The Church Needs a Banished Words List Too

What’s New

Lake Superior State University’s annual Banished Words list reminds us how overused language loses its edge—and the church should take note.

So What

Words are our tools of the trade, and dull tools don’t cut it. The church’s mission depends on clear, impactful communication – especially in an unchurched world.

The Main Points:

Stop using insider jargon. Avoid terminology that alienates or confuses visitors. Use language that feels familiar and welcoming to everyone. Christianese only communicates to already-Christians. 

Consider your audience. Focus on using non-presumptive language that doesn’t assume attendees have any church or biblical background. Introduce biblical characters, describe biblical geography, and define biblical terms. This ensures everyone can follow along and feel included, fostering a stronger connection (and better learning!).

Simplify your message. Strive for straightforward communication that avoids overcomplicated or overly formal expressions. The writers of Smart Brevity challenged using only one-syllable words to bolster your effective communication skills. (Only use multiple syllables as a last resort – it’s a great a training tool!)

Eliminate outdated terms. Refresh your vocabulary to ensure that it aligns with the current culture and invites engagement. Ye’s, Thee’s, Thou’s and doing “works meet for repentance” (Acts 26:20 KJV) may be stylistically pleasing, but they don’t communicate effectively anymore. 

And … ?

Banished words from Lake Superior State University’s list—like “Cringe,” “Game-Changer,” and “Sorry – Not Sorry” – remind us how overuse weakens impact. The same principle applies in church communication. Words that once carried depth and meaning, such as “Gloria Patri” or “postlude,” now sound outdated and fail to communicate with modern listeners.

The church’s calling is to bridge the gap between ancient truths and contemporary culture. Using language that connects – not alienates or confuses – is crucial. When communication is clear, it invites engagement. But when it’s cluttered with jargon, it creates barriers. If we want to truly engage the unchurched, we’ve got to audit our words with the same vigor we apply to our music, programs, and outreach strategies.

Action!

Take a fresh look at your church’s language and swap out at least one outdated term this Sunday.

My List of Banished Words for 2025:

1. Narthex (lobby)
2. Epistle (letter)
3.  Invocation (prayer)
4. Benediction (more prayer)
5. Gloria Patri (song)
6. Doxology (another song)
7. Testaments (Hebrew Bible, Christian Bible)
8. Prelude (opening music)
9. Postlude (closing music)
10. Introit (choir special)