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Schuller Son: It’s Not My Dad’s Fault

Orginally published on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 7:48 AM
by Todd Rhoades

"Very sad", and "surreal" are two words that Robert A. Schuller says describes how he feels just a couple days after his outing from the Crystal Cathedral's Hour of Power program. According to the OCRegister.com, he said his removal from the program had nothing to do with his preaching style or his vision for the church’s future. “But it had a lot to do with the style of administration,” the younger Schuller said. He declined to elaborate, but said his removal had to do with the Cathedral’s president and board members. “I don’t think my father had much of a say in it,” he said...

The paper continues:

Robert A. Schuller said today that his dream and vision was to see the “Hour of Power” grow into an international phenomenon.

“I wanted the “Hour of Power” to be seen on every screen in the world,” he says. “And by that I mean every iPod and every computer and cell phone screen. That was a doable thing for us.”

He had personally visited countries such as Australia, New Zealand, China, Russia, The Netherlands and South Africa, popularizing the program and setting up offices.

“We wanted to expand to China and India where the opportunities are simply abundant,” he said.

He said he “saw this coming” after July 9 when the church’s board named Jim Penner as CEO, Jim Coleman as president and Fred Southard as the Chief Financial Officer.

But John Charles, Crystal Cathedral spokesman, said the decision was made because of “a lack of shared vision.” The church’s principals told him that the younger Schuller’s removal was definitely not “planned” when they took over leadership, Charles said.

“(Robert A. Schuller) still remains our senior pastor,” Charles said. “The church has no plans of looking for another pastor.”

Schuller could also return, if he chooses, to be one of the preachers at the “Hour of Power.”
But the younger Schuller says he is still coming to grips with the latest developments. He says his earliest memories of the Crystal Cathedral were that of sitting on the wooden benches in the Orange Drive-In Theater – even before the landmark church was built just down the street.

“I’ve had several touching, moving experiences as part of the program,” Schuller said. “Today I’m just sad.”

Robert A. Schuller, however, has “very exciting” plans for the future.

“I can’t reveal what they are for at least two weeks,” he said. But it will be along the lines of what he was doing for the Crystal Cathedral, Schuller said.

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There are 104 Comments:

Posted by Peter Hamm

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 8:00 AM

I am trying to figure out the purpose of saying this publicly, before the dust settles internally. It can’t be that good for anyone.
Posted by

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 10:53 AM

My assumption is that he was expected to say something like, “I had to leave, but everything’s still cool with my dad and the Cathedral and please don’t stop going.” Silence would probably be perceived as showing discord and an undermining of the ministry. However, reading the article, it seems like it still sounds nasty and dis-unified.

I agree with Peter. Some more of the dust should have settled first.

--
CS
Posted by RevJeff

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 11:13 AM

“Historically, there has been a tremendous emphasis on sin,” he said. “Crystal Cathedral was largely responsible for developing self-esteem among the faithful.”

That might be one of my favorite quotes ever…
Posted by

Monday, November 03, 2008 at 2:28 PM

The funnt thing is he was fired by his two brother-in-laws. So much for family loyalty.
Posted by sandyhakes

Tuesday, November 04, 2008 at 2:16 AM

My husband (who has been a financial supporter of the CC) - knew something was up. I have been involved in churches for years and have seen “politics as usual” from board members - infidelity of pastors - a lot I have seen - each time it saddens me so - this is not how Jesus wanted it to be and satan is doing a great job in the CC - especially since Robert Anthony was drawing so many people - I couldn’t wait to hear him on Sun morns before we went to church - he is dynamic and so was Donna - these board members - really need to ask God if that was what HE wanted - yes, even in church, it seems to come down to money and power. I feel the father should have stood up for his son - even if it meant that they both leave the situation - very very sad to see this happen between father and son - and I hope we can see Robert Anthony on another channel - soon - he has way too much to offer. I do hope pride or jealousy did not enter in to this - we may never know the real truth of the matter but I am really tired - and so is God - of power and poltics in the churches where Jesus is supposed to be the head of them. The elite of the church will black ball those who know what is happening - isn’t that amazing that this happens - but God sees all and knows all. I say to Robt. Anthony - pick yourself up as you tell us to do - you and Donna move on to better things God has in store for you - even Jesus had to dust his feet off from family members and move on. God bless you Robt. Anthony - your sermons meant so much to us. We are very saddened - and shocked.
Posted by DeWayne Howard

Tuesday, November 04, 2008 at 4:01 PM

I am greatly saddned by this story between father and son.

My family and I have been watching HOP and have been greatly blessed by Robert A. since he took over the pulpit a few years back. I, too, think that the father should have stood up for his son. It is sad when the government of the church actually keeps ministry from happening.

