Fascinating read, Jason. As an American, it’s difficult to not see much of the American Church in the camp of the self-made self, as the descriptors align closely. I wonder what role the church has played in contributing to the demise of Christian community, identity, and belonging? I think lack of history is one area where American churches fail to understand and communicate many of the points mentioned. Many pastors and fellow Christians know nothing of Ignatian spirituality. Even more have been taught that desires are sinful and our heart’s are filled with deceit- neither are to be trusted. It’s a theological conundrum that takes years to untangle, usually, as you noted with a set of open-handed practices and a spiritual guide/companion/director. While I appreciate your assessment, I fear many churches and congregants (professing Christians) in America see nothing wrong with their hollowed out, self-made theologies and ways of being. Thoughts?
Hi Darcy, I had in mind most of the west, not just churches. Consumerist self-made identities are de rigueur all over. Some churches intensify that - certain strands of evangelical production led types, with a spirituality of God on demand, to get the life you want. However, a pick-and-mix spirituality can be part of any church, in any form, from low to high or none at all.
I have been fortunate to live and lead with Christians who want an identity that is God-given. However, they labour under the pressures of members who want spiritual goods and services delivered on demand.
All we can do is live differently, with others, and invite more into the same. I am finding that where I am, many people want to receive their identity from God, within the church community. For that, I am grateful. As things worsen in the world, we may see a turn to God by those seeking a different way to be, both within and outside the church.
Fascinating read, Jason. As an American, it’s difficult to not see much of the American Church in the camp of the self-made self, as the descriptors align closely. I wonder what role the church has played in contributing to the demise of Christian community, identity, and belonging? I think lack of history is one area where American churches fail to understand and communicate many of the points mentioned. Many pastors and fellow Christians know nothing of Ignatian spirituality. Even more have been taught that desires are sinful and our heart’s are filled with deceit- neither are to be trusted. It’s a theological conundrum that takes years to untangle, usually, as you noted with a set of open-handed practices and a spiritual guide/companion/director. While I appreciate your assessment, I fear many churches and congregants (professing Christians) in America see nothing wrong with their hollowed out, self-made theologies and ways of being. Thoughts?
Hi Darcy, I had in mind most of the west, not just churches. Consumerist self-made identities are de rigueur all over. Some churches intensify that - certain strands of evangelical production led types, with a spirituality of God on demand, to get the life you want. However, a pick-and-mix spirituality can be part of any church, in any form, from low to high or none at all.
I have been fortunate to live and lead with Christians who want an identity that is God-given. However, they labour under the pressures of members who want spiritual goods and services delivered on demand.
All we can do is live differently, with others, and invite more into the same. I am finding that where I am, many people want to receive their identity from God, within the church community. For that, I am grateful. As things worsen in the world, we may see a turn to God by those seeking a different way to be, both within and outside the church.
Thanks for unpacking that a little more for me. I really appreciate it:)