Every denomination handles the content of spiritual formation differently. No less diverse are practices within denominations. We can find many ways to pray, many ways to worship, many ways to read Scripture and to make our peace with God.
Unfortunately, various schools of thought have tended to proclaim their ways the best, indeed the only, ways to approach God. From that assertion have flowed endless bloodshed and, even now, extreme intolerance.
From a Church Wellness perspective, triumphalist and perfectionist claims contribute little to the health of a congregation. If anything, these claims make it difficult for a congregation to attain a healthy level of diversity. Also, such claims make it confusing to go from one congregation to another, as a mobile populace inevitably needs to do. Rather than link up with a new congregation that might not be as “perfect” as the last one, it is easier for people to drop out.
A best practices approach comes at spiritual development differently.
First, people need instruction. Just as first-time parents seek out childbirth classes rather than rely on vague tales, so do people who wish to pray, worship, or study need practical guidance.
What exactly is “prayer”? Why do Christians devote so much time and money to “worship”? How do we approach God after sin or failure? Answers to such questions aren’t self-evident.
Second, while giving their constituents solid food for making the spiritual journey, clergy should avoid suggesting that their food is the only food. Whether we pray sitting or standing, in spontaneous words or ritual formulations, probably is immaterial to God. A fussy approach merely encourages worry and, eventually, smugness.
Third, if Christians are to stop their centuries of ceaseless warfare and mutual distrust and then to make a meaningful contribution to a challenging age, we need to work together under the headship of Jesus Christ, not under the small banners of denominational or congregational triumphalism.
Jesus wanted his followers to be one, not divided into camps of right opinion.
For more on Spiritual Development, you can join the Church Wellness Project at www.churchwellness.com .
Tom Ehrich is a writer, consultant, and leader of workshops. An Episcopal priest, he lives in Durham, N.C. The church wellness project may be found at www.churchwellness.com
