We theologians should ask ourselves whether we have not complicated the biblical message all too often and turned it into a problem, thus impeding the ability of so-called lay people to communicate. People need both to hear about the elementary foundations of our faith and others who witness to their faith and do not leave them alone with their questions and doubts. What we need is a passionate concern for people in our times, their lostness and the future promised to them by God. The good news of the freedom of the children of God requires messengers who can approach other people unpretentiously. Christian congregations will continue to be places where faith is lived out and witnessed to.
Local churches participate in the everyday life of people, their crises and their celebrations.
In particular they do not lose sight of those who need care and help, the unemployed and others who find it difficult to cope with life. If churches are like this, I need not worry about their future.