- Fiction Outline / Synopsis
- A Book By Iain SmillieÂ
I. Introduction
In this gripping non-fiction narrative, we delve into the intricacies of a small congregation facing its darkest hours. Centered around the battle between good and evil, the story unravels the true nature and intentions of a group of individuals entrusted with the stewardship of the church. For over fourteen years, this select few secretly plotted to close the church, and their plan aligned conveniently with their personal retirements. Their decisions were made in clandestine Stewardship Committee meetings, with the Moderator as their commanding figure, exercising dominance over other leadership members.
II. Unveiling the Secret Plot
This section sheds light on the covert plot hatched by the select group within the congregation. Despite being charged with safeguarding the interests of the church and its community, they chose to follow their own rules, keeping their intentions hidden from the larger congregation. While other members served tirelessly in various capacities, unaware of the impending closure, these key leaders were orchestrating a strategic exit for personal gain.
III. Confronting the Treasurer
A pivotal moment in the story occurs when the narrator, a courageous individual, confronts the Treasurer about the impending church closure. This confrontation proves to be a turning point as it forces the Treasurer to reluctantly acknowledge the truth. With a touch of vulnerability brought on by intoxication, he reveals the secret plan – the church’s closure in tandem with personal retirements. The revelation is met with an aura of mystery as the Treasurer’s response, “Because we said so,” resonates with the narrator, leaving many questions unanswered.
IV. The Silent Majority
The silence of the majority during the property sale process serves as a significant backdrop to the central conflict. This silence can be attributed to two primary reasons: the discomfort with confrontation and the exhaustion from maintaining a declining congregation. The phenomenon of capstone churches, where a few individuals hold the reins of power, leads to a passive and complacent majority, which ultimately facilitates unchecked control.
V. The Dominating Moderator
Within the leadership, the Moderator emerges as a dominant figure, exercising her power over other members, stifling dissenting voices, and promoting submission. Her approach can be likened to that of a bully with the personality of a bitter divorcee, as she dismisses any solutions presented to save the congregation. Her overpowering personality silences opposing voices, effectively eliminating any opportunity for constructive dialogue within the leadership circle.
VI. The Divine Intervention of Omer Dawson
Amidst the turmoil, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of Omer Dawson, a founding member of the church. Omer’s appearance is serendipitous, occurring at a moment when the narrator seeks a sign from God, affirming their commitment to His work. As if directed by a higher power, Omer enters the church with his little dog, Cinnabon, and imparts a sense of purpose and divine influence that emboldens the narrator’s faith.
VII. Ordination and Spiritual Guidance
The narrator’s ordination under the symbolic burning bush of Moses in the name of John Knox adds depth to the story’s spiritual themes. This spiritual guidance further reinforces the narrator’s resolve to stand against the wrongdoings and injustices perpetrated within the congregation. The narrative presents a year of divine influence, marked by remarkable coincidences and connections, strengthening the narrator’s conviction in their role in this cosmic battle.
VIII. Smear Campaigns and False Accusations
Intrigue and betrayal unfold as the Moderator and her allies engage in smear campaigns against the narrator. False accusations of improper conduct with a minor are raised, casting a shadow of doubt and maligning the narrator’s character. These baseless claims reflect the hypocrisy of certain individuals, who publicly oppose LGBTQ lifestyles while having gay family members themselves. The manipulation and disregard for truth pose a moral quandary, highlighting the corrosive nature of bigotry within religious communities.
IX. Rushed Property Sale and Lack of Transparency
The rushed process of selling the church property becomes a critical juncture in the narrative. The leadership, particularly the Moderator, pushes for a swift resolution, sidestepping transparency and disregarding the wishes of the larger congregation. The sale of the property at a fraction of its value to a developer planning luxury multimillion-dollar mansions raises suspicions of potential personal gains by certain individuals involved in the process.
X. Serving the Community Amid Adversity
Despite the adversities and animosity faced from the congregation, the narrator remains steadfast in their dedication to serving the community. The pandemic presents a unique challenge, but the narrator’s commitment to continuing Sunday Worship through live broadcasts showcases their resilience and sense of duty. However, the lack of appreciation and support from the congregation accentuates the sense of abandonment experienced during the trying times.
XI. Embracing Forgiveness and Seeking Redemption
As the narrative nears its conclusion, the narrator embraces the path of forgiveness and seeks redemption for past actions. Despite being subjected to injustice, the narrator refuses to harbor animosity towards those involved, choosing instead to rise above the bitterness and focus on the greater good. This journey towards forgiveness highlights the strength of character and moral integrity displayed by the protagonist.
XII. Conclusion
In this thought-provoking tale of neglect, a clear dichotomy emerges between the forces of good and evil within the congregation. The clash between righteousness and malice plays out amidst power struggles, deceit, and personal agendas. The story calls for introspection and underscores the significance of unity, compassion, and genuine stewardship within religious communities. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the potential consequences when faith and community are neglected in the face of personal ambitions.
