Events

It seems uncontestable that Protestantism is in crisis. Both denominations and congregations feel the poignant pressure of the secular to do something or perish. We sense that the forces of a secular age are everywhere. However, the challenges we face in this kind of secular age (inside late modernity) are such that if we are not careful, our best intentions could make things worse. Too often our Protestant denominations and congregations are confused or misguided about what it means to be living inside a secular age. Therefore, it is very important to understand what we mean by “secular” and to recognize the ways that the secular impacts our sense of a good life, both personally and institutionally. Particularly, we must explore how our imagination for transcendence, revelation, and divine action becomes eclipsed by a more immanent frame of reflection.  

This interactive seminar directed by Andrew (Andy) Root [link to profile] will provide a deep exploration of the philosophies, social theories, and theologies that examine what it means to live in a secular age. Our weekly rhythm will include morning classroom time, afternoon break time for rest and reflection, group meals, and a public evening lecture. Participants will receive several volumes from Andrew Root’s Ministry in a Secular Age series, which will provide the conceptual framework for our time together. Through readings, teachings, and group discussions, participants will examine a theological vision of ministry that addresses the challenges and possibilities of the secular age. We will shift from seeing the secular as a loss of institutional prestige or vitality and instead recognize how our imaginations become caught in immanence, disenchantment, and enclosed views of the self and world.