A Holy Night in the (not so) Holy Land -Ancient and Modern Explorations of the Birth of Jesus
Adult Forum Series every Sunday at 9 a.m. from November 29 – December 20
The angels message at the nativity — “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” — must have seemed like wish fulfillment to those living in ancient Palestine, amidst the Roman occupation and the brutal oppression of the local king, Herod the Great. It might seem just as hollow today to the predominantly Palestinian residents of Bethlehem in the occupied territories, surrounded by the state of Israel’s security wall. Nazareth in Galilee is also a largely Palestinian town. And the modern “Peace Process” seems hopelessly log-jammed.
Join us for an Advent Forum Series that mixes Travelogue, Archeology and History, Contemporary Politics, and Biblical Exegesis as a way into reading the Birth Narratives of Jesus in Matthew and Luke with a new set of eyes. As none of us can travel right now, these forums will be an illustrated guide to the ancient and modern sites in Nazareth, Bethlehem and Jerusalem that form the backdrop to the over-familiar nativity story. Combining maps, photos, diagrams and video footage, our virtual guide will lead the modern-day visitor / “pilgrim” through a unique experience of the “(Not so) Holy Land” … and a chance to do a deep dive into the Birth Stories in terms of their Historical context and profound Theological contrasts. We will also try to Hear the Voices and Experience the Perspectives of Modern-Day Israelis and Palestinians, who are Competing for some of the most Disputed and Sacred Real Estate on the Planet.
Our Teacher & Guide will be David Moseley, Ph.D., who is Director of Global Education and Teaches Religious Studies & Philosophy at The Bishop’s School, La Jolla. Dr. Moseley holds undergraduate and graduate Degrees in Law, Theology and Philosophy from Oxford University; and a Doctorate in Theology from Cambridge University. Dr. Moseley taught Theology and Biblical Studies at the University of San Diego for 16 years; he was formerly Theologian-in-Residence at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral in San Diego; a founding member of the Faculty of the San Diego Diocesan School for Ministry; he has Led Trips to the “Holy Land”; and Teaches Adult Education Classes in Parishes throughout the County.
