(Not Your) Grandpa's Church Service: Pyrotheology's Familial Resemblance to Liberal Theology and the Possibilities for Political Liturgy. Issue 4 (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Osinski, Keegan
• Is Part Of: Modern believing. Volume 57:Issue 4(2016)
• Page Start: 349
• Page End: 361
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: LIBERAL THEOLOGY -- LITURGY -- PETER ROLLINS -- PYROTHEOLOGY -- RADICAL THEOLOGY -- RITUAL -- SOCIAL GOSPEL -- SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION -- TRANSFORMANCE ART; Liberalism (Religion) -- Periodicals; Theology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 248.4
• DOI: 10.3828/mb.2016.24
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-1425

Abstract

Abstract : This article explores the relationship between the liberal theology of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and Peter Rollins's Pyrotheology, which I present here as a theological methodology that encourages the questioning of beliefs and the embracing of doubt. I highlight the family resemblances between these two theologies, focusing on their emphasis on individual experience and their engagement with society and culture. I explore how liberal theology might be emboldened by the deconstructive spark of Pyrotheology, and how Pyrotheology might be enriched by the social justice torch of liberal theology. I argue that the pyrotheological liturgical practice of Transformance Art could be the site of a more constructive engagement between Pyrotheology and liberal theology, serving to move the former's often inward focus toward more outward work for justice in the world.