Via Media by The Rev. Hartshorn Murphy The Paradigm of the "Middle Way." Via Media. These words have been used to describe Episcopal ethos and commitment for generations but its meaning can be confusing. Those critical of Episcopal tradition suggest that it means anything goes or a lack of core conviction and clarity or a "political correctness" dressed up in ecclesiastical drag. But these misinterpretations obscure a rich and treasured legacy which emerged as the peoples of the British Isles sought to frame Christianity in the context of ancient Celtic spirituality, Catholic tradition, Protestant Reform and English intellectual thought and experience. What is Via Media? Via Media is a church that approaches the mystery of life with moderation and humility. It is a church that seeks to be comfortable with ambiguity. It is a church that is intrigued by paradox and sees the value of holding in tension opposite statements of truth, knowing that God's truth will emerge over time if we but trust the Spirit. As such, it has been described as a "thinking person's church" for those willing to struggle with God honestly and with integrity and to accept the demands of living with theological complexity and not an inconsiderable measure of mystery. And yes, being an Episcopalian is messy. Historically, the Episcopal Church has been seen as a "bridge church" between Protestantism and Catholicism. Informed by the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century, we value the power of the Word and the richness of biblical narratives. At the same time, as Reformed Catholics, we luxuriate in the richness of a full sacramental life. Those who would understand us are best encouraged to come and worship with us. But in the culturally conflicted and overly simplistic times in which we live, people are suspicious of complexity. Standing in the middle means being misunderstood by both sides. Being the bridge may mean being trampled underfoot and collapsing under the increasing stress of holding extremes in tension. There are those within our international family who would seek to redefine what it means to be Anglican; in our national family who would wish to renegotiate what it means to be Episcopalian. In response, the Via Media Project has brought together the brightest minds and most articulate spokespersons of the Episcopal Church for a series of brief taped conversations on matters of faith and Christian identity. During this Lenten Season, your clergy and vestry invite you to a series of six Wednesday evening gatherings (Feb. 16, 23 and March 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.) for a light Lenten supper and to engage in the conversation as St. A's family. Childcare will be provided for those requesting it and you are urged to consider bringing "unchurched" friends. Sign-ups will be on the patio or you can reserve your places at the table by phone (310-395-0977) or by e-mail (carrie@saint-augusitne.org.) or by fax (310-451-8960). During this Lenten Season we, your clergy and lay leaders, invite you and your friends to go deep. We invite you to move beyond a superficial appreciation of our heritage as Anglicans and Episcopalians and to discover again for the first time the genius and beauty of walking Via Media.
Copyright © 2005 St. Augustine by-the-Sea
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