Reconstruction After Deconstruction
- James Collazo
- May 11, 2022
- 9 min read
Updated: Nov 9
Introduction
Many people today grow disillusioned with organized religion and enter a season of deconstruction—tearing down the beliefs and systems they once trusted. French-Algerian philosopher Jacques Derrida (1930–2004) referred to this process as "deconstruction," a method of dismantling established traditions to reveal what stands and what falls. This process can expose weaknesses and prompt believers to think more deeply, but it does not mark the end of the journey. Faith never lies in ruins; it builds, strengthens, and guides. Whatever we dismantle, we must also rebuild. Christians embrace reconstruction—Spirit-led work that restores faith with truth, courage, and fire. This article explains why rebuilding faith is essential and how the Christian tradition serves as a guiding light.
American minister and therapist Mark Gregory Karris (b. 1975) dives into this journey of deconstruction in his book Religious Refugees: (De)Constructing Toward Spiritual and Emotional Healing (Quoir, 2020). He captures the raw pain, inner struggle, and exile felt by those who step away from traditional faith communities. For many, this season is necessary—but it is not the final stop. Over time, those who leave often begin to long for a spiritual home again. Not a return to the rigid structures they abandoned, but a bold reconstruction of faith: one that is authentic, deeply rooted, and alive with life-giving power.
This article responds to Karris' book and offers a hopeful path for those ready to rebuild rather than linger in endless spiritual displacement. It affirms the value of deconstruction while showing that believers can restore their faith in meaningful ways. Reconstruction does not demand mindless adherence to old doctrines; it uncovers the core truths that sustain belief and reshapes them through wisdom, experience, and a deeper encounter with God. For those weary of wandering yet hesitant to return, this work issues a bold invitation: move from exile to home, from fragmentation to wholeness, and from doubt to a faith that endures.
Stations of Deconstruction
In Chapter 2, Karris lists these eight stations of the deconstruction/reconstruction journey:
Feeling at Home. This initial stage represents a sense of belonging and comfort within one's religious community. It encompasses feelings of familiarity, security, and identity associated with belonging to a religious group.
Splinterhood. As individuals begin to question or challenge aspects of their faith or experience conflicts within their religious community, they may enter a stage known as "splinterhood." This phase involves fracturing beliefs or relationships within the spiritual framework, leading to fragmentation and discord.
"To Be or Not to Be." This stage reflects the pivotal moment of decision-making and introspection. Individuals grapple with whether to remain within their religious community or embark on a journey of departure and self-discovery. It involves profound existential questioning and soul-searching.
Returning Home: Different. This stage marks the beginning of a transformative journey for those who have left their religious affiliations. It entails returning to familiar environments or memories with a newfound perspective or identity, symbolizing the shift in worldview and self-awareness.
Disorientation. Leaving behind the structures and beliefs of one's religious community can lead to a profound sense of disorientation and loss. This stage involves navigating uncertainty, confusion, and a sense of being adrift as individuals redefine their sense of purpose and meaning.
Angstville. As individuals confront the existential challenges and emotional turmoil inherent in their journey of religious disengagement, they may find themselves in a state of profound angst or anxiety. This stage involves existential questions, doubts, and fears about the future.
Farewell and Goodbye. In this stage, individuals bid farewell to their former religious identities and communities, acknowledging the significance of the chapter they are closing. They let go, mourn losses, and find closure as they prepare to move forward.
Extreme Makeover—Home Edition. The final stage represents a profound transformation and reclamation of self. It involves rebuilding one's sense of identity, values, and purpose outside the confines of religious affiliation. Like a home undergoing a radical makeover, individuals emerge from this stage with a renewed sense of authenticity, agency, and resilience.
These stages collectively represent the complex emotional, psychological, and existential terrain that religious refugees traverse as they navigate the disengagement, healing, and self-reconstruction process. Through this framework, Karris provides insight into the challenges and opportunities inherent in such journeys, offering guidance and validation to those undergoing similar transitions.
