5 Sessions / March 7, 14, 21 and April 4, 11

Wednesday afternoons 1 – 3:00 pm

Welcome to the Genesis of Ethics. In this course, we will begin at the beginning of the Hebrew Bible, and using the Midrash technique made famous by The Red Tent, we will delve into the family narratives of the House of Abraham.

You might remember the Bill Moyers study of Genesis, or you might know that this biblical text is a favorite of intellectuals seeking to discern lessons on life, particularly lessons of moral development.

Make no mistake; the House of Abraham is riddled with dysfunction, poor choices and wrong turns taken. Our text demands that we read with a critical eye, understanding that these stories are not proscriptive, and may in fact be cautionary. They invite us to see Scripture as living and relevant. Our Genesis narratives will remind us that the more things change, the more they stay the same because life, particularly family life, is messy.

Our course will follow the book The Genesis of Ethics by Burton Visotzky, as well as engaging with the original text in various translations. Differing traditions will be brought to our study, and we will focus most closely on the family narratives for the simple reason that most of us have some experience of family life.

Study and discussion of these stories forces us to listen carefully to one another and to ourselves. This is a study you will find enjoyable, enriching and challenging.

Reading from the Bible and the Genesis of Ethics are required.

Rev. Sue Goodwin, friend of UUCWC, was ordained in the United Church of Christ (UCC) in 2004.  She’s a graduate of Drew Theological School and has a passion for adult education.

To register:

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Questions?  Email:  are@uucwc.org