I recently finished reading The Tenth Parallel: Dispatches from the Fault Line Between Christianity and Islam, by Eliza Griswold, the daughter of our former Presiding Bishop, Frank Griswold. This engaging book is the result of seven years of work, as Griswold traveled the globe between the equator and the tenth parallel in an "urgent examination of the relationship between faith and worldly power."
Though there are many points worthy of discussion, one quote continues to come to mind. While in Indonesia Griswold met with the founder of the Sisters in Islam, a Malaysian NGO that protects women's rights, who said, "Moderates can no longer afford to be silent." (p.203) This Griswold believes "is a sentiment one could easily hear among American Christians, be they Episcopalians, Catholics, or evangelicals." (p.203) I agree!
I'm growing weary of the dominate voice of faith whether Christian or Islamic being that of radical extremists either on the left or right. I'm tired of hearing Christian voices that in no way reflect the faith that I understand and hold dear. I'm not saying that we should not hear these perspectives, but I fear that drown out other voices. Other voices, moderate voices, reconciling voices need to be heard.
Episcopalians can make a difference! I believe we have a unique and wonderful way of understanding God and engaging the world. Though Episcopalians are a rather small minority in the USA, our voice needs to be heard. Our churches need to take active service and leadership roles in the world. We have a great message that needs to be shared. We have wonderful Anglican way of being and worship that needs to be experienced by more people. We have an engaging and challenging theology that has ample room for many across the theological spectrum.
Moderates can no longer afford to be silent! Not only for the health of the Christian faith, but for the health and well being of our relationships with those who differ from us.
In Christ,
Paul+
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