1) The article discusses how religious rituals can promote group cooperation and cohesion by signaling sincere commitment to the group's beliefs.
2) Anthropologist Richard Sosis argues that religious rituals generate deeper commitment than secular rituals because they require belief rather than proof.
3) Rituals like wearing distinctive clothing publicly demonstrate devotion and allow group members to trust each other, strengthening the group against outside competition.
The document announces a World Religions Seminar that will provide information about major world religions. It includes quotes from Pope John Paul II and theologian Hans Küng advocating for dialogue between religions. The seminar will answer questions about religions like Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and how they relate to Christianity. Participants will learn parables and stories not typically taught in catechism or Bible studies. The seminar orientation is on March 17th and will have 10 weekly 90-minute meetings facilitated by a PhD holder in World Religions.
This document discusses the relationship between religion and sports. It covers how sports have both conflicted with and been integrated with various religious traditions over time. For example, it describes how sports were initially denounced by some Christian groups but later became more widely accepted. It also examines how sports and religion share similarities as forms of communal ritual and experience. The document explores perspectives on whether sports can be considered a type of popular religion or if they are completely separate spheres.
This document discusses religion and sports from sociological perspectives. It explains that from a social constructionist view, religions and sports are cultural practices that are socially constructed and take different forms based on social and historical contexts. They are not essential or unchanging, but rather are defined and practiced in ways that reflect the social conditions in which they exist. The document provides examples of how Protestant values were linked to the development of capitalism, demonstrating how religions can influence and be influenced by broader social and economic forces.
Many people have grown weary of athletes proclaiming their Christian faith in ways that seem to trivialize religion or offend others. While banning religion from sports is not possible, more thought needs to be given to establishing a more appropriate expression of faith. However, politics, particularly of the Christian Right, have significantly influenced the relationship between religion and sports without consideration of other faiths. There are also concerns about the commercialization of college sports compromising educational values and whether attributing athletic success solely to God is theological overreach.
01 the emerging church and the one project part 1i ALERT
The document discusses the emerging church movement and its relationship to The One Project. It begins by providing background on how the author's study of the emerging church was prompted by inquiries about The One Project. It then shares several definitions and descriptions of the emerging church from Wikipedia and other sources. Key aspects highlighted include a rejection of institutional church structures, an emphasis on dialogue over dogma, and a focus on social justice issues.
1) The article discusses how religious rituals can promote group cooperation and cohesion by signaling sincere commitment to the group's beliefs.
2) Anthropologist Richard Sosis argues that religious rituals generate deeper commitment than secular rituals because they require belief rather than proof.
3) Rituals like wearing distinctive clothing publicly demonstrate devotion and allow group members to trust each other, strengthening the group against outside competition.
The document announces a World Religions Seminar that will provide information about major world religions. It includes quotes from Pope John Paul II and theologian Hans Küng advocating for dialogue between religions. The seminar will answer questions about religions like Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and how they relate to Christianity. Participants will learn parables and stories not typically taught in catechism or Bible studies. The seminar orientation is on March 17th and will have 10 weekly 90-minute meetings facilitated by a PhD holder in World Religions.
This document discusses the relationship between religion and sports. It covers how sports have both conflicted with and been integrated with various religious traditions over time. For example, it describes how sports were initially denounced by some Christian groups but later became more widely accepted. It also examines how sports and religion share similarities as forms of communal ritual and experience. The document explores perspectives on whether sports can be considered a type of popular religion or if they are completely separate spheres.
This document discusses religion and sports from sociological perspectives. It explains that from a social constructionist view, religions and sports are cultural practices that are socially constructed and take different forms based on social and historical contexts. They are not essential or unchanging, but rather are defined and practiced in ways that reflect the social conditions in which they exist. The document provides examples of how Protestant values were linked to the development of capitalism, demonstrating how religions can influence and be influenced by broader social and economic forces.
Many people have grown weary of athletes proclaiming their Christian faith in ways that seem to trivialize religion or offend others. While banning religion from sports is not possible, more thought needs to be given to establishing a more appropriate expression of faith. However, politics, particularly of the Christian Right, have significantly influenced the relationship between religion and sports without consideration of other faiths. There are also concerns about the commercialization of college sports compromising educational values and whether attributing athletic success solely to God is theological overreach.
01 the emerging church and the one project part 1i ALERT
The document discusses the emerging church movement and its relationship to The One Project. It begins by providing background on how the author's study of the emerging church was prompted by inquiries about The One Project. It then shares several definitions and descriptions of the emerging church from Wikipedia and other sources. Key aspects highlighted include a rejection of institutional church structures, an emphasis on dialogue over dogma, and a focus on social justice issues.
This document discusses principles for effective Catholic communication and evangelization. It outlines key elements like audience, culture, and message. It emphasizes truly knowing one's audience and being spiritually prepared to share the Gospel authentically. The document also stresses that our communication should mirror our religious perspectives and relationship with God, and have the hidden energy to transform through approved missionary methods. The central task is an ongoing journey of discovery, reflection, prayer, and relationship.
