple implications for human communion and for the communion between God and humanity. In particular, develops a contemporary theology of the foundational elements of Christian faith in regard to the church, especially its relationship to Jesus Christ and its existence as symbol of the Holy Spirit. In the light of that theology, analyses also how controversial elements of ecclesial faith – such as tradition and authority – might be appropriated positively. The final chapters identify possibilities for both a constructive relationship between the church and the surrounding culture and for a more reconciled diversity within the church. The emphasis of the final chapters is on the need to understand the church as ‘unfinished’, as not simply able to develop, but as defined by the dynamism that expresses the presence of God. Concludes that a willingness to embrace the need for movement, for being a pilgrim, is inseparable from the risk of ecclesial faith.Less
The present‐day situation of the Roman Catholic Church has been described as a state of ‘peril’. That fact alone, to say nothing of the challenges inseparable from faith in God, implies that the embrace of ecclesial faith is less likely today. Seeks both to account for the emergence of such a situation and to identify sources of possibility for the church. In order to do so, begins by examining both the internal life of the Catholic Church, especially what has occurred in the wake of the Second Vatican Council (1962–65), and the relationship between the church and the wider society, with a particular emphasis on the Western world. As the necessary foundation for expressing how the church might respond to its present situation and what might enable or support the embrace of ecclesial faith, the book focusses on a broad understanding of ‘the church’, one that highlights its multiple implications for human communion and for the communion between God and humanity. In particular, develops a contemporary theology of the foundational elements of Christian faith in regard to the church, especially its relationship to Jesus Christ and its existence as symbol of the Holy Spirit. In the light of that theology, analyses also how controversial elements of ecclesial faith – such as tradition and authority – might be appropriated positively. The final chapters identify possibilities for both a constructive relationship between the church and the surrounding culture and for a more reconciled diversity within the church. The emphasis of the final chapters is on the need to understand the church as ‘unfinished’, as not simply able to develop, but as defined by the dynamism that expresses the presence of God. Concludes that a willingness to embrace the need for movement, for being a pilgrim, is inseparable from the risk of ecclesial faith.
Andrew R. Holmes
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- January 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199288656
- eISBN:
- 9780191710759
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199288656.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
The first section of this chapter examines the communal, personal, and practical preparations for communion, including a general discussion of the practice of church discipline. The last two sections ...
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The first section of this chapter examines the communal, personal, and practical preparations for communion, including a general discussion of the practice of church discipline. The last two sections explore the organization, structure, and meaning of the communion season while highlighting some of the changes and continuities in the 19th century, particularly the impact of the reforms promoted by Presbyterian evangelicals.Less
The first section of this chapter examines the communal, personal, and practical preparations for communion, including a general discussion of the practice of church discipline. The last two sections explore the organization, structure, and meaning of the communion season while highlighting some of the changes and continuities in the 19th century, particularly the impact of the reforms promoted by Presbyterian evangelicals.
Roger Pearson
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198159179
- eISBN:
- 9780191673535
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198159179.003.0002
- Subject:
- Literature, European Literature, Poetry
Mallarmé's early works are notable for the poet's concerted endeavour to learn his craft. Not for him the gush and turpitude of adolescent introspection, nor self-indulgent posturing before the ...
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Mallarmé's early works are notable for the poet's concerted endeavour to learn his craft. Not for him the gush and turpitude of adolescent introspection, nor self-indulgent posturing before the mirror of the muse: there was work to be done. He wanted to be a poet, he would learn what other poets did, and he would see if he could do better. At the Lycee de Sens it was customary on the annual day of first communion for chosen pupils to recite a poem of their own creation in celebration of the occasion. What appears to have been Mallarmé's first attempt to secure this honour, his ‘Cantate pour la première communion’ (1858), displays less the religiosity of an adolescent than the virtuosity of a promising apprentice. Taking a standard theme (angelic children as rivals of the heavenly hosts in praising the Almighty), he turns his hand to the ‘cantata’, the poetic form perfected by Jean–Baptiste Rousseau and which he had just been studying in class that year.Less
Mallarmé's early works are notable for the poet's concerted endeavour to learn his craft. Not for him the gush and turpitude of adolescent introspection, nor self-indulgent posturing before the mirror of the muse: there was work to be done. He wanted to be a poet, he would learn what other poets did, and he would see if he could do better. At the Lycee de Sens it was customary on the annual day of first communion for chosen pupils to recite a poem of their own creation in celebration of the occasion. What appears to have been Mallarmé's first attempt to secure this honour, his ‘Cantate pour la première communion’ (1858), displays less the religiosity of an adolescent than the virtuosity of a promising apprentice. Taking a standard theme (angelic children as rivals of the heavenly hosts in praising the Almighty), he turns his hand to the ‘cantata’, the poetic form perfected by Jean–Baptiste Rousseau and which he had just been studying in class that year.
