As an Anglican priest in the Arctic who’s experienced numerous churches across Canada, I’ve observed three critical issues amidst our declining numbers:
1. Prioritizing Change Over Understanding:
There’s a troubling tendency to alter traditions without explaining their significance. I’ve witnessed changes to the Eucharist for “inclusivity,” revealing a fundamental misunderstanding of its symbolism. We break one bread because we’re one body in Christ – a profound truth often overlooked.
2. Misplaced Focus in Preaching:
Many pulpits overflow with talk of current issues, social justice, and politics. While important, this approach often falls flat, especially in small churches. Shouldn’t we instead preach Christ crucified? We must emphasize our call to be crucified with Christ, to transform our lives, and to sacrifice for others as He did for us.
Consider Sam Wilberforce, who fought slavery, reformed prisons, and pioneered animal rights. These weren’t inspired by social justice sermons, but by a deep relationship with Christ and thorough Scripture study. By knowing the Word and Jesus intimately, we transform individuals who then change the world.
3. Neglecting Our Spiritual Roots:
We’ve forgotten the importance of daily community and prayer. A priest’s primary role is prayer, yet we’re often too busy to pray, meet, and commune. Breaking bread, singing, and praying together – the essence of our faith – are increasingly rare.
The Church must actively engage in changing lives, hosting revivals, and spreading hope in Jesus Christ. Instead, we’re closing doors and hoarding resources. What for? If predictions of our demise by 2040 are accurate, shouldn’t we invest everything in spreading the Word now?
We face a choice: Will we clutch our pennies like dying misers, or boldly invest in our Gospel mission? It’s time to return to our roots, focusing on Christ’s transformative message and the vital role of community and prayer.
The path forward isn’t through chasing societal trends or watering down our message. It’s through deep, authentic faith, lived out in community, grounded in Scripture, and focused on the transformative power of Christ’s love.
