By The Rev. James W.H. Sell
"Learning to Live: An American Story" is the story of my journey
through the ordained ministry of the Episcopal Church. Much to my
surprise, it was a life that suited my values and personality like no
other. It began when the American culture was fueled by the norms and
standards of institutional religion in the late 1950's and early 1960's.
But from the time
of my ordination in 1969 up until the present moment, we have watched
international and American church worship life decline year after year.
Today, almost all denominations and faiths are retracting into an
uncertain future. It can be argued that at the current rate of decline,
the entire religious enterprise in America has less than one hundred
years of life remaining.
Somehow, my life
has run counter to the trends and demographic realities by which we have
been surrounded. I discovered solid spiritual values that gave my life a
sense of abundance. At the same time, every church I was a part of grew
and flourished. So, contrary to the cries of the legions of naysayers, I
am nothing if not hopeful. To be a Christian is to live with a sense
that resurrections are at the very core of every history.
I believe that,
in very real ways, we are just getting ready to return to our most
ancient roots, where, once again, on the fragile edge of society, we
will become a steady pathway to an abundant life and, ultimately, the
driving force for liberation and justice.
Learn more about the book at www.jameswhsell.com.
