We live in a society where church sacraments for some are driven by secular motivations. This includes couples who want a church wedding only as a "religious" backdrop to cover family traditions. You might encounter this situation in wanting a grandchild baptized, but the parents are disinterested, unchurched or uncertain about religious convictions. How about "open communion" for the unbaptized visitor who is following usher instructions or responding to a sudden spiritual motivation? John Buenz has been struggling with these questions for decades.
The Rev. Canon Robert Seifert returns to St. Jude’s to explore with us the growth of Christianity from a small sect of Judaism to a cult that experienced an exponential growth that overwhelmed the Roman Empire. Significantly, Mormonism has achieved the same rate of growth as did the early Christian Church in the first centuries of our era. Canon Seifert, referencing the works of noted sociologists, contends that this phenomenon has as much to do with social conditions as with theology. His presentation will highlight the causes that created the ideal environment for the expansion of a new and radical thought within an existing society.
St. Timothy’s Mountain View has teamed up with the Mountain View campus of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church and the Career Actions Network in a proven approach for ministering to those among us in search of employment. Al Hulvey, President of Career Actions Network, and Bob Williams explain there are roles for both the employed and job-seeker. The Diocese of El Camino Real is discussion how to expand this ministry.
Paul's speech to the Athenians on the Areopagus demonstrates Paul's strategy of explaining Christianity to the Greeks in terms of their own philosophical concepts. Author William Prior focuses on the concept of virtue, and how early Christians, especially Paul, adapted their teachings about moral conduct to fit the Greek conception of virtue.
Author Fred Luskin, PhD makes his annual visit to St. Jude's. His topic this year is "Intention," but he hasn't told us any more. Dr. Fred is most engaging when talking about what is on his mind, so getting a lot of details in advance is a challenge. That said, he is an engaging speaker who is a giant in his field, yet speaks in terms that are easy to connect with. Always one of our most popular speakers, his books and previous forums cover the topics of Forgiveness, Stress and Relationships. Other groups often charge to hear Dr. Luskin, so this is a great program for inviting friends and neighbors.
Author and former NASA scientist Joan Vernikos ("The Gravity Lady") returns to St. Jude's to discuss her most recent book, Sitting Kills, Moving Heals.