This document discusses strategies for establishing churches that holistically meet the economic, emotional, and social needs of communities. It advocates first meeting economic needs through job training and small businesses, then providing emotional healing through small group fellowship. This creates a balanced social context where people from various backgrounds can support each other. The church then becomes economically sustainable while addressing needs through specialized ministries. The document also discusses principles from Matthew 10 on grassroots evangelism and how to structurally progress people into contacts, cells, converts, and congregations through social integration and celebration.
This document discusses the need to rediscover Christianity through community, spirituality, and mission. It explores how Christianity has lost its way at times through issues like institutionalism and embracing violence. However, it also discusses examples throughout history of rediscovery through movements like the desert fathers/mothers, St. Francis, and liberation theology. It argues that finding our way again involves developing ways of community, spirituality, and mission focused on social justice issues like poverty, peace, and the environment.
Christ was not_a_jew-jacob_elon_conner-1936-178pgs-relRareBooksnRecords
This document is the introduction and first chapter of a book arguing that Christ was not a Jew. It claims that Galileans, where Christ was from, were a distinct race from Jews in Judea. The author believes Christianity should not be tied to Judaism and aims to show through history, anthropology and archaeology that Galileans and Judeans were different races. The introduction criticizes those who say Christ's race doesn't matter and argues the truth of his background demands recognition to prevent harm.
The document discusses a 3 session program on becoming a community of compassion. Session 1 focuses on passionist spirituality and Catholic social tradition. It considers becoming a community of compassion. Session 2 discusses Pope Benedict's concept of "Charity in Truth" and human development, including a role playing activity on justice for all. Session 3 covers globalization, the Church, and committing to being a community of compassion.
Secularization for the sake of religionWim Nusselder
This document discusses how Christianity can remain relevant in secular societies. It argues that Christianity should: 1) focus on members' identity as Christians rather than religious doctrine, 2) organize informally through networking rather than hierarchical authority, and 3) communicate in secular language understandable to outsiders. Secularization is seen as an opportunity for renewal rather than a threat. The reality of God may not be essential to Christianity's relevance; what matters most is how it improves society.
Developments in the theology of missionjuantamad38
This document outlines several contemporary challenges and developments in the theology of mission. It discusses the two-fold task of the gospel in relation to culture: incarnating in a culture to form a local church, and transforming culture. It also addresses the challenges of secularization, pluralism, justice and integral human development. The key ideas are that mission must be countercultural, promote unity in diversity, and involve both dialogue and proclamation to build God's kingdom.
The document discusses arguments for secularization from three perspectives:
1) A decline in religious thinking and belief as rationality and science have become more influential.
2) A decline in religious practice as seen by decreasing rates of attendance at religious ceremonies and participation in sacraments.
3) A decline in the power and influence of religious institutions as they adapt traditions and see declining vocations to the clergy.
The document discusses whether religion still serves a purpose today. It presents both positive and negative views on religion's function. Positively, religion can reduce crime by establishing moral guidelines and providing comfort during hard times. However, Marxists argue that religion distorts class divisions and legitimizes oppression of the working class by the ruling class. Overall, the document explores both sides of the debate around religion's role in modern society.
02 the emerging church and the one project part 2i ALERT
The document discusses Leonard Sweet, a prominent figure in the Emerging Church movement. It provides biographical details about Sweet, including his background and academic positions at Drew University and George Fox University. Sweet is described as a prolific author who has written over 40 books and hundreds of articles exploring religion, culture, and history from a postmodern perspective.
This document discusses three possible futures for Christian congregations and denominations: continuing contraction, conservative resurgence, and death and resurrection. It then examines the roles of denominations, what they do well and could improve, and scenarios of denominational leaders pushing boundaries. The document considers the relationships between traditions, movements, and institutions, and questions about how Jesus and Paul balanced these.
This document discusses Jesus healing miracles in the Bible and different levels of faith. It analyzes stories of Jesus healing the synagogue leader's daughter, a woman with bleeding, and two blind men. It explores the "visionary faith" demonstrated by their belief in Jesus' power to heal physically and spiritually. The document also examines Christ's commission to heal and save people, and compares "faith window levels" in Jesus' time to now, questioning at what level of faith readers exist. It aims to understand faith as healing spiritually and gaining eternal vision beyond just physical healing.
There is growing religious diversity in the United States, with over 2,000 religious groups. Professor Wade Clark Roof identifies four trends creating a "spiritual kaleidoscope" in American religion: 1) A shift from Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish dominance to a nation with multiple religions, 2) Expressive individualism where Americans pick and choose beliefs, 3) The emergence of new religious organizations focused on specific purposes like helping the homeless, and 4) A movement toward spirituality rather than organized religion. Religious freedom and tolerance of diverse faiths are basic American values that allow this pluralism.
This document discusses a fellowship exercise about people that Jesus encountered in the Gospels that were considered outsiders or unacceptable in Jewish society. It prompts reflection on whether and how modern societies, including one's own thoughts, treat some people as outsiders. It suggests Jesus focused on people's faith in Him, their relationship with God, and their actions after their encounter, calling all to repentance, forgiveness and to follow Him.
