Dr. Hein takes up the thorny topic of gender in the church. But this isn't what you think. This has nothing to do with "gender identity" and transgenderism.
Rather, he addresses the symptom of modern western churches largely being unrepresented by male parishioners, and the effects which flow from this disparity. Dr. Hein traces this phenomenon historically - and surprisingly, it isn't rooted in the modern feminist movement, but dates back to the Middle Ages. This is not only an intriguing topic in terms of history and theology, it is a pastoral issue as well - especially considering the role of fathers in the propagation of the faith to their children and the future of Christianity in the West.
Here are links to the audio:
Other audio and video from the many outstanding presentations can be found here.
A couple of books that Dr. Hein refers to in his presentation are:
- Why Men Hate Going to Church by David Murrow, and
- The Church Impotent by Leon Podles
A couple of works by Dr. Hein that you might find of interest:
"Fathers, Don't Let Them Die" (blog post)
Thank you, Dr. Hein, for tackling this controversial and crucial issue to the life and faith of not only ourselves, but our descendants as they battle the world, the devil, and the sinful flesh. I encourage everyone to listen to his presentation and think about what can be done in your own family and parish for the sake of the Gospel.
What father tells the oncologist of their cancer-stricken child that they will not make their next appointment because it conflicts with her soccer game? And yet, recent statistics suggest that many of our children baptized as infants joined many a soccer league, but never made it to their confirmation as adolescents.
~ Rev. Dr. Steve Hein
2 comments:
The first audio link doesn't take me to Hein's presentation. The other two work fine.
Thank you, Aaron! I fixed it!
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