7Researchers tell us that in recent years there has been a growing skepticism in America concerning the validity of many of Christianity's cherished doctrines. The fact is that twenty-first century Christians find themselves living in a time when religious dogma is felt by many to be irrational and to be held in low esteem. In light of this, a crucial question for the Christian community is: Can we retain our moorings in traditional Christian beliefs and still remain in relevant contact with the modern world and reasonable faith? This book gives a resounding "yes" to that question and offers thoughtful interpretations of traditional beliefs that rationally address the struggle with faith and doubt that many are experiencing. Harvey West is a native of Georgia and an elder in The United Methodist Church. After serving congregations for over fifty years as a pastor in the North Georgia area, including time on the bishop's cabinet as superintendent of the Augusta District, he retired from the itinerant ministry to write this book. Dr. West holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Georgia State University, a Master of Divinity degree from Emory University's Candler School of Theology, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. He lives with his wife, Charlyn in Roswell, Georgia.