On Relevence

It seems to be the new buzz word among church growth guru's these days. It is usually the reason given to justify innovations in the liturgy, for using contemporary music or dispensing with "formalities". It's also the other side of the criticism levied against the traditionalist--irrelevant. But the word seems to be badly misused in either case. In popular usage, no matter what it might mean really, practically it means familiar, or comfortable. Let's face it. Kneeling is uncomfortable business, so is reverence. Singing time worn hymns takes a bit of work. So nowadays, relevance translates into a cup of jo during worship where the minister wears sneakers and jeans and goes by "John." No Pastor John, or certainly not Father John. Such titles are irrelevant. I wonder though, if that is what seekers are looking for or is it what church leaders suppose they are looking for? Perhaps the most relevant question is, "Is that what we/they really need?"

I remember back in Seminary taking a class in cross cultural discipleship. We began with the premise that human beings are religious. This is not theory, its a fact. Even those who are atheists or agnostic, are none the less religious, or rather have religious behaviors. The secular person still reveres his or her weekend, vacation time, or even that one night a week when their favorite show is on TV. Mircea Eliade, Vic Turner and others point out that humans are religious because they need to be religious. Sacred time, sacred spaces serve as interruptions in the ongoing stream of the common or profane. They provide rhythm and order into what would otherwise be an endless chaotic stream of events. It makes me wonder. If a secular person, came to a church, on purpose, actually "seeking," what he or she would be looking for? More of the same? Another support group or affinity club? a coffee shop? Might they actually be looking for a sense of the sacred, the One who is wholly Other? Are they more likely to look for a place that looks like a sports arena or concert hall?

When its all said and done, we may find that the most relevant thing a church can do for the secular person, is be the Church unmixed, undiluted, and unapologetic for its "other-ness."