Professor and Pastor to Debate Belief in God at Mr. B's Pub in Royal Oak

Is God relevant for morality? That’s a question that sounds like it would normally be addressed in a church or a university setting. But a group in Royal Oak has a new location to address the issue: a prominent local bar.

On Thursday April 30th at 6:30PM a debate will take place between Wayne State University professor James Chalmers and Royal Oak pastor Bill Barnwell at Mr. B’s Pub in downtown Royal Oak. The event will follow common debating protocol but instead of showing up in formal attire, guests can come casually dressed and have a beer or glass of wine while watching the debate.

The debaters are Dr. James Chalmers, and Pastor Bill Barnwell. Both individuals have long resumes.

Chalmers, a professor at Wayne State University, holds both a Master’s and Ph.D. degree and for decades has taught and completed research in such fields as ethics, public policy, and social justice.

Barnwell is a pastor in Royal Oak and holds two Master’s degrees, a law degree, and has years of college-level teaching experience in various fields of Biblical Studies.

The two first met over 15 years ago when Barnwell attended Wayne State for a semester as a young undergraduate.

“I have great respect for him and he’s about as smart as they come,” said Barnwell regarding Chalmers.

The event springs from a group Barnwell started earlier this month called “God, Beer and Life in Royal Oak.” The group aimed to bring both believers and skeptics together to discuss issues involving faith and doubt and their application to everyday life.

The group first met earlier this month at a different bar on Main St. After a successful kickoff, Barnwell decided it needed a bigger venue for the debate. The debate will take place on the private lower level of Mr. B’s reserved for large parties and events. There is no cost at the door to attend, but the lower level features its own private bar and will provide guests with full dinner menu options.

While hosting an event at a bar might be considered by some to be unconventional or even controversial, many in the local church community find the idea intriguing.

“I think it’s great,” said Sue Reed, member and former board member of Royal Oak Missionary Church. “These bars are popular places where a lot of people feel comfortable and enjoy themselves.”

Barnwell says he also wants to help support local businesses.

“People can come and have a drink, a nice meal, and have their minds stretched while meeting new people,” continued Barnwell. “I think a venue like Mr. B’s offers a chance for people to better enjoy themselves.”

Because of seating capacity limits, those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP at the group’s event website located here at MeetUp.com.

When: Thursday April 30th from 6:30PM-8:30PM

Where: Mr. B’s Pub located at 215 S Main St, Royal Oak, MI 48067

Cost: No admission price, but cash bar and dinner menu options available

Parking: Free parking available nearby at Royal Oak Missionary Church located at 411 E. 11 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, 48067

RSVP: Members of community can RSVP at link above or call (810) 394-2952 for more information