on not having illusions
Posted: July 3, 2012 Filed under: Episcopal thoughts Leave a commentTurning once again to Susan Russell:
+George Barrett began the funeral sermon for +John Krumm with these words: “John Krumm was never disillusioned by the church because John Krumm never had any illusions about the church.” Arguably the most influential sermon I ever heard.
Something particularly relevant as the Episcopal Church begins its General Convention on Thursday, and nerves start to fray.
I was particularly troubled by the rising budget brouhaha. My thought was, “Do I really want to be part of an organization that behaves in this manner?” Of course all churches have their organizational politics. That’s true wherever you go.
Besides, I looked around and I saw that Susan Russell is still part of the Episcopal Church. So is my rector. And my spiritual director. Those are all people I respect. If I respect them, and they are staying, then why shouldn’t I stay?
Perhaps the trick is to be like John Krumm and never have any illusions about the church.