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Walter Hesford

Walter Hesford, born and educated in New England, gradually made his way West. For many years he was a professor of English at the University of Idaho, save for stints teaching in China and France. At Idaho, he taught American Literature, World Literature and the Bible as Literature. He currently coordinates an interfaith discussion group and is a member of the Latah County Human Rights Task Force and Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Moscow. He and his wife Elinor enjoy visiting with family and friends and hunting for wild flowers.
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How low down is fraud in Dante’s ‘Inferno’?

A writer reflects on personal experiences with scams and fraud, arguing that deception destroys trust and remains one of society’s most damaging offenses.
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Who gets to be guilty?

An opinion reflection on being guilty explores religion, empathy, Christian nationalism and why feeling guilt may be essential to our humanity.
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How faith grows stronger when believers make room for doubt

A reflection on faith, Thomas, Emily Dickinson and Jewish tradition argues that doubt does not weaken faith but can deepen and expand it.
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Spring is fleeting. Here’s why that matters more as we age.

A reflection on spring, a saying from the Gospel of Thomas, aging and the tension between observing life and fully engaging in it.
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Sophia, Deborah, Mary Magdalene: The Bible’s case against female submission

A columnist challenges that Christianity in the Bible requires women’s subservience, pointing to stories to argue for women’s leadership, wisdom and equality.
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Is saying ‘God is nonbinary’ political suicide? One Texas Senate candidate won’t back down

An opinion on James Talarico’s claim that God is nonbinary, exploring faith, politics and reactions from conservative Christians.
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Lent calls Christians to repentance — not doubling down

A Lent reflection contrasts repentance with “doubling down,” urging humility, care for others and reflection in a turbulent political moment involving Trump.
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