Niebuhr and the Situation

Rather than preach a homily of lamentation over this reality, let me focus on an instance from the world of religion and theology: the case of Reinhold Niebuhr, the Protestant theologian who towered over the past mid-century. Prompted by advertising for a local advance screening of a fine film directed by Martin Doblmeier; a companion book, An American Conscience, by Jeremy L. Sabella; and reports from a variety of conferences and colloquies inspired by the film, I viewed it the other evening. I also learned from a panel discussion following the screening, and had a chance to chat with fellow observers representing various generations. It is difficult not to be swept up in the Niebuhr story, and I confess to having been swept up in it again.