Children of Jacob (PBUH) including Joseph (PBUH) were one of the most favored nations due to firm believing in One God. Jesus (PBUH) gave them glad tiding of a next messenger namely, Ahmad (PBUH). - Sajid Imtiaz
This document summarizes a workshop on defending the Christian faith and studying worldviews. It includes:
1. An introduction where participants share their backgrounds and expectations for the course.
2. A review of the syllabus and discussion of key concepts like what is a worldview and different approaches to truth and knowledge.
3. An exploration of major worldviews including naturalism, monism/transcendentalism, theism, postmodernism and pragmatism. Each worldview is examined based on its perspectives on important questions.
4. A discussion of why studying worldviews is important and a defense of the coherence and comprehensiveness of a Christian worldview.
The document discusses how religious pluralism requires respecting religious identities while also building mutually inspiring relationships and working together for the common good. It argues that young people have often led social change movements, and provides examples of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Dalai Lama. The document also discusses how inter-religious dialogue is part of the Church's evangelizing mission, and how proclaiming Christ can be linked to such dialogue.
The basic information needed by church staff to raise the spiritual passion of their church. This presentation made to Lakewood UMC (Houston area) on 1/15/2015.
This document outlines the vision and values of an organization called Progressive Renewal. They believe in focusing on love for God, neighbor, outsider and enemy. They seek to know, serve and join the poor in the struggle for justice. They also seek to honor the Bible in fresh ways, reconnect with the earth, and imagine new ways for churches to form people and heal the world. They emphasize building partnerships across differences and engaging in nonviolent conflict resolution to propose new ways of encountering others in a pluralistic world.
The author is working on a new book that will consist of 52 short chapters that can each be read aloud in 8-10 minutes. The book will cover the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation and follow the traditional church calendar. It will present a coherent reading of the biblical narratives with a focus on creation and new creation. Each chapter will include discussion questions. The author hopes churches, families, and other groups will use the book for a season or whole year as part of their spiritual formation. The author is also working on projects called MESA and CANA that aim to build new kinds of faith communities and approaches to Christian life and mission.
This document provides an overview of philanthropic donations to Stevens Institute of Technology for the 2004-2005 fiscal year. It thanks donors for their generosity and investments in students and faculty. A total of $15.7 million was raised in donations, with $8.7 million from pledge payments. Over 500 members belong to the Edwin A. Stevens Society, the university's premier donor organization.
Imagine the spontaneous dynamic of a lightning bolt slicing through the sky. Energized by atmospheric phenomena, the ordinary gases that surround us daily become focused in an immensely powerful streak of ionized light - a thermal plasma - capable of transforming, or destroying, anything it strikes.
This document discusses principles for effective Catholic communication and evangelization. It outlines key elements like audience, culture, and message. It emphasizes truly knowing one's audience and being spiritually prepared to share the Gospel authentically. The document also stresses that our communication should mirror our religious perspectives and relationship with God, and have the hidden energy to transform through approved missionary methods. The central task is an ongoing journey of discovery, reflection, prayer, and relationship.
This document discusses strategies for establishing churches that holistically meet the economic, emotional, and social needs of communities. It advocates first meeting economic needs through job training and small businesses, then providing emotional healing through small group fellowship. This creates a balanced social context where people from various backgrounds can support each other. The church then becomes economically sustainable while addressing needs through specialized ministries. The document also discusses principles from Matthew 10 on grassroots evangelism and how to structurally progress people into contacts, cells, converts, and congregations through social integration and celebration.
This document discusses the need to rediscover Christianity through community, spirituality, and mission. It explores how Christianity has lost its way at times through issues like institutionalism and embracing violence. However, it also discusses examples throughout history of rediscovery through movements like the desert fathers/mothers, St. Francis, and liberation theology. It argues that finding our way again involves developing ways of community, spirituality, and mission focused on social justice issues like poverty, peace, and the environment.
Christ was not_a_jew-jacob_elon_conner-1936-178pgs-relRareBooksnRecords
This document is the introduction and first chapter of a book arguing that Christ was not a Jew. It claims that Galileans, where Christ was from, were a distinct race from Jews in Judea. The author believes Christianity should not be tied to Judaism and aims to show through history, anthropology and archaeology that Galileans and Judeans were different races. The introduction criticizes those who say Christ's race doesn't matter and argues the truth of his background demands recognition to prevent harm.
The document discusses a 3 session program on becoming a community of compassion. Session 1 focuses on passionist spirituality and Catholic social tradition. It considers becoming a community of compassion. Session 2 discusses Pope Benedict's concept of "Charity in Truth" and human development, including a role playing activity on justice for all. Session 3 covers globalization, the Church, and committing to being a community of compassion.
Secularization for the sake of religionWim Nusselder
This document discusses how Christianity can remain relevant in secular societies. It argues that Christianity should: 1) focus on members' identity as Christians rather than religious doctrine, 2) organize informally through networking rather than hierarchical authority, and 3) communicate in secular language understandable to outsiders. Secularization is seen as an opportunity for renewal rather than a threat. The reality of God may not be essential to Christianity's relevance; what matters most is how it improves society.
