There are a few people that I think could speak to Christianity and for Christianity at this point in history. C. S. Lewis has been a spokesperson for Christianity to the intellectual for the 20th century. He would be an example of a person that did not quit using his brain, but highlights that a Christian can be a thinking, intelligent person. He gives a fairly clear articulation of the basics of Christianity in Mere Christianity In many ways, to be articulate in the Christian faith, this book is a prerequisite.
Another person I would recommend as a spokesperson for and to Christianity would be Dietrech Bonhoeffer. His life is an example of living out his convictions, which he articulates in Cost of Discipleship .
Bridgier-- I would agree that it depends upon the Mennonite. Some of them have very good theology, but the bulk of the theology is on the margin.
Van--I am not entirely familiar with Opus Dei, aside from a brief class discussion. From what I understand, there are parts of the informal group that would use flagellation, but not all members. Some of the teachings do border on unorthodox; I would include the whipping as unorthodox. Overall, the group is trying to address the question, "what does it mean to be a christian?"
Guilt is part of Christianity, but is also part of any religion. In fact, it is part of human experience. Have you ever let a loved one down? Guilt is acknowledging that everything is not perfect.
In Mr. Reed's discussion he stated "Minus guilt, there is no sin (original or otherwise). " Is the starting point guilt, or having done something wrong? I would suggest that a better starting point is the idea of the perfection of God
Mr. Reed-- in an attempt to reach a common understanding, is the perfection of God part of your understanding of the divine?