For Better or For Worse?

Dietrich Bonhoeffer places the locus of Christian formation on Christ. Formation is not something that a person necessarily does as it is something that Christ brings. And the place where this formation occurs is the Church.

Bonhoeffer writes, “Ethics as formation is possible only upon the foundation of the form of Jesus Christ which is present in His Church. The Church is the place where Jesus Christ’s taking form is proclaimed and accomplished.”

While this is true in a best case scenario, the Church is at the same time an institution consisting of fallible human beings. While the Church strives to be the place where Christ takes form, is proclaimed, and where ministry is accomplished, there are countless illustrations when the followers of Christ have fallen very short of the mark.

Recently, a lot of press has been given to Anne Rice’s statement that she no longer considers herself a member of the church, but still follows Christ: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/29/anne-rice-i-quit-being-a_n_663915.html.

This article has resulted in a flurry of responses from clergy who echo Bonhoeffer’s words that formation happens in community, and that community is found in the church. Here is one of many examples: http://www.episcopalcafe.com/daily/episcopal_church/the_only_thing_that_makes.php

As the bride of Christ, the Church has not always lived up to its grand calling. For many people, the walls of the church are a barrier as much as they are a sanctuary.

And yet, the hope for those of us whose lives are centered on Christ, is that even in its brokenness, the Church is the place where formation, proclamation, and transformation happen.