Student’s Choice: The Danger of Ritual in Worship

    Student’s Choice: The Danger of Ritual in Worship

During a Sunday Sermon at my church several weeks ago, the Pastor gave a short anecdote that stood out to me as it reminded me of the topics we discussed early in this class. In our church, we believe that salvation is given by faith alone and has nothing to do with our “good works”- save for the act of accepting Jesus as one's Savior. Due to this fact, the Pastor stated that because of this when ritual is introduced into worship, it can be problematic.

It’s no secret that rituals- especially in worship- are beautiful. Ornate cathedrals and dress, traditional objects and text all come together to make worship services that leave one feeling in awe. And while ritual CAN certainly have its place- I think I lean more on the side of my Pastor when it comes to its place in worship. If I solely rely on feeling and an order of events to be fulfilled spiritually- am I really digesting the Bible and God like I should? Am I taking a sermon or text into thoughtful consideration or am I going through the motions because that is what the ritual has become? Is the relationship with God between Him and I or Him and the idea of church?

I don’t think that everyone should agree with me or not. I just find it interesting that depending on your level of spirituality and approach to God- our answer and mindset could be different.


Madeline Wells

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