ST. LOUIS – Eric Barreto, an associate professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary, led Bible study July 7 at Big Tent 2017 – teaching from the Book of Acts about diversity.
Barreto lifted up three key ideas:
- Differences and diversity are unavoidable;
- Differences and diversity are indispensable;
- Differences and diversity are a gift from God.
Yet how often do we say “all are welcome,” but put an asterisk on that welcome – meaning you’re welcome unless you want us to change, unless you’re unwilling to become like us, Barreto said.
The Bible study included small group discussions – Presbyterians gathered in clusters in the pews of Graham Chapel at Washington University in St. Louis to discuss the ideas he presented, and their own experiences of diversity.
Barreto will offer a second Bible study session at Big Tent July 8.
Photos by Jodi Craiglow
