Crossing Authority: Christians and the Use of Violence

Luther Memorial Church will host a theological conference on the tension between authority and ethics, Friday-Saturday, February 1-2, 2008.

Speakers will be:

• The Rev. Dr. Mary Gaebler of Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minnesota:
  • The sources of Christian ethics, with particular attention to Martin Luther's understanding of temporal authority and Christian vocation.
  • Particular challenges facing the church today, from the use of force in the name of peace to corporations' power in marketing to the world.
• Dr. Jeffrey Hensley of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, Washington DC:
  • The 19th and 20th century church a it struggled with wars, rapid economic expansion, and changing social and family structures.
  • Contemporary issues where politics and faith meet.
• The Rev. Dr. Thomas Ferguson, associate deputy for ecumenical and interfaith relations of the Episcopal Church, a Madison resident, sermon at the opening service of Holy Communion.

The conference opens with registration at 6:30 p.m. Friday and ends at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Registration deadline is Tuesday, January 29. Fees are $65 for full registration and $35 for high school and college students. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. The fee includes the reception, Saturday continental breakfast and lunch, and breaks. The registration form is on page 6 of the January Door [PDF, 1.1 mb] newsletter.

In connection with the conference, a blog has been created, opening discussion of the topic to the general public. You are welcome to add your comments and questions.

For more information, e-mail or call the church, (608) 258-3160.