Wednesday, June 08, 2005
A New Reformation: Theologian Matthew Fox Challenges The World To Rethink Christianity
WITTENBERG, GERMANY---June 8, 2005---Crowds gathering at the famous Wittenberg Cathedral (Schlosskirche) witnessed the nailing of the 95 Theses for a New Reformation, by American theologian Matthew Fox.
Fox's new book calls for a new awakening for Christians. The book's premise is that we are confronted with two versions of Christianity: one that is fundamentalist and is characterized by a Punitive Father God, a rigidly hierarchical church structure, a belief that we are born of original sin, intolerance of gay lifestyles, a fear of science; and the other version of Christianity which is expressed by a loving God of justice and compassion, is earth centered and eco-conscious, is interfaith and lifestyle tolerant, embraces the feminine, believes in original blessing and encourages scientific thought. Some of Fox's new takes on the 95 Theses include: "God is both Father and Mother;" "Religion is not necessary, but spirituality is;" and "Jesus said nothing about condoms, birth control or homosexuality." Fox believes it is time for Christians to choose whom it will follow: an angry exclusionary God or the loving God who opens the path to wisdom.
Hailed as "the New Reformer" by the German media, Fox and his quest for a new reformation was supported by over 500 attendees in Bad Herrenalb while his nailing of the 95 Theses on the Schlosskirche in Wittenberg drew new crowds and interviews from various magazine and television journalists. Fox noted that the Cathedral today was mainly a tourist stop, much like his analogy in his new book, where he refers to today's institutionalized churches as "museums" rather than active spiritual centers.
"The traditional purpose of a thesis is to open up constructive debate in the search for truth," says Fox. "At this critical time in human and planetary history, when the earth is being ravaged by the violence of war, poverty, sexism, homophobia and eco-destruction, we need to gather those who offer a future that is one of compassion, creativity and justice to stand up and speak their conscience together as never before. Religion ought to be part of the solution, not the problem."
Contact: Dennis Edwards: 510-835-4827 ext.11
dedwards@wisdomuniversity.org or
Suzanne Fox Sevel at (404) 229-5359, sfox@publicityink.com
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