St. Mark's United Church

Every year from January through May, St. Mark’s has a book study that looks at a book about our faith. This winter, we shall be looking at Marcus Borg’s book “The Heart of Christianity”.

Some people come because they like to learn more about the Christian faith. Some come because they like the food. Some come because they like the camaraderie. Everybody has fun!

Marcus Borg, born in 1942, is an American Biblical scholar and author, is a fellow of the Jesus Seminar, holds a DPhil degree from Oxford University and is Hundere Distinguished Professor of Religion and Culture, at Oregon State University. He has been national chair of the Historical Jesus Section of the Society of Biblical Literature, co-chair of its International New Testament Program Committee and president of the Anglican Association of Biblical Scholars. Amazon.com says the following about his book, “The Heart of Christianity”:

“... it provides a valuable glimpse into the essence of Christianity for those who have left the faith because they no longer believe its doctrines and those who are trying to remain in the faith while questioning its doctrines. With those people in mind, Borg em-phasizes the transformational aspect of Christianity by examining the "emerging paradigm" that is gradually replacing the belief-centered paradigm of the last several hundred years. The new paradigm, Borg writes, is about loving God and loving what God loves, rather than rigidly adhering to a specific set of beliefs. In exploring this new way of "being Christian," Borg offers a middle ground for conservative and liberal Christians though it's unlikely conservatives will conclude, as he does, that Jesus was not really the Son of God, nor are liberals likely to begin using the term "born again," as he advocates. Still, there's much here that both sides can agree on, possibly helping to bring them a step closer to the unity that has eluded them for centuries. As always, Borg writes with clarity and precision, which should also help the ongoing conversation.”

We shall be looking at the book from 7 pm to 9 pm on alternate Friday evenings, starting on January 13th, 2012 with adjustments for March Break and Easter. If you would like to join us, please book the following dates in 2012: January 13 & 27, February 10 & 24, March 2 & 23, April 13 & 27, May 11. Actually, we only study on the first 8 dates. May 11th is our blow-out bash where we kick back, have fun and pick the book for 2013. If you need any further information please contact Rob Peck or Carol Caise in the Church Office. Hope you can join us!

Rob Peck for the Christian Education Committee