Suffering, Evil,& the Sh^+ Storms of Life (Theodicy)

The world is filled with catastrophe, violence, and unexplainable agony while mothers, fathers, sons and daughters have longed for an answer in dealing with this horrific problem of chaotic evil. Novelist Norman Rush calls this “hellmouth,” which is the, “opening up of the mouth of hell right in front of you, without warning, through no fault of your own.”

For thousands of years humanity has wrestled with suffering. Buddhism starts with the noble truth that all of life consists of suffering. Aching for meaning and seeking religious insight, humans have grappled with karma, and brought theodicy – attempting to answering the questions of why a good deity permits the materialization of evil – to light in an age of uncertainty, doubt and confusion. While suffering is relative, and in some cases easier to make sense (i.e. working out and working hard has a “pain” component), the deeper questions ask, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” &, “Do all events have a purpose?”

The struggle is real, indeed! What’s your question(s), doubt(s), and issues with suffering & “evil.” God is on trial in the coming weeks as we brew up theodicy… (or is treating suffering as a logical, philosophical, or theological difficulty missing the point?!?!)

Drink up at Bare Arms, and dive into these age-old questions on suffering, evil and the $#*! storms of life!

Agenda
• 7pm - arrive, grab a drink, hang out & get situated
• 7:30pm (Sharp!) - start brewing theology at tables
• 8:30pm - bathroom/ beer break
• 8:40pm - resume brewing theology
• 9:30pm - Prost & G’night!
Notes & questions at http://www.brewtheology.org/weekly-meetings/ (password: sicem)
RSVP on MeetUp, please. Thanks.


Peace,
Ryan