From the Revd Martin Cox
Sir, — I am sure I am not the only one to have found Mark Hope-Urwin’s article (Comment) last week both insightful and provocative. Having worked in the public sector for 14 years before ordination, I appreciate his starting point. Of course, the Church is different. Traditionalism, however, appears to have become equal with the traditions of the Church.
The Church at times, even for those of us on the “inside looking out”, can be experienced as being an end in itself rather than as a means to an end in terms of mission. We appear to have forgotten that what we receive as a way of “doing” Church was at some point in the past innovation, i.e experienced for the first time.
It occurs to me that we need to think through carefully and theologically the difference between traditions and traditionalism, and face the challenges of such study at all levels in the life of the Church.
MARTIN COX
The Vicarage, 50 Norley Road
Sandiway, Northwich CW8 2JU
From the Revd Tony Bell
Sir, — I agree with the thrust of Mark Hope-Urwin that the Church should be conscious of the way it is perceived, and that it should proclaim the gospel afresh in every generation. Mr Hope-Urwin’s retail background, however, is colouring his view too much.
The Church is not dealing with “customers” in a consumerist and materialistic philosophy that wants everyone to be seen as such. We have a distinct message that may well conflict with the values of “the customers”, and we proclaim a faith that demands responses and duties that conflict with the aspirations of the “consumer”. Even Jesus had disciples who could not stomach his teaching and who turned away.
TONY BELL
59 The Hill, Glapwell
Chesterfield, Derbyshire S44 5LX
|
back to Letters
previous story
|
next story 
back to top
.gif "Caris Magazine for girls aged 11 to 16 © site")
