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Schuller removes son as ‘Hour of Power’ preacher

The Schullers pose for a photo outside the Crystal Cathedral in February 2006. (File Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)
By Sam Quinones Los Angeles Times
The Schullers pose for a photo outside the Crystal Cathedral in February 2006. (File Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)

GARDEN GROVE, Calif. – The Rev. Robert H. Schuller removed his son Saturday as preacher on the syndicated “Hour of Power” television show less than three years after handing over to him the ministry he began more than 50 years ago.

Schuller announced the removal of his son, Robert A. Schuller, in a statement read to approximately 450 Crystal Cathedral congregants by Jim Coleman, the church’s president, in Garden Grove, Calif.

“It is no secret to any of you that my son, Robert, and I have been struggling as we each have different ideas as to the direction and the vision for this ministry,” his statement read.

“For this lack of shared vision and the jeopardy in which this is placing this entire ministry, it has become necessary for Robert and me to part ways.”

Schuller said he was bringing in several guest pastors to preach during the show, which has been cut to half an hour in some markets since summer.

The decision marks a surprising reversal of the emotional moment when Schuller turned over the church ministries and the television program to his son during services at the Crystal Cathedral in January 2006. The two men hugged and the elder Schuller fought tears as he addressed his congregants.

At the time, though, he made it clear: “I am not retiring.”

The younger Schuller will remain as senior pastor of the Crystal Cathedral, a spokesman said, although there was no word on whether he will continue to preach.