Conversations

“Wilberforce proved that a man can change his times, but that he cannot do it alone.” —John Pollock

The Clapham Circle served as an excellent example that change is best pursued in the context of community. For us at the Academy, this is an excellent reminder. We have the privilege of living in intimate community, and yet there are many times when, as iron sharpens iron, we are resistant.

The article by Wendell Kimbrough in this issue of Conversations highlights this tension well. Wendell speaks about his passion for social justice, which initially he thought conflicted with beauty. This perceived conflict frustrated him in his work at the Lodge at Osprey Point. His article traces his shift in perspective from thinking that beauty and social justice were incompatible to the realization that they are inextricably connected.

Another article chronicles the Wilberforce Weekend this past January. Leading up to the weekend, we experienced the realistic frustrations that come with putting on a large event. But God blessed our time and efforts—tangibly by having it be our most highly attended event to date, and intangibly through enriching conversations that the weekend fostered.

The Wilberforce Weekend was quickly followed by Alumni Weekend, attended by 41 of our 55 alumni. It was a sweet time of fellowship and a reminder of the vision that the Lord has for the Academy to infiltrate all sectors of life in the name of Christ. This issue’s alumni contributor, Judd Robertson, shares the ways in which he is applying his Academy experience of community to his time beyond the Academy.

We also welcomed Dr. Nigel Cameron into our community as a scholar-in-residence. His article delves into bioethics, and specifically, the implications of stem cell research. His article comes from a speech he gave before a gathering of members of Congress in the Spring of 2004.

We are grateful for the opportunity to share our hearts with you! Please enjoy reading and know that we would love to hear your responses. And, most importantly, thank you for being a part of our community!

Academy Update

Guest Speaker

• Human Dignity in the Biotech Century: Why the Stem Cell Stakes Are so High by Nigel Cameron
  In a culture inebriated by a fawning love of celebrity and a brittle fear of degenerative disease, will it ever prove possible to say no?

From the Staff

• Wilberforce Weekend Report by Amanda Jones
  Each of the presenters emphasized that it may take a lifetime to implement true change, and each of our speakers exemplified dedication to change and to the cause of Christ.

From the Fellows

• Wary of Beauty by Wendell Kimbrough
  I unconsciously developed a deep skepticism toward beauty, which can often be used as a veneer to hide ugly things.

Alumni Reflections

• The Purpose of Small Groups by Judd L. Robertson
  Sitting in a circle for an hour in conversation, Bible study, or prayer with guys I don’t really know just doesn’t work for me.

Reflections