Session 1, October 22 2012
As an opening, participants shared their name and an image of hell they learned in childhood.
Schedule of Readings:
October 22 – Introduction to the study
Preface
Appendix A: survey
October 29 - Chapters 1-2
Workshop with Ray McGinnis
All the broken hearts shall rejoice
All those whose hearts are heavy laden,
whose eyes are tired and do not see,
shall be lifted up to meet with
the motherly healer.
The battered souls and bodies
shall be healed;
the hungry shall be fed;
the imprisoned shall be free;
all her earthly children shall regain joy
in the reign
of the just and living one
coming for you
coming for me
in this time
in this world.
Scripture reading from Luke 16:19-31
One of the images we have of “hell”, from the teaching of Jesus.
Rich man in Hades –
from the Greek, meaning the place of the dead - 3 interpretations
(1)The place of the dead until they were judged appropriate for
either the Elyssian Fields (paradise) or Tartarus (torment)
(2)The place of punishment (torment)
(3)Neutral place meaning death/grave (nothingness)
The point of the story is DO NOT WAIT to do something now – It is not a story meant to teach about life after death! Luke drew on images from culture around them – outside Jesus’ Jewish culture.
What strikes us though is the great uncrossable chasm; a metaphor we can apply to interpretations of hell in modern Christianity
Up until 1960’s, theologically, churches were very similar – Baptist, United, Anglican, Presbyterian - all used ancient creeds and the King James Bible.
- Schisms over interpretation of scripture, which translation, judgement.
- Followed by lifestyle choices – what does it mean to be faithful?
Heaven’s Gates, Hell’s Fire video
What is your response?
Some concervative theologians that "cross the divide", and question traditional interpretations of hell: Rob Bell, Brian McLaren. These questions have initiated an ECT debate (Eternal Concious Torment.)
Hope for this study – not just about the book, but awareness of other resources as well. What is our world, our culture saying to us about our ultimate destination? What does it mean for the way we live today? Hopefully, we will find ways to incorporate personal experiences, new awareness, and other readings.
In the Preface of Wright’s book, he tells us his intended audience:
(1) Believers in hell as a metaphysical place for eternal punishment;
(2) Those who do not believe in hell, but still value the concept as a metaphor for the present day realities of the world;
(3) Those who don’t know what to think!
Read over the questions in Wright's Survey and comment.
Closing Prayer:
As we prepare to leave
and embrace the challenges of our lives and our world,
let us ask for God's blessing.
May God bless us with strength to seek justice, AMEN.
May God bless us with wisdom to care for our earth, AMEN.
May God bless us with love to bring forth new life, AMEN.
In the name of God, maker of the whole world,
of Jesus, our new covenant,
and of the Holy spirit, who opens eyes and hearts, AMEN.
Go in peace and be witnesses to hope.
Thanks be to God. AMEN!
Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace
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