Reconstruction of Faith
Amid the strong currents of deconstruction, an equally urgent call arises: the reconstruction of faith. Reconstruction moves beyond questioning old beliefs to actively rebuilding and breathing new life into theological frameworks. It invites a thoughtful reevaluation of Scripture, tradition, and community in light of today's challenges and insights. The recent wave of deconstruction among so-called "eXvangelicals" (ex-Evangelicals) often mirrors a modern strain of theological liberalism, echoing earlier movements such as the Social Gospel, neo-orthodoxy, and the emerging/emergent church.
While deconstruction can spark healthy critical reflection, we must pair it with a constructive vision that affirms the core truths of the Christian faith. Amid today's widespread trend of deconstruction, the call to reconstruct faith provides a vital counterbalance. Deconstruction may rightly challenge entrenched beliefs and structures, but reconstruction renews, revitalizes, and helps us rediscover the richness of the Christian tradition. This work goes beyond intellectual exercise—it shapes a holistic journey of spiritual growth, communal engagement, and ethical reflection. It calls us to draw deeply from the wellsprings of our tradition: the wisdom of Scripture, the insights of theology, and the lived witness of believers across the ages. We can begin this journey in the early church—particularly with the ecumenical councils of Nicaea (AD 325), Constantinople (AD 381), and Chalcedon (AD 451), as well as the writings of the church fathers.
Moreover, reconstruction invites us to embrace faith as a living, evolving reality—rooted in the gospel's timeless truths yet responsive to the shifting contexts and challenges of our world. It calls us to cultivate a robust but flexible faith, embodying love, justice, compassion, and humility in ways that display the transforming power of God's grace. This journey presses us to confront injustice, advocate for the marginalized, and work for the common good, without ever believing that the ends justify the means, as the secular world often claims. Ultimately, reconstruction is a lifelong pilgrimage of the soul—a path marked by doubt and uncertainty as well as hope and possibility. As we walk this road together, may we do so with courage and conviction, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth (see "Fruit & Gifts of the Spirit").
Stations of Reconstruction
In contrast to the "Stations of the D/R Journey," here are eight stations of reconstructing faith:
Feeling at Home. This stage represents a sense of belonging and comfort within one's faith community, corresponding with the same station in the deconstruction journey. However, in the context of reconstruction, it reflects a renewed sense of connection and resonance with one's faith tradition or spiritual path. Individuals may rediscover the beauty and depth of their religious or spiritual heritage, finding solace and support within the community.
Discernment. Discernment plays a crucial role in reconstructing faith. This stage involves deliberate reflection, exploration, and prayerful consideration as individuals discern the contours of their evolving faith. They may engage in theological study, spiritual practices, and conversations with mentors or spiritual guides to determine the values, beliefs, and practices that resonate most intimately with their spiritual journey.
"To Be." This stage mirrors the critical decision-making moment in the deconstruction journey but emphasizes the affirmative act of embracing one's faith or spiritual path. It involves a commitment to live authentically and intentionally within one's reconstructed faith, embracing the values, practices, and community that support spiritual growth and flourishing.
Returning Home. In contrast to the "Returning Home Different" stage in the deconstruction journey, this stage signifies a return to one's faith tradition or spiritual roots with renewed vigor and purpose. Individuals may rediscover the richness and depth of their spiritual heritage, finding inspiration and guidance in the teachings, rituals, and community of their faith tradition. Consider Jesus leaving the ninety-nine sheep to pursue the lost one (Matt. 18:12–13; Luke 15:4, 7) or his parable about the lost son (Luke 15:11–32).
Orientation. As individuals reconstruct their faith, they may experience a period of reorientation and integration. This stage involves aligning one's beliefs, values, and practices with the insights gained through discernment and reflection. It entails finding a sense of coherence and direction within one's spiritual journey and navigating the complexities of faith with clarity and conviction.
