Polly Bond entry 2025
Category: Writing | commentary/reflection

Transforming Church to be a Radical Alternative

The article Transforming Church to Be a Radical Alternative, written by Mary Grace Puszka, was part of a double feature in the Summer edition of Delaware Communion Magazine. Written as a reflective commentary, it explores the disconnect many feel between their faith and the church’s perceived inaction toward systemic injustice. Drawing inspiration from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail and Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass, the piece urges faith communities to embody Christ’s call to transformative action. Through practical suggestions, the article invites readers to reimagine church as a radical force for justice, equity, and sustainable community engagement.

Magazine article image
Delaware Communion Magazine, Summer 2024

Goals: The primary goal of this article was to inspire our readers to think critically about how their church communities can serve as a radical alternative to societal norms that perpetuate injustice. The piece seeks to reignite readers’ passion for faith-centered activism and provide actionable steps to align church practices with Gospel values of justice and love. By weaving personal storytelling, theological reflection, and practical examples, the article aims to motivate readers to reimagine their faith communities as agents of systemic change.

Audience: This article was written for members in the Episcopal Church in Delaware, as well as a broader audience of faith-based readers interested in social justice and community transformation. It particularly speaks to those who may feel disillusioned with traditional church practices and yearn for a more active and authentic engagement with faith.

Summary: The article begins with a personal anecdote about the writer’s childhood experience of church as a hub of charity and community but contrasts this with a later disillusionment due to the church’s failure to challenge systemic injustices. Citing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s critique of the church’s complicity in maintaining the status quo, the piece calls on faith communities to reclaim their prophetic voice and sacrificial spirit. Drawing on Robin Wall Kimmerer’s teachings, the article offers practical ideas for transforming church communities, such as divesting from harmful industries, hosting local forums, organizing sustainable initiatives, and participating in direct social action. These suggestions aim to help churches address both immediate needs and root causes of injustice, creating vibrant, mission-driven communities.

Metrics: Positive feedback was received through comments and conversations. Delaware Communion Magazine analytics showed strong readership for this issue. The article was posted on the diocesan website and in an edition of the weekly eNewsletter, with a distribution of over 3,200.

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