I would love to see Robert A. on his own ministry program and to continue ministering to the body of Christ. Perhaps, plant a new church!
Posted by

Wednesday, November 05, 2008 at 10:37 AM

This terrible treatment of Robert Anthony Schuller shows that SATAN is now in control of the Crystal Cathedral. Robert Anthony was preaching the gospel and winning souls to Jesus Christ. I believe this is the beginning of the end of the Crystal Cathedral. The President, CEO and CFO SHOULD BE FIRED AND REMOVED FROM THE CRYSTAL CATHEDRAL IMMEDIATELY. THEY ARE SATAN PERSONIFIED. May GOD Bless and Protect Robert Anthony Schuller and his wife and children. My husband and I willno longer be watching The Hour of Power each week as we have done for 25 years.
Posted by

Thursday, November 06, 2008 at 7:12 PM

I was in the process of moving to another state in June of this year. About 2 months ago I purchased a new TV, and tuned in to the Hour of Powerand watched the elder Schuller deliver the message. After several weeks I wondered, “where is Robert Anthony”? This week I purchased a new computer and immediately went on-line. What I discovered is very sad. The church is a place to worship the LORD.....Not a place for politics.
Posted by

Saturday, November 08, 2008 at 8:29 PM

I hear lots of saddness in the above comments regarding the changes at the Crystal Cathedral. We must remember that to each thing there is a season, and sometimes it is difficult for one to see the reasons for change. However, RAS must believe that this is not the end, but the first day of the rest of his life and just the beginning of something new and wonderful and I can’t wait to see what it is. Now, I only want to know how to keep up with him and his ministry.
Posted by

Monday, November 17, 2008 at 10:28 PM

I thought the family unit was really tight with the Schullers but apparently not. How could Dad let this happen!!!
I have been a faithful watcher and supporter of the CC, in fact I had visted there on my wifes and I West Coast trip last fall and was awestruck by the youngers inspiration and DRIVE. This was instilled in him by his Dad, but Dad could not, would not move forward to maintain the 35 plus years of good works the he himself brought forth. I have an empty feeling in my heart and will veiw the entire CC corporation much differently.
Dad should, no must explain what happened and mend fences with his son and the rest of the family. No explanation!!! Come on CC we are owed at least that. We the faithful will pray that all will work out, but we need to know what we are praying for.
Posted by

Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 9:54 PM

Gods hands works in miraculous ways. As what they say, when a door closes another door will open.

Christmas]http://kwismas.blogspot.com/2008/10/christmas-gift-ideas-for-dad.html’’]Christmas Gift Ideas For Dad[/url]
Posted by

Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 11:48 PM

I WILL BE PRAYING THE C.c. DOES NOT ALLOW Satan take over thru men here on earth, God’s great tv program for so much of the world to find their JESUS.Ido not believe GOD wants this to contiune. Father and son Schuller both!!! brought so much to the HOP.
Posted by

Sunday, November 30, 2008 at 11:02 AM

My husband and I have been watching the Hour of Power for many years. We have even been in the Hour of Power magazine, been in the Sparrow club, and the Eagle Club. We started getting disillusioned just before Robert A. took over and were going to stop watching the Hour of Power because we felt it was preaching too much positive thinking and not enough of the Bible. We started noticing that Robert H. barely prayed. We were feeling empty instead of fulfilled by the sermons. This all changed when Robert A. took over! He brought a new freshness to the sermons. He was preaching the Bible and did so many good things like Shoes for the needy and Wheelchairs for the poor in other countries. I looked forward to his sermons and felt he was a good person. He started baptisting and bring people to Christ., Then all of a sudden he was no longer on the Hour of Power. Instead they were running Robert H. reruns. I tried writing to the Hour of Power to find out where Robert A. was and why he wasn’t on the program anymore. I have the feeling he was becoming so popular that Robert H. and the board couldn’t stand it. I thinking removing Robert A. is the beginning of the end for Hour of Power. This was a petty act and I am sure that the viewers will see it as such. God bless Robert A. and help him through this disappointment. That door closed but I feel there is another one just waiting to be opened. Robert A. and his family are such good christians, I am sure God has bigger plans for him.
Posted by

Saturday, December 13, 2008 at 6:59 PM

LIke others, I am so disappointed in what has happened at the CC. We don’t really know what occured although it does appear that the Board made this decision. I have read comments about a mission versus church as per Robert H, and I have been with the CC for nearly 30 years, and this is new to me. I don’t see me tuning in to see other pastors, regardless of how wonderful they might be. I did see the CC as Robert H’s church, not a mission. How disappointing for the father to have to fire the son, and we will never know the true story- whether it was administrative or his style of preaching. I doubt it could be the latter, since his syle was known prior to his appointment. In these lean times, I will not make every effort to donate to the CC. Tough times never last, but I will take a tough stand and say no.
Posted by

Monday, December 15, 2008 at 12:50 AM

We miss you Robert A...you were inspiring and I truly thought you were preaching God’s word. I am just a little younger than your father and you were a breath of fresh air...I do not enjoy hearing a new preacher every week and will look forward to seeing you or hearing you preach again. God bless you and the family.
Posted by

Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 11:06 AM

It seems so sad that others besides Robert H and Robert A Schuller can decide the ministry of these two great spiritual leaders. I first heard Robert H’s inspiring messages on the radio from the roof top of the outdoor theater stand in the 60’s. I thought than as I do now that he had the positive message we all need to hear. Robert A was carrying that message forward. The change is hurtful to those of us who knew them both. We can still read their books. Perhaps something good will come from this upheaval for both of these great preachers. God, my wife and I love them both.
Posted by

Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 11:56 AM

Lest we forget, this is the SCHULLER ministry, founded by SCHULLER philosophies and they were always the BEST ANYWHERE! Rev. Robert H. Schuller married my husband and I twenty years ago. We had the honor to visit with him personally and found him to be genuine and sincere in every way. We have since generously financially supported his ministry because we believed this with all our hearts. We also had the honor to personally meet Robert A. Schuller and found him to be the same. This is a travesty!! I beg the “Powers that Be” to rethink your decision. PLEASE REINSTATE THE SCHULLER MINISTRY!!! We continue to pray that God will bless the entire family and heal this shattered church.
Posted by

Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 8:56 PM

IT is sad when we allow Personal and Small Group goals take over as God"s Plan. There has been disappointment for us in the developments we have witnessed. Surely God will work in spite of those who work against him.
Posted by

Sunday, December 21, 2008 at 9:36 AM

Dr. Robert Anthony Schuller gave a vitality to the Hour of Power that was needed for a younger generation. He is a powerful & caring speaker that people can relate to. It is with sadness that he was made to leave in such a manner. He will have many followers in any upcoming church endeavors that he begins.
Posted by

Sunday, December 21, 2008 at 6:09 PM

I am so sad the way Robert Anthony was treated. While the ministers’ sermons from different churches have been excellent, something is just not right. I feel that we have been abandoned. I looked forward to seeing Robert Anthony every Sunday and I liked his book, “Walk In Your Own Shoes”. I hope he comes back to a church near where I live and has a television ministery. I couldn’t focus on Robert H. Schuller’s sermon this week. Dr. Schuller talked a lot about psychology, so I know what we mean when I say I feel like we have been abandoned.
Posted by

Tuesday, December 23, 2008 at 8:19 AM

In times like these, what can we do ?
Continually remember

1 (Rom 12:19 NIV) Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.

2 (Keep Asking, Seeking, Knocking}

(Mat 7:7 NKJV) “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

(Mat 7:8 NKJV) “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.

3 ((Eph 3:19 NKJV) to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Practice every day listening to the inner voice of the Holy Spirit, that Jesus, gave to all believers when he rose from the cross &practice;his will.

You will be blessed and GOD will be Glorified

Regards
Kevan
Posted by

Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 10:04 AM

I am very sad about what has happend at the CC, I sure miss Robert Anthony. Wish his father will tell us exactly had happened.
Posted by

Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 11:35 AM

The Hour of Pour does not seem the same without Robert Anthony. I found RA’s sermons and style so positive and really looked forward to Sundays mornings. I no longer watch regularly - something is just missing! RA - No matter what the future brings, God will be with you and we know you will continue to do great things for Him. I only hope He brings you our way again! I do miss you - and Donna, too.
Posted by

Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 11:54 AM

We are in a time of crisis morally, financially, emotionally, and spiritually. It is most disstressing to learn that a church and what it represented, I so believed in and supported is contributing to the crisis. If I did not support Robert Anthony, I would have re-directed my donation to another church. When we are uncomfortable with life’s situations we tend to find comfort with what is familiar and comforting as our “default”. That is exactly what the CC has been to me even in “good times”. I was able to count on the CC to uplift me, weekly. Now I have doubt and am suspicious of those who are making decisions for me regarding the CC.
This ministry was consistent, innovative, had vision, and believe it or not wholesome with class.
Plainly, I have been an Eagle Club member for over a decade and I find no comfort in what has been done and I no longer will support the CC. I will now, re-direct my donation.
The CC ministries stood for stability for so many decades...now it stands for a pretty building and what once was...shame on you.
Posted by

Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 6:26 PM

My association with the CC goes back to 1972 when I first attended it as the old Garden Grove Community Church. I had faced a crisis and attending that church saved my life. I have attended and supported this church ever since and I am just sick at what has taken place. SOMETHING is not right about this whole matter. I can’t attended any longer and my financial support will be redirected. What a sad time for such a great ministry. I pray that those that made such a terrible decision will repent, turn from their awful ways and return this church and it’s ministers to the beautiful place of worship it was just a few months ago!!

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Hi... I'm Todd Rhoades. I'm a Christ-follower, husband, father and I love to connect leaders with other leaders. Hopefully you'll find something here at MMI you like and will return often. If you want, you can find out more about me or follow my every step on Twitter.