Frequently Asked Questions
Why the name “Luminous”?
The word luminous came up over a decade ago while creating a conference-like retreat, which was named The Luminous Project. Luminous: adjective- radiating or reflecting light, illuminated, enlightened, clear. When planting the parish, it was between Luminous Parish and Saint Francis Parish.
Is Luminous a part of The Episcopal Church?
We are episcopal, which means “of bishops”, which is referred to as Anglican. Our clergy are a part of the Episcopal Free Fellowship of America (EFFA) & The Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches (CEEC). The Episcopal Church has been the primary expression of Anglicanism since the early formation of the United States. Now, there are many smaller provinces and expressions. We have partnerships with local Episcopal churches as well as others throughout Middle Tennessee.
What is the view of women in leadership?
We believe women can and should lead in every aspect as men, including deacons, priests, bishops, and teaching. There are numerous women leading Luminous, from leadership, vestry, liturgy, homilies, and Sacrament. In technical terms, we are fully egalitarian.
What is the parish’s view of LGBTQ+?
Luminous is a fully inclusive community. The way that LGBTQ+ folks have been treated by the Church needs repentance. We honor the dignity and humanity of everyone, so therefore, everyone is welcome into parish life.
Is Luminous “Evangelical”?
Where we are protestant, we do not consider our parish to be a part of Evangelicalism. Anglicans are protestant and catholic. That has become a more co-opted term over the last decade. There are also both liturgical and modern sensibilities to our parish. We use various versions of The Book of Common Prayer and use a blend of modern music and hymnology during Holy Eucharist. A life lived out as Christ (cruciform life) is our posture, rather than winning the culture.
Do you practice infant baptism?
Yes, we do. There is an early Church tradition to almost everything we practice. Actually, it’s only been over the past 100 years that baby dedication have become more acceptable. We practice the symbolic liturgy and creedal process of infant baptism to commune the parents and the community of the parish in addition to the acknowledgment of the Holy Sacrament of baptism.
Do you baptize by affusion or immersion?
In short, both. It depends on the time of the year and leading, really. We usually baptize around the beginning of January (Baptism of the Lord) or Spring (Easter or Pentecost), as well as the Summer, which is usually immersion in the Harpeth River.
Does the parish have an “Open Table”?
Yes, all those baptized are welcome to receive. We believe that the real presence of Jesus is with us at Holy Eucharist. You are welcome to receive the sacrament of Communion regardless of your denominational origin of baptism, orientation, church attendance frequency, or your church affiliation. The Eucharist is a gift, so we encourage a posture of receiving rather than “taking”.
Which Bible translation does Luminous use?
We typically reference and read from the NRSV, though you will hear many translations referred to; From NIV, First Nation, as well as ESV and Message on occasion. Our clergy suggest reading from numerous interpretations and do so with a broader historical approach and perspective. Be open to metaphorical postures of reading.
Is Luminous a trauma-informed environment?
Yes, we are. At Luminous, we are aware of realities of trauma and specifically religious trauma. Our hope and intention is to provide a sacred space for spiritual wellness regardless of past or present experiences. Our clergy have had training, preparation, and orientation with trauma-informed awareness.
What if I don’t consider myself to be a Christian?
Frederick Buechner said, “to be wise is to be eternally curious.” We welcome you where you are.
How is Luminous navigating the cultural & political climate?
Our parish hopes to offer another way… The Way of Jesus. We strongly discourage culture war approaches, as they are only meant to divide & inflame. Furthermore, we denounce Christian Nationalism as a blight on our country. “Distance breeds suspicion. Proximity breeds empathy” -Tyler Merritt