Fundamentalism in religious views, mixing with politics and violence in our world. What are the trends in fundamentalist thought, what drives this thinking, how should we respond?
Reading various online sources, I see that many have impressions about whether religious fundamentalism or religious liberalism is increasing or on the decline. The General Social Survey, conducted by the University of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center, has asked a representative sample of United States residents about their religious beliefs in every interview since 1972. In the early 1970s most responded that they had moderate beliefs and less than 20 percent claimed to hold... Read Full Story
Reading various online sources, I see that many have impressions about whether religious fundamentalism or religious liberalism is increasing or on the decline. The General Social Survey, conducted by the University of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center, has asked a representative sample of United States residents about their religious beliefs in every interview since 1972. In the early 1970s most responded that they had moderate beliefs and less than 20 percent claimed to hold... Read Full Story
This week, I drove from western Kentucky, where I live and work, to Kansas City, the city where I grew up. I went to see my mom who is in her late 80's and in failing health. I was glad to find that Mom was moving better than she was the last time I was in Kansas City. I saw some of my old friends from Jesus Freak days (69'-72' or so) and had a great time catching up. While I was having coffee with Dorothy, one of my dearest friends for over 35 years, we heard news of the earthquake in... Read Full Story
Fundamentalism can lead to some pretty "nutty" beliefs and actions. I am often reminded of the words of my seminary theology professor, "Fundamentalism is neither fun nor mental." Sometimes, I could swear he had it exactly right. It is hard to get the picture of how they think and how they process the world as they do. Somehow, everything becomes a religious issue. Even things that would seem to be just common sense.A good example is the issue of global warming. There has been a great... Read Full Story
On August 14, I had a monumental event happen in my life: my first grandchild was born. Let me tell you about him. His name is Isaac. He is beautiful. Little hands, small feet, soft skin-- all 7 lbs. 6 oz. and 20 inches of pure wonder and perfection. His parents, my son and his wife, are doing well. I am confident they will make great parents, each providing what is lacking in the other. It's me I wonder about. I think this grandfather deal is going to be a big job. I take it... Read Full Story
