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Kenneth J. Doka's Letter to "The Christian Century" November 12, 2002 The Christian Century Dear Sirs: Gilbert Meilander's piece on interfaith prayer is clearly right on one point. His position "pleases no one". It is, in many ways, classic of his writing – sharp intellectual analysis devoid of human feeling or pastoral compassion. In refusing to discuss the case in point – Dave Benke's suspension for participating in a post 9/11 civic event bringing together leaders of major faiths in Yankee Stadium – Meilander can offer an antiseptic analysis of interfaith prayer. Yet here context is everything. First, Benke's action has to be understood as a pastoral response to the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. In a city grieving its' dead, it was essential that the Christian voice in general and the LCMS voice in specific be represented at this major show of solidarity with victims. It was, first and foremost, a pastoral act – a piece that is ignored in Meilander's piece. Second, Meilander quickly dismisses another point of context – the "heavy-handed response of the LCMS hierarchy". Here, too, there is a lack of analysis and passion. In short, Dr. Benke was suspended for making a pastoral decision in the midst of crises that was in line with synodical policy and made in consultation with his ecclesiastical supervisor. As always, Meilander is thoughtful. Yet it is an ivy tower analysis – so removed from the real events that frame such decisions – that is lacks value. Kenneth J. Doka, PhD, Mdiv |
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