Brittany Douglas-Image & Pilgrimage #2

“Liminality and the Christian Faith”

I am once again discussing the discoveries of Arnold van Gennep. Thanks to his discoveries, Turner says, “Liminality is now seen to apply to all phases of decisive cultural change in which previous orderings of thought and behavior are subject to revision and criticism.” Liminality no longer refers only to the tribal transitions from boyhood to manhood. Liminality is now capable of being desirable and voluntary. In contrast to tribal deviance, this new idea of liminality or transformation involves “open-endedness, the possibility that the freedom of thought inherent in the very principle of liminality could lead to major reformulation of the social structure…” I believe this new view of liminality applies to the Christian faith. Speaking from my personal experience of being saved, the new ideas and responsibilities presented literally point to a new way of living. Transitioning from one way of life, with one particular mindset, to another is a liminal experience in itself. I literally felt I could close my eyes and reflect upon my past like a closed book. The new road ahead of me was an entirely new story in itself, which was about to begin. The differences between the two were vast. I believe a certain degree of maturity comes with this transformation, as does the transition from boyhood to manhood (though returning to a child-like state is encouraged as well, but that’s a different story.) Once this new way of life is accepted, it can be argued that one is encouraged to be in a liminal state constantly. Acceptance of Christ resembles a rebirth, which relates to rites of passage ceremonies. Also, we as Christians are constantly in transition, never reaching our goal of becoming a mirror image of our sinless savior. This can never be accomplished, so the process is everlasting. Lastly, I believe going to church is capable of being a liminal experience in itself. For many, going a week without being “fed” causes them to “slip,” to begin forgetting to keep Christ at the front of their conscience. During Sunday service, some become so totally consumed that they forget about the world outside the sanctuary. Afterwards, they feel spiritually recharged. For these reasons, I believe Christianity relates to liminality.