What the Church Means to Me / A Frank Confession and a Friendly Estimate by an Insider

Name: What the Church Means to Me / A Frank Confession and a Friendly Estimate by an Insider
Author: Sir Wilfred Thomason Grenfell

By Sir Wilfred Thomason Grenfell

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Essays, Letters & Speeches Religion/Spirituality

About This Book

An impassioned reflection that defines spiritual community broadly as all who advance God's kingdom, distinguishing an inward, invisible faith from rigid, visible institutions. The author criticizes denominational judgmentalism, clerical machine politics, and churches that prioritize privilege over justice, arguing these alienate working people. He urges churches to demonstrate faith through concrete social action—public health, good government, fair labor, missionary work—and to remain energetically engaged rather than institutionalized. Personal candidness about struggling to assess the church accompanies endorsement of lay movements and missionary vigor as remedies for spiritual atrophy. The overall call is for an inclusive, militant, service-oriented church whose credibility rests on unselfish love in daily life.

About the Author

Sir Wilfred Thomason Grenfell

Sir Wilfred Thomason Grenfell was a British physician and medical missionary known for his work in Newfoundland and Labrador during the early 20th century. His experiences in the region inspired several notable works, including his autobiography, "A Labrador Doctor," which recounts his medical practice and the challenges faced by the local communities. Grenfell's writings often reflect his deep commitment to improving the lives of the people he served, as well as his adventures in the harsh Arctic environment. He also authored books such as "Adrift on an Ice-Pan" and "Labrador Days," which capture the spirit and resilience of the region's inhabitants.