Gordon,
How could you disagree with a pastor getting a $20 million 5 house complex for her family ? The aerial photo of the estate shows one and all that they are simply following Sydney diocesan standards for a rectory. Even down to “ the building and grounds are postcard perfect, from manicured flower beds and walkways to a five-story lighted cross.”
How else should one display one’s spirituality ? ( I wonder if there’s also a stable out the back complete with manger ? )
The opening quotes on that site are staggering observations that are hard to deny :
“Christianity began as a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
When it went to Athens, it became a philosophy.
When it went to Rome, it became an organization.
When it went to Europe, it became a culture.
When it came to America, it became a business.”
L. Ron Hubbard (Founder of Scientology) once said “Writing for a penny a word is ridiculous. If a man really wanted to make a million dollars, the best way would be to start his own religion.” While our modern day evangelists have not started their own religion, they have unquestionably improved on Hubbard’s idea. Capitalizing on Christianity has proved to be far more lucrative than starting a new religion.
