On the preceding page, the Viewpoint article examines how the word koinonia is being used inaccurately in the House of Bishops and elsewhere in the church. Unfortunately, koinonia has become one of those "buzzwords" being used by Episcopalians in many places. Paradigm, dialogue, diversity, empower and prophetic are others that come to mind. Such words have been used so often that their meaning becomes distorted, vague or erroneous. In recent days we have noticed a parish newsletter in which a rector described the vestry as achieving koinonia at the end of a long, contentious meeting. A diocesan publication included an article in which the author described her spiritual journey as being "fulfilled by koinonia."

Let us not use church jargon unless we are sure what the words mean. Communicating the gospel is difficult enough. Trying to share it with others while using such words is nearly impossible.