The Bridge of Khazad-Dum
Jill W. At Lent and Beyond
Saturday, October 13, 2007

There is a memorable scene in the movie “The Fellowship of the Ring.” The nine members of the Fellowship are fleeing Balrog, the fire demon, across a narrow stone bridge spanning a chasm in the Mines of Moria. There is a gap in the bridge, and they take it in turn to jump the gap. Orcs are shooting arrows. The approach of the monstrous Balrog is shaking the bridge, and it is rapidly disintegrating. Seven members of the Fellowship find themselves on the far side of the bridge, and two on the near side . . .
The realignment of the Anglican Communion is not unlike the disintegration of the Bridge of Khazad-Dum. Our ecclesiastical structures are crumbling. Folks of one heart and one mind are finding themselves on different sides of the gap. Enemies hurl barbs. Demons seek our immortal souls.

O Lord,
You are our firm foundation. Keep us grounded in You.

We’re standing firm on our narrow stone bridge, countering heresies with scriptures, encouraging roistering Episcopal adventurers, and praying in earnest. Yet, the future of the fellowship of the Anglican Communion is bleak. How does this reconcile with “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose”? (Romans 8:28) .

O Lord,We believe. Help our unbelief.

The rest at Lent and Beyond image