new church life: november/december 2016
new jerusalem: a new translation
The Swedenborg Foundation has just published New Jerusalem, the latest title
in the Portable New Century Edition Translation Series. The translator is the
Rev. Dr. George F. Dole who has won acclaim for translations of many other
books of the Writings.
It begins with the vision in the book of Revelation about “a new heaven
and a new earth . . . and the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from
God out of heaven,” and how the spiritual meaning is all about a new church
established in heaven and on earth, and its heavenly teachings.
A blurb on the back cover says: “This short work, presented as a series of
teachings that characterize a spiritual age to come, is also one of Swedenborg’s
most concise and readable summaries of his own theology. Building on
fundamental concepts such as good, truth, will and understanding, he
describes the importance of love and usefulness in spiritual growth.
“In the second half of the volume, he focuses on how this new theology
relates to the church of his day and to church teachings about the Bible, the
Lord’s incarnation on earth, and rites such as baptism and the Holy Supper.
Each short chapter is followed by extensive references back to his theological
magnum opus, Secrets of Heaven.
“New Jerusalem is an excellent starting point for those who want an
overview of Swedenborg’s theology, presented in his own words.”
Gary Lachman, author of A Secret History of Consciousness, says the book,
“Brings an important and much-needed 18th century treasure to a 21st century
world.”
The publication date is December 1, 2016. Copies can be ordered through
www.swedenborg.com/product/new-jerusalem-nce/
retreat update
The Boynton Beach Retreat, scheduled for January 29 through February 2 in
Florida, has announced a program change.
Dr. Erica Goldblatt Hyatt, assistant professor of psychology at Bryn
Athyn College, had to withdraw because she is expecting a child in the spring.
Replacing her is Dr. Sonia S. Werner, assistant professor emerita at the
College, who has taught conflict resolution and altruism from a Swedenborgian
viewpoint in the College and Theological School.
The program also includes presentations by Brian D. Henderson on the
Glencairn Museum and the Rev. Glenn (Mac) Frazier on lessons learned
from a church plant – since discontinued – in Austin, Texas.
Registration for the Retreat is closed. Information is available from the
director, Bob Brickman, at [email protected].
A summary of the presentations will appear in the March/April 2017 issue
of New Church Life.
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