David Albert Jones
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199213009
- eISBN:
- 9780191707179
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199213009.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
This chapter examines the clergy's core task of leading worship in their parishes. It explores the evidence about Sunday services, about how frequently they were held, the manner in which they were ...
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This chapter examines the clergy's core task of leading worship in their parishes. It explores the evidence about Sunday services, about how frequently they were held, the manner in which they were conducted, the conscientiousness or not of the clergy, the frequency of weekday services, and the frequency and manner of celebrating Holy Communion. The extent of the participation of lay people in conducting worship is examined, especially in terms of music, in choirs, and the attitude of the clergy to this. The observation of Church fasts and festivals is examined, as well as the involvement of clergy in communal celebrations, such as fairs and friendly societies. The role of the clergy in churchings, baptisms, and weddings, including ‘clandestine marriage’, involving more or less serious legal irregularities in conducting a marriage, is investigated.Less
This chapter examines the clergy's core task of leading worship in their parishes. It explores the evidence about Sunday services, about how frequently they were held, the manner in which they were conducted, the conscientiousness or not of the clergy, the frequency of weekday services, and the frequency and manner of celebrating Holy Communion. The extent of the participation of lay people in conducting worship is examined, especially in terms of music, in choirs, and the attitude of the clergy to this. The observation of Church fasts and festivals is examined, as well as the involvement of clergy in communal celebrations, such as fairs and friendly societies. The role of the clergy in churchings, baptisms, and weddings, including ‘clandestine marriage’, involving more or less serious legal irregularities in conducting a marriage, is investigated.
Donald Fairbairn
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199256143
- eISBN:
- 9780191600586
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199256144.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Early Christian Studies
This chapter deals with Cyril of Alexandria's writings prior to the Nestorian controversy and asserts that Cyril sees salvation as God's action through the incarnation to rescue humanity from a ...
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This chapter deals with Cyril of Alexandria's writings prior to the Nestorian controversy and asserts that Cyril sees salvation as God's action through the incarnation to rescue humanity from a predicament it could not escape. Grace is primarily God's giving himself to humanity through Christ, and the chapter analyses the various aspects of himself God shares with people. The chapter argues that grace is pre‐eminently God's giving humanity divine sonship by sharing the communion he has within himself, between the persons of the Trinity. The heart of the chapter is an extended discussion of two Greek terms (idios and oikeiotes) that Cyril uses to describe both the difference between Christ's sonship and ours, and the way God shares this communion with us.Less
This chapter deals with Cyril of Alexandria's writings prior to the Nestorian controversy and asserts that Cyril sees salvation as God's action through the incarnation to rescue humanity from a predicament it could not escape. Grace is primarily God's giving himself to humanity through Christ, and the chapter analyses the various aspects of himself God shares with people. The chapter argues that grace is pre‐eminently God's giving humanity divine sonship by sharing the communion he has within himself, between the persons of the Trinity. The heart of the chapter is an extended discussion of two Greek terms (idios and oikeiotes) that Cyril uses to describe both the difference between Christ's sonship and ours, and the way God shares this communion with us.
Keith Robbins
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780198263715
- eISBN:
- 9780191714283
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198263715.003.0006
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity, Church History
The chapter begins by considering the advent of the American evangelist Billy Graham and crusading revivalism, its success and failures. It then considers ecclesiastical decolonization — the impact ...
