The Genesis of Orthodoxy
On January 14 at 10 a.m. the Sunday class continues its study of the origins of the Christian orthodox theological tradition. This session focuses on the fourth ecumenical council, held in Chalcedon in A.D. 451. The Chalcedonian Definition, adopted at that council, remains normative for understanding the relationship of the divine and human natures in
Christ, even as it introduced a further division in the Church. On January 14, the class turns to the aftermath of Chalcedon, including the loss of communion with the so-called “Oriental Orthodox” churches. The classes meet on the fifth floor.
The Emperor and the Bishops: Politics of Language and Faith in the Fifth-Century Church
On Wednesday, January 31, at 6:30pm, the Rt. Rev. Allen K. Shin, Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of New York, discusses the complex interaction between politics, religion, and national identities in the Church of the patristic age. While debating fundamental theological doctrines about Christ, the bishops were also speaking different languages, living in different cultures, and negotiating different relationships with the emperor. The result was a heated controversy which nevertheless formed the Christian tradition as we know it today. The lecture is held in Andrew Hall.
A Glorious Vision: Anglo-Catholicism and Race
In this special class on Sunday, February 4 at 10 a.m., the Rev. Brandt Montgomery discusses the historic appeal of the catholic expression of Anglicanism to a great number of the Episcopal Church’s black members. In examining past events and present circumstances, one sees how catholic Anglicanism has not only appealed to those historically and socially oppressed, but presents “a glorious vision” reflective of a Christian Gospel that is meant for all people. Fr. Montgomery is Associate Rector and All School Chaplain at the Church of the Ascension in Lafayette, Louisiana, and a former seminarian at Saint Thomas Church.
The Rector’s Christian Doctrine class: God the Son: Incarnation, Atonement, and Glory
This class continues on Tuesday, January 16, at 6:30 p.m. in Andrew Hall. Primarily intended for those who wish to be confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church, the class is also open to any who are interested in the topic of the day. See complete details on the website, or contact David Daniel at [email protected] with any questions about this class or about membership at Saint Thomas.
Yours in Christ,
Joel
