219: Challenging Sacrament Exclusion for Any Reason
Apr 22, 2024
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Valerie and Nathan discuss the harmful practice of using the sacrament as a disciplinary measure in the LDS Church, emphasizing inclusivity. They highlight the emotional impact of sacrament exclusion and challenge the unhealthy theological beliefs behind it. The conversation explores worthiness, Paul's influence on sacrament participation, and the role of bishops in fostering spiritual connections.
Using the sacrament as a disciplinary measure can cause shame and unworthiness.
Inclusivity in spiritual practice is vital to prevent spiritual damage from exclusion.
Deep dives
The Expansive Definition of the Sacrament
The podcast delves into expanding the definition of the sacrament beyond traditional boundaries, focusing on faith expansion and inclusivity in connecting with the divine. It emphasizes the importance of broadening theological concepts and making sacraments more expansive to facilitate deeper connections with God and others.
Challenges in Understanding the Sacrament's True Meaning
The episode discusses how the sacrament is often misconstrued as a value-neutral participation rather than a meaningful connection with the divine. It highlights the significance of interpreting the sacrament as an opportunity for contemplation, connection, and growth, rather than a mere ritual devoid of personal significance.
Moving Away from Transactional Views of the Sacrament
The podcast critiques the transactional approach to the sacrament, where worthiness is seen as a prerequisite for participation. It advocates for viewing the sacrament as a tool to enhance one's relationship with God rather than a reward system based on merit or conditional worthiness.
Impact of Denying Sacrament on Personal and Community Well-Being
The episode explores the detrimental effects of denying sacrament to individuals, leading to internalized shame and reinforcing unhealthy dynamics within the community. It sheds light on the psychological distress, trauma, and relational strain caused by perceived unworthiness and exclusion from the sacrament.
Series Title: A Deeper Look at the Sacrament [Part III of IV]
In this profound episode 3 [of a four-part series] Valerie and Nathan engage in a crucial discussion on the implications of withholding the sacrament for any reason within the LDS Church. They challenge the harmful practice of using the sacrament as a disciplinary measure, which can reinforce feelings of both public and internalized shame and unworthiness. They emphasize the importance of inclusivity in all spiritual practice and the spiritual damage done (to the denied individual, their families, and the faith community) as a result of the practice of withholding the sacrament. In Friday's concluding episode of this series, Val and Nathan get more granular, reflecting on several aspects of the culture and practice around LDS sacrament administration (everything from exactly worded prayers to the proper uniform and beyond) calling for a more compassionate and understanding church culture that truly reflects the generous and loving nature of the divine.
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