The challenge, since many of these of individuals are still around, is to nuance the narrative in a way that is charitable, balanced, and gracious, while not shying away from the unflattering attitudes of separatism. To complicate matters further, this book is meant in part to commemorate the institution’s 75th anniversary. I have found Grace College to be a great place to work and I cannot say enough positive things about it. Fortunately, we have moved beyond the fundamentalist excesses of the past. So I am excited about celebrating the institution’s history. But I do feel compelled, as a critical historian, to help provide a sense of historical consciousness that acknowledges and probes the uncomfortable tensions and controversies of the past. Not surprisingly, it is proving to be a challenging balancing act!
Wrestling with a Separatist Past
The challenge, since many of these of individuals are still around, is to nuance the narrative in a way that is charitable, balanced, and gracious, while not shying away from the unflattering attitudes of separatism. To complicate matters further, this book is meant in part to commemorate the institution’s 75th anniversary. I have found Grace College to be a great place to work and I cannot say enough positive things about it. Fortunately, we have moved beyond the fundamentalist excesses of the past. So I am excited about celebrating the institution’s history. But I do feel compelled, as a critical historian, to help provide a sense of historical consciousness that acknowledges and probes the uncomfortable tensions and controversies of the past. Not surprisingly, it is proving to be a challenging balancing act!
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Prior to reading this blog, I did know of Grace’s fundamentalist past; however, I did not realize this history included “second-degree” separationism. After reading this, I realize that I know very little of the Grace College and Grace Seminary heritage. I look forward to reading the edited addition regarding Grace’s history. I am curious as to when it will be available. Finally, I appreciate you wrestling with presenting the narrative in a way that “is charitable, balance, and gracious” while not moving away from the historical truth or “candy coating” the material. I cannot wait to read it and learn more about the historical past of Grace College.
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