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The chapter begins by considering the advent of the American evangelist Billy Graham and crusading revivalism, its success and failures. It then considers ecclesiastical decolonization — the impact of the end of the British Empire on the Anglican Communion in particular — and the different ways in which the churches reacted to the possibility of European integration. That in turn was bound up with the continuing Cold War and the role of the World Council of Churches. The chapter then turns to religious/political tensions within Ireland and the reviving nationalism within Britain (and church involvement). The impact of Vatican II in Britain and Ireland was significant, both on Catholics and on ecumenical relations. Church unity was high on the agenda. New bible translations and liturgies appeared, new theologies were written, but new economic prosperity and social liberalism often left churches mystified.Less
The chapter begins by considering the advent of the American evangelist Billy Graham and crusading revivalism, its success and failures. It then considers ecclesiastical decolonization — the impact of the end of the British Empire on the Anglican Communion in particular — and the different ways in which the churches reacted to the possibility of European integration. That in turn was bound up with the continuing Cold War and the role of the World Council of Churches. The chapter then turns to religious/political tensions within Ireland and the reviving nationalism within Britain (and church involvement). The impact of Vatican II in Britain and Ireland was significant, both on Catholics and on ecumenical relations. Church unity was high on the agenda. New bible translations and liturgies appeared, new theologies were written, but new economic prosperity and social liberalism often left churches mystified.
Suzanne Vromen
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195181289
- eISBN:
- 9780199870752
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195181289.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Judaism
The chapter is based on interviews with formerly hidden children and is illustrated by numerous quotes. It describes various responses to the wearing of the yellow star and the desperate search for ...
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The chapter is based on interviews with formerly hidden children and is illustrated by numerous quotes. It describes various responses to the wearing of the yellow star and the desperate search for hiding places that follows the sudden and brutal roundups of the Jewish population in the summer of 1942. Life in the convents in which the children are hidden is detailed through the reactions of the children to prayers, baptism, confession, and communion. These reactions vary greatly from resistance to acceptance; remnants of Judaism persist for some. New attitudes to the body considered as shameful are learned, and lice fought, hunger endured, native language and identity concealed. Relationships with priests and nuns range from caring, tender, and maternal to cruel and punishing. In the aftermath of the liberation, the impact of Catholic institutions varies; many hidden children return to their Jewish identity and a few remain converted. The children face great difficulties due to the ravages in their families, and gender differences in opportunities offered to orphans are resented to this day.Less
The chapter is based on interviews with formerly hidden children and is illustrated by numerous quotes. It describes various responses to the wearing of the yellow star and the desperate search for hiding places that follows the sudden and brutal roundups of the Jewish population in the summer of 1942. Life in the convents in which the children are hidden is detailed through the reactions of the children to prayers, baptism, confession, and communion. These reactions vary greatly from resistance to acceptance; remnants of Judaism persist for some. New attitudes to the body considered as shameful are learned, and lice fought, hunger endured, native language and identity concealed. Relationships with priests and nuns range from caring, tender, and maternal to cruel and punishing. In the aftermath of the liberation, the impact of Catholic institutions varies; many hidden children return to their Jewish identity and a few remain converted. The children face great difficulties due to the ravages in their families, and gender differences in opportunities offered to orphans are resented to this day.
Karen B. Westerfield Tucker
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195126983
- eISBN:
- 9780199834754
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/019512698X.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
Methodism arguably became a separate denomination in response to the desire for the “constant communion” advocated by John Wesley. Yet, the frequency of reception varied over the years because of ...
