I Believe in God: Assessing the Value of Creeds

Monday February 28 / 12:30-1:30 / Room 242

Catholics and many Protestant denominations profess a creed and both the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed are broadly accepted in Christianity.  Other Christians, such as Quakers, many Evangelicals and Baptists reject the authority of, and need for, a creed.  (Non-creedalism largely is found in sects with Anabaptist roots, like Baptists, Quakers and Mennonites.)  Bishop John Shelby Spong, retired Episcopal Bishop of Newark, has suggested that creeds were merely “a stage in our development…[and] part of our religious childhood.”

This mid-day reflection, led by Professors Osler and Stabile, will explore the question whether there is value (individually and/or communally) to an embrace of a creed and, if so, how one expresses and understands the essential elements of one’s creed.  Professor Osler, who proceeds from a non-creedal tradition, and Professor Stabile from a creedal one, will each share some thoughts on these questions.  There will also be time for individual reflection and group sharing.

Since lunch will be served, please respond to Bethany Fletcher at moel1755@stthomas.edu.