Decades ago, before the advent of radio and television, public debates and rhetorical competitions were a significant part of American popular culture. Today, what little of the oratorical tradition that remains is often tossed into hasty slogans or cheapened with manufactured outrage.
It is in the spirit of classical debate, as well as in accord with their goal of evangelizing the culture at large, that St. Paul Inside the Walls (of Madison, NJ) will host what is sure to be an edifying spectacle on February 8 th , 2012 from 6-9pm. Sherif Girgis, an Oxford Rhodes Scholar and Yale/Princeton graduate, will face off against John Lenz, chair of the Classics Department at Drew University on an eternal conversation-starter: the subject of the existence of God.
If you hadn’t already surmised from the names of the participants alone, this event promises to be far more rigorous than the pseudo-debates of cable news. It will be run like a mock trial, and:
over 400 people in the legal profession and some of New Jersey’s top lawyers and Judges will be involved [ . . . ] In addition to the preliminary details, fact pattern/evidentiary issues/burden of proof/constitutional issues to be avoided/etc., we will have expert witnesses on each side of the issue
Additionally, scholars Allan F. Wright and Brian Honsberger will weigh in on opposing sides on the reliability of Scripture.
The event is free and open to all. For those in the legal profession, 2.5 CLE credits (NY, NJ, or PA) will be awarded to those who attend. You can register online and reserve a seat here.
