I contend in this essay that there are theological and ethical problems associated with the application of the vices of "gluttony" and "sloth" to people of higher-than-average weight. Relying on an analysis grounded in liberation theology and fat studies, I call for the church to encourage an end to discrimination based on bodily shape and size. I draw from poststructuralist theory, biblical studies, and church historical resources as well as contemporary medical and sociological studies of diet to build my case. (...) I then use the vices of "gluttony" and "sloth" as a lens through which to understand the contributions of the food industry to global weight and health patterns. (shrink)

This essay explores the efforts toward moral discernment within the Presbyterian Church and supports the recommendations of its Task Force on Peace, Purity, and Unity of the Church while suggesting areas of improvement. Relying on the South African theologian John de Gruchy and research in conflict resolution, the benefits of a discernment model attentive to truth telling, repentance, restorative justice, and collaborative ministry are many. Discernment moves ethical discourse out of parliamentary and juridical frameworks toward a model that may help (...) fragmented church communities find common ground. (shrink)