The Gathering Center

In the last section of the book, Tickle argues that during each Re-Formation, about 60% will join the new order, 9-12% will vehemently oppose it, and about 30% will be left in between. That 60% she calls 'the gathering center.'

It seems, especially in light of the Protestant denominationalism and the Roman Catholic central authority, that this center is course correction for these two principles. How do you envision a gathering center that is neither so independent that it cannot commune nor so regimented that it cannot disagree? Is there another way?

The Great Reformation

The move from the 6th Century Authority (monasticism) to the 11th Century Authority (Roman Catholicism) to 16th Century Authority (Protestantism) demonstrates very different understandings of two kinds of authority 1) Spiritual (Godly) and 2) Human Relations.

It has seen the movement of political groupings from city-states to nations.
It has seen the de-centralizing of authority from singular authority to national authorities (and eventually the individual authority of each Christian).
It has seen the rising of the place of Scripture over the place of human decision-making.
And many more.

How do you see the Great Emergence effecting the Reformation? What do you think we will lose? What will you miss?

Re-Formation

As Tickle describes our "Great Rummage Sales," she suggests that we are in a time of Re-Formation.

What are your thoughts on the current world as it relates to our common faith?

Welcome!

Lent will begin shortly, and in preparation for our new program, I am putting together a resource to further our discussion.

This website is here for continuing the conversation as we read and explore what Phyllis Tickle is describing in the text. As you read, feel free to leave comments or e-mail me questions you would like posed. I will add new posts with questions that come out of our readings and discussion. If you are so compelled, respond!