text: Thanks to all of you for participating in this discussion.  A number of comments asked about my use of the term "the institutional church".  My reference in using that term is Avery Dulles, S.J. and his book "Models of the Church".  He said, and I agree, that a helpful way to look at the church is by identifying 5 models of the church: institution, community, sacrament, herald, and servant.  He insisted, and again I agree, that each of these models are significant aspects of the mystery we call Church, the People of God as Vatican II preferred.  There needs to be a balance among all 5 models. My observation is that the institutional (visible organic structure, doctrine first, male hierarchy, etc) is still too dominant, to the detriment of the other 4 models.  So, to those who tell me to leave, I say, "No, thanks.  It's my church too". I want more balance, with a heavy emphasis on community (Gifts of the Holy Spirit spread throughout the community.)