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Methodism arguably became a separate denomination in response to the desire for the “constant communion” advocated by John Wesley. Yet, the frequency of reception varied over the years because of theological, social, and geographical factors. Even though the eucharistic rite inherited from Wesley was left largely unaltered until the twentieth century, Methodists debated other matters related to the Lord's Supper. These included the presence of Christ in the sacrament, admission to the table (“open” versus “close” communion), the composition of the communion elements (e.g., wine or grape juice), and the method of reception.Less
Methodism arguably became a separate denomination in response to the desire for the “constant communion” advocated by John Wesley. Yet, the frequency of reception varied over the years because of theological, social, and geographical factors. Even though the eucharistic rite inherited from Wesley was left largely unaltered until the twentieth century, Methodists debated other matters related to the Lord's Supper. These included the presence of Christ in the sacrament, admission to the table (“open” versus “close” communion), the composition of the communion elements (e.g., wine or grape juice), and the method of reception.
Ted A. Campbell
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195370638
- eISBN:
- 9780199870738
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195370638.003.004
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology
Chapter 3 discusses the ways in which the gospel message has been expressed in a variety of churches that were related to or influenced by the Reformation of the sixteenth century (including Anglican ...
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Chapter 3 discusses the ways in which the gospel message has been expressed in a variety of churches that were related to or influenced by the Reformation of the sixteenth century (including Anglican churches). The chapter shows that in these churches the gospel message has been transmitted in three ways: through creeds and other doctrinal statements; through the Protestant understanding of the unity of the scriptures which focuses on the message about Jesus Christ; and through varied forms of worship including preaching, the celebration of the eucharist (the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion), and the use of hymns.Less
Chapter 3 discusses the ways in which the gospel message has been expressed in a variety of churches that were related to or influenced by the Reformation of the sixteenth century (including Anglican churches). The chapter shows that in these churches the gospel message has been transmitted in three ways: through creeds and other doctrinal statements; through the Protestant understanding of the unity of the scriptures which focuses on the message about Jesus Christ; and through varied forms of worship including preaching, the celebration of the eucharist (the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion), and the use of hymns.
Donald Bolen
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199216451
- eISBN:
- 9780191712173
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199216451.003.0023
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology, Religion and Society
This chapter begins by looking at the methodologies adopted and developed within the Roman Catholic Church's dialogues with the Anglican Communion and the World Methodist Council, reflecting on ...
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This chapter begins by looking at the methodologies adopted and developed within the Roman Catholic Church's dialogues with the Anglican Communion and the World Methodist Council, reflecting on aspects attentive to ecumenical learning, and which to some degree could be adapted or replicated in other contexts. It looks at recent initiatives within Anglican–Roman Catholic relations, in particular, the work of the International Anglican–Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission, as a means of bridging the gaps mentioned above. It then considers recent developments in Methodist–Catholic relations, focusing on a mutual exchange of gifts in the most recent statement of the Joint International Commission for Dialogue Between the World Methodist Council and the Roman Catholic Church. Finally, the chapter offers concluding reflections on Receptive Ecumenism in the light of these dialogues.Less
This chapter begins by looking at the methodologies adopted and developed within the Roman Catholic Church's dialogues with the Anglican Communion and the World Methodist Council, reflecting on aspects attentive to ecumenical learning, and which to some degree could be adapted or replicated in other contexts. It looks at recent initiatives within Anglican–Roman Catholic relations, in particular, the work of the International Anglican–Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission, as a means of bridging the gaps mentioned above. It then considers recent developments in Methodist–Catholic relations, focusing on a mutual exchange of gifts in the most recent statement of the Joint International Commission for Dialogue Between the World Methodist Council and the Roman Catholic Church. Finally, the chapter offers concluding reflections on Receptive Ecumenism in the light of these dialogues.
Nicholas Sagovsky
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199216451
- eISBN:
- 9780191712173
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199216451.003.0031
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology, Religion and Society
This chapter presents a response to Cardinal Kasper's question: How it is possible ‘to designate Scripture and the Apostles’ and Niceno–Constantinopolitan Creeds as normative in the Chicago–Lambeth ...
