How Process Heals Divisions with Bruce Epperly (Part 1)
Mar 18, 2024
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A discussion on process theology and how it can heal divisiveness in communities. Emphasizing co-agential relationships, the evolving nature of spirituality, and countering conservative American Christianity. Exploring fear, bad theology, and the importance of finding God's unconditional love. Encouraging embracing diverse perspectives, understanding differing viewpoints, and finding common ground on divisive issues.
Process theology highlights the interconnected nature of existence, emphasizing change, growth, and creativity in a dynamic world.
Embracing process thinking can facilitate constructive engagement by encouraging deep listening, understanding opposing views, and recognizing the divine in others.
Deep dives
Key Ideas on Process Theology
Process theology emphasizes that the world is dynamic and interconnected. Life is defined by change, growth, and creativity, with all elements in constant flux. This perspective underscores the relational nature of existence, rejecting the idea of isolated individuals. Additionally, it presents a theological dimension where God is viewed as actively participating in the evolving process, guiding and interacting with all aspects of creation.
Navigating Difficult Conversations with Process Thinking
In challenging dialogues or highly polarized environments, process thinking offers a foundation for constructive engagement. It advocates listening deeply and seeking to understand opposing viewpoints without losing personal integrity. The approach encourages recognizing the divine in others, even in those with conflicting beliefs or actions. By embracing ambiguity and relationality, individuals can transcend binary thinking and cultivate meaningful connections despite differences.
Embracing Relationality and Uncertainty for Future Harmony
Acknowledging relationality as a fundamental aspect of human existence, individuals are urged to embrace uncertainty and complexity. By living in the in-between spaces and resisting the urge to categorize everything as 'us versus them,' a deeper understanding and connection with others can emerge. Making agential decisions in moments of unresolved conflict, and practicing the phenomenology of embrace, symbolizing openness to the other, can pave the way for collaborative futures amidst diverse perspectives.
Ilia Delio is joined by process theologian Bruce Epperly for an honest conversation looking at the divisiveness at work in our communities and politics. Bruce gives an introduction to process theology (or process relational theology) and together they unpack how the basic conceptual shifts promoted by process theology can help to heal our communities and guide our interactions with people who challenge us to a better future.
ABOUT BRUCE EPPERLY
“Healing can occur in any circumstance, because God is the source of abundance and new life in all things. Even when no physical cure is possible, we can experience a peace that enables us to face life’s most difficult challenges with a sense of hope and equanimity.”
Bruce Epperly, Ph.D., has served as a congregational pastor and university chaplain, university and seminary professor and administrator, and is a prolific author and lectionary commentator. With over forty years joining pulpit and classroom, Bruce recently retired from congregational ministry after serving eight years as Senior Pastor of South Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Centerville, MA. He has relocated from Cape Cod to the Washington D.C. suburbs to be closer to his family. He continues to teach as Adjunct Faculty at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C.
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