Secret Mark Symposium
Some time ago Peter Jeffery (author of The Secret Gospel of Mark Unveiled) and I discussed on Apocryphicity (see HERE) the idea of assembling scholars of Secret Mark for some kind of fruitful debate–more fruitful, at least, than previous attempts which featured little more than a presentation of papers. Phil Harland and I (in consultation with Jeffery and Allan Pantuck) have since put together a proposal for such an event, which, if all goes well, will take place at York University in May of 2011.
The biggest challenge in planning this symposium thus far has been in securing the participation of scholars who argue that the text is a modern hoax or a forgery. Certainly many hold that opinion, but of the few scholars in North America (and we are trying to focus only on North American scholars) who have published significant works arguing that position, only Peter Jeffery and Bruce Chilton have accepted our invitation to attend. Is the argument in jeopardy, particularly with BAR's publication of the report of a handwriting expert? Or have efforts by Allan Pantuck, Scott Brown, and others to dismantle the argument for Morton Smith's creation of the text succeeded in silencing some of the proponents for the theory?
As a former York alumni let me advise you to have the conference at Glendon. It’s so much prettier. The French makes it seem international. What about inviting Agamemnon Tselikas to the conference? I can ask him if you want. That will at least create some excitement. What about Justin Bieber? Seriously, I miss Canada until I go back and have to hang out with my family. They feel the same way about me, tho.
Great idea. But take my advice. Glendon is the way to go. It will be more intimate.