The University of Chicago Martin Marty Center

Sightings

August 26, 1999

What is the status of the denomination in American public life?

-- Martin E. Marty

Seldom have we gone sighting religion in its denominational forms. With good reason, some would say: religion draws attention today more in expressions of individualized spirituality, at local assemblies, through causes and caucuses and parachurches, and in independent "community churches" than in denominations. The day of the denomination is over, one hears from time to time.

This column is prompted by my lone foray into denominational contention at the recent churchwide assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Among other actions, the voting members approved a document chartering full communion with and exchange of clergy between these Lutherans and the Episcopal Church. Called by the ELCA to a temporary mission as a redrafter of, fronter for, and backer-up to the document called "Call to Common Mission," I had a ringside seat--and experienced some rounds within the ring--during debate over the move.

Denominational life at that range looks and feels different from what I saw forty years ago when it was my first beat at the CHRISTIAN CENTURY. It looks different than it does from any objective distance today. For a day the vote was front page news. A day later, it dropped from public view.

One can say that to millions, religion counts for little, "organized religion" for less, denominational life least. Church bodies draw attention only momentarily, while they have civil wars. But one can also observe that to half the American population, the confession or communion to which these citizens belong remains a very important way of organizing spiritual searches and works of justice and mercy.

At the ELCA assembly, both sides argued their case regarding "Call to Common Mission" with passion and genuine concern for faith and life. They represented the interests of approximately five million people, most of whom care in general, if not in detail, about what goes on. The arguers showed love for their church. Though identified as being on the wrong side by 30 percent of the voters, I have to say that I was met by nothing but cordiality and shared concern.

What impresses a one-timer to whom such an assembly is an unfamiliar venue is this: most of what denominations do does not make news any more than does most congregational life. The displays, reports, and advocacies of the many ministries at such events show that denominations have changed their role. No longer serving as definers of dogma and fortresses from which to attack others, they are more like extended families. Despite their family fights, they play significant roles in religious life--roles that scholars and reporters need to reexplore.