And

Then [Jesus] opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. – Luke 24:45 (NIV)

I knew something was up. We were at an annual gathering of UCC pastors held in St. Pete. It used to be the conference of “large steeple” pastors, which looked very much like a fraternity or drinking club. Now it specializes in pastors who lead large staffs (and it welcomes grandmothers like me).

When the conversation table for “The Future of the UCC” was empty and the table for “Christian pluralism” was filled, I knew where to go.

The Rev. Eric Elnes, whose name you might know from the groundbreaking “Tri-Faith Initiative” in Omaha or his early book The Pheonix Affirmation, has gathered an emerging network on “Christian pluralism.” Christian pluralism points to an inclusive tenet that appeals to both sides of the aisle—that is, it doesn’t default to language of “progressive” or “conservative”:

• Christian pluralism means walking fully in the path of Jesus without denying the legitimacy of other paths that God may provide for humanity.

• It also means the humility to accept that God is beyond our ability to comprehend or control, and is therefore not limited to our understanding, however, transformative our experience of God has been for us.

Eric and others discussing Christian pluralism also question the use of the term “Nones.” Why not call them “Ands?” Many of us who call ourselves Christian already think this way, holding our faith as authentic but not requiring it to be culturally dominate.

Why not say so? Yes, God is still, still speaking.

Prayer
O God, thou beyond all captivity of name or substance, open the eyes of our hearts, through Jesus, so that we may understand what you are teaching. Amen.

About the Author
Donna Schaper is Interim Minister at the United Congregational Church of Little Compton. Her latest book is Remove the Pews.