Oikos: Reflections on Being at Home

Dr. Mark Lloyd Taylor, PhD is an Associate Professor of Systemic Theology at Seattle University's School of Theology and Ministry (STM). Dr. Taylor received his M.S.T from Emory University in Theology and his PhD at Southern Methodist University. He has taught at SU for over 24 years. He was the Director of Worship at STM from 2010-2016, was the Director of the Summer Institute for Liturgy and Worship from 2007-2008 and was the Acting Dean at STM from 2006-2007. Dr. Taylor is a heavily involved member of the St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Seattle where he has served as an associate for Liturgy, a Vestry Member, and a Senior Warden among other positions held. 

Centering Wisdom

Reflection:

Oikos can refer to a physical structure, or to the web of relationships one has within a physical structure. What words would you use to describe this relationship between a physical place and a human one in your own life?

How can we bridge the divide the walls of a home can sometimes cause us to seperate ourselves from others? How can we invite those who cannot return the favor of a banquet to our own banquets?

Activity:

 Discuss with a partner the places you had lived and the effects they had on you. Did one have a particular impact? What does disruption in a place one calls home look like and how does it have effects physically, socially and psychologically?