Seven Stunning Gifts from the Gospel of Mary
"If I’m right that it is a really good, short book from 1800 years ago, then you may want to just mull over what some parts of it mean to you."
Surprising Remedy for American Decline in Religion: Ancient Religious Texts
How strong and vibrant Christianity will be during these next two decades depends primarily on how much creativity and vitality it can produce.
A Womanist Preacher Inspires Her Congregations with Extracanonical Texts
"I saw that I was womanish. I saw myself in it…. In the feminist movement, it was about being a woman. In the womanist tradition, it’s about being a woman in community." An interview with Rev. Stephanie A. Duzant.
Praying While Vulnerable During Coronavirus
Somewhere in all this, I rebel. Is God really unwilling or unable to help? Can prayer do something to help the vulnerable during a pandemic?
Saying #5 in Gospel of Thomas: How To Do More Than Wear a Face Mask
I started to wonder: what else (besides an invisible virus) might be right in front of my face that I may not be noticing?
What’s at Stake When Heresy Sells?
"Orthodoxy glorifies martyrs. So the stories of women martyrs are lifted up, but women who speak up or stand up in any other way are criticized and challenged." An Interview with Deb Saxon, PhD.
Biblical Violence Can Be Helpful or Harmful According to the Way You Read It
A singular reading is often done from a dominant position. People with power are the ones who have their story told…But I have found these multiple readings have strengthened my faith." An Interview with Karri Whipple, PhD.
The Power of Gratitude in the Prayer of Thanksgiving
I’m intrigued with examples of transformation I’ve seen from the writers of the Bible and extracanonical texts: … “We are happy. You have taught us about yourself.”
What the Mandaeans know about John the Baptist
“So many people are not aware that there is a group that has survived from ancient times down to the present day that…has sacred texts in a dialect of Aramaic.” An Interview with Dr. James McGrath.
Gospel of Judas: Sorrow is Not the Master of Life
This author is angry that people would mourn and agree to limitations and suffering, instead of throwing out the powers of darkness. This message of optimism is not naivete, but a rebuke to acquiescence.