Dear GTU Community,

Whether it is Iran's nuclear capability or stem cell research in South Korea, politicians around the world—and citizens everywhere—are grappling with the way to talk about how one's religion and values apply to daily life. As a theologian and ethicist, I grow concerned when leaders try to characterize their opinions as existing solely in a vacuum, untouched by their private thoughts—or conversely, when they avoid using critical filters of their personal religious faith in the public domain. In both cases, they miss the chance to enhance our public conversation.

Certainly every professional role calls for some separation from one's beliefs and values. In my own life, I want my son's teachers to know the ins and outs of their subject area, not just one interpretation that fits their worldview. As a professor, every time I teach a course I make studied choices about its syllabus. In short, I ask what my role as a professional requires of me. We want leaders who can make pragmatic decisions, particularly on the tense international stage. But we need them to integrate context and expertise openly with their own moral perspectives and bring these formed dispositions to bear on relevant issues.

Some people of faith step too far the other way. Some go directly from scriptural commands to concrete, modern-day applications, ignoring the nuances of cultures and traditions. At the Graduate Theological Union, we seek to interpret our religious convictions in light of the most urgent needs of our time. This year's graduates (pp. 13-15) are dynamic people, rigorous thinkers and passionate doers dedicated to making a tangible difference for the common good. We expect that what they have learned while studying here will inform their work and their discourse for the better.

The Rev. Mauro Souza (Ph.D. '04) of Brazil says, "Certainly the most challenging and at the same time most blessed thing that the GTU caused in my life was that it made me deal with the paradox of strengthening my personal faith, developing my particular scholarship, and opening up my cultural background in a context of great and oftentimes puzzling diversity." Clearly a charge for every one of us.

The failure to distinguish between reasoned reflection and decision-making hermetically sealed from conscience leaves us at a loss. We strive to figure out what our different roles—friend or parent, professional or believer—ask of us. We act in ways we feel are appropriate to the situation and to what we were taught to cherish. The Graduate Theological Union is the place where religion meets the world. Striking this public/private balance is our daily challenge.

James A. Donahue