Developments in the theology of missionjuantamad38
This document outlines several contemporary challenges and developments in the theology of mission. It discusses the two-fold task of the gospel in relation to culture: incarnating in a culture to form a local church, and transforming culture. It also addresses the challenges of secularization, pluralism, justice and integral human development. The key ideas are that mission must be countercultural, promote unity in diversity, and involve both dialogue and proclamation to build God's kingdom.
The document discusses arguments for secularization from three perspectives:
1) A decline in religious thinking and belief as rationality and science have become more influential.
2) A decline in religious practice as seen by decreasing rates of attendance at religious ceremonies and participation in sacraments.
3) A decline in the power and influence of religious institutions as they adapt traditions and see declining vocations to the clergy.
The document discusses whether religion still serves a purpose today. It presents both positive and negative views on religion's function. Positively, religion can reduce crime by establishing moral guidelines and providing comfort during hard times. However, Marxists argue that religion distorts class divisions and legitimizes oppression of the working class by the ruling class. Overall, the document explores both sides of the debate around religion's role in modern society.
02 the emerging church and the one project part 2i ALERT
The document discusses Leonard Sweet, a prominent figure in the Emerging Church movement. It provides biographical details about Sweet, including his background and academic positions at Drew University and George Fox University. Sweet is described as a prolific author who has written over 40 books and hundreds of articles exploring religion, culture, and history from a postmodern perspective.
This document discusses three possible futures for Christian congregations and denominations: continuing contraction, conservative resurgence, and death and resurrection. It then examines the roles of denominations, what they do well and could improve, and scenarios of denominational leaders pushing boundaries. The document considers the relationships between traditions, movements, and institutions, and questions about how Jesus and Paul balanced these.
This document discusses Jesus healing miracles in the Bible and different levels of faith. It analyzes stories of Jesus healing the synagogue leader's daughter, a woman with bleeding, and two blind men. It explores the "visionary faith" demonstrated by their belief in Jesus' power to heal physically and spiritually. The document also examines Christ's commission to heal and save people, and compares "faith window levels" in Jesus' time to now, questioning at what level of faith readers exist. It aims to understand faith as healing spiritually and gaining eternal vision beyond just physical healing.
There is growing religious diversity in the United States, with over 2,000 religious groups. Professor Wade Clark Roof identifies four trends creating a "spiritual kaleidoscope" in American religion: 1) A shift from Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish dominance to a nation with multiple religions, 2) Expressive individualism where Americans pick and choose beliefs, 3) The emergence of new religious organizations focused on specific purposes like helping the homeless, and 4) A movement toward spirituality rather than organized religion. Religious freedom and tolerance of diverse faiths are basic American values that allow this pluralism.
This document discusses a fellowship exercise about people that Jesus encountered in the Gospels that were considered outsiders or unacceptable in Jewish society. It prompts reflection on whether and how modern societies, including one's own thoughts, treat some people as outsiders. It suggests Jesus focused on people's faith in Him, their relationship with God, and their actions after their encounter, calling all to repentance, forgiveness and to follow Him.
Children of Jacob (PBUH) including Joseph (PBUH) were one of the most favored nations due to firm believing in One God. Jesus (PBUH) gave them glad tiding of a next messenger namely, Ahmad (PBUH). - Sajid Imtiaz
This document summarizes a workshop on defending the Christian faith and studying worldviews. It includes:
1. An introduction where participants share their backgrounds and expectations for the course.
2. A review of the syllabus and discussion of key concepts like what is a worldview and different approaches to truth and knowledge.
3. An exploration of major worldviews including naturalism, monism/transcendentalism, theism, postmodernism and pragmatism. Each worldview is examined based on its perspectives on important questions.
4. A discussion of why studying worldviews is important and a defense of the coherence and comprehensiveness of a Christian worldview.
The document discusses how religious pluralism requires respecting religious identities while also building mutually inspiring relationships and working together for the common good. It argues that young people have often led social change movements, and provides examples of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Dalai Lama. The document also discusses how inter-religious dialogue is part of the Church's evangelizing mission, and how proclaiming Christ can be linked to such dialogue.
The basic information needed by church staff to raise the spiritual passion of their church. This presentation made to Lakewood UMC (Houston area) on 1/15/2015.
This document outlines the vision and values of an organization called Progressive Renewal. They believe in focusing on love for God, neighbor, outsider and enemy. They seek to know, serve and join the poor in the struggle for justice. They also seek to honor the Bible in fresh ways, reconnect with the earth, and imagine new ways for churches to form people and heal the world. They emphasize building partnerships across differences and engaging in nonviolent conflict resolution to propose new ways of encountering others in a pluralistic world.
The author is working on a new book that will consist of 52 short chapters that can each be read aloud in 8-10 minutes. The book will cover the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation and follow the traditional church calendar. It will present a coherent reading of the biblical narratives with a focus on creation and new creation. Each chapter will include discussion questions. The author hopes churches, families, and other groups will use the book for a season or whole year as part of their spiritual formation. The author is also working on projects called MESA and CANA that aim to build new kinds of faith communities and approaches to Christian life and mission.
