June 25, 2017
Luther and the Jews: Responsibility and Reconciliation
In commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, we will explore Martin Luther's relationship to the Jews, its implications, and recent responses from Lutheran communities.
Set within the framework of dialogue and discussion, Professors Dean Bell and Peter Pettit will present their respective understandings of Luther's anti-Semitism within historical and contemportary context. Each professor will give a brief presentation, followed by dialogue and discussion with and among the audience.
Dean Bell is Provost, Vice President, and Professor of History at Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership. He is a scholar of medieval and early modern Jewish history, especially in Germany.
Peter Pettit is Associate Professor of Religion Studies and Director of the Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding at Muhlenberg Collge. He is a leader in Jewish-Christian dialogue, and a scholar of biblical studies, theology, and Israel studies.
The presentations and dialogue will take place on Sunday, June 25, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue (14506 California St. in Omaha). The event is free and open to the public.
October 5-6, 2017
Religion and Secularlism
This symposium will address the history, sources, and significance of secularism and its relationship to religions and religious traditions.
The symposium will take place Thursday–Friday, October 5-6, in Harper Center 3023, from 8:30 to 5:00. The symposium is co-sponsored by the John C. Kenefick Faculty Chair in the Humanities. More information, including the schedule, will be forthcoming.
February 15-16, 2018
Religion and Reform
In commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, the annual Kripke Symposium will address the mutibility of religion
Although ostensiblity of divine inspiration, religions are not immutable; they have changed in significant ways due to historical, economic, social, and political circumstances and causes. Some changes have been intentional, some have been compelled on the religion and necessary for survival, and others have not even been noticable except from historical perspective. This symposium will address the many ways in which religion has changed, is changing, and perhaps needs to change, and their particular causes. Proposals addressing the topic from a broad range of disciplines and focusing on diverse religious traditions are encouraged.
The symposium will take place Thursday–Friday, February 15-16, in Harper Center 3023, from 8:30 to 5:00. The schedule for the symposium will be posted around the beginning of the new year.