A church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints

A church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints

Abigail Van Buren, also known as Dear Abby, was a renowned advice columnist who dispensed wisdom and guidance to millions of readers for decades. One of her most famous quotes is, “A church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.” This quote encapsulates the essence of what a church should be – a place of healing, forgiveness, and redemption for all who seek it.

In today’s society, there is often a misconception that churches are only for those who are perfect, righteous, and without sin. However, this could not be further from the truth. A church is meant to be a place where people can come as they are, with all their flaws, mistakes, and imperfections, and find solace, support, and spiritual nourishment.

Just as a hospital is a place where the sick go to be healed, a church is a place where sinners go to find forgiveness and redemption. It is a place where people can confess their sins, seek guidance and counsel, and receive the grace and mercy of God. It is a place where broken hearts can be mended, wounded souls can be healed, and lost souls can find their way back to the path of righteousness.

Abigail Van Buren understood the importance of this concept and emphasized the need for churches to be welcoming and inclusive to all, regardless of their past transgressions. She believed that everyone deserves a second chance, a fresh start, and the opportunity to turn their lives around. By likening a church to a hospital for sinners, she highlighted the transformative power of faith and the healing grace of God.