This document provides an overview of philanthropic donations to Stevens Institute of Technology for the 2004-2005 fiscal year. It thanks donors for their generosity and investments in students and faculty. A total of $15.7 million was raised in donations, with $8.7 million from pledge payments. Over 500 members belong to the Edwin A. Stevens Society, the university's premier donor organization.
Imagine the spontaneous dynamic of a lightning bolt slicing through the sky. Energized by atmospheric phenomena, the ordinary gases that surround us daily become focused in an immensely powerful streak of ionized light - a thermal plasma - capable of transforming, or destroying, anything it strikes.
Beginning with Founder’s Day on Feb. 15, 2010, Stevens will celebrate 140 years of American technology leadership. Here, Director of University Communications Patrick A. Berzinski shares how the Stute and some of its distinguished alumni have impacted the world in remarkable ways.
The document summarizes Terry Baker Mulligan's memoir "Sugar Hill" about growing up in Harlem in the 1950s and 1960s. The memoir paints a vivid picture of life in Harlem during that time, as the narrator encounters important figures like Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell and experiences cultural events like shows at the Apollo Theater. It aims to give readers an inside perspective on the African American experience in Harlem during a period of social and historical change. The author draws on her own experiences and observations as a child in Harlem to share stories about class and ethnic tensions, social hierarchies, and what it was like to come of age during that era.
The US Department of Homeland Security has selected Stevens Institute of Technology to lead a new Center of Excellence for Maritime, Island and Port Security. Stevens will partner with other universities to conduct research over 4-6 years with up to $2 million in funding annually. The Center will develop new technologies to strengthen maritime awareness and security for ports and islands. Stevens will focus on port security research while the University of Hawaii leads maritime and island security research.
Dr. Danielle Sheypuk is a licensed psychologist and expert in relationships and sexuality among the physically disabled community. She has advocated globally for improving the romantic relationships of people with physical disabilities. Dr. Sheypuk draws from her own experiences dating with a physical disability in New York City to inform her passion for addressing the widespread problems faced in relationships among the physically disabled population. She is available for media interviews on this topic through her representation at Tranquility49 LLC.
Innovation Strategist Hal Raveche Champions Vietnam EntrepreneursPatrick A. Berzinski
Hal Raveché, an American innovation expert, conducted a workshop in Vietnam to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. He is an advisor to Saigon High-Tech Park and works with their startup companies. Raveché stressed that Vietnam's economic growth will be driven by small and medium enterprises founded by Vietnamese entrepreneurs, including many female entrepreneurs. Nguyen Tat Thanh University is pursuing an innovation model to reform Vietnamese higher education to meet the needs of the global economy.
This document summarizes media coverage and quotes from Stevens faculty and staff between August and November 2005. It discusses research and commentary from several Stevens professors on topics ranging from hurricanes and infrastructure rebuilding to biometric technologies and information security. It also profiles the Men's Soccer team's season and mentions a cooperative education student being quoted about effective co-op programs. Finally, it provides details about the inauguration of the Secure Infrastructure Technology Laboratory (SINTEL) in partnership with the US Navy to conduct maritime security research.
Claremont School of Theology Dean Philip Clayton explored answers to this critical question when he spoke to 900 United Methodists at their Quadrennial Training Event in Nashville.
In the presentation, Dean Clayton uses examples from the ministry of John Wesley and Martin Luther King, Jr. to illustrate how best to share the Good News of the teachings of Jesus, given current trends in American religion.
Today’s faith-based communities and organizations are facing escalating uncertainty and exponential change.
This chaotic context presents an existential crisis filled with life-and-death choices and consequences, containing both danger and opportunity: the danger of death combined with the opportunity for transformation into new kind of life, capable of surviving and thriving in this new environment.
This document discusses the historical narratives and backstories that have been used to justify Christian conquest and violence against indigenous peoples. It describes how 15th century Spanish conquistadors interpreted prophecies to believe they were fulfilling God's plan in conquering lands and peoples in the Americas. The conquest had devastating impacts, reducing the native Taino population on Hispaniola from 300,000 to zero within decades. Similarly, conquests of North America framed indigenous peoples as the damned Canaanites being displaced by God's elect. The document critiques how such narratives have been used to justify violence and argues we must reconsider the stories we tell.
The document discusses strategies for addressing Conflicted Religious Identity Syndrome (CRIS). It proposes a 5-part treatment plan to help people reconcile their religious identities in a way that is not strongly hostile towards others. The treatment plan involves addressing challenges related to history, doctrine, liturgy, mission, and spirituality. It also discusses approaches like focusing on common ground between faiths while also acknowledging their meaningful differences. The goal is to help people develop a strong religious identity in a benevolent rather than hostile manner.
This document discusses various typologies for classifying religious organizations, including churches, sects, denominations, and cults. It summarizes the views of scholars like Troeltsch, Niebuhr, Wallis, Stark and Bainbridge on how these religious groups can be categorized based on factors like their relationship with wider society, commitment level demanded of members, exclusivity of beliefs, and leadership structure. The document also examines explanations for the growth of new religious movements in recent decades, such as marginalization, relative deprivation, and social change. It outlines theories on the typical life cycle and dynamics of sects over time as well as examples of established sects that have endured.