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This chapter presents a response to Cardinal Kasper's question: How it is possible ‘to designate Scripture and the Apostles’ and Niceno–Constantinopolitan Creeds as normative in the Chicago–Lambeth Quadrilateral, but to disregard the binding force of the subsequent living tradition? It argues that Anglicans, though they do not define, or make explicit, the binding force of the living tradition, as Roman Catholics do, by no means disregard it. At the moment they are far from united on how that ‘binding force’ may be discerned, but they cannot see in other Christian traditions the specific gift or gifts that can resolve this crisis in communion.Less
This chapter presents a response to Cardinal Kasper's question: How it is possible ‘to designate Scripture and the Apostles’ and Niceno–Constantinopolitan Creeds as normative in the Chicago–Lambeth Quadrilateral, but to disregard the binding force of the subsequent living tradition? It argues that Anglicans, though they do not define, or make explicit, the binding force of the living tradition, as Roman Catholics do, by no means disregard it. At the moment they are far from united on how that ‘binding force’ may be discerned, but they cannot see in other Christian traditions the specific gift or gifts that can resolve this crisis in communion.
David Domke and Kevin Coe
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195326413
- eISBN:
- 9780199870431
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195326413.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter focuses on the third religious signal: embracing religious symbols, practices, and rituals by engaging in acts of communion with the faithful. Three presidential acts of communion are ...
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This chapter focuses on the third religious signal: embracing religious symbols, practices, and rituals by engaging in acts of communion with the faithful. Three presidential acts of communion are examined: political pilgrimages, in which presidents give speeches at religious locations or to religious audiences; presidential proclamations, in which presidents formally signal their support for prayer or other religious symbols and activities; and presidential celebrations of Christmas, in which presidents recognize an important holy day for Christians. These acts of communion are “narrowcasts” — targeted communications that typically are noticed only by a chosen few. In this sense, they differ from the “broadcast” communications discussed in Chapters 2 and 3. As in those chapters, however, this signal increased dramatically in 1981. Since that time, presidents have made far more political pilgrimages, issued far more proclamations of a religious nature, and been far more likely to reference Christ in their Christmas communications — all to the delight of religious conservatives.Less
This chapter focuses on the third religious signal: embracing religious symbols, practices, and rituals by engaging in acts of communion with the faithful. Three presidential acts of communion are examined: political pilgrimages, in which presidents give speeches at religious locations or to religious audiences; presidential proclamations, in which presidents formally signal their support for prayer or other religious symbols and activities; and presidential celebrations of Christmas, in which presidents recognize an important holy day for Christians. These acts of communion are “narrowcasts” — targeted communications that typically are noticed only by a chosen few. In this sense, they differ from the “broadcast” communications discussed in Chapters 2 and 3. As in those chapters, however, this signal increased dramatically in 1981. Since that time, presidents have made far more political pilgrimages, issued far more proclamations of a religious nature, and been far more likely to reference Christ in their Christmas communications — all to the delight of religious conservatives.
J. Rixey Ruffin
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195326512
- eISBN:
- 9780199870417
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195326512.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
William Bentley began his tenure as assistant pastor of the East Church in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1783, and immediately came into conflict with the much older senior pastor. But within two years, ...
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William Bentley began his tenure as assistant pastor of the East Church in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1783, and immediately came into conflict with the much older senior pastor. But within two years, the senior pastor was gone, driven out by the church he had served for half a century. That minister, James Diman, was a Calvinist, but Bentley believed in a theology of salvation called Arminianism—in the benevolence of God and the possibility of salvation through moral behavior. The church's members picked Bentley's Arminianism over Diman's Calvinism. How and why they did so sheds light on the power of the sacraments (Communion and baptism) in New England Christianity, on the unique relationships in Congregationalism between members, parishioners, and pew proprietors, and on the liberating potential of the American Revolution, particularly in the economic power gained from privateering.Less
William Bentley began his tenure as assistant pastor of the East Church in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1783, and immediately came into conflict with the much older senior pastor. But within two years, the senior pastor was gone, driven out by the church he had served for half a century. That minister, James Diman, was a Calvinist, but Bentley believed in a theology of salvation called Arminianism—in the benevolence of God and the possibility of salvation through moral behavior. The church's members picked Bentley's Arminianism over Diman's Calvinism. How and why they did so sheds light on the power of the sacraments (Communion and baptism) in New England Christianity, on the unique relationships in Congregationalism between members, parishioners, and pew proprietors, and on the liberating potential of the American Revolution, particularly in the economic power gained from privateering.
