OVERCOME: The Rev. Robert H. Schuller becomes emotional after speaking to his congregation Sunday. Photo by Karen Tapia-Andersen, L.A. Times
The schism between the Rev. Robert H. Schuller and his son at Orange County’s Crystal Cathedral arose over a disagreement about broadening the church’s long-running television show, “Hour of Power,” beyond a single personality — a move opposed by the younger Schuller, pastors involved in the matter said Sunday.The elder Schuller announced Saturday that he was removing his son, the Rev. Robert A. Schuller, as the show’s only preacher three years after turning the program over to him.Zenobia Coe of Lake Forest said she preferred the young Schuller’s Scripture-laden sermons. “But because God called me to this church, I intend to keep coming . . . whatever the church decides.”
The show will now be hosted by different pastors, and even businessmen, from around the country and Latin America.“Hour of Power,” which reaches 20 million people worldwide, had not been revamped in many years, according to those familiar with it.Robert H. Schuller obliquely addressed the change during a service Sunday.
Though never referring directly to his son, he said the long-term survival of his ministry was dependent on expanding its imprint beyond the Schuller name.
“The real minister’s name that we honor is Jesus, not Schuller,” he said to thunderous applause. . .
Zenobia Coe of Lake Forest said she preferred the young Schuller’s Scripture-laden sermons. “But because God called me to this church, I intend to keep coming . . . whatever the church decides.”
The L.A. Times has a background story here.
This rift is not surprising. Nepotism in church settings usually ends in pain and discord. It is usually not the greatest idea. It’s a church, folks, not a family business.
Thoughts on this story?
Anthony Bradley, 36, is assistant professor of apologetics and systematic theology at Covenant Theological Seminary (Creve Coeur) and Research Fellow at the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty. He holds a PhD in Historical and Theological Studies from Westminster Theological Seminary and is frequently called upon by members of the broadcast media for comment on current issues and has appeared on NPR, CNN/Headline News, and Fox News, among others. 
I can’t even relate, it is so far removed from my own experience of what a church is. I know that letting go is hard to do. I also know that inspiring something and giving it away for others to take on is full self expression and leadership. Jesus is a good example of such freedom and power.
If what the father has created is a theological institution more than a church then he may be right. The impact is there may now be 10,000 members in need of a church. Who is responsible for that as a temptation?
Stay tuned!
Report this comment
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Dad is right. Sons should do their own thing. Following fathers in the business may flatter the father but, in this case, nepotism, can lead people to believe it is Schuller’s church. In the future, if it is ever sold, we will find out, won’t we? In the interim, it is better for the son not to throw stones in a “Crystal Cathedral”.
Report this comment
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
If Schuller expands his base it provides him with a much greater opportunity to garner donations. No one will ever convince me that these TV evangelists are in it for anything other than earthly riches and power. The only possible exception is Rev. Larry Rice.
Report this comment
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
To be honest, I could care less what happens at some church in L.A.
Report this comment
Like or Dislike:
0 
0