Sunday, December 5, 2010

A Response

So I believe you suggested that we write a blog responding to the writings by Matt Townsley and Walter Bouzard.  I had forgotten until now, so here it is.  Better late than never!

Not knowing Townsley or  his personality, when I first read his article over whether Wartburg is really a college of the church, I couldn't help but wonder if he was playing devil's advocate to an extent.  I found myself wondering if this is how he really felt, or if he was pulling together facts to make the school think about and remember what they represent.  I didn't feel like the information he presented was consistently used in the correct context.  I think he pulled bits and pieces to make his point.  While I agree that the college is very tolerant of other religions, I do not think this is a bad thing.  Everyone has a different background and something different to bring to the table.  As Christians, I feel we should recognize that everyone has a right to worship if they so choose.  I like how everyone is welcomed to Communion, even if they are not Lutheran.  Jesus did die for everyone after all.

I do not think that Townsley was expecting a response to his argument, but he did.  Bouzard's response to Townsley's argument was better organized and had definite proof that backed up his different points.  I thought it was funny at the end that he mentioned how Townsley unintentionally argued for more religion classes.  I don't think that was Townsley's intent!

I found these two pieces interesting.  I am perfectly content with the way Wartburg is currently running as far as religion goes.  There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in religion here.  I like how they are not forced opportunities either.  I feel like if I was forced to be involved in a religious group or forced to attend a certain amount of services, that I would enjoy it less, simply because I was told I have to.  I think that Townsley made some interesting points in his article, however he was no match for Bouzard's response.

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