This chapter focuses on beliefs and practices related to God. It has few texts. It could be a chapter to be skipped or it could be read by participants at home and then discussed. It might make sense to break into small groups to give everyone a chance to speak. You could then bring everyone together. The chapter has four sections: God p. 153-163. The point of this section is to suggest there are a number of ways to think about God beyond the traditional notion of an all-powerful being who rewards and punishes people. Invite a discussion of what the students believe about God and about God’s nature. Also make sure there is space for express disbelief or doubts.

The second section is the end of traditional prayer p. 164-172. It suggests that for many people the traditional liturgy doesn’t “work.” Most essentially because it seems to be disconnected from anything people care about. The discussion could focus on in what ways traditional prayer does work and what ways it doesn’t. What kind of spiritual experience could replace prayer? Should it be communal?

The third section sets out a notion of idolatry, p. 173-178. Instead of idols or worshipping money or fame, the chapter argues that idolatry is a mistaken notion of God. Specifically, it is claiming that you know what God wants and in fact, your set of beliefs are the only correct one about God. It is freezing God in one unchanging image---when the “truth” about God is God changes. Idolatry is a mistake of fundamentalism that has led to the destructive crusades of religions. You could study the episode of the Golden Calf on which I base my notion of idolatry. Or you can have participants read this section and discuss it briefly.

The fourth section: Facing loss and death-how God fails us p. 179-189 focuses on the challenges that loss and death create for any belief in God. Again, this could be part of a discussion of the nature of God. You could assign the first and fourth sections to be read together as homework and then be discussed in class.

Bottom line I think it should be treated differently than other chapters in the book.

HOMEWORK:

Read the chapter on Working on our Inner Qualities p. 191-200.

Teacher: we all have inner qualities such as patience, generosity, openness. We also have qualities like anger, jealousy, and judgment that we struggle with. Some of these qualities, both good and bad, feel like we were born with them. Some we have tried to change our whole lives.

After reading the chapter, make a list for yourself with 3 categories

Good inner qualities that you feel are character strengths. Good inner qualities that you have but you want to be better and more consistent in using them. Inner qualities that you struggle with and would like to improve.