The Apologetics Society

[Burnsider 4543]

The Apologetics Society

 

 

Spoiler

 

 

I dream of souls that are always free
Like clouds that soar
Full of humanity; deep in spirit.

 

It is with great anticipation and pleasure that I, Presbyter Ileana Sava Ursović, a priestess of the Canon, announce the formation of a new philosophical and literary society based around the study around and debate between apologetics. 

 

What is Apologetics?

 

Apologetics derives from the flexio word apologia, which quite simply means  'an answer given in reply.'  In its most basic sense, apologetics refers to systematic argumentative discourse. We look at the deep thoughts of man, and present reasoned and alternative views of a topic in an organized fashion. Apologetics is not argumentative in the sense of being quarrelsome. Imagine, for a moment, that you have discovered a great treasure buried in the soil and you wish to tell a friend or companion about it. Your friend has doubts about this treasure and, as convinced as you are that the chest holds an infinitely invaluable treasure, you go about convincing your companion of its worth.

 

In essence, it is the intellectual defense of the truth in religion, theology, politics, philosophy, and nature. Many tend to get a bit passionate when defending something they hold near and dear to their heart. Enter apologetics. Put simply, it is the rational response towards a question of the ages. Therefore, if you value having a reasoned response over a frustrated folding of arms and a refusal to engage, then apologetics has something to offer you.

 

What does the Society offer?

 

At sundry times and occasions, the Society will convene a meeting to discuss a philosophical question of the age. Such a meeting of the minds will be shared over courses of cakes and coffee, treats and tea, cigarettes and cigars, brandies and beers. Not just a civil discussion, but a social event to relax and debate the great questions with fellows of similar disposition. At these events, there are no right or wrong arguments. All are called to present their views on The Question, with the various viewpoints and arguments compiled for publishing at a later date.

 

[!] A meeting of the Apologetics Society in the salon of a noble Freethinker

 

As each event comes to a close, a vote among the participants is taken for which member presented the best defended and most articulate apology to The Question. This vote is not to determine which argument was the correct one, but which was the best presented and most deserving to be called apologia. The winner is gifted the Garland of Truth for his efforts.

 

[!] A painting of the Garland of Truth, as worn by an early member of the Society

 

Between events, members of the Society are encouraged to continue their discourse through written correspondence.

 

Who may join the Society?

 

The Apologetics Society is open to all, be they rich or poor, noble or common. All that is required is an enjoyment of company, a passion for the discussion of philosophical apologetics, and an open mind to hear the thoughts and reasons of others. The members of the Society are the Freethinkers, and there is no man or woman above the other within the organization. As a means for organization, one member, myself, will be the Secretary of the Society, in charge of planning the events, publishing the arguments, and, along with the member currently in possession of the Garland of Truth, deciding The Question of the next event. If you wish to join the Society, please seek out the Secretary.

 

Information on the first event and the first Question will be posted soon.