Joyville. This stage celebrates the transformative power of reconstruction. Individuals may experience profound joy, gratitude, and fulfillment as they embrace their reconstructed faith and embody its values in their daily lives. Joyville symbolizes the deep sense of contentment and happiness that comes from living in alignment with the truth.
Hello and Welcome Back. In this stage, individuals warmly welcome themselves back, embracing their reconstructed faith with open arms. It involves self-compassion, acceptance, and forgiveness for the doubts, struggles, and uncertainties endured throughout the reconstruction journey. These individuals may find healing and wholeness as they embrace their authentic selves and renew their faith in God.
Extreme Makeover—Baptized and Reborn. Similar to the final stage in the deconstruction journey, this stage represents a profound transformation and renewal of faith. However, in the context of reconstruction, it emphasizes the sacramental aspect of rebirth and renewal within one's faith tradition. Individuals may undergo baptism and spiritual rebirth, symbolizing their commitment to living out their reconstructed faith with authenticity and dedication (see "Baptism: Immersed in Christ").
These stations together illustrate the dynamic process of reconstructing faith, encompassing moments of rediscovery, discernment, commitment, and celebration. Along this journey, individuals experience spiritual growth, transformation, and renewal, discovering depth, meaning, and purpose within their reconstructed faith.
Deconstruction & Discernment
The apostle Paul wrote, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Rom. 12:2). May the reconstruction of faith lead us ever closer to the heart of God and the fulfillment of his kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
In Christian doctrine and theology, discernment and deconstruction represent two distinct approaches to understanding and engaging with beliefs and teachings.
Discernment. Discernment is the process of carefully evaluating and distinguishing truth from error, particularly within the framework of the Christian faith. It involves seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, prayer, reading Scripture, and consulting trusted mentors or theologians to understand and apply biblical principles to various situations. Discernment emphasizes wisdom and spiritual insight in interpreting and discerning God's will and truth.
Deconstruction. Deconstruction, on the other hand, has gained popularity in recent years within theological circles, particularly in progressive or postmodern contexts. It involves critically examining and dismantling traditional beliefs, doctrines, and theological frameworks to uncover underlying assumptions, power dynamics, and cultural influences. Deconstruction challenges established interpretations and seeks to find alternative perspectives or truths that may have been marginalized or overlooked. It often involves questioning and reevaluating previously held convictions in light of new insights or experiences.
Paul admonishes us, "Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil" (1 Thess. 5:20–22). This call underscores the vital importance of discernment in the Christian life. Believers must examine teachings, beliefs, and practices critically against the truth of Scripture while holding fast to what is good, showing that not everything requires rejection. True discernment actively sifts through ideas, embracing what aligns with God's truth and goodness. Today, some who call themselves "eXvangelicals" blur the line between deconstruction and discernment, dismissing the historic deposit of faith instead of testing and keeping what is sound.
Conclusion
Reconstructing faith is a robust response to doubt and complex questions. Instead of simply tearing beliefs apart, we can rebuild them in ways that make sense and endure. Drawing on early Christian traditions and history invites us to think deeply about God while holding fast to the lasting truths of our faith. A prayer attributed to the Italian friar Francis of Assisi (1181–1226) urges, "Where there is doubt, faith." Rebuilding our faith means staying open to different perspectives and recognizing that no one holds all the answers. This journey is more than learning—it is a personal and spiritual process that forms a faith both thoughtful and strong, the kind we need most in times of struggle.
Reconstruction calls us back to the heart of Christianity—love, kindness, and justice—as Jesus taught. Rather than getting lost in church divisions or labels, we can embrace a faith that welcomes and transforms. By learning from the wisdom of past Christian leaders and trusting God's unending love, we rebuild our faith with courage. In doing so, we rediscover the beauty and strength of Christianity and share the hope of the gospel with a world in need.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of heaven and earth! Make us instruments of your peace—to sow love, offer pardon, build unity, speak truth, and bring hope. Teach us to console, understand, and love; to trust in you instead of doubt. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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