Christianity beyond borders

Monday, November 21st, 2011, 9:00pm EDT

 

Audio only

Ever heard the word “ecumenism?” It’s what the National Council of Churches is all about - fostering dialogue and unity between Christian churches. On this edition of Time4thinkers Live, the NCC’s General Secretary, Michael Kinnamon, will be joining us to talk with Christian Science lecturer, Shirley Paulson, about why it’s important for the Christian world to be working more closely together. It’s a chat you won’t want to miss if you’ve ever thought:

• I think my religion is the best one, so why would I want to take the time to learn about others?
• There are some Christians who say I’m not Christian. How come they can’t get that the name “Christian Science” tells that I’m Christian?
• I’m afraid to talk about my religion because I don’t know how to answer the hard questions well. Am I stuck trying to change the topic forever?

Circle your calendars and send in your questions: Monday evening, November 21, 9 pm Eastern.

Host: Chet Manchester

Guests:
Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) clergyman and a long-time educator and ecumenical leader, is currently the General Secretary of the NCC (the National Council of Churches). Before becoming General Secretary, he was chair of the Council’s Justice and Advocacy Commission. He oversaw the commission’s development of resolutions and statements on a wide range of justice and peace issues and was the primary drafter of the NCC’s Strategic Plan drafting committee. He has also held professorial positions at various theological seminaries, including Dean of Lexington Theological Seminary. Michael was ordained in 1976 and he has ministerial standing in the Disciples of Christ and the International Council of Community Churches. He has also written extensively on the ecumenical movement.

Shirley Paulson’s combination of Christian Science healing practice with a master’s degree in theological studies has opened the door to a number of valuable ecumenical interfaith activities. She is currently representing the Christian Science Church on an observer basis at the board of the National Council of Churches (NCC) and is serving on the Faith and Order Commission of the NCC. Her lectures are designed primarily for classrooms. Professors without firsthand knowledge of Christian Science often appreciate the opportunity to have a knowledgeable and experienced speaker available for the class. Additionally, Paulson gives talks for young Christian Science audiences who enjoy learning about how Christian Science relates to the wider context of ChristianityShirley is currently the Head of Ecumenical Affairs of The Mother Church.