Sacrament as Subversion

I have long been intrigued by the concept of Jesus being the third way; offering something different than the church and secular culture. As I learned different interpretations of the crucifixion, I became preoccupied by nonviolent activism and responding to aggression with nonviolent resistance.

My latest questions revolve around sacrament. What makes a sacrament? What gives power to a sacrament?

I am part of a denomination known as the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Alexander Campbell, one of the forefathers of the denomination, was notorious for causing a ruckus about the sacrament of communion. At a time when the sacrament of communion was not open to everyone, he helped start a movement based largely on the concept of an open communion table.

While I am grateful to Alexander Campbell and others who spoke out against the religious power, the truth is, they shouldn’t have had to make a ruckus at all. It’s only necessary when the religious community gives someone the power to mediate the ways in which we have access to God and God’s grace. But the fact is that, if it has to be mediated, it’s not really grace any more. It’s a favor.

I invite you to read my latest Sojourners article where I talk more about the beauty of sacraments and the community that it creates and we share in. I also invite you to share your thoughts on sacraments. What gives them power? What sacraments are most meaningful to you and why?