Not only do I agree with the thrust of this, there is some encouragement available about it-- Hardi has been preaching along these lines of late, and people have been extremely interested and responsive.

A discussion going on at our house nowadays, in the little bits and pieces of time a busy Lent allows in a pastor's hime, have been about the appalling lack of ability among most folk to carry on a moral discussion. We can argue, advocate, rant, and express ourselves... but we seldom have enough internal tranquility to discuss, listen, and understand; the basic tools with which to conduct a moral discussion are lacking. We have little left in that situation but our own opinions, hastily taken and aggressively promoted.

We lead a weekly class now that teaches these tools-- how to think and discuss theologically, how to wonder about things together with no agreement necessary. Opinions often intrude but we keep an eye out for these blocks in continued exploration, with good effect.

~Susan