by John Chuchman, found in Catholica

I yearn for church
that is not an enclosure for the virtuous,
but more an oasis for the weary and downtrodden;
not an experience of exclusion, discrimination, and elitism,
but more an encounter of radical love, inclusiveness and solidarity;
not with an attitude of we are right and they are wrong,
but more with an attitude of openness to truth
wherever and in whomever it is to be found;
not a bastion of unchangeable doctrine and dogma,
but a source of inspiration and exploration;
not one claiming to have all the answers,
but one challenging us all to live the questions;
not with a leadership of control and clericalism,
but more with a humble service exemplified by Jesus;
not using a language of condemnation,
but more with a language of affirmation and compassion;
not preoccupied with its own maintenance and prestige,
but more with a concern for the People of God,
all of us.

Love, John

See more reflections on John Chuchman's blog.