Hi, my name is Scott and I design websites. You can see some of them by visiting my portfolio. When I have the time (which as a new parent is seldom these days) I like to blog about Christianity, especially on the subjects of theology and ethics. I recommend you follow me on Twitter.
Biblical Studies & Web Development?
I started college back when the web was still in it’s infancy. I distinctly remember a particular fear-inducing mantra which suggested that “Within 10 years all web development will by WYSIWYG-based and will be as simple as editing a Word document.”
Well, I wanted none of that and went about pursing a degree in Biblical Studies. I was nevertheless intrigued by the opportunities of the web and divided my time between writing papers and creating mind-blowing animated gif’s. Gradually I came to be influenced by standards zealot’s like Jeffrey Zeldman who have brought me to where I am today.
In case you might be wondering how Biblical Studies has helped me as a Web Developer the following might help clear things up.
Biblical Studies requires the careful reading of documents with attention paid to the passages structure, literary form, language, dialogue with other voices in Biblical scholarship, and real-world application that is appropriate given the contemporary cultural and geographical norms.
Web Development likewise requires careful analysis of documents (code) with attention paid to structure (form validation anyone?), literary form (DOCTYPE), and language (xml, html, php), dialogue with other voices in web space (API’s, RSS), and an understanding of the needs of the audience (usability, accessibility).
So why Biblical Studies?
I spent some time with what insiders refer to as “Full-Time Vocational Ministry” only to become disturbed by the frequency at which the Church was articulated and practiced as if it where a business—often operating as a very cut-throat business. I am still very involved with the church (in particular the Morristown Vineyard) and am exploring ways in which the practice of Christianity might be freed from it’s dependence on money to the extent that the message of Jesus no longer competes with the message of capitalism.
What Else Is Going On?
I’m also interested in music, computers (like my Mythdora HTPC project), light automotive repair, and photography. Recreationally I enjoy non-competitive games of disc golf, pounding my Gary Fisher hard tail through the woods, and making a once a year pilgrimage for a weekend playing in the steep and deep.
Finally…yet most importantly, I have the privilege of being married to an extraordinary woman. Her name is Jenny and she is currently working on her Doctorate in Historical Studies (late-ancient Christianity to be more exact) and Feminist Theory at Drew University.
