Serene Jones & Adam Clark: Theology Matters and the Legacy of James Cone
Jan 12, 2022
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Serene Jones, president of Union Theological Seminary and a leading theologian, joins Adam Clark, a dedicated theology scholar from Xavier University. Together, they delve into liberation theology's evolution and discuss James Cone's profound impact on modern thought. They reflect on the importance of diversity in theology, particularly from black and womanist perspectives. The conversation highlights Cone's unique teaching style and his commitment to intellectual rigor, shaping contemporary discussions on social justice and faith.
Union Theological Seminary serves as a vital institution for liberation theology, actively engaging with social justice issues through unique educational practices.
The evolving landscape of contemporary theology embraces radical diversity, integrating various voices and perspectives that enrich discussions on spirituality and justice.
Deep dives
The Role of Union Theological Seminary in Liberation Theology
Union Theological Seminary is recognized as a pivotal institution for liberation theology, addressing the pressing needs and concerns of the world through its unique educational framework. The president emphasizes the importance of this seminary, highlighting its historical commitment to responding to social justice issues over decades. The institution thrives on continuous dialogue and contestation surrounding significant societal conflicts, which fosters an environment ripe for new forms of imagination. This dynamism allows Union to remain relevant and transformative in the global landscape of theological education, shaping future leaders in faith and justice.
Influential Figures and Personal Encounters in Theology
The president shares impactful memories of meeting legendary theologians like James Cone, whose serious engagement with black theology left a lasting impression. His profound respect for Cone was coupled with an appreciation for the humor and existential weight he carried in addressing the realities of race and faith. Personal experiences with Katie Cannon further exemplify the vibrant community at Union, showcasing the thrilling blend of rigorous theological discussions and the joy of engaging with life’s complexities. These relationships highlight the importance of mentorship and camaraderie among scholars and students in shaping their theological identities.
The Evolving Landscape of Theological Education
The contemporary landscape of theology is marked by a radical diversity that invites varied voices and perspectives into theological discussions. This shifting paradigm now includes a focus on spirituality, ecological concerns, and justice issues, broadening the scope of what theological education entails. The integration of practices beyond traditional academic forms, such as poetry and media, exemplifies the creativity emerging within the field. Black theology and womanist theology remain central to this evolution, offering critical insights that bridge the gap between academic discourse and lived experiences, particularly in regards to racial equity.
Criticism and Support for Diverse Theological Voices
Despite criticisms of the fragmentation in contemporary theology as a 'tower of Babel', the president argues for the beauty and richness of diverse voices in theological conversations. He asserts that embracing this diversity is crucial for fostering deeper reflections on the ultimate meanings of life and justice. The historical lens of well-known theologians is a reminder that singular perspectives are no longer viable or desirable; rather, a multitude of narratives enrich theological understanding. This ongoing dialogue within a diverse community is essential for developing robust theological frameworks that address the complexities of human experiences and societal challenges.
In this episode you get a preview of what is going on in the Upsetting the Powersreading group. Each week we will be featuring a live session where Adam Clark and I discuss the week's theme, reading, and class questions... but wait...there's more :) there will also be an interview in which Adam talks with a fellow scholar and friend of James Cone. After you hear this I hope you join the class. Remember all the content is available for the members to go at their own pace and it is donation based (including 0) so if you are interested come on in.
Dr. Adam Clark is Associate Professor of Theology at Xavier University. He is committed to the idea that theological education in the twenty first century must function as a counter-story. One that equips us to read against the grain of the dominant culture and inspires one to live into the Ignatian dictum of going forth “to set the world on fire.” To this end, Dr. Clark is intentional about pedagogical practices that raise critical consciousness by going beneath surface meanings, unmasking conventional wisdoms and reimagining the good. He currently serves as co-chair of Black Theology Group at the American Academy of Religion, actively publishes in the area of black theology and black religion and participates in social justice groups at Xavier and in the Cincinnati area. He earned his PhD at Union Theological Seminary in New York where he was mentored by James Cone.
Dr. Serene Jones is a highly respected scholar and public intellectual and the 16th President of the historic Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York. The first woman to head the 182-year-old institution, Jones occupies the Johnston Family Chair for Religion and Democracy. She is a Past President of the American Academy of Religion, which annually hosts the world’s largest gathering of scholars of religion. Jones came to Union after seventeen years at Yale University, where she was the Titus Street Professor of Theology at the Divinity School, and Chair of the University’s Program in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies. She is the author of several books including Trauma and Grace and, most recently, her memoir Call It Grace: Finding Meaning in a Fractured World. Jones, a popular public speaker, is sought by media to comment on major issues impacting society because of her deep grounding in theology, politics, women’s studies, economics, race studies, history, and ethics.