J. Rixey Ruffin
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195326512
- eISBN:
- 9780199870417
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195326512.003.0006
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
If Arminianism shaped his social ideology, Christian naturalism shaped his spiritual one. The removal of God from interfering in the natural realm allowed Bentley a new type and degree of religious ...
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If Arminianism shaped his social ideology, Christian naturalism shaped his spiritual one. The removal of God from interfering in the natural realm allowed Bentley a new type and degree of religious toleration. He supported the freedom of religion both within and without Congregationalism, in fact dissolving the legal obligations of his own parish (the first Congregationalist to do so) and then publicly defending the rights of such dissenting views as the Gloucester Universalism. And he would open up the sacraments—Communion and, more importantly, baptism—beyond the range even of the most liberal of his peers. In short, he developed a unique theological libertarianism, sharing parts of the liberal, evangelical, and deist traditions but belonging to none of them.Less
If Arminianism shaped his social ideology, Christian naturalism shaped his spiritual one. The removal of God from interfering in the natural realm allowed Bentley a new type and degree of religious toleration. He supported the freedom of religion both within and without Congregationalism, in fact dissolving the legal obligations of his own parish (the first Congregationalist to do so) and then publicly defending the rights of such dissenting views as the Gloucester Universalism. And he would open up the sacraments—Communion and, more importantly, baptism—beyond the range even of the most liberal of his peers. In short, he developed a unique theological libertarianism, sharing parts of the liberal, evangelical, and deist traditions but belonging to none of them.
CHRISTOPHER HAIGH
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199216505
- eISBN:
- 9780191711947
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199216505.003.0004
- Subject:
- History, Social History, History of Ideas
This chapter analyzes people's ignorance of catechism. It considers cases of parishioners who were barred from communion due to their ignorance of catechism. By about 1600, cases of rejection for ...
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This chapter analyzes people's ignorance of catechism. It considers cases of parishioners who were barred from communion due to their ignorance of catechism. By about 1600, cases of rejection for ignorance were less common, and after 1610 they were quite rare.Less
This chapter analyzes people's ignorance of catechism. It considers cases of parishioners who were barred from communion due to their ignorance of catechism. By about 1600, cases of rejection for ignorance were less common, and after 1610 they were quite rare.
Stephen C. Barton
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195383355
- eISBN:
- 9780199870561
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195383355.003.0011
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies, History of Christianity
Beginning with Darwin's almost religious awe at the wonder of natural selection, this chapter moves to an account of the ambiguous legacy of Darwin's views on gender, including the support they ...
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Beginning with Darwin's almost religious awe at the wonder of natural selection, this chapter moves to an account of the ambiguous legacy of Darwin's views on gender, including the support they offered to a Victorian separate-spheres ideology and to theories and practices associated with Social Darwinism, such as eugenics. It then considers the wider history of gender before and after Darwin, running from the classical tradition through the biblical tradition, Hellenistic Judaism, and early Christianity to the universalizing tendencies of modernity and the postmodern destabilizing of gender in the interests of identity politics as represented by Judith Butler. A final section reflects on the possibility of reading and practicing "male and female" well in the light of this discomforting narrative. A Christological and eschatological hermeneutics is offered as a contribution to performing gender in ways that begin to do justice to the body's grace.Less
Beginning with Darwin's almost religious awe at the wonder of natural selection, this chapter moves to an account of the ambiguous legacy of Darwin's views on gender, including the support they offered to a Victorian separate-spheres ideology and to theories and practices associated with Social Darwinism, such as eugenics. It then considers the wider history of gender before and after Darwin, running from the classical tradition through the biblical tradition, Hellenistic Judaism, and early Christianity to the universalizing tendencies of modernity and the postmodern destabilizing of gender in the interests of identity politics as represented by Judith Butler. A final section reflects on the possibility of reading and practicing "male and female" well in the light of this discomforting narrative. A Christological and eschatological hermeneutics is offered as a contribution to performing gender in ways that begin to do justice to the body's grace.
