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Three consecutive Thursdays @ 6pm February 26, March 5, March 12 One of the finest works of apologetics in the 20th Century is G.K. Chesterton’s Orthodoxy. In it he accomplishes something that few other apologists can claim: he is both funny and convincing. He is one of the few writers aware that Truth is an occasion for joy and laughter. In this particular work, he explores his own “journey to joy.” Written in response to a rival’s challenge to explain and defend his Faith, he shows that coming to know the Creed of Christ is anything but “predictable” or “humdrum.” We will explore his journey to faith, while considering many of the pertinent cultural concerns he raises, concerns that are in many ways more relevant today than when he first raised them. * In preparation for each class you will be asked to answer a series of questions related to the readings. My hope is that these related questions will serve to augment and enrich our discussions. Thank you. WEEK 1 – Introduction to Orthodoxy; Chapters 1, 2, and 3 Topic:     The Circle vs. The Cross  During this session we will discuss how modern philosophy has in essence promoted lunacy, while orthodoxy has promoted sanity. We will also discuss the effect that modern skepticism has had on man’s ability to hold convictions, as well as the practical value in holding dogmas. WEEK 2 – Chapters 4, 5, and 6 Topic: A Return to the Nursery During this session we will spend quite a bit of time exploring the philosophy of fairytales. We will also consider the value of true patriotism, along with why the paradoxes of the Christian Faith convinced Chesterton of the truth of the Christian Faith. WEEK 3 – Chapters 7, 8, and 9 Topic: The Good News of Original Sin and the Laughter of God During this session, we will discuss (among other things) why Christianity is not only the most reasonable religion, but the most beautiful inspiring.