Privilege and Prophecy: Social Activism in the Post-War Episcopal Church.

In the book "Privilege and Prophecy: Social Activism in the Post-War Episcopal Church" by Robert Tobin, the author explores the tension within the Episcopal Church between its English heritage and its desire to establish itself as genuinely American. The church has historically been associated with a privileged elite, appealing to the educated and aesthetically sensitive. However, a post-war generation of leaders dedicated themselves to progressive social reform, sacrificing the prestige and unity of the church. The book examines the challenges faced by clergy from privileged backgrounds claiming the role of prophets, as well as the church's shift towards extreme liberalism during the 1960s. The author also offers a challenge to the Church of England, cautioning against following the path of the Episcopal Church. [Extracted from the article]