A Conversation with Frank Schaefer

On the morning of Saturday, February 22nd, a black SmartCar fled the suburbs for an improbable adventure. I dropped off my wife at the bus station and headed for the long stretch out pothole pike. On the way I stopped by the apartment because I had forgotten my blue smoothie. I don’t drink caffeine so I needed some sugar to stay awake on the snow-mottled roads west. After the detour I take off, only to realize 6 inconvenient blocks later that I had forgotten my cell phone. So, of course, I had to turn around again. Finally, all the to-do was aside and no diversion could keep me from the next stop-the palatial estate of my esteemed co-host, Apryle.

When I arrived, I had to call because her door was locked, and even then I had to wait because she was not dressed. Now, I’m generally cranky and impatient (crankpatient), but today was even more so. Why??? We were on our way to interview defrocked United Methodist minister, Frank Schaefer in the middle of Amish country.

After some irritated banter, we head out to the smart car, which I know has heretofore caused Apryle many nightmares, but for the cause, she was suddenly quite brave. Now, when I go on a road trip I must have my music. Now, Apryle and I have many things in common, but music is our vast chasm. Since I’m driving, I pick the music, despite someone’s persistent objections, negotiations, sourpuss faces, and general stick-in-the-muddishness. Occasionally, on the ride she relents and fakes a dance or sings a sour note for the cause.

As we edge closer, we see the Wawas trade places with Turkey Hills, and high rises give way to silos. It is truly an Amish paradise, even if the mafia is nowhere to be found. Of course we arrive early, but Frank is so gracious as to let us come in and thaw for a few moments before the interview. His house is beautiful but modest on a quiet street in the middle of a place that people from the city can only dream might exist. Needless to say, it is the real deal.

Speaking of the real deal, that phrase would describe Frank perfectly. He was every bit as warm and thoughtful as I would imagine someone who risked his career for his beliefs. He was at equal turns funny and insightful. I don’t know how many times he offered me a beverage. His office has a full drum kit and a couple guitars on the wall. I could have easily asked him for a sublet.

Now, I won’t spoil all the details of the interview, it’s totally worth a listen, or two ;) I will give you a couple words as a teaser: Bonhoeffer, guitars, signs from God, it’s no wonder… -JH

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