in this issue:
"Claiming The Blessing"

Editorial Note

Church’s core mission at stake
by Julie A. Wortman

As we went to press

Contributors

Update

• South African religious leaders critique Summit, governments
  by Ethan Flad
• Challenge voices for war, Irish urges
  by Dan Webster
• Going local in midcoast Maine
  by Holly Lyman Antolini

Louie’s Index
by Louie Crew

Commentaries

• The time for economic engagement is now
  by Dick Gillett
• A small act of solidarity
  by David Smith-Ferri
• Welcoming Jo Anne
  by Muffie Moroney
• For a Friend in Travail
  by Adrienne Rich
• Suddenly I’m an adult?
  by Tim McDonald
• A bishop speaks out on the use of military force against Iraq
  by John Bryson Chane
• Living water (review)
  by Megan McKenna

FOCUS: Claiming the Blessing

The Gospel vs. Scripture?
An interview with Walter Brueggemann (Spanish language version here.)
by Julie A. Wortman

What does it mean for the church to give its blessing?
by the theological committee of Claiming the Blessing

Sexuality and church growth
by Colleen O’Connor

Review: The Bible: Rule Book or Witness to God? by Robert A.J. Gagnon
by Beth Johnson

Since 1917, The Witness has been examining church and society in light of faith and conscience – advocating for those denied systemic power as well as celebrating those who, in theologian William Stringfellow’s words, have found ways to "live humanly in the midst of death." With deep roots in the Episcopal Church, we are a journal of spiritual questing and theology in practice, always ready to hold our own cherished beliefs and convictions up to scrutiny.

Manuscripts: We welcome multiple submissions. Given our small staff, writers and artists receive a response only when we are able to publish.

Manuscripts will not be returned.