2010 Lenten Discussion Group

Thursdays, 5:30 – 7:00 PM

A discussion of values and an exploration of what we wish to uphold as core values in our families, churches, communities and economies.

Simple supper of soup and bread: 5:30 PM
Discussion: 6:00 – 7:00 PM

There will be a signup sheet for soup and bread contributors. Other participants are invited to contribute cheese, fruit or other items for the meal or to serve on the clean-up crew.

February 25th: Session I – Introduction
1. A brief introduction of Wallis' book, Rediscovering Values: On Wall Street, Main Street and Your Street – A Moral Compass for the New Economy
2. Gandhi's Seven Deadly Social Sins

• Politics without principle
• Wealth without work
• Commerce without morality
• Pleasure without conscience
• Education without character
• Science without humanity
• Worship without sacrifice

3. Glittering Vices - the transformation of deadly sins into glittering virtues
4. Living simply and faithfully takes effort

March 4th: Session II - Family Values
1. What values were we taught in our families of origin?
2. What values did other families teach?
3. What do we want to hold on to, let go of?
4. How can we begin to do this in the do more with less, rush/rush world we live in?

March 11th: Session III – Church
1. What did our churches teach?
2. What did our parishes actually do and live by?
3. What was, and is, important to God, Jesus, prophets, priests, pastors, God's people?
4. How would anyone know this over the last 50 years?
5. What should be our core values today?

March 18th: Session IV - Civic Life
1. What were the values of the City on the Hill, the light to the nations, our founding fathers and mothers?
2. And did we fall short, but not always?
3. Was the best form of government always this bad?
4. What small steps should we take?

March 25th: Session V - Commerce and Economics
1. What does the Bible say about God's Economy?
2. Can God and Market Capitalism share the same world?
3. Are business ethics more important than ever, an oxymoron or more difficult to even define in a global economy?
4. Is there a place for government regulation and towards what end?