A Holy Pause: Tradition, Traditionalism, and the Way of Christ

What’s the difference between tradition and traditionalism?

While serving the first church after seminary, I reached out to for advice from Dr. Bryan Feille, then a Brite Professor of Practical Ministry. I don’t recall the specifics of our conversation, but I vividly remember him posing a question that has stayed with me: “What’s the difference between Tradition and Traditionalism?”

Tradition holds many meanings within Christian discipleship and practice. It stems from the Latin word tradere, meaning "to hand over, deliver, or entrust." Tradition refers to what we have received from previous generations—whether certain repeated practices or theological streams. For example, Paul introduced the words for communion with: “I pass on to you what the Lord has given to me.” We often associate tradition with specific practices tied to events on the calendar, such as candlelight services on Christmas Eve.

In Christian theology, tradition is one of the four primary sources for forming theological understanding (alongside scripture, reason, and experience). It connects us to historical streams that shape our identity—such as the Disciples tradition, Evangelical tradition, Protestant tradition, and Western tradition. Tradition refers to the narratives that we claim and that claim us.  

Dr. Feille’s question highlighted how we often transform gifts from the past into present-day obligations. Traditionalism, unlike tradition, is an unconscious adherence to patterns we cannot justify. Churches are filled with traditionalism—and this tendency spans generations. Even at High School camp, veteran adult camp people know that if you do an evening activity two years in a row, on the third year some youth will say, “We always . . . .” Surely we all know someone clinging to patterns with statements like: “They can take away my Mother’s Day carnations when they pry them from my cold, dead hands. 

Tradition informs us; traditionalism constrains us. Tradition sparks creativity; traditionalism stifles innovation. Tradition gives life; traditionalism deals death.

As Holy Week approaches—a week I believe is our most important—I wonder how we might discern between Holy Week as tradition and Holy Week as traditionalism.

Andy Mangum

Regional Minister and President