DisciplesWorld - September/October

The latest issue of DisciplesWorld arrived this week. This issue focuses on Disaster relief, as we pass the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, there is coverage of the recent General Assembly, including editor Verity Jones' opening reflection and several letters to the editor (one wonders how many such letters the magazine received about the Assembly).

In addition to the articles on disaster relief, which do a good job at sketching the logistical challenges and spiritual opportunities of such work, I recommend the article on chaplaincy. Many people misunderstand the many different types of ministry that chaplains do, in many varied environments. There is also an article about several congregations that have supported Boy Scout troops for long periods of time (as we approach the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Boy Scouts of America).

There is also an interesting personal essay from a retired pastor, reflecting on the murder of his brother. It is a poignant piece of writing, and one which should stimulate discussion. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there is a frankly awful essay purporting to show Biblical support for health care reform. I will not not comment on the politics, which can be debated, but just point out that the scriptural interpretation, on the whole, is poor, mixing reasonable interpretation with some Biblical tunnel-vision, with some misunderstanding of the Roman economic system to boot.