1st Edition
Quakering Theology Essays on Worship, Tradition and Christian Faith
Quakers exist neither for themselves nor by themselves alone. Therefore, they ought not to construct Quaker theologies but rather quaker (verb) theology-to add their fingerprints to the larger conversation. David Johns contributes to a Quaker way of thinking theologically but also invites others to think through their denominational identities into a more expansive and ecumenical space. Placing contemporary Quaker thought in conversation with the wider theological tradition, Johns shows that Quakers have something important to contribute to the wider Christian family and he demonstrates how other groups may enter this conversation as well. Some themes explored may not spring immediately to mind as ’Quaker themes’-the saints, C.S. Lewis, sacraments, ritual, and Shakespeare-but Johns argues these are precisely the kind of issues that require Quaker fingerprints-that require quakering.
Biography
David L. Johns has taught at two Quaker colleges and for twelve years was a professor of theology at the Earlham School of Religion, a Friends seminary in Indiana. He is Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College at Union College in Kentucky. In addition to publishing regularly in the area of Quaker studies, he is an associate editor with Quaker Religious Thought.
'Johns sees great unrealised potential for theological conversation around narrative, virtue and sainthood, drawing on the long Quaker tradition of narrating and reflecting on exemplary lives. Indeed, alongside the Quaker-related essays that make up the bulk of the book, Johns sets some short experiments in narrative theology - including a fascinating and plausible reading-together of King Lear and the Narnia stories, as a reflection on the nature and possibility of redemption.' Modern Believing 'David Johns has given us a fascinating, provocative, and experimental collection of essays.' Worship
