Theology, Culture and Life: Bible professor's book spans decades of work

By Amanda Cooper

Duane Friesen, long-time professor of Bible and religion, recently named David Richert scholar, can finally see the fruition of many years of hard work.

More than three decades worth of work has taken form in his new book, "Artists, Citizens, and Philosophers: Seeking the Peace of the City."

It took Friesen about ten years to write this book. It took two sabbaticals; his first was about ten years ago. He continued working on the book through his second sabbatical in 1997-1998. Friesen completed the book last spring.

Over the past decade, Friesen spent many hours researching, reading and writing before the final copy went to print. But the real birth of this book began in 1965, when Friesen journeyed to East Berlin, Germany. During that time, much reading and reflection spawned the ideas that would eventually be published.

Friesen has put a lot of time and energy into writing this book and by doing so feels very proud of his accomplishment.

" I have a great sense of satisfaction from being able to do this," he said.

The central theme Friesen's book is about how Christians can engage North American culture in such a way as to be faithful to the Christian faith. The book suggests ways to develop an alternative vision to the dominant view of life in North American culture, contributing to the peace and well being of our society.

Writing this book affected Friesen's life by consuming a lot of time and energy.

"You have to juggle your responsibilities," he said. He believes writing has a great sense of satisfaction in itself. "Its very, very hard work." He finds writing to be the hardest yet most satisfying work he does. Through writing Friesen clarifies his own thinking about things. Writing itself is a creative process. His family gave a great deal of support during the making of the book. He tested many of his ideas on his wife and they discussed many of the issues.

"The kinds of issues my children, grandchildren and sons-in-law are involved in affected the way I wrote the book," he said.

The book has a unique cover design done by former Bethel student Gwen Stamm, who now works for the Herald Press. Bethel students can pick up "Artists, Citizens, Philosophers: Seeking the Peace of the City" at the Bethel bookstore or at Faith and Life Bookstore in downtown Newton. The book is currently being taught in Friesen's senior-level class, Basic Issues of Faith and Life. The book costs $17.