New Vatican Document Bans Gay Priests In a new statement that bears the signature of Pope Benedict, the Vatican has announced its intention to ban gay men from the priesthood. The pronouncement is likely to raise further questions about the authority of the papacy, about the ordination of gay men (not to mention women), and about the future of a church that appears increasingly resistant to reform.
The Fascinating History of the Christmas Carol Nothing is more familiar about this season than the carols. Yet, the history of this form of sacred music is largely forgotten. From ring dance to sacred carol, we trace the controversial story.
Stem Cell Research: Are We Messing With Powers and Prerogatives of God? The South Korean researcher who won world acclaim as the first scientist to clone a human embryo and extract stem cells recently resigned as director of a new research center, citing the ethical problems associated with his work. Some of the same issues were cited by President Bush in 2001 when he limited federal funding for such research. We look at the issues involved in the ongoing debate.
Christmas is Wonderful, but is it Real? The message of Christmas is comforting, but when one considers the persistence of warfare and other human ills, is it's promise of peace on earth truly to be believed?
What Would Jesus Eat? With one holiday down, and more coming soon, the challenge of losing some of those extra calories will be a cause of much concern in many households in the coming weeks. Holidays may come and go, but the Christian weight loss industry continues to prosper. Here's my take on what works and what doesn't.
Going to Hell In a Handbasket It is a colorful phrase. For large numbers of people in the US, it powerfully depicts where we are headed as a nation. It is a staple among those who believe that the world as we know it is coming to an end soon. Many seem to find in this clich� a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. But where did this vivid phrase come from, what does it actually mean, and does it paint an accurate picture of what is happening in to us as a people?
What Do Christians Believe? From the Apostle's Creed to various contemporary statements of faith, Christians have expressed their faith in a variety of ways access two millennium. We take a look at the major creeds and confessions of Christianity.
Thanksgiving: Mirror Unto The Soul of a Nation "A nation divided cannot stand," said Abraham Lincoln, paraphrasing Scripture. But with a bit of luck, some ordinary patience and understanding, and a touch of grace, it can. Here's how.
Top Ten Christmas Albums Christmas is known for its music. During the holiday season people who seldom attend flock to the churches for a performance of sacred music or to sing a few carols with friends. Why not bring the glory of the season into your own home? These CD's are sure to uplift and inspire, filling your home with joy!
Star Wars, Episode 3, Revenge of the Sith, Now Out on DVD We reviewed the latest and last in the Star Wars series in May. Now out on DVD, this could be a good stocking stuffer for Christmas. It's got enough spiritual substance to engage the entire family in fun conversation about the meaning of the myths that lie at the heart of American civil religion.
Funeral Planner A friend or loved one dies. You find yourself in the position of needing to organize a fitting tribute, memorial service or funeral. Here is the practical information you'll need in moving ahead with your plans, including our list of recommended readings for the service.
A Sacramental View of Sex The real problem arises, according to Jesus, when self appointed guardians of goodness and truth define sex as evil and thus make sinners of us all.
The Deluge Begins Only days after Halloween, and merchants are preparing for a blitz of advertising, promotion, and hype. All designed to fuel holiday spending, particularly on expensive Christmas presents. We'll be looking for alternatives: books, music CD's, videos, symbolic items ... gifts of meaning that won't cost you an arm and a leg, but will express your attentiveness to those you want to connect with during the coming holidays. Here, for example, is our list of the Top Ten Christmas Albums.
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The Rev. Charles P. Henderson is a Presbyterian minister and
Executive Director of Cross Currents.
He is the author of God and Science
(John Knox Press, 1986).
A revised and expanded version of the book is appearing here. God and Science (Hypertext Edition,
2005) He is also editor of a new book, featuring articles by world class scientists and theologians, and illustrating the leading views on the relationship between science and religion: Faith, Science and the Future (CrossCurrents Press, 2007)
Charles also tracks the boundry between the virtual and the real at his blog: Next World Design, focusing on the mediation of art, science and spirituality in the metaverse.
