The Past sits among us, throwing shadows that unnerve us, providing occasional comfort. Sometimes the Past sounds like a Story of Crimes. We may feel less burdened. But we aren't free of the Past. Some find comfort in that old clarity.
Authority is suspect.
If we do agree we need it, we can't always agree on where it should lie or how firmly it should be held. Ordination used to do the trick, although not automatically so. Collective wisdom usually kicked in, bestowing true authority on those leaders who most deserved it. Or we choose a successful business person, reasoning that what works in the world of enterprise should carry over to the church. But we watch carefully, ready to withdraw our support if we perceive an empire being built or heavy-handedness setting in.