The spring issue of “Windows” magazine from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary shows many a new side of John Calvin, born 500 years ago.
by Synod of the Sun Moderator Christianne Chase of Cimarron Presbytery
While I'm still savoring the experience, I wanted to tell you that I retrieved the new issue of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary's "Windows" (Spring 2009) from my mailbox today, opened it up and read it straight through, cover to cover. OK, the delicious-looking cupcake on the cover may have drawn me in, but it was the variety of perspectives on John Calvin whose 500th birthday we celebrate that attracted and held my interest.
I realize that I have unconsciously subscribed to several of Michael Jinkins' "Myths and Urban Legends" about Calvin...that he was a tyrant, a religious fanatic and probably not much fun at parties. Imagine my surprise to read Jinkins' description of Calvin as "the Reformations's chief apologist for fun." According to Jinkins, Calvin believed that God created food and drink "for delight and good cheer," not simply for nourishment; that wine is given to us to gladden the heart, and olive oil was made for dipping bread.
By contrast, Ted Wardlaw's article on "Sacramental Preaching" made me nostalgic for a time when worship somehow seemed more reverent and thoughtful. In an attempt to be more "relevant" many churches, including the one where I worship, have all but dispensed with the liturgy. I cannot remember the last time I heard the Great Prayer of Thanksgiving as part of the Lord's Supper. By minimalizing the importance of the liturgy, especially in relation to the sacraments, I believe we are trivializing our heritage.
But I digress. If you are one of those (like me) who associate Calvin's name with predestination, the burning of Servetus and other imponderables, this is a must-read. You'll be entertained, enlightened and edified. You may even want to make plans to attend the Calvin Jubilee, July 8-11, at Montreat Conference Center. For more information, visit www.pcusa.org/theologyandworship or www.calvin09.org. Still hungry? There's a helpful bibliography of books about Calvin in the "Dean's Bookshelf" column.
So join me in raising a glass (or a cupcake) to our theological ancestor. Happy Birthday, Calvin! And many more.
Find issues of Windows online here. 
2 responses to this post
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Don Padget said at 8:47 a.m. on August 24, 2009, 8:47 a.m.
Pat Handelson at Cookeville First, TN, wrote a great article on Calvin in the church news letter. It's entitled "Would Calvin Hang Glide," or something like that. Ask him to post it.
Don Padget, HR, Allardt, TN
pastormarci [Sun] said at 9:35 a.m. on December 15, 2009, 9:35 a.m.
I have found that ADDING liturgy has helped to enliven worship where I have served - especially the Great Thanksgiving! Younger generations today are seeking more relevant ritual for their lives - not necessarily more words - and music is important.
Calvin, like all of us, had both good and bad sides so why are we suprised. Of course the negative always gets more press.... Glad someone has made the effort to show his "party side."