Is Heresy Possible?

Pastor-Theologian Consultation • November 18–20, 2008

The Greek root of “heresy” is “to choose.” The implication is that the faithful follow the rule of faith, while a heretic chooses to depart from some aspect of the received faith of the church.

Today, we are averse to the concept of heresy and even more uncomfortable with branding an individual as a heretic. We live in a time when the church celebrates theological diversity as a good gift, and writing personal belief statements is de riguer. Once presbyteries examined candidates for ordination to determine if they professed the faith of the church; now we listen for their ability to articulate their personal views. Candidates for ministry may be denied advancement in the ordination process for a variety of reasons, but heresy is almost never one of them. Meanwhile, the church’s doctrinal differences are settled on polity grounds rather than on a determination of right belief (orthodoxy).

Is heresy a useful ecclesial category? Is heresy even possible in the contemporary church? What has been gained or lost as the church has weakened or abandoned the concept?

The Office of Theology and Worship invites you to apply for a Pastor-Theologian exploration of the question, “Is Heresy Possible?” If the theme seems intriguing, send brief professional information and a two-page explanation of your desire to participate in the consultation. If accepted, you will be expected to do preparatory reading and to write a 10–12 page essay on a specific aspect of the topic for presentation in the consultation.

The Pastor-Theologian consultation will be held November 18–20, 2008. Each participant will cover up to $500 in travel expenses; the Office of Theology and Worship will cover all other expenses, including lodging and meals.