Empty Crowns: When Position Matters More Than Purpose

By Special Correspondent

"Everyone wants to be a king, to put a crown on an empty head. No matter how small, still it is a crown."

This piercing observation about human nature's tendency toward vanity over substance resonates with particular clarity in the ongoing governance struggles at Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland.

The Pursuit of Position Over Purpose

Within any community organization, the temptation to seek titles and positions for their own sake rather than for genuine service can create profound challenges. At Saint Sava Cathedral, parishioners have observed this dynamic affecting certain board members who appear more concerned with status than stewardship.

"We've witnessed individuals who rarely attend services or participate in parish life suddenly become intensely interested when board positions become available," notes a long-time church member who requested anonymity. "These positions are meant for humble service to the community, not personal advancement or influence."

This pursuit of position without corresponding commitment to purpose reflects the wisdom in the observation about crowns adorning empty heads—titles sought not for the responsibility they entail but for the status they confer.

Small Crowns, Significant Damage

According to parishioners familiar with the situation, several individuals on the partial board approved by Bishop Irinej exemplify this concerning pattern:

• