Join us for Theology Thursday: A Gospel Against Wealth? Reflections on Philanthropy and Justice in the Light of Luke’s Jesus on April 13 from 7–8:30 p.m. in the Brian Doyle Auditorium.
The Gospel of Luke, more than other accounts of Jesus’s life and ministry, is often understood to depict Jesus’s stance against social injustices on behalf of marginalized individuals, especially the poor. For instance, in Luke, Jesus makes strong statements against the accumulation of wealth and in favor of almsgiving. And yet, it is a question whether Jesus intends to criticize all wealth or whether he offers insight into how one might give charity in strategic, equitable, and sustainable ways. In exploring these issues and passages related to them, this talk will examine some current debates in American philanthropy and its financial support of U.S. nonprofits. What good is philanthropy serving? How do charitable foundations make their impact? What role do individuals play? Can Jesus help?
Jordan Eugene Skornik has taught at the University of Portland as an Adjunct Professor of Theology since 2019. In 2018, he received his Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from the University of Chicago Divinity School, with a specialty in the history and interpretation of the Hebrew Bible. Outside of teaching, Skornik works as a nonprofit leader. He is currently Executive Director of Borland Free Clinic, a faith-based medical clinic offering free services to the uninsured and underserved of south metro Portland. Skornik is married to the Rev. Andria Skornik, an Episcopal priest in SE Portland, with whom he has two sons: Jacoby and Levi.
For questions on ADA accommodations, please email andrewme@up.edu.