Sin and Ecology: A Conversation with Jürgen Moltmann and the School of René Girard

Abstract

This essay will compare the approaches of Jürgen Moltmann and René Girard and those who follow his social criticism, in the light of the need for an ecological reinterpretation of the nature of sin. Sin, and the doctrine of original sin in the Western tradition goes to the very basis of the Christian story and the concept gospel. Good news is there to address bad news. In turn, the story of good news in the Christian tradition requires a thorough exploration of bad news. The need for an ecologically sound harmartiology begs the question of ktisiology and the very nature of 'God the Father Creator of heaven and earth'. It leads us to ask: Why is the Christian faith a salvifijic faith? Why redemption and what is it?

The conversation between public theology and missiology: A response to Sebastian Kim

“…Drawing on David Bosch, my own work in this area has focused on exploring the role of poiesis in bringing about effective social change (Fensham, 2016; see also Kim, 2016: 20), and building a transformative vision for witness regarding climate change and ecological destruction (Fensham, 2015). This is part of my involvement with witness and advocacy together with the global working group "Christian Faith and the Earth" and contribution to "Citizens for Public Justice" in Canada (Fensham, 2008;2012a;2012b;2013;. Aware of much of the above, Sebastian Kim's paper seeks to establish a taxonomy that compares the roles of missiology and public theology.…”