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Dr. Thomas G. Long speaks at 2009 Midwinter Lectures

Ray Jacobsmeyer (right) welcomed Dr. Thomas G. Long, Bandy Professor of Preaching from Chandler School of Theology, Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. as guest speaker for a two-day midwinter lecture series January 26 and 27 at the Kirk. The Presbyterian scholar and author’s subject was “How can we believe in a God of love in a world like this one.” Dr. Long first related how people throughout the ages, and as recently as 9/11 and hurricane Katrina, have questioned God and their beliefs when disasters occur. However, through all the catastrophes, Dr. Long noted, Presbyterians have affirmed four “truths:” God exists. God is good and loving. God is omnipotent, all powerful. Innocent suffering is a reality. He then led a discussion on what the Bible has to say using examples from the Book of Job, Psalm 77 and Matthew 13. The lectures stimulated many thoughtful comments and much discussion.