Balancing Familiarity and Transcendence in Worship

Effective church planting requires a nuanced approach to liturgy that honors both tradition and cultural context. The sacraments and liturgical elements are fixed, representing the transcendent nature of worship, yet must be culturally instantiated to resonate with the community. This involves maintaining a 'symbolic distance'—ensuring that worship remains distinct from everyday life to convey its sacredness, while also being accessible enough to prevent confusion. The challenge lies in creating a worship experience that is both foreign and familiar, allowing individuals to engage with the divine without feeling alienated.