Atheists in the Pulpit?
A great article by Al Mohler.
“It is hard to think of any other profession which it is so near to impossible to leave.” That is the judgment of Richard Dawkins, perhaps the world’s most famous living atheist, as he welcomes unbelieving pastors to join the Clergy Project, a group designed to help unbelieving pastors make their way out of the ministry. Apparently, some are not moving out very fast.
Lots of good stuff to chew on here but for now I’ll leave you this telling analysis:
Why didn’t they just resign? Most shockingly, some openly spoke of losing their salaries as the main concern. So much for intellectual honesty.
Dennett and LaScola made a very interesting and important observation in their research report. They acknowledged that defining an unbelieving pastor is actually quite difficult. Given the fact that so many liberal churches and denominations already believe so little, how is atheism really different? In the name of tolerance, the liberal denominations have embraced so much unbelief that atheism is a practical challenge.
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5 comments
Spong comes to mind.
[1] Posted by Br. Michael on 8-30-2012 at 05:30 AM · [top]
You know, it occurs to me that, when the LEADERSHIP of the church figures this out about a priest by their words/or actions, they SHOULD be taking care of business. And the parish SHOULD be going to the vestry and demanding action as well.
The leadership of a church are STEWARDS of God’s church. It isn’t our church - it’s GOD’s church.
Do I even need to mention how rotten to the core TEC’s leadership is? Didn’t think so…
[2] Posted by B. Hunter on 8-30-2012 at 08:51 AM · [top]
Yes, you see—the parishioners *owe* money to the Great Wise Leader With Collar who will slowly show them and teach them “new truths” that are given to us by “spirit.” We should feel privileged to receive such an honor from such a shifu.
[3] Posted by Sarah on 8-30-2012 at 10:01 AM · [top]
C.S.Lewis’ quote comes to mind, the gist of which is this: Your new, innovative, heterodox ideas may be very sincerely held, Father So-and-so, and you’re welcome to them, but you’re not welcome to retain your collar or your salary, as you communicate them.
[4] Posted by Cindy T. in TX on 8-30-2012 at 11:51 AM · [top]
What an outstanding article this is—and so perfect for members of The Episcopal Church.
This passage in particular is so powerful:
I’d love to know how many of our Episcopal clergy fit perfectly into the membership definition of The Clergy Project.
Charlatans and cowards indeed.
[5] Posted by Sarah on 9-2-2012 at 10:47 AM · [top]
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