Nonbelievers' belief

Christian Century, Jan 31, 2001

JURGEN MOLTMANN takes orthodox Christian belief to the very limit of its theological scope in his article "Godless theology" (Dec. 20-27). By including nonorthodox believers like myself (some might say "nonbelievers"), he baptizes us all.

The only problem is: some of us may not wish to be included. This is not ultimately the party we wish to attend.

I am one of those, few in number, I'm sure, who takes the writer of the First Letter of John quite literally when he states, "God is love." Over the years I've come to dispense with earlier beliefs about God as Creator, as loving Father and all the other anthropomorphic qualities. Not only have I found no evidence that such a supreme being exists, I've found no particular advantage in persisting in this belief.

I bear Moltmann no grudge, however. His Christian love, partially expressed in his welcoming article, far surpasses mine. I'm just not sure he would like to be included in my club.

Clark N. Ross Wilmette, Ill.

Political trends ...

JAMES WALL indulged in wishful thinking in proclaiming the Republican era dead ("End of an era," Nov. 22-29). His own summary of the Clinton administration reveals how much Republican ideas still hold sway. Some of the administration's major achievements were tax cuts, free trade and welfare reform.

And if pragmatism has trumped what Wall calls moralism, that is hardly to the good. In addition to its Republican achievements, the Clinton administration will be remembered for Bill Clinton's personal moral squalor, controversial efforts to advance the gay rights agenda, strong ties to Hollywood, and one commitment he never wavered on--abortion on demand.

The '60s are over and perhaps the harshest backlash against them is over, but socially conservative concerns still motivate much of the electorate, and economic conservatism reigns in both parties.

Leonard R. Klein York, Pa.

Childless in church ...

MY THANKS to Mary T. Stimming for her recent article on being childless ("Endless advent," Dec. 6). Churches can be the cruelest places of all. I have become increasingly unwelcome in my local congregation as a childless woman despite my skills as a teacher and scholar. The message in clear: the important work for women is to have children and those who "quit treatment" deserve condemnation. The Kingdom of Children needs to be transformed into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Barbara J. MacHaffie Marietta, Ohio

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