Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity

Language is a huge issue within progressive communities of faith. A dozen or so years ago, gender exclusivity was the biggest language problem the church was facing and many hymns, prayers, and sermons were rewritten to be more gender inclusive. But what do we do when almost everything we say, pray and sing about points us to ancient images and beliefs that we no longer hold as ultimately true? Gender inclusivity, in comparison, was a cake-walk.

The answer then:    Go slowly.   Go very slowly ……

The following are guidelines for the preparation of worship services that seek to get past the problems that our traditions present. A study guide will be available in the near future to assist you in working through these items in your community of faith.