I saw a recent Banner / RNS article that sparked my interest, because it's definitely something that I've been thinking of, too. I suggest you take a look at the article (available for free on the Banner, the CRCNA's magazine), before reading this discussion and participating in the comments.
Here's my questions: How much should the church provide for us? As Karen Swallow Prior, the author of the original post, notes, there are definitely things we should expect of the church. It should be a place that "faithfully preaches and teaches the word of God." It should be a place that is safe. A place that is just. A place where we can all grow in faith, together.
As someone who has spent a fair amount of my own life outside of North America, I know that "Christian" culture looks very different in different places. For example, I lived in Austria for a while. The church in Austria has more influence in some areas. For example, all public holidays except the Austrian national holiday are Christian holidays (I loved having two weeks in May off of school for Pentecost). Every school classroom (including all public schools) had crosses over the doors and every kid, regardless of their religious background, had religion class for all 12 years of school (yes, again, even in public school). But there was less "Christian culture" in other areas. People didn't go to Christian tax advisors, Christian dance studios, or go to see Christian movies.
I'm certainly not saying these things are bad. I've participated in — and enjoyed, and grown from — many elements of "Christian" culture myself. But I do believe that Prior raises a good point. How much of our lives do we "get" from the church? How much of our needs should be fulfilled by church? How has the church (or your church, specifically) supported you in your life, and in what ways do you participate in and benefit from the larger Christian culture?
Let me know what you think below! I look forward to reading and learning from your responses.
Comments
One area of larger "Christian" culture I'm thankful for is summer camp! I remember, as a kid, going to a week of overnight camp in Wisconsin. I had such a great time; I met new friends, got super sunburnt, was able to go on horse rides, and learned about God in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Christ is the cornerstone and the church is built on Him. The church (local body of Christ) has been and is the foundation for my life; the one constant and central hub (even when my location changed).
We can expect community and shared mission from the church, along with Prior's points. But we also live in the world and are called to make disciples so we can't stay in a bubble.
I agree with Sarah...summer church camps (in Colorado, for me) were a highlight. I also enjoy "Christian contemporary music" concerts. Good music with good lyrics outside of church building.
In the original article the author uses the word ‘together’ several times. This is what we should want from our church. Worshipping together, living life together, learning together and being shaped by one another. The Bible constantly emphasises the faith community as the family of God. If churches fulfill this role then they will be places of communal worship. They will be safe places with safe people. They will be the source of justice. And be places where, like children in families, every one will grow in faith.
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