God after Deconstruction - 13 August 7.30pm

In conjunction with the Progressive Christianity Network, St Mark's Sheffield presents an evening with American theologian Thomas Jay Oord dealing with the challenging topic of faith deconstruction. The session will offer a hopeful and hope-filled vision of Christianity that doesn't rely on the traditional toxic traits of a violent and domineering deity. He advocates an 'open and relational' approach to Christianity which says that the God who is love experiences what we experience, feels our pain and sadness, and is not able to control our actions. Expect answers for your questions, and questions for your answers as together we explore Christianity beyond deconstruction. 

Dr Oord is a philosophical theologian and minister in the Church of the Nazarene. He advocates for full acceptance of queer people and has recently been charged with teaching doctrines contrary to the Church of the Nazarene and conduct unbecoming of a minister for his efforts to move the denomination to be fully affirming. 
 
He is the author of a variety of popular books including 'The Uncontrolling Love of God' and 'God After Deconstruction'. He directs a doctoral program at Northwind Theological Seminary and the Center for Open and Relational Theology.
 
He will be giving seminars in Sheffield, Hull and York in mid August and then speaking at Greenbelt Festival.