The contemplative home of Skylar D. McManus
A biblical unitarian friend of mine who runs the "Transfigured" YouTube channel invited me to discuss my background, Oneness Pentecostalism, and how I became an inquirer at an Eastern Orthodox parish. We also touch on pragmatic considerations in theological inquiry and the role of Mary in Eastern Orthodoxy. This will lay the friendly background for… Continue reading Oneness Pentecostal to Orthodox Inquirer: A Discussion
A presentation where Beau Branson and I argue that Dr. Dale Tuggy's definitions of "god" and "unitarian" lead to three problems for his work at present.
Delivered November 1, 2014 I am Skylar, DaLee's eldest surviving son. My mother claimed in a notebook she gave to me that she hated being forced to come to church. If she were here to witness this service, I hope that she would enjoy it nevertheless. I admit that I am torn in two: I… Continue reading An Elegy for My Mother
If I die before you do, I'll wait at the golden gates for you. And if I don't see you on judgment day, I'll know you went the other way. And just to prove my love to you, I'll go to hell in search of you. —Alice DaLee, date unknown R.I.P., Muh. May 15, 1974–October… Continue reading A Mother’s Promise
It's time that I tell you about my mother. I don't know why I've waited this long. But it has to be because the whole subject brings up my own recurring depression and fears. In light of certain events that have occurred recently, many have confessed their anxiety and depression. I've seen many others say… Continue reading A Short Memoir on Suicide
In the prior two books of Against Eunomius, Basil addresses what Eunomius claims about the Father (Book 1) and the Son (Book 2). The major claim that Eunomius has made is that "unbegotten" and "begotten" refer to the substance of the Father and the Son, respectively. Basil disagrees with this central tenet and offers his own… Continue reading A Summary of Basil’s Against Eunomius, Book 3
In Book 1 of Against Eunomius, Basil addresses the term "unbegotten." Ultimately, the term means the same as "Father" (1.5), and hence refers to one who always, in eternity, has a Son (1.20; cf. 2:12). Against Eunomius, he says that "unbegotten" does not refer to God's substance (1.15). Book 1 addresses the "God of the universe,"… Continue reading A Summary of Basil’s Against Eunomius, Book 2
There are many reasons to find the exchange between Eunomius, Basil of Caesarea, and Gregory of Nyssa fascinating. I can think of three. First, it gives us historical insight into how prominent pro-Nicene thinkers defended their view. Second, it provides a way to think about the Trinity that many fail to consider. And third, some… Continue reading A Summary of Basil’s Against Eunomius, Book 1