Creation, justice, compassion and love paper: a 21st Century Methodist Quadri...BarryEJones
It is argued that the existing Methodist Quadrilateral based on inputting authorities is no longer fit-for-purpose, while one based on living outcomes is far more simple, direct and clear to a non-church secular community. This way to present christianity starts from outcomes and
puts traditional theology, dogma and creeds "in the basement".
building" and explains the biblical testaiments message, the Jesus message and the Jesus spirit in four up-front .
The document discusses sociological perspectives on religion from theorists such as Durkheim, Marx, and Weber. Some key points:
- Durkheim viewed religion as a social construct that binds society through shared beliefs and rituals. It represents a collective conscience that exists beyond individuals.
- Marx saw religion as promoting false consciousness and acceptance of unequal conditions, especially among the working class. It encourages resignation to earthly suffering.
- Weber linked the rise of Protestantism to the establishment of modern capitalism, as its doctrine of predestination influenced values like hard work and thrift.
The document summarizes a newsletter from the Biblical Research Institute. It discusses several topics:
1) It clarifies that the Seventh-day Adventist Church is not a member of the World Council of Churches and only has observer status, but is a member of the Conference of Secretaries of Christian World Communions.
2) It provides a summary of a preliminary report on guidelines being developed to address issues of spiritualism in Africa from a biblical perspective.
3) It includes a book review that critiques a new book by Francisco Ayala that argues against intelligent design, pointing out ways the author misrepresents the position and provides inadequate responses to some of the core arguments for intelligent design.
This document discusses how individualism and dualism have influenced American contemporary evangelical churches and hindered their mission. It argues that these churches often soft sell the gospel by focusing on felt needs rather than demanding repentance. They also emphasize personal salvation over inclusion in community. Many accept a dualistic view that separates sacred from secular and leads to a poor understanding of communion and escapist eschatology. The goal should be for these churches to fulfill their calling to be churches for the world.
This document discusses developing a Christian identity in a multi-faith world. It examines how Christians have traditionally constructed strong identities through hostility towards others, and explores alternatives centered around Jesus' message of love, service, and bringing good news to the oppressed. The document suggests a Christian identity could be both strong and benevolent by embracing uniqueness without supremacy, strength without hostility, and benevolence without weakness. It points to Jesus' ministry in Luke 4:16-30 as an example of proclaiming good news to the poor in a loving way.
This document discusses the influence of mysticism on the health message and spiritual formation. It warns that the foundation of faith established through prayer and Bible study was being taken down, removing the sanctuary and atonement doctrines. It mentions several authors and websites promoting spiritualism, New Age ideas, and contemplative prayer. It warns that Satan brings deceptions to church leaders first to spread false teachings most effectively.
The document discusses conflicted religious identity syndrome (CRIS) and proposes a 5-part treatment plan to address it. It examines how Christianity has historically built strong identities through hostility towards others, but questions whether a strong yet benevolent identity centered on Jesus is possible. It outlines challenges including reconciling Christianity's violent past, reinterpreting divisive doctrines in a more inclusive way, and reforming rituals and missional approaches to reject colonial models and build relationships rather than demand conversion. The goal is to find a cure for CRIS by moving away from strong-hostile identities to strong-benevolent identities centered on love rather than hostility.
This document discusses the importance of upholding the Bible as the ultimate authority for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It examines why tradition, reason, community, and other sources are insufficient as foundations of authority. While recognizing the roles of the Holy Spirit and Jesus, it argues that only Scripture can reliably guide the church, as Jesus and the Bible itself point to its divine inspiration and self-authenticating claims. Maintaining the authority of Scripture is vital for theology, leadership, prayer, evangelism, education and dealing with future challenges. Theologians, leaders and members must allow the Bible to determine their beliefs and actions as challenges arise.
Core ValuesExcellenceNo name University is an educational en.docxvoversbyobersby
Core Values
Excellence
No name University is an educational enterprise. All of us, individually and collectively, work hard to ensure that our students develop the character, learn the skills, and assimilate the knowledge essential to become morally responsible leaders. The success of our University depends upon a conscientious commitment to our mission, vision, and goals.
Community
No name University develops hospitable Christian learning communities everywhere we serve. We foster a spirit of belonging, unity, and interdependence based on mutual trust and respect to create socially responsible environments that challenge all of us to listen, to learn, to change, and to serve.
Respect
Animated in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we value all individuals’ unique talents, respect their dignity, and strive to foster their commitment to excellence in our work. Our community’s strength depends on the unity and diversity of our people, on the free exchange of ideas, and on learning, living, and working harmoniously.
Personal Development
No name University stresses the development of every person’s mind, spirit, and body for a balanced life. All members of the No name University community must demonstrate their commitment to personal development to help strengthen the character of our community.
