RESPONSE: New Monasticism

This is just some of my thoughts on the article Nathan mentioned in the previous post

I find this whole movement pretty interesting and kind of exciting. I have to agree with these people that the mega-church culture is sort of out of control. While some people find benefit in it, having an alternative is always good.

But my first reaction was to think that these people where going backwards, reverting to older forms of worship in Monasticism, the "lice...on God Almighty's fur coat" as Martin Luther called it according to the article. (Which BTW having grown up Lutheran, Marty is only now becoming a more interesting figure now that all the good bits about him are coming to light).

But as I continued the article they made a point that these people are still retaining normal jobs, rarely ever taking a vow of celibacy and more or less refraining from the isolation and solitude that has become some clique when one thinks of "monks". Which leads me to wonder why they even choose the term New Monasticism?

I can't really knock what they are doing, they have established a community of like minded individuals to help and support them while at the same time dedicating themselves to public service. I would be hard pressed to say it wouldn't be good for most people to take up this position. But at the same time where does the Monasticism come in? I guess they live in a community and admire certain Saints and Catholic Church figures, but if I think a particular line in a Grateful Dead song is inspired and worth remembering does that make me a Dead Head?

To be quite honest, I hope not.

It doesn't wholly matter because for the large part I like what is going on here. I have to laugh when you have quotes from regular "Protestants" accusing these people of getting "into bed with the apostate Catholic Church". Or jumping with fear that they might be breeding a "interspiritual, interfaith, one-world religion, where it all blends together." Is that so bad!?

So I say more power to them, I don't really agree with basics of your religion, but as long as you are finding support with each other and helping those around you, how can I complain?

Although, the article does end rather amonously with a quote from William Shea, director of the Center for Religion, Ethics, and Culture at the College of the Holy Cross, "...but I would hold back and ask, where might this lead?"

One word, Waco.

You know that's what he means.