Moving beyond sectarianism
Book Description
In the complex landscape of Northern Ireland, where religious identity has long been intertwined with social division, Joseph Liechty presents a groundbreaking examination of how Christian communities can transcend the barriers that separate them. Drawing from an extensive six-year research initiative conducted by the Irish School of Ecumenics, this comprehensive work offers both diagnosis and hope for those seeking to understand and heal religious divisions.
Rather than focusing solely on the most obvious expressions of religious conflict, Liechty turns his attention to the quieter, more socially acceptable forms of sectarianism that often go unnoticed. These subtle dynamics, he argues, create the foundation upon which more visible antagonisms flourish. Through careful analysis, he reveals how seemingly innocent attitudes and behaviors contribute to an atmosphere of division that undermines genuine Christian community.
The book challenges readers to move beyond finger-pointing and blame, instead inviting every individual and religious group to examine their own role in perpetuating division. Liechty presents practical frameworks and models designed to help people recognize and transform sectarian patterns in their own contexts.
For Christian churches specifically, this work offers both challenge and opportunity. It demonstrates how the journey beyond sectarianism can become a catalyst for reimagining ministry and discovering new ways to serve society with authenticity and unity.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~10 hours)
📄 Length: 378 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Church history
- ✓ Explore Northern Ireland
- ✓ Explore Christian communities
- ✓ Explore Social conditions
- ✓ Explore Christianity and politics
- ✓ Explore Ecumenism
- ✓ Explore Interdenominational cooperation
- ✓ Explore Reconciliation
