Campolo Center

Our next Summer Book Group gathering is Wednesday, July 8, 8-9 pm. We will discuss Part 2 of Partly Right by Tony Campolo. All are welcome. Here in an overview and some questions to guide our conversation:

In Part 2, Dr. Tony Campolo addresses critiques from Marx, Freud, and Kierkegaard. Tony argues that while they were "partly right" in identifying failures within the church, a renewed, radical faith is still possible.

Karl Marx famously claimed religion is used to keep the lower classes subdued (O***m of the Masses) by promising them a better afterlife. How does Tony suggest the Church should respond to this critique without abandoning the hope of Heaven?

Marx argued that societal structures cause alienation. Does the Church focus too much on personal salvation while ignoring the systemic injustices that oppress people? What do you think?

Freud argued that belief in God is merely an illusion used by humans to cope with anxiety and the fear of a chaotic universe. How might Christians evaluate their own faith to interrogate whether it is rooted in truth rather than psychological crutches?

Do you agree with Freud's critique that the Christian emphasis on sin and morality creates unhealthy, repressed psychological conditions? What are your thoughts?

Kierkegaard heavily criticized bourgeois (middle-class) Christianity for being too comfortable and lacking genuine faith. What do you think: In what ways does the Church today fall into the trap of becoming a social club rather than a gathering/sending of radical disciples?

Kierkegaard believed that rational, objective proof will never lead to true faith, which requires a personal "leap of faith." Do you agree? How does this idea shape the way we might understand doubt and belief?

Tony argues that each one of these critics were partly right . He was writing in 1985. Which of these historical critiques do you feel is the most valid or hits closest to home for the Church today?

Looking forward to our conversation!

If you would like to join in, email [email protected] for the July 8 Zoom link.

Welcome new Campolo Fellow, Mackenzie Bancroft! Mackenzie writes, "I live in Media, PA and am studying towards a Masters in Practical Theology. I'm hoping to write bible curriculum for children and families on how to practically apply the gospel into the quotidian of life in ways that create firm foundations and strong connections for children and families. I love reading, grandma hobbies like embroidery and knitting, spending time with my husband and two kids, and teaching children's yoga at local libraries!" Welcome, Mackenzie!

More Campolo Fellow Summer Goodness! Way to go, Owen!

This crew is heading to London in just a couple weeks! Campolo Fellows Matthias Brockington, Cathleen Saunders, Grace Longo, Declan Basinger, Billinda Leisner, Tymir Norment, and six other outstanding Eastern University students have been selected for a 4-week summer pilot program to establish a learning, serving, and worshipping community in the south of London. This collaboration among Eastern University, The Campolo Center, Oasis Trust, and Goldsmiths College of the University of London will be rooted in the diverse, multicultural, and low-income community of Brixton. This immersive, educational experience will offer students:

1) Six college credits for the course Reimagining Faith in the Urban Margins: Bible, Culture, and Social Transformation;

2) Service-learning placements with unique and dynamic faith-based organizations ministering to local youth and under-resourced and under served communities; and

3) Hands-on leadership in establishing and developing a new church and worshipping community.

We look forward to sharing this journey with you!