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« on: January 04, 2013, 11:53:29 PM »
I am actually new to the board of directors of ReClaim Resources. Hence, I agree with their vision of worship. I know this is a sensitive topic for many, and I really dont want to get caught up in a big debate here. But i will simply clarify afew things about their/our "agenda." The guiding principle is that worship should be based on the sinful human need for repentance rather than a celebratory eucharistic piety. Hence, there is a two keyed absolution as well as exhortation before communion. As someone noted, there is also concern for getting the direction straight in worship, that all parts of the service proclaim the word of God. Also, there is the concern that in lbw/elw resources, the assumption seems to be that everyone in attdndance in worship is a baptized and believing Christian. While that might be ideal, it is not realistic. Many of the funerals I have been called upon to conduct, the person wsa not baptized. So, the focus of the service, while not denying the importance of baptism theologically, instead seeks to proclaim the gospel to those in attendance, not assuming they are. Hristians, encouraging them to respond in faith to what has been proclaimed. I dont see it as a regrwssion at all. Having used some of the resources, I have found them to be very helpful. A good summary of the principles under which ReClaim operates can be found in Walter Sundberg's book "Worship as Repentance." I commend it to you. I am NALC, by the way, as well as LCMC, and although I might have some differences of opinion about some of these issues with others, I dont regard their views as heretical, and I have to say that I still appreciate the contributions of those of differing pieties. Peace.