Ever Ancient, Ever New: Reading to Become Wise

Abstract

Moser argues that stewardship of the texts of the Christian tradition in the classroom involves reconceiving the relationship between text and reader. Many of the classic texts of the Christian tradition are not meant only to be analyzed, but also performed, allowing them to speak directly to the contemporary reader. Describing several strategies inspired by the Christian tradition of lectio divina, Moser sets the goal of drawing the entire person to a performative reading of classic Christian texts. Moser describes his strategies for teaching students performative reading through the use of seminal texts by Augustine, Julian of Norwich, and Dante. He concludes that the contemporary relevance of certain texts of the Christian tradition lies in the invitation they extend to their readers for personal transformation.