“That’s just a ritual.” It’s a phrase I hear too often by people in churches, and far often by pastors who want to prove their own superiority over “those Christians.” I’d find it funny if it went so alarming. It’s funny because people who bash rituals will jump to their feet when they hear the…
Tag: Church
Benefits
I often feel pressured to join various ministry groups. The pressure is often voiced as encouragement, “Look what we can do for you!” Reading Making Friends, Making Disciples has helped to understand why I’m so wary of these groups which promise benefits I never asked for, and relationships which are artificial at best. If groups…
Us Vs. Them
I have to say, I often wonder if Christians (or any other “Culture Warriors”) have given any thought about what would end up happening if they “won.”. A coalition is a great political force, but movements inevitably shift towards being more particular, and “Us” quickly becomes a new “Us versus Them.” I think a lot…
I’ll Fly Away
I have ADD. This inevitably creates both comedic and frustrating situations for the people I’m in community with (I truly pity my wife). Yet, it’s also the same reality which frees my particular gifts to shine. My mind is always going, so I end up visualizing unusual ways to connect with the world around me….
Meetings
The phenomenon called “monthly meetings” has always fascinated me. Perhaps they make sense in a professional organization, but I can’t think of a worse model for a volunteer organization (such as a Church). I’d much rather do away with meetings and replace them with continuous on-line conversations – centered around specific tasks.
Introductions
Many Christians have taken up the notion that they aren’t “religious.” I’ve never really gotten the concept. I’m religious, my friends and neighbors understand this about me and that it deeply impacts the way I live and act. Call me crazy*, but I think this is a good thing. *I know some folks will call…
