Can someone continue to attend a church when you disagree with some of their fundamental theological conclusions? If you agree on all the big stuff, does it matter that you disagree with some of the small stuff? These are questions I'm wrestling with right now.
But i should really learn how and when to bring up these topics because now it seems I've become that awkward family member who always says crazy/weird/offensive things at Thanksgiving, and this year you have some friends coming and you have to have that tough conversation like "Hey, you know how you're always saying crazy stuff, well could you, just this once...not do that."
I know the feeling. Catholicism permeates your whole being, especially if you are really practicing. For me, many of the traditions and and habits stuck with me for years. Jeff, with all of his theological education gives me the "tsk tsk" all the time with things that I do or things that I still believe after sixteen years away from Catholic church. Sometimes when I go to my non-denom church I *still* think I am sticking out, which, of course, I'm not, but I think part of it is acknowledging that there really are some parts of Catholicism that don't make sense, as well as other sects, and the best you can do is trust your pastor and yourself to understand the Bible in your life's context, apart from the many things you have been taught to believe. I'm still working on it. :)
ReplyDeleteI really needed to hear this! Cuz I DO feel like I stick out like a sore thumb; it may be because I'm constantly bringing up how I was taught or how I feel or how I believe COMPLETELY differently than what you're saying. And it's hard to shake that!
DeleteThank you Drea for these wise words. They are exactly what I needed from a friend who had the same Catholic-upbringing as I!!
I don't like the word protestant. In fact, I don't really like labels at all. If you label yourself, it's too easy then for others to pigeon-hole you, assume they know your theological make-up. I don't think that is fair to anyone.
ReplyDeleteOur only focus should be in following Christ. Everything else is secondary.
You don't stick out like a sore thumb either. I love all those discussions and I accept not everyone will fall in line with each other's beliefs. I also accept that we don't always have it right. My views have changed on a number of things over the years.
So, don't worry. You are Jillien. Not catholic Jillien, not protestant Jillien. Just Jillien. You're identity is in Jesus - not a denomination. These days I feel even "non-denomination" has become a denomination. Ha ha.
Very true about the dangers of labeling. I suppose it can be very easy to disregard the individuality of that person and just cast him/her aside for a collective "they".
DeleteAnd thanks for trying to reassure me of not sticking out. I just want to keep learning and seeking the truth. I can't help but be fascinated with all that theological stuff.