Mention of Paul seldom elicits a neutral response from people, for he is idolized by some and roundly loathed and hated by others. Many labels have been pinned on him: renegade from Judaism and founder of Christian anti-Semitism, misogynist and oppressor of women, founder of Christianity (not at all in a positive sense!), perverter of the simple teachings of Jesus, and either proto-Catholic or proto-Protestant. These labels do not withstand the sound, cutting – edge Pauline scholarship of the last 50 years. This ‘new perspective’ as it is called combines careful historical study and textual analysis to understand Paul in the context of the Second-Temple Judaism to which he belonged. The Paul that emerges from this new perspective is a complex and nuanced individual, as well as a true religious genius, visionary, and religious innovator. Please join us as we become acquainted with the Paul we never knew.

ABOUT THE CENTER FOR BIBLICAL FORMATION

Biblical formation is at the heart of the life and ministry of the Congregation of Notre Dame de Sion. The Centre for Biblical Formation in Jerusalem offers programs of study centred on the Word of God: drawing on Jewish sources and tradition; visiting sites related to thebiblical text; reflecting on relevant Church Documents; and engaging with the peoples of the Land

As a participant at the Centre you will have the unique opportunity to study, contemplate and pray with the biblical text in the Land so central to its composition. You will be part of an international, ecumenical community exposed to the best of contemporary Christian and Jewish scholarship. Living in this bustling and cosmopolitan city, central to Jews, Christians and Muslims you will begin to appreciate the religious, cultural and political complexity that is Jerusalem.

For more information, visit about the Center for Biblical Formation:

CLICK HERE

or contact patricia.oreilly@utoronto.ca