The Christian Pluralist: An Invitation from the Pew

John Charles and Bill Buffie have provided something in The Christian Pluralist that has been needed for a long time--a voice from the pews. They are not theology professors; they are not clergy. They are part of what makes up the huge majority of every church--the laity. And their voice and the many for whom I think they speak is a necessary one in our time--a voice that speaks to questions of the importance of religion without that importance degenerating into absolute claims of absolute truth. Theirs is a voice that embraces religion but not religious intolerance; embraces Christianity as a spiritual path but not as a highway of hate; embraces the Bible as story but not as a weapon. Theirs is a voice that raises questions seeks a community in which to explore answers and one that calls for a truly common good. Theirs is a voice of the people one that speaks in witness to the existence of something other than a religious right in our congregations. Theirs is an enlightened American voice and it is one to which we should listen. Thomas J. Davis Chair Religious Studies Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis What gives this book its unique angle is that two serious-minded laymen--folks from the pews--wrote it rather than leaving the matter to theologically trained scholars. Buffie and Charles treat an important subject with sophistication and the perspective they provide is valuable accessible and timely. Dr. David Bodenhamer Executive Director The Polis Center Indianapolis IN