Word: sectarianism
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Dates: during 1870-1879
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...repeat, in the interest of the University, that one of the hindrances to its usefulness lies in the fact that a large body of Christian parents believe it to be a hot-bed of Unitarianism. . . . We shall be glad to receive from Dr. Clarke a definition of 'non-sectarian theology,' describing in detail the manner in which it is taught, and the view it takes of such questions as the Atonement, the Trinity, etc., . . . and telling us whether the chair or chairs from which it is to be taught in the Harvard Divinity School can be or will be filled...
...Nation of July 31, Dr. Clarke follows with another letter. He claims that a theology which is not confined to the limits of any sect, nor taught in the interests of any sect, is a non-sectarian theology. In regard to the Harvard Divinity School, he says...
...therefore, already to a large extent non-sectarian by its statutes and foundation; by the encouragement given to students to examine both sides of important questions; by the largest liberty given them in their essays, discussions, and preaching; by there being no doctrinal tests for students or professors...
...teach non-sectarian theology, you must teach only the things which no sect rejects. Your only escape from this difficulty lies in throwing down the dogmas before the student, and bidding him choose for himself. We grant that some subjects may be taught in this way, but surely not theology. . . . Few religious men like to see theological teaching converted into an exercise for sharpening the wits, or would like to see young men exposed to the influence of professors who took half a dozen different views of the Trinity and the Atonement...
...doubts that a so called science of religions, or that the history of the development of theological doctrines and religious sects, may be taught according to a purely historic method, - that is, in a non-sectarian manner. Instruction in these subjects may very properly form part of a scheme of university teaching. But the function of a divinity school is to teach other things in addition to these, in order to prepare its students for the ministry. Its teachers cannot help teaching sectarian theology. . . . That part of the community which regards Harvard College as a national institution . . . cannot but feel...