Responsible Stewardship
Our Creator blesses us with an abundance of resources. We foster a spirit of service to employ our resources for University and community development. We must be resourceful. We must optimize and apply all of the resources of our community to fulfill no name University’s mission and goals.
Integrity
The commitment of no name University to excellence demands that its members live its mission and deliver on its promise. The faculty, staff, and students pledge to be honest, just, and consistent in word and deed.
SuMMARIZING THE OPTIONS
There was a time when it seemed that religion might just dis-
appear. Throughout the modern period secularism continued
to grow. It appeared that the religions of humankind would be
superseded by science and left behind as historical artifacts, like
Egyptian temples, the Greek gods, and many Christian churches
in Northern Europe today. Certainly the hope of a world with-
out religion continues to motivate some thinkers. Richard Daw-
kins’ ‘Beyond Belief ’ movement and advertising campaigns in
Britain and Canada have precisely this outcome as their goal.
And yet at present the outcome they strive for appears unlikely.
If anything, there has been a resurgence of religious commitment
in many cultures. Any decline in religion in Europe and North
America has been more than compensated for by the rapid
growth of Pentecostal and charismatic movements in churches
around the world. Even non-religious thinkers, such as Jürgen
Habermas, one of Germany’s leading philosophers, now speak
of moving – contrary to their and others’ expectations – into a
‘post-secular society.’1
Religion, then, it appears, is.
The document provides an overview of cultural anthropology topics related to worldviews and beliefs. It discusses key concepts like worldview, religion, animism, and folk religion. Specific examples are given to illustrate different elements that make up a worldview like assumptions, narratives, and components of religion. Theories on the origins and evolution of religion are presented, including animism, polytheism, and monotheism. Differences between institutional and folk religion are explored.
Affluence and Atheism Is there a Correlation.pdfccccccccdddddd
This document discusses the view that affluence can lead to atheism or lack of religious belief. It explores perspectives from the Quran and studies that have found correlations between wealth, lack of difficulties in life, and irreligiosity. The Quran warns of the dangers of taking pride and feeling self-sufficient due to wealth and achievements, which can lead to disbelief, ingratitude, and not acknowledging God. It provides the example of an affluent man who became so fixated on his gardens and wealth that he denied the existence of God and the last day of judgment. Overall, the document argues that feelings of independence and comfort from affluence have the potential to reduce appreciation of existential factors and humility
There are generally considered to be four main types of religious organizations: churches, sects, denominations, and cults. Churches are large, mainstream religious bodies that represent major world religions. Sects are smaller, committed groups that form in protest of churches. Denominations were once sects that became institutionalized over time. Cults have flexible membership and disagreements exist around their precise definition, but they tend to focus on individual experiences and bringing like-minded people together. Religious organizations can also be classified as world-affirming, world-rejecting, or world-accommodating based on their relationship to secular society.
ALPHA AND CHURCH ASSIMILATION Action Research Cherlyn Jensen
This document provides an introduction and overview of an action research project exploring the effectiveness of interventions implemented to assimilate people who completed the Alpha Course into the life of a local church. The Alpha Course is an 11-week introduction to the Christian faith that aims to create discussion and exploration of faith questions. The research goal is to evaluate assimilation efforts after people finish the Alpha Course. The document provides background on the problem of disconnectedness in society and the importance of belonging and assimilation into a local church community.
Religion has historically united people but also caused conflict by dividing them into in-groups and out-groups. Over time, religions originally seen as unified have split into sects due to differing interpretations and political influences, fueling tensions. The document discusses how sectarianism arises from feelings of threatened religious identity and loyalty to one's own sect. It reviews literature analyzing the social and political dimensions of sectarianism historically within religions like Christianity, Islam, and African-American churches. Conflict theory is discussed as explaining how elites use religion to control the lower classes.
NJ TechNews: Stevens Institute-The Innovation Engine on the HudsonPatrick A. Berzinski
Stevens Institute of Technology prides itself on its collaborative and entrepreneurial environment called Technogenesis. Through Technogenesis, faculty, students, and industry partners work together from research to commercialization. Examples include students and professors launching new businesses based on Stevens' intellectual property. Stevens aims to be known as the go-to university for innovative technologies and ideas. The document discusses Stevens' programs in entrepreneurship and technology commercialization, partnerships with industry, and role as a national center of research excellence.
Dr. Robert J. Tozzi is the Chief of Pediatric Cardiology and Founding Medical Director of the Gregory M. Hirsch Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center at Hackensack University Medical Center. He has over $1.75 million in research grants and is board certified in pediatrics and pediatric cardiology. Dr. Tozzi is a fellow of several professional organizations and the medical director of charitable organizations for children with heart conditions.
Brochure, 2015, Jérôme Lohez 9/11 Scholarship Foundation, Tranquility49Patrick A. Berzinski
The Jérôme Lohez 9/11 Scholarship Foundation was established in 2005 in honor of Jérôme Robert Lohez, a French citizen who died in the 9/11 attacks. The foundation provides scholarships for American, French, and Chinese students to study in dual-degree programs between the US, France, and China in order to promote cultural understanding and develop global leaders. The foundation holds annual award ceremonies in New York, Paris, and Shanghai to honor scholarship recipients.
