Bosch writes, "we cannot but take a stand against the proliferation of new churches, which are often formed on the basis of extremely questionable distinctions. This Protestant virus may no longer be tolerated as though it is the most natural thing in the world for a group of people to start their own church, which mirrors their foibles, fears, and suspicions, nurtures their prejudices, and makes them feel comfortable and relaxed" (466).
I write, "Rock on Bosch!" The naval-gazing which predominates so much of religion today has become a tragic impediment to our being the church in the world today. It can be cause for embarrassment when discussing what it means to be an Episcopalean when the mere mention of the word brings to mind the recent, ongoing, internal struggles within the Anglican Communion. Can we call our current troubles "questionable distinctions?" Perhaps not; however, Bosch's naming the divisiveness as a "virus" seems right on the mark.
Deb