Replies

Bravo! I will certainly buy Dancing Alone

I've toyed with the idea of writing my own book to explain to charismatics why traditional, liturgical worship can be more fulfilling than "praise gatherings."

I'd love to use this occasion to have a dialogue with other Christian FReepers about the merits of traditional, patristic, confessional, (small "c") catholic faith and liturgical worship. Anyone interested?

I was raised Methodist, got born again and "spirit-filled" in the '70s, then became a Missouri Synod Lutheran in the 80s. What I have come to appreciate about historical Christianity since is very profound, IMO. I have a suspicion that many FReepers would, by inclination, really appreciate these truths as well, if only they were exposed to them.

I was into Francis Schaeffer when I was a charismatic, and the last book by Franky that I bought was his Christian Manifesto. Really liked it, but I haven't followed him since. Very cool that he's gone Orthodox! Things aren't going well in the Missouri Synod at present (thanks to the libs,) and, when I become frustrated, I toy with the idea of going Orthodox. Their worship practices are simply stunning. Very deep, engaging and, I would bet, fulfilling. Fortunately, my present church is going in the right direction, so I still have a church home where I and my family are fed and fulfilled.

Since God inhabits the praises of His people, we praise Him and He visits our services. Our worship and praise has been tremendous lately. God moves in our midst during those special times. I wouldn't go back to a liturgical church for love nor money unless God appeared to me in person and said I had to. Give me the freedom of a balanced, spirit filled charismatic church any time. That's my stand. I know others feel differently and that's good, too. Different strokes for different folks.

I know exactly what you mean. I was raised in a Southern Baptist church. Then I was introduced to a PCA church in college where the minister had been raised Episcopalian. His influence was seen in a stronger liturgy than you usually see in a presbyterian church. I miss it a lot now. I don't think I could go Orthodox, but I miss that sense of worship I experienced at church in college.

I was into Francis Schaeffer when I was a charismatic, and the last book by Franky that I bought was his Christian Manifesto.

You've got the wrong Schaeffer. "Christian Manifesto" was written by Francis Schaeffer, father of Franky. That was the last book he penned before his death. Still powerful, still relevant.