THE COMPORTABLE PEW

This little critique of contemporary Protestantism was written by a leading Canadian journalist and commentator at the request of the Anglican Church of Canada. Although presented under these auspices, its criticism is addressed to North American Protestantism in general. After an introductory essay on ""Why I Left the Anglican Church,"" the author marshalls his argument against the churches under three headings: The Abdication of Leadership--on such social issues as war, nuclear weapons, race, business ethics, and sex morality; The Tyranny of the Religious Establishment-in its National Creeds, ecclesiastical caste system, rejection of lower classes, and its acceptance of ""the comfortable pew""; and The Failure to Communicate. The author concludes with asking, ""Is Revolution Possible""? He believes that it is, but will require a new type of local congregation and a new training for clergy. Much of the content surveys studies and criticisms already well known. The value of this book is in bringing these together with a new sharpness of focus. It could be very useful for lay study groups and others concerned with the renewal of the churches.