"Rescuing the Bible From Fundamentalism" Bible Study group tackles tome by Bishop Spong in time to pursue book of Job. Summer, 2001

The Bible study group from St. Joan's will get on to reading material more fitting to their name when they start a reading of the book of Job beginning Tuesday evening Sept. 18 at 7 PM in the Hospitality Hall. Tom Smith-Myott will begin the series with an overview, and then on the following Tuesdays we will explore the book in sections. The group warmly invites all interested persons to attend. You will get a critical, informative, challenging and open discussion to enhance your understanding of the Bible and Job in particular. For novice and expert alike, the group provides a supportive environment of caring and attentive participants.

The group has just finished the rather controversial, yet best selling tome "Rescuing the Bible From Fundamentalism" written by Episcopal Bishop John Shelby Spong. TIME magazine (Feb 18, '91) characterized Spong and his book as claiming that "the Gospel writers 'twisted' the facts concerning the resurrection, which was never meant to be taken literally. The virgin birth of Christ is an unthinkable notion, and there is not much value in the doctrine of the Trinity...". It goes on to say that Spong alleges that St. Paul was a self-loathing homosexual, and the Old Testament contains a "vicious tribal code of ethics". Pretty bold stuff...and all a pretty accurate reflection of what the book has to offer.

Our group has alternated between books of the Bible and other relevant books such as this one. You can see a review of another of our sessions by clicking HERE. We take a sometimes unconventional look at religious writings, and some might suggest that the title "Heresy Class" may be more accurate a description, as we have probed some controversial subjects. This book would certainly rile fundamentalists. We have taken an approach that is along the lines of recently visiting theologians such as Michael Moorwood and Matthew Fox. We have a mix of well-schooled and novice critics and everything in between. We are, above all, a group who cares about and respects Christianity and the message of our parish, and cares about each other also.

Bishop Spong has undertaken the task of challenging those who feel the Bible is inerrant, and should be read and taken literally. He cites preachers such as Jerry Falwell and suggests that such fundamentalism will result in the death of Christianity if not reinterpreted. The book (published in 1991) tells of Spong's upbringing in the American South when the Bible was used to justify slavery and the subordination of women. He instead suggests we "remythologize" the Scriptures (particularly the New Testament) to find a Christ that we can believe in for the Twenty-First Century.

Spong contends that the Bible was written with and for a First-Century mythology, and was never intended to be taken as literal word. He analyzes Paul, and then each of the four Gospels, and contends that the message is effectively lost if we do not consider the circumstances of the time and place in which each was written. In doing so he offers insight into each of the books, and helps one better understand the meaning each can, and does, hold. Spong goes so far as to suggest that the Fourth Gospel (John) even within itself pokes fun at, and criticizes, those who take the words literally. He then takes a look at the Christmas and Easter stories in a very challenging fashion. In light of our modern cosmology, he contends, we must take a new perspective on these writings in order to make the stories relevant and meaningful for us.

Our group both embraced and was strongly critical of the books' line of thought, with some accusing the author of sloppy and contradictory scholarship. But as such we had many exciting discussions, and whatever original mindset each member brought to the discussion, or whatever conclusion one arrived at during our talks, we were all enriched by reading and exploring the issues. Contemporary Biblical scholarship is challenging stuff, but we all found our faith journey enhanced by seeing a myriad of views. We were fired up, we laughed, we shared ideas, and we appreciated the views of others. We would like other people to add to this experience as well.

We have adopted a format of having members volunteer to serve as facilitator for each session to summarize that weeks' reading and to "run" the meeting. We also have volunteers to offer an opening and closing meditation/prayer, and the favorite to some is the wonderful treats we enjoy during a short break. No one is required to do any of these, but many are inspired to do so.

The Bible Study Group is about a search for the Truth. It is about asking questions, and considering the many possible answers. The setting and the people provide an environment where one can feel free to do all of these things. It is not intimidating, and we've seen people grow and change over time. That is why it has become so important to so many of us, and why we so look forward to our sessions. And why we look forward to new and returning members. It is a good piece of the journey!

David Rotert is a communications technician. He, his wife Sue and two boys used to walk to SJA each Sunday. They since moved to St Louis Park, but are now happy to make the drive. David and his family have been attending SJA for over 10 years. You may see him serving host or wine on Sundays, and doing the readings whenever he can help. He is also always game for a good philosophical discussion.

Peg LaSota is interested in the biographies of parishioners... any suggestions?? She also loves studying piano, recorder, Spanish, and of course...singing in the choir!