churchism

plural churchisms

1. countableuncountableStrict adherence to the forms or principles of some church organization; sectarianism.

   The appellant's idea of religion , essentially different from churchism .

   1768, Charles Chauncy, A letter to a friend, containing remarks on certain passages in a sermon, page 61

   1 more example

   This identification of himself with his denomination is the acme of consecration, and this aborption of individual consciousness in the common and larger consciousness of the Church is a sign of efficient churchism, which, well regulated, may contribute to the enlargement of Christ's kingdom.

   1889 July, “Denominational Consciousness”, in Methodist Magazine and Quarterly Review, volume 71, page 594

2. countableuncountableA cliché or overused saying uttered in church.

   One churchism (a term or phrase that we use in church that has almost become a cliché) that is used when talking about prayer is the phrase "touch and agree."

   2022, Michele R. Minter Williams, Church Politics:: The Games We Play

   2 more examples

   Christians resort to churchisms such as: “Let go and let God”; “Love the sinner, hate the sin”; “I have Jesus in my heart”; “God said it. I believe it. That settles it!"

   2012, Bill Foster, Meet The Skeptic: A Field Guide to Faith Conversations, page 12

   Kids kept yelling ingrained churchisms for us to debunk, a la MythBusters: " God helps those who help themselves! " " Cleanliness is next to godliness! " "A gate in Jerusalem was named Eye of a Needle, so it's fine to be rich!"

   2024, Jason Kirk, Hell Is a World Without You