Book Review:
Lucifer Grows in Our Garden:
An Anatomy of Clergy Abuse
by Barry J. Robinson
Fernstone, Ontario, Canada, 2004. www. Fernstone.org
For all who are concerned about the “epidemic” of forced termination of ministers, this book provides both a painful description of the damage to clergy and congregations, and a deep theological reflection on the life (and
death?) of the Church. Rooted in his experiences as a member of, ordained leader in, and now exiled from, the United Church of Canada, Robinson’s exposition has far broader implications for all Christians in North America.
Employing biblical images of exile and confronting “powers and principalities,” the author’s reflection illuminates questions we should all be asking about where God is calling the Body of Christ to grow – and about the risks of refusing to respond to that call.
Drawing from the scholarship of Walter Wink and René Girard, as well as from print and film, Robinson’s reflections proved a poignant witness and provocative challenge to any illusions that the Church as institution or communion can afford to stagnate in the mindset of Christendom. While his “answers” may not fit for everyone, his process and his thoughtfulness engages the reader in the questioning that must accompany growth.
A mainstream publisher might have made this a more easily available (and
published) book; however, some of the rawness of the pain and the depth of the process would almost certainly have been sacrificed. Lucifer Grows in Our Garden is an important resource for ministers, seminarians, denominational leaders, and congregations. It is worth the effort of allowing it to engage and challenge us who care about the effectiveness of the Gospel and the health of the Church.
Nancy E. Waldo, Minister of Spiritual Direction in Richmond, VA