Aliens, Christian art, the soul, and implicit religion are just some of the topics discussed in the journal Challenging Religious Issues (Issue 16). The St Giles’ Centre has recently translated and published the Welsh version of this issue (the English version was published in Spring 2020).
A summary of the content of the articles is provided below. You can download both Welsh and English versions here.
Aliens: Ecclesiology and 1 Peter by Dr John Holdsworth
1981 saw the beginnings of a new direction in the study of 1 Peter, which hitherto had appeared to have reached an impasse. Sociological studies by Elliott and Goppelt have charted a new way forward that has helped to highlight the theology of 1 Peter, and particularly its ecclesiology, and which have helped redefine ecclesiological study. This has also provided new hermeneutical possibility.
The Nativity and Crucifixion in Christian Art: Encounter, Interpretation and Devotion by Dr Bridget Nichols
The article discusses the role of Christian art in forming Christian identity and devotional patterns, focusing on the birth of Christ and his crucifixion.
Mind, Brain and the Unifying Soul by Dr Mark Graves
The article presents an overview of the historical development of the concept of the soul in Western philosophy and theology, and in the context of current scientific perspectives.
Implicit Religion: A New Approach to the Study of Religion? by Dr Francis Stewart
The article argues that one change brought to the study of religion by the development and ultimate failure of the secularisation thesis was a new approach that sought to answer the question, ‘What is secular religion?’ This approach was Implicit Religion, whose origin, nature and significance are discussed here.
The Ineffable Mystery of God? by Professor Jeff Astley
The article explores the concepts of God’s ineffability, transcendence and mystery, with particular reference to religious experience and religious language.
Made in the Image of God: Experiences of a Woman with Disability in Nigeria by Jessie Fubara-Manuel and Elijah Obinna
This article discusses the Christian affirmation that humanity (with or without disabilities) is made in the image of God. For persons with disabilities (PWDs), this assertion is assuring and could provide basis for society’s collective journey towards equality, dignity and justice for all persons.