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Thank you for your show. Religious is obviously a complex phenomena and may of the "differences" we discuss are, for me, actually different emphases within the faith endeavor. Two examples:

As a Lutheran Christian we discuss God in terms of the world's creator - in common with Native America beliefs and many other world religious - but also as a healing or redeeming presence in our life through Jesus - which is more unique to Christians. Pacific Northwest Spirituality is, for me, primarily a creation centered experience which many hold in common - and indeed this part of world shouts beauty and love through creation. Such spirituality is a personal/private experience although it does have for many very public implications (such as concern for the environment, global warming, etc.) The question for people of faith is whether we should celebrate and unite where we agree, or whether we should self-define and separate where we are different. I feel the former should always predominate.

The second thing which is important to me is the communal vs. private aspect of the faith life. "Spirituality" - again - tends to be private and individual. It enlightens and invigorates, but it doesn't necessarily help us in our public life. Most faith traditions are all about communal life. (Thus Valerie's sense of loss when others in her church aren't active.) The Jesus part of Christian faith is largely about our relationship with each other, as difficult as it can be. This is the "messy" part many seek to avoid - and indeed institutional religion often loses its way here. However we must relate and we must live as community. This, for me, is the failing of some who emphasize spirituality over the complexities of life in community.

Dave Brauer-Rieke, bishop
Oregon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

posted 4 years, 10 months ago
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