Weekend event—Jeff Kripal (plus three other scholars)
Jeff Kripal, chair of The Department of Religious Studies at Rice University, is highlighting a new a new graduate focus on gnostic, esoteric, and mystical (GEM) movements in the West. Accompanied by acknowledged experts on ancient gnosticism (April DeConick), medieval magic and Christian theology (Claire Fanger), psychoanalysis and mysticism (William Parsons), and his own scholarship in American metaphysical religion (Jeffrey Kripal), the department brings a unique focus to heterodox traditions that have become increasingly popular in the modern world. For this weekend event, the scholars will present synopses of their work and then engage each other and the audience on topics ranging from the historical origins of these traditions to their continued attractions, transformations, and enthusiasms today.
Join us for this scintillating and truly enjoyable event, Set on your calendar Friday 9 October, 7:30-9pm, and Saturday 10 October 9am-3pm.
Registration will commence at a later date.
Highlighted events
Wed, 9 Sept 11:30-1:00—Louis Marcos, Houston Baptist University
Wed, 14 Oct 11:30-1:00—Dan Price, University of Houston
Wed, 11 Nov 11:30-1:00—Cardinal Daniel DeNardo, Archbishop, Galveston–Houston Diocese
Fri-Sat, 4-5 Dec—Dr. A. J. Levine, Vanderbilt University
Wed, 9 Dec 11:30-1:00—Bob and Maggi Tucker, Foundation for Contemporary Theology
Fall classes at the Academy
Beginning in the fall of 2009, we will launch a new adult education program, The Academy of Contemporary Theology. We are pleased, and excited, to be able to offer these six classes:- Thinking Through Contemporary Theology (Dr Alan Jay Richard)
- Cosmic Theology—Religion and Science in Dialogue (John McGee)
- Creating Christianity—The Role of Sacred Experience Among Early Christians (Rev Dr Betty C Adam)
- Opening Darwin’s Gift—Paths Toward a Theology of Evolution (Bruce Yaeger)
- Application of The New Christian Paradigm to the worship Service (Dr Clyde C Mayo)
- Interactive Methods for Teaching Contemporary Theology to Youth and Adults (Rev Dr Donald Maple)
Foundation Gathering Groups
If you're interested in discussing theological issues, consider joining one of our Foundation Gathering Groups.
These groups meet in homes, and offer stimulating conversation in a friendly environment.
Gathering Groups meet at various times in several neighborhoods in the Houston area, so there's probably one that's convenient for you. Click here for more information.
On vacation in a place without an internet connection. Blogs will return at the end of July.
May these summer days entice you into them with anticipation and joy.
Bob Tucker
New and notable publications
- The Historical Jesus for Beginners: A Primer on Contemporary Biblical Scholarship by Foundation board member William M Linden
- Western Theology, by Foundation Founder Wes Seeliger
Tools for professionals
Ministers have few resources for worship material that expresses a non-literal, non-dogmatic and non-exclusive understanding of our faith. Thus, what is spoken in worship is too often at variance with what is believed and proclaimed. This site is a place for materials that exhibit fresh images, striking metaphors, contemporary understandings and common sense. The items found here are freely offered and your offerings are sought.
Click here for more information.
