I am absolutely amazed and appalled by a “man of the cloth,” Pastor David Epps, in his dissertation on corporate sponsorship of churches.

I am a devout Episcopalian at Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church in Peachtree City and quite proud that our church and priest do not take such a “charismatic” approach to our faith in God!

As I read the article, I thought that at any moment I would reach the punch line and we would be enlightened on the need to remove politics from our places of worship. I thought that perhaps Pastor Epps would transition from his satire into the true need of parishioners to give generously and regularly in order to sustain proper church growth and charity work.

But no, Pastor Epps only digs deeper with statements such as, “Pastor's salaries could go up... churches might even be able to give year-end rebates on tithes.” What? Did anyone notice that this entire article was centered around money?

What infuriated me the most was the slightest statement inferred towards other religious denominations which by their own free will have chosen to utilize the grape juice in Holy Communion as a choice that is “only a few generations old,” as he so sarcastically stated. Was that necessary?

Anyone with a grain of intelligence would know that this letter was written with a certain level of satire in mind. The problem is we place our priests, pastors, Ministers, etc., properly on a higher level of teaching and clarifying the word of Christ.

As an Episcopalian, I find Pastor Epps comments to be completely insensitive, lacking any level of religious strength, and simply provocative. I might suggest that Pastor Epps spend more time and energy provoking religious thought and the following of the word of God, rather than a sarcastic approach to “giving.”

Pastor Epps' last sentence asked, “Besides, what could it hurt?” My feelings in the reverence for which I hold God.

For some “Episcopal” clarification to those who may not be aware, Pastor Epps is not, nor has he ever proclaimed to be, an ordained Episcopal priest.

Those who wish to be confirmed by the Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Atlanta in the beliefs and teachings of the Episcopal faith, may not do so through Pastor Epps or his “charismatic church. The Episcopal Church is wrought with tradition and formal reverence. Please don't misalign our beliefs and method of following the word of God with those of the “Charismatic.”

Scott Edge

Fayetteville

Back to Opinion Home Page | Back to the top of the page