The Iceberg and the Fire of Love: A Call to Ecological and Social Compassion

David M. Kelly is a teaching assistant at Brock University in St.
Catharines.

Written from an Anglican perspective, this book, which deals with global
ecological and social problems, is likely to provoke two radical
responses. On the positive side, it is a candid, straight-to-the-point
discussion of the various evils afflicting our modern world. It pulls no
punches, respects no persons, and boldly goes where discreet angels fear
to tread. Further in its favor, the book is readable and at times
amusing.

Unfortunately, its very openness may prove its undoing. As the title
image “iceberg” indicates, the book is also a rather substantial
accusation against the majority of lay Anglican church members. With the
best and most noble of intentions, The Iceberg strongly suggests that
only a small portion of church members—the worthy “tip”—actively
combat social and environmental evils, and the rest aid and abet the
enemy through lethargy. No doubt some expressions like “Damn your
charity!” are unlikely to be welcomed by lay contributors in view of
the prolonged recession.

While many Anglicans may take offence at the book, militant
environmentalists and social reformers will likely praise it, and church
members who wear purple shirts or sashes will probably cherish it. It
is, to say the least, a most thought-provoking endeavor.