Ministering with a High Doctrine of the Trinity in a Liberal Church

Evangelical renewal groups exist in varied form in several mainline Canadian churches. A conference recently held by one such group called on the author to address the theme of ministering with a high doctrine of the Trinity in a liberal church. This article is based on an oral address given at the conference and on further reflection on its themes. The author believes that understanding the complex nature and development of the doctrine of the Trinity is a crucial first step on the way to addressing more practical considerations. Attention is given to the New Testament witness and to the relationship between immanent and economic expressions of the doctrine. It is also important to understand that orthodox teaching about the Trinity is encumbered by “baggage” (both historical and contemporary) that may limit the openness of more liberal Christians to its significance. The article maintains that Christian spiritual experience is the basis of trinitarian faith and that the Trinity is integral to Christian faith and pastoral practice. Yoked with an open and respectful attitude to the convictions of others, ministering with the Trinity in a liberal Church can and should take a positive and confident shape.