This document provides biographical information about Dr. Harold J. Raveché, the Founding President of Innovation Strategies International. It outlines his extensive experience over 22 years nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship as the former President of Stevens Institute of Technology. The document also lists Dr. Raveché's educational background and credentials, and provides examples of his work consulting with organizations and governments on strategies to promote innovation-driven economic growth.
This document provides information on various academic collaborations and partnerships of the Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. It highlights partnerships with Picatinny Arsenal and NYU, the establishment of the Systems Integration Initiative to synergistically combine research, prototyping and executive education, and a partnership with the Intrepid Museum. It also provides details on faculty awards and new hires, and a student design project involving a global collaboration.
Global Expert Hal Raveche Promotes Innovation Economy in Sri LankaPatrick A. Berzinski
Global innovation expert Dr. Hal Raveche conducted workshops in Sri Lanka to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. In workshops at a university and with entrepreneurs, he discussed the importance of market-ready prototypes, business plans, education and national funding for R&D, and incentives for angel investors to spur innovation and economic growth. Dr. Raveche has advised many countries on developing innovation and sees Sri Lanka's sense of urgency for transformational change as a model for other nations.
The document discusses the importance of Stevens Institute of Technology's national leadership role in engineering, science, and technology management. It notes that these fields have a profound impact on modern life. It then highlights several new research centers and facilities at Stevens that will allow it to help the nation meet challenges in areas like maritime security, intelligent networked systems, and cultivating engineers and scientists. These include the Maritime Security Laboratory, the Center for Intelligent Networked Systems, and renovations to the Davidson Laboratory towing tank.
Stevens Institute of Technology is ranked among the top 20 most wired colleges in the US by The Princeton Review and PC Magazine. This recognition acknowledges Stevens' national leadership in providing wired and wireless technology resources to students. Being an early adopter of campus-wide connectivity has prepared Stevens graduates well for careers in an increasingly networked world. The Institute's new campus headquarters further enhances its wired and wireless infrastructure for cutting-edge education.
- Four Stevens professors received top Bright Idea Awards from the New Jersey Council on Innovation for their research papers, which placed within the top nine percent of submissions.
- Forbes recently ranked Stevens third in return on investment in research and development areas. The article noted Stevens' third ranked profile on the Forbes website.
- The article discussed two Stevens spin-off companies, PlasmaSol and HydroGlobe, that were incubated at Stevens and produce environmental technology products with applications in decontamination and water purification.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
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A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
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The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
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Santan Vastu Provides Vedic astrology courses & Vastu remedies, If you are searching Vastu for home, Vastu for kitchen, Vastu for house, Vastu for Office & Factory. Best Vastu in Bahadurgarh. Best Vastu in Delhi NCR
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
1. The Chinese word for crisis is composed of two characters:
One represents danger and the other represents opportunity.
- John F. Kennedy
Crisis – The Religion Singularity
In his first book, Paradoxy: Creating Christian Community
Beyond Us and Them, Ken Howard predicted that Christi-
anity was facing “a religious realignment of seismic pro-
portions.” Driven by the very human needs for certainty,
security, and control, the institutional Church appeared to
be heading into a time of uncontrolled schism: with
churches and denominations splitting apart at an ever-
increasing rate.
What once was speculation is now established fact. After
years of researching the demographic trends of institu-
tional religions, Howard now says that – as an organized
religion – Christianity has entered what he calls “The Reli-
gion Singularity,” a period of runaway division in which
new churches and denominations are being created at
more than twice the rate at which new believers are being
formed.
Danger – The Death of Religion
The danger is real.
If current trends remain unchanged – and there is little
reason to believe otherwise – by the end of the current
century, average denomination and church sizes world-
wide will have shrunk to unsustainable levels. By the year
2100, denomination size will have dropped to under
15,000 and the average church size will have dived well
under 100, a size not seen since the first century. Howard
believes this will be the death knell for denominations and
will spell the end of the local worship center in its current
form.
OVER, Please
Ken Howard
The Danger Is Real – Fear Is a Choice
2. Opportunity – The Resurrection of Faith
Fear is a choice.
While the year 2100 may see the demise of denominations, Howard believes there may be hope for the
local worship center, but only if it is willing to transform its current way of being at a level that amounts
to a death and resurrection. Congregations that would “rather die than change” will almost certainly get
their wish. Congregations with a “death grip” on every tradition inherited from their forebears will bring
about their own demise. Only the lean, creative, and experimental will survive. Those congregations will-
ing to strip down to the essentials and creatively experiment with new ways of being that support that
Minimum Viable Belief will not only be able to survive, but thrive.
Choice – The FaithX Project
The purpose of the FaithX Project is to provide leaders with the tools to help their con-
gregations live into the choice to survive and thrive:
A Best-Practices Book – The FaithX Project: Experimental Faith Communities for an
Undiscovered Future
An Online Community of Practice – The FaithX Network
A Supported Consultancy – FaithX Services
“It's end of religion as we know it, and I feel fine.”
– Ken Howard, with apologies to R.E.M.