John A. Grigg
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195372373
- eISBN:
- 9780199870868
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195372373.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
Although Brainerd's published journals had proven to be popular reading, the publication of his private writings as The Life of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards provided a fresh burst of interest ...
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Although Brainerd's published journals had proven to be popular reading, the publication of his private writings as The Life of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards provided a fresh burst of interest in Brainerd's life. However, Edwards published the diaries as one means of dealing with a specific problem among the members of his church—their waning commitment to God. Although Edwards intended the Life of Brainerd to be an example, it proved to be one of the reasons his congregation chose to dismiss him in 1751.Less
Although Brainerd's published journals had proven to be popular reading, the publication of his private writings as The Life of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards provided a fresh burst of interest in Brainerd's life. However, Edwards published the diaries as one means of dealing with a specific problem among the members of his church—their waning commitment to God. Although Edwards intended the Life of Brainerd to be an example, it proved to be one of the reasons his congregation chose to dismiss him in 1751.
Donald Fairbairn
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199256143
- eISBN:
- 9780191600586
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199256144.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, Early Christian Studies
This chapter deals with Cassian's monastic writings and rejects the typical scholarly view that Cassian understands salvation as a ladder leading to union with God and that grace is simply God's help ...
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This chapter deals with Cassian's monastic writings and rejects the typical scholarly view that Cassian understands salvation as a ladder leading to union with God and that grace is simply God's help in enabling the monk to ascend this ladder. Instead, the chapter shows that for Cassian, union with God is not an absorption into the divine, but rather it is communion with God. Furthermore, the chapter argues that God has given the Christian this communion at conversion and that the monk seeks to deepen and appreciate it more fully. The chapter concludes by reflecting on the implications of this reading of Cassian.Less
This chapter deals with Cassian's monastic writings and rejects the typical scholarly view that Cassian understands salvation as a ladder leading to union with God and that grace is simply God's help in enabling the monk to ascend this ladder. Instead, the chapter shows that for Cassian, union with God is not an absorption into the divine, but rather it is communion with God. Furthermore, the chapter argues that God has given the Christian this communion at conversion and that the monk seeks to deepen and appreciate it more fully. The chapter concludes by reflecting on the implications of this reading of Cassian.
Hans Boersma
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199229642
- eISBN:
- 9780191710773
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199229642.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology, Church History
This chapter discusses the connection between sacrament and Church in de Henri de Lubac and Yves Congar. Both impacted the communion ecclesiology of Vatican II. De Lubac emphasized the reciprocal ...
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This chapter discusses the connection between sacrament and Church in de Henri de Lubac and Yves Congar. Both impacted the communion ecclesiology of Vatican II. De Lubac emphasized the reciprocal relationship between Eucharist and Church, which implied that the Eucharistic body had for its aim the realization of the communion of the ecclesial body. The Church herself was the sacrament of Christ's presence. Congar distinguished between the Church as structure or institution and the Church as life or community, and posited a sacramental relationship between the two. He developed a sacramental understanding of the ‘time of the Church’ as the ‘in between time’ (entre-deux). Over time, de Lubac and Congar developed different emphases. Nonetheless, both intended to restore a sacramental view of the Church by paying attention to the mystery of the intended reality: the unity of the Church in Christ.Less
This chapter discusses the connection between sacrament and Church in de Henri de Lubac and Yves Congar. Both impacted the communion ecclesiology of Vatican II. De Lubac emphasized the reciprocal relationship between Eucharist and Church, which implied that the Eucharistic body had for its aim the realization of the communion of the ecclesial body. The Church herself was the sacrament of Christ's presence. Congar distinguished between the Church as structure or institution and the Church as life or community, and posited a sacramental relationship between the two. He developed a sacramental understanding of the ‘time of the Church’ as the ‘in between time’ (entre-deux). Over time, de Lubac and Congar developed different emphases. Nonetheless, both intended to restore a sacramental view of the Church by paying attention to the mystery of the intended reality: the unity of the Church in Christ.
