Balancing Tradition and Remaining Relevant

by

Special to United Methodist Insight

I grew up in the church. I was part of a midsized congregation with a booming youth ministry, children’s choir, drama group, handbells – the whole works. We sang all the old hymns, with a bellowing organ. It was a place that took me through the first of the difficult periods in my life, and it shaped and nurtured me until I was ready to hear my call to ministry.

The first church I pastored had a similar history, and I say history because it was a far cry from its present. The ministries were all but evaporated, the young families gone, the pews empty, and the hope for a future almost depleted.

The role of tradition in the church has always been a point of tension when it comes to remaining relevant in a rapidly changing world, and never have I felt it more than that church. The focus on maintaining the old ways hindered positive adaptation, a refusal of technology adoptions held back an invitation to new generations, and with each year fewer and fewer young worshipers connected with the style. That church’s culture had traditioned itself into irrelevance in the community.

For centuries, churches have had to navigate the delicate balance between honoring tradition and staying responsive to the evolving needs and perspectives of their communities. If that balance is heavy on either end, if proves problematic to a diverse and growing congregation. The rich tradition of the church gives us legacy, comfort in the familiar, and a sense of connection to the past. Innovation gives us fresh opportunities to engage new people, a space to evolve into new ministries, and remain a relevant part of the lives of the community. This article aims to explore strategies for fostering a vibrant and responsive church community while respecting tradition in the local church.

Tradition, Same but Different

One of the fundamental challenges for local churches is reimagining tradition in a way that is inclusive and adaptable. Instead of viewing tradition as a static entity, I encourage you to take a dynamic approach that allows for reinterpretation and evolution. By honoring the core values and teachings of tradition while remaining open to fresh interpretations, churches can create spaces that resonate with both long-standing members and newcomers.

An essential part of this process is engaging in open dialogue and critical examination of traditional practices, rituals, and beliefs. This might involve reevaluating the historical context of certain traditions and discerning which aspects can be modernized or reinterpreted without compromising their essence. For instance, a traditional liturgy could be revised to include language and imagery that is more inclusive and welcoming to diverse identities and perspectives. My congregation sometimes provides Glitter Ashes as part of the liturgy of Ash Wednesday. It is both part of the tradition, being ashes marking on the forehead, and a departure by acknowledging that those within the LGBTQ+ community have experienced more than their fair share of mortality, tragedy, and hurt, glitter ashes are a symbol of the redeeming love in the midst of our very creation; a gritty, glittery, surprising symbol of hope, and a renewed tradition.

Give ‘Em Something to Talk About

Education and dialogue are tools for adaptation and growth. By fostering a culture of learning, exploration, and open-mindedness, congregations can better equip themselves to navigate the complexities of the modern world while upholding meaningful traditions. This may involve hosting workshops, study groups, and guest speaker events focused on topics such as social justice, theology, and ethical decision-making. Outside voices are helpful in sharing the wider world of ministry and church work with our local congregations.

Additionally, promoting intergenerational dialogue can be invaluable in achieving a balance between tradition and relevance. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told by an older member of my congregation what young parents want, only to discover something different when I talk to young parents. Just as often, I have been approached by younger visitors confused by how some of our traditions strike them in their context. By creating opportunities for different generations to share their experiences and perspectives, churches can ensure that traditional core values are informed by contemporary insights, and vice versa. Our worship team has four generations represented, and we always explain the “why” before we plan anything, traditional or innovative. This inclusive approach to dialogue can lead to a more holistic understanding of tradition and relevance within the community, both in redeeming some traditions and facilitating the creation of something new.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Find expressions of active involvement in social and environmental initiatives for your church. By engaging with the needs of the local community, churches can demonstrate their relevance and commitment to addressing contemporary challenges. these efforts are integral to living out the teachings of compassion and justice and foster partnerships with diverse community organizations and causes, which can expand a church's impact and relevance. For example, collaboration with advocacy groups, communal support initiatives, and environmental campaigns can serve as powerful demonstrations of a church's commitment to social responsibility. Many churches have done this by facilitating local support and care groups and scout troops. Consider taking it even further by asking yourself, “Who is out in the community trying to make a difference, and how can we partner with them to do so?” Engaging in meaningful outreach not only reflects the relevance of the church within the community but also reinforces its tradition of empathy and service.

Make Innovation a Practice

I have always sought to honor tradition while embracing innovative forms of worship and creative expression. Don’t get me wrong – I love trying bold, new things! This might involve integrating diverse musical styles, incorporating multimedia elements into services, or experimenting with alternative forms of spiritual practice. To maintain a balanced sense of innovation, I try to do as many new things as traditional things in worship and expression. By offering varied and inclusive ways for individuals to engage with their spirituality, my congregations have remained vibrant and responsive to the evolving needs of their members.

And in our response locally to the Covid-19 lockdown, innovative technological and digital platforms have enhanced our church's accessibility as much as relevance. The internet has become a more familiar tool for literally every congregation in America, so consider how to use that tool even more! Livestreaming services, utilizing social media for community engagement, and creating interactive online resources can enable your church to connect with a broader audience while preserving the essence and mission of your congregation.

Balancing tradition and remaining relevant is an ongoing journey that requires intentional reflection, openness, and adaptability. From embracing change within tradition to prioritizing dialogue and education, from actively engaging with the community to exploring innovative forms of worship, each church has the unique opportunity to cultivate vibrant and responsive church communities. By navigating this balance with grace and intention, churches can continue to evolve while upholding the rich tapestry of their tradition, remaining relevant in the lives of its members, and welcoming in a new generation of believers.

Licensed Local Pastor Kellen Roggenbuck serves Stoughton UMC and teaches Evangelism and Discipleship at the Iowa Conference Licensing School.