Symposium

Courage in Crisis

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. (1 Corinthians 16:13)

Scriptural references to courage are abundant, but how do we live it out in the context of crises like the last year has brought us – global pandemic, national turmoil, isolation, and uncertainty? What does it mean to have courage? Is it true that “Fear is a reaction, courage is a decision” as Winston Churchill tells us? Or as Maya Angelou states, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”

This year’s Symposium topic, Courage in Crisis, brings into focus the countless instances of courageous action and valiant character that we have seen in the face of serious crisis. Bravery on the battlefield or the front lines is certainly an example that gets attention, but is this the only way to display courage?

A few questions to explore:

• How do integrity and courage intersect?
• Does courage require a position of power, or can the weak and disenfranchised also be courageous?
• What role does wisdom play in separating courage and recklessness?

The Gordon College Symposium sparks discussion on a major contemporary or perennial issue. Students, faculty and staff learn from one another through events that address the topic, such as panel discussions, exhibits, debates, poetry readings, presentations, performances and outdoor festivities that take place on Symposium day. This year, Symposium Day will consist of primarily virtual content with a few in-person events on campus.