I’ve seen a few articles lately (such as this one) on the rise of interest in religious activity, and theological education attributed to the economic downturn. The reasons appear to be varied – one is that people have been forced to stop – look around them, and consider the possibility that their priorities were rather skewed. Another is less “optimistic” – they could not get into buisness school . . . yeah, theology is a “good gig” if you can get into it (sigh).

I wonder though – what long term effects will it have in our communities? Will those who complete degrees in theology then go into their communities and do something with it? Will we see an increased concern for valuable relationships with others, the poor, and the lonely? Call me cynical but while I applaud any disciplined search for spiritual awareness, does one necessarily need a degree to do it? Is the rise in interest in such programs merely a “good gig” at the moment; a way to pass the time, look good while doing it, and come out of it in a few years ready to jump back into the cycle that created the problem in the first place?