The shape of Christian priesthood today. Issue 5 (September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Platten, Stephen
• Is Part Of: Theology. Volume 125:Issue 5(2022)
• Page Start: 353
• Page End: 360
• Publication Date: 2022-09
• Subjects: communion -- deacon -- lay -- ordination -- priest -- representative -- sacrament -- sacramentality; Theology -- Periodicals; 230.005
• DOI: 10.1177/0040571X221119279
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-571X

Abstract

Periodically, the concept of an ordained ministry has been criticized and even dismissed. A generation ago this was addressed in the work of Alec Graham and Michael Ramsey, who argued for a clear model of the distinctiveness but integral nature of lay and ordained ministry. Similar questions have been raised recently. On both occasions a sacramental model has been proposed. This has been expounded from a number of different theological directions. Sacramentality lies at the heart of an intellectually and spiritually underpinned pattern both of the Church and of Christian ministry.