To read the popular press these days, one would think that the world of religion was divided quite comfortably into two camps: The religious right and the religious left. For those Americans – most, in fact – standing squarely in the middle, the perception has never quite fit reality.

The radio program Speaking of Faith has been running a series of conversations and programs about the economy. Host Krista Tippett and other Speaking of Faith staffers have been talking to wise elders, philosophers and theologians about the moral and spiritual implications of the current crisis. All of them acknowledged that this will be a time of turmoil and great struggle for many-and the full implications are still unclear. Without minimizing that reality, they also felt stirrings of hope that we as a culture might use this crisis as an opportunity to engage in some self-reflection, for a deeper search for meaning.

Our Presbytery had a dream to build a new camp. It would be a place where congregations could send our kids, Sessions and small groups for a spiritual, outdoor experience. Unlike its predecessor, Glenkirk, it would have modern facilities designed for a new generation of Presbyterians seeking such an experience.

My gym, which I love, just closed precipitously. During the 6 years I’ve been working out at Lady of America, I’ve noticed many parallels between gym membership and church membership. Some parallels are positive, some negative, but all are striking. Perhaps that’s why this gym closing has me rattled.