It is customary to be gracious when one’s political adversaries pass. I learned today that Dianne Knippers died yesterday, far too young, of cancer. She was president of the Institute for Religion and Democracy, a group that fought against progressive developments in mainline Protestant denominations (especially the Episcopal Church USA).
Hers was one of those names I invariably saw cited in the "other side’s" news releases. I am very sorry to get one of those same releases and learn of her passing. May she rest in peace, and may her family be comforted.
She sure was a pain in the a**. I just lost a good friend far, far, far too young so all I can do is share your sentiments of peace and grace towards her and her family and friends.
Hugo,
I had the pleasure of working with Diane at a few General Conventions, and of knowing her personally (though not well) through my parish. She was a very godly woman, full of the Holy Spirit and dedicated to serving the Lord. It was very tough the last two years to see the releases made by certain groups on “your side” of the aisle that called her “evil,” “dragon lady,” and other reprehensible terms. Y’all did not know Diane and what a wonderful woman she was.
Peace of Christ,
Chip
I am sorry that those with whom I am in agreement ever used such language, Chip. I know that most responsible conservatives have avoided using slurs for the likes of +Gene and dear Louie Crew. I expect the same measure of courtesy from “our side.”
We must find a way to maintain not merely civility, but warmth and kindness in the midst of our battles.
It’s her decisions in Latin America and Israel that make her and the IRD problematic. I’m not a fan of some of the tactics used by ACN, AAC, and the IRD over the past few years, but the other stuff is what really gets me.
Dianne Knippers was a classic example of a kind and generous person who created unwanted mischief. Personal attacks are pointless and not needed. The facts are enough. Why was Mrs. Knippers so obsessed with sex? What caused her to seek destruction of sincer political opponents? I’ve no idea. Jesus made clear that “Hate is not an option” Dianne Knippers gave sanction to hate by her words and deeds.
Her humaity was real and her predatory ambition was well known. “Sometimes Kindness Kills” You can be right and thus very wrong.
I followed her career and I have tried so often to understand her. Mrs. Knippers seemed to have tunnel vision when it came to the consequence of her actions.
I find no pleasure in saying these things. Nevertheless, i am left with a dark suspicion that Mrs. Knippers had a dark secret, and it poisoned an otherwise remarkable career.
I am sorry she died, cancer is a terrible death. I do hope God attends her and she has honest happiness at last.