Thursday, May 31, 2012

"Uncommon Christian" James Brainerd Taylor article on American Society of Church History blog

For an article on James Brainerd Taylor (1801-1829) that was posted on the blog for the American Society of Church History (May 27, 2012), see here.


As stated in the article, "My specific attraction to Taylor is his challenge to be an 'uncommon' Christian. Taylor defined an 'uncommon' Christian as an 'eminently holy, self-denying, cross-bearing, Bible, everyday' Christian."


I have been a member of ASCH since 2007.


Founded in 1888, ASCH's central purpose is
"the scholarly study of the history of Christianity and its relationship to surrounding cultures in all periods, locations and contexts.
Through publications conferences, awards, research support, and other means, the Society encourages the study of the Christian church and faith, its figures and movements, in institutional and non-institutional settings.
We welcome scholars and practitioners of all backgrounds who employ traditional or newly developing methods, disciplines, and approaches to the study of religion.
The ASCH cooperates closely with the American Historical Association [est. 1884] and other scholarly societies and organizations in joint annual meetings."
ASCH annual dues are $70 and include receiving the quarterly journal Church History: Studies in Christianity and Culture (published by Cambridge University Press).


In addition to ASCH, I am a member of four other entities. It s good to give one's name and money to societies and associations--academic or otherwise--that one believes are worthy of support.