The Uncomfortable Grayness of Life by Nathan Phelps offers a rare and frightening look at Fred Phelps and Westboro Baptist Church, from one who has been inside. This is a must read article. Incidentally, I don’t – and would not – believe in Fred Phelp’s god either, and I didn’t grow up listening to him preach it. Hopefully, his son will be introduced to the God who is there.
Nathan Phelps begins his article, writing:
At the age of 7, I could recite all 66 books of the Bible in 19 seconds. My father insisted on this because he was frustrated at waiting as his children flipped back and forth trying to find the verses he was preaching from. Afterwards, if one of us took to long my father would stop in the middle of his preaching, cast a gimlet eye on the offender and demand that, “Somebody smack that kid!”
It’s a long read, but it is a must read, for sure. Ultimately, it is a sad story about how straight-up religion and a twisted dedication to doctrine can destroy a family.
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In complete honesty, now that I’m finally free from the burden of full time ministry, Nate’s words resonate in me. I’m not sure what … or if … I believe. And I fear to talk to my wife about it.
Ben! When did the change happen from full-time? I had no idea! What are you doing now?
I’ve been where you are right now, bro. We should chat! Ring me up sometime.
Also, you’ll have to talk to your wife at some point, but only you know when that point will arrive. :)
Be well, bro.
Yeah, I’ve already talked with her a lot about my thoughts and ideas. She really does know everything about what I’ve been thinking and feeling. I guess sometimes I’m just afraid that she’ll reject me. Anyways, I’m getting a little too personal for a blog comment ;) I’ll give you a call soon.
But yeah, I recently resigned from my position and honestly, I’ll never go back to paid ministry. Currently I’m starting a web design company with my brother. In fact, I’m going to launch our website today! Woo Hoo!
D’oh. Threaded comments. My bad ;)
Good news about the design company! Be sure to share the link with me!
And yeah, ring me up, Ben. You have my number, right? If not, I’ll shoot you an e-mail.
My cell is actually listed on my contact page.