The Pierian Spring: New Blog Project

I’d like to announce a new blog The Pierian Spring.  The blog is devoted to further discussion and discourse on Mormon scripture and thought and written primarily towards a Latter-day Saint readership.

Interfaith dialogue necessarily requires one to summarize, describe and otherwise explain one’s faith tradition in a way that others can appreciate and understand.  It goes without saying that in order to do this effectively, one must make a concerted effort to learn about the religious traditions of others and become aware of the themes, contours, the history and concerns that has shaped the faith of others.  In a sense, one must become religiously “bilingual.”  Thus, those involved in interfaith dialogue are continually learning about the faith of others but importantly, and concurrently, studying and reflecting on their own faith tradition, and as a result gain an important perspective concerning their own faith tradition.

Thus, The Pierian Spring grew out of my experience dialoguing with Evangelicals, Catholics and other Latter-day Saints.   Since the summer of 2007, I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to meaningfully converse with many outside the Latter-day Saint tradition on religious topics.  I have learned and benefited greatly from these discussions.  However, as is the case with most people involved in interfaith dialogue, I’ve also been interested in internal discussions and dialogue within the faith.

Through these experiences I have felt the need for a distinct venue to dialogue with a Latter-day Saint readership and speak to issues of concern with the LDS faith community.  Naturally, those desiring to learn more about Latter-day Saint teachings and history will find The Pierian Spring relevant.  And I find that it is quite difficult to shake the habit of writing material without having in mind the reader who comes from a religious tradition outside the LDS faith.  However, I consider it a good habit I hope not to forget.

I intend to continue to write for both Summa Theologica: Interfaith Dialogue and The Pierian Spring.  I want to thank those who have supported and encouraged me to seriously consider this project.

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