This blog was based on the premise that there is a non-theological personal spirituality that could be demonstrated to those who are indifferent or hostile to traditional religion. This concept of personal spirituality is closely related to many beliefs of liberal/progressive Christianity, so awakening people to this spirituality might lead them eventually to accept Christianity. Hence, the idea that there is an unorthodox kind of evangelism that might connect a significant part of the unchurched population to liberal/progressive churches.
I still think this connection is possible, but such an indirect path troubled many who considered this idea. In discussions with those who were troubled, I realized that such an approach would not work if the primary goal was evangelism, because then the effort would smack of bait-and-switch. On the other hand, it might work if the primary goal was outreach. My concept of personal spirituality was not particularly Christian, but it might awaken spirituality in people who, for various reasons, were not likely to respond to the traditional Christian message. Therefore, liberal/progressive Christians could support outreach programs based on personal spirituality because some spirituality would be better than none for those who are spiritually undernourished.
I didn't want to shut down this blog completely, because I'd previously sent out invitations for folks to visit it. But I would like to refer you to the same basic idea presented in a different way on my newer blog (see link at the top of the left-hand column), or invite you to e-mail me at RationalFaith@comcast.net
Rodge Adams
