Episcopal Bishop Spong To Speak at Unitarian Church of Sarasota Feb 12/13
Controversial Bishop will address the future of Christianity and why it must change or die
Recently named “Person of the Year” by Americans United for the Separation of Church and State, Bishop John Shelby Spong will address followers and critics alike when he comes to Sarasota to explain his vision for a “kinder, more gentle, more inclusive” form of Christianity – one that he claims is necessary for the survival of the religion. This is the first time in many years that Bishop Spong will appear in Sarasota. Attendees will come away with a new appreciation for modern, progressive theology. The church is located at 3975 Fruitville Rd. 941-371-4974.
Spong’s career has been marked by his sharp criticism of biblical literalism and traditional Christian dogma. His outspoken support for ordaining gay clergy, gay marriage, electing women leaders of national churches and a new, rational humane Christianity has often landed him on shaky ground with more traditional Christian churches.
Spong served 24 yrs as the Bishop of Newark and then as a parish priest in North Carolina and Virginia. He lectured and taught at Harvard, Drew, the University of the Pacific and the Berkeley Graduate Theological Union. He is a best-selling author whose books have sold over one million copies. His latest book, Biblical Literalism: A Gentile Heresy, will go on sale in the week following his UUCS appearance.
The event is open to the public. Tickets and advance reservations are required as seating is limited. Details, fee and registration information are available at: www.uucsarasota.com/spong.html.
