I have been thinking about the discussion attached to this post (and watching it grow); and all the while I’ve just been wanting to say don’t confuse unity with homogeneity. Unity in Christ is something to recognize, not something to achieve. If we recognize others as part of the body of Christ and receive them - we express this unity, if we shun and reject them - we deny it.

We do not have to meet under the same roof every week to be one in Christ. To argue for that is to argue for a homogenous church - and to stamp out the rich diversity in Christ (culture, worship styles, theology), or if not to stamp it out, to restrict one’s unique style of expression to one Sunday a month, or a few minutes each service.  Such unity is just another  form of cultural imperialism.

The problem with denomonationlism is not that people have differing faith traditions, but rather that it grews out of animosity. However, there can be unity within diversity - unity of heart.  I would suggest, rather than staying at a church where you feel discouraged - find one where you can truly worship and then become a bridge builder.  Hold interfaith events.  Collaberate on interfaith projects.  And above all teach and affirm at all times your unity in Christ.  People will get the message.

http://mschellman.blogspot.com