Esau McCaulley observed something about this generation of Christians: “we are often presented with two alternatives, neither of which is very appealing: deny the failings we observe within the church or contend that Christianity is not up to the challenges posed by our age.” He writes this in the Foreword to our Bishop Todd Hunter’s new book,
"I have survived by constantly making my way back to Jesus, do the nature of his being, his words, and his works." Amen. This is a book for our time. It communicates the heart of so many of us who believe in and follow Jesus and see "the rubble".
I came here to say the same thing. I have asked myself if I was being overly dramatic in feeling so deeply hurt by purveyors of bad religion, but the damage and loss are real. I had to leave a church I and my family belonged to for a long time. The Lord mercifully led me to another church, and showed me that my faith story, as well as His Church, go way beyond the church I left. But spiritual betrayal is of the deepest order; it strikes at the very heart of who we are. Thankfully, God knows, and empathetic people are out there (one of the positives of social media!)
Well said, Bonnie. I am sorry for the betrayal you experienced. When done under the guise of faith, it is especially disillusioning. My heart hurts for those who were young in their faith or who internalized the abuse and shame. It really does strike at the very heart of who we are. Thanks for sharing.
Boy! I sure wish I could get my hands on this before July! Good stuff. Thanks, Scot.
"I have survived by constantly making my way back to Jesus, do the nature of his being, his words, and his works." Amen. This is a book for our time. It communicates the heart of so many of us who believe in and follow Jesus and see "the rubble".
I came here to say the same thing. I have asked myself if I was being overly dramatic in feeling so deeply hurt by purveyors of bad religion, but the damage and loss are real. I had to leave a church I and my family belonged to for a long time. The Lord mercifully led me to another church, and showed me that my faith story, as well as His Church, go way beyond the church I left. But spiritual betrayal is of the deepest order; it strikes at the very heart of who we are. Thankfully, God knows, and empathetic people are out there (one of the positives of social media!)
Thanks to you Peter and to you Bonnie.
Well said, Bonnie. I am sorry for the betrayal you experienced. When done under the guise of faith, it is especially disillusioning. My heart hurts for those who were young in their faith or who internalized the abuse and shame. It really does strike at the very heart of who we are. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you.