January 31st: Of Priests & Plague Doctors: A Theology of Disease

In the mid 14th century, all of Europe was shaken to its core by a catastrophic pandemic, which would later be known as The Black Death. This plague killed as much as 60% of the world’s population, and our Christian forbearers struggled to comprehend this event in light of their theological understanding. Throughout history, people of faith have responded to suffering—and disease in particular—in a variety of ways. Ironically, many of these responses have been detrimental to their health. Join Rev. Seth Ethan Carey as he works to construct a theological response to disease through the historical lens of the Black Death, biblical tradition, and our own contemporary experience.

A complimentary lunch will be served.

Optional Reading & Educational Resources:

Wikipedia entry on the Black Death

Theological Understanding of Disease

Natural Theology vs. Theology of Nature