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Greg Smith

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One Faith – Many Traditions (#0094)

2010/06/01 By Greg

Christian Experience

I know several people who have been in the same denomination from birth and who plan to remain in it for the rest of their lives.  In earlier generations this pattern was normative, but, as a result of numerous variables, has become atypical.  For those in Generation X or Y, the norm is to be influenced by and to participate in multiple traditions. 

My Journey

I am a part of Generation X and have been influenced by many traditions.  In the coming days, I will consider in detail the influences of the seven traditions that have had the greatest impact on my understanding of the Christian faith:

  1. Independent Christian Church
  2. Disciples of Christ
  3. Churches of Christ
  4. Baptist
  5. Presbyterian
  6. Lutheran
  7. United Church of Christ

So What?

When you think of your own faith, do you tend to label yourself primarily (a) by your denominational affiliation, (b) by the local congregation in which you participate, (c) simply as a Christian or Christ-follower or (d) in some other way?  What does this primary label say about how you see yourself and relate to the church universal? 

Over the course of your life, what denominations or traditions have influenced you?  How have you grown as a result of your involvement with each?

I preached a sermon designed to help people recognize the diversity of religious experience within their congregation.  As a part of the sermon, I named denominations alphabetically and invited people to stand and remain standing as soon as they heard one with which they had been affiliated at any point in their lives.  I also requested that those who had been lifelong members of that denomination remain seated and to rise only after the other traditions had been named.  When I finished the list of different traditions it was clear that the lifelong members of that denomination were few in number.  It was a joy to learn that while we had a variety of stories and experiences, we were united not only by our presence in that sanctuary but more significantly by our faith in Christ.

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Greg Smith

Greg is a follower of the Way of Jesus who strives to make the world a better place for all people. Currently, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of White Rock Center of Hope and as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church. He has served ten congregations, taught religion to undergraduates for eight years, and helped three organizations provide quality healthcare to underserved populations. (Read More)

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