Theologically, yeah, Lutheranism could use some help. Communally, even more so. This past weekend I was invited to visit a Hindu temple in Des Moines as part of the Iowa Interfaith Conference, in which I realized: I want my Lutheranism to look like Hinduism.
I want my Lutheranism to look like a fervent “Welcome, welcome! You are always invited here.” I want my Lutheranism to look like hunched elders with graying hair and bright-eyed children with scurrying feet joined together on the floor in worship. I want my Lutheranism to look like women wearing colorful clothing and gods posing in brilliant adornment. I want my Lutheranism to look like joyful dancing and laughter, where people are jumping and twirling their hands in devotion.
I want my Lutheranism to look like a circle of community, where warm motions to get closer together are met with eager scoots. I want my Lutheranism to look like a space where side conversations are just as important as listening to the person with the microphone. I want my Lutheranism to look like a shared meal, where fruit is passed down a line for all to handle, rather than chosen individually.
Yes, I want my Lutheranism to look like Hinduism. But mostly, I want my Lutheranism to feel like Hinduism.
Religion is a place of community, and community flourishes when people realize their experiences are better when shared. Sure, many Lutherans share the intersubjective atmosphere of a Sunday service. Sure, many Lutherans embrace awkward chuckles as they share the peace. But, I believe the Lutheran community can do better at creating a space where interconnectedness and interdependence is realized.
It’s a bummer that many of us Lutherans sit in sterile pews so distant from each other. It’s a bummer that many of us Lutherans move not in jubilee but in the monotonous rhythm of sitting and standing. It’s a bummer that many of us Lutherans eat miraculously consecrated bread touched not by an entire body of believers, but by a single pastor. And it’s a bummer (I’d argue much more than that) that many of us Lutherans fail to see the rich beauty and life within other religions.
It’s time to shed our arrogant piety and learn from the community of Hinduism. It’s time to see the truths of connectedness mastered by other traditions. It’s time to open our hearts to the love and joy within those who experience religion differently. Lutherans, we have a lot to learn from Hindus.
Gabrielle Janssen (‘24)
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