Tradition or Traditionalism?

April 02, 2023

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All of us have certain traditions which are meaningful to us. When it comes to our faith, there are traditions surrounding Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter, Christmas, our devotional habits, and weekly worship too.

Jaroslav Pelikan distinguishes between tradition and traditionalism: “Tradition is the living faith of the dead, traditionalism is the dead faith of the living.” What is he talking about and why is this difference important in a time when many people feel un-tethered, empty or adrift?

This sermon explores Psalm 118, a key background text for the events of Palm Sunday when Jesus parades into Jerusalem as King. How do traditions tether us to the things that matter most in a world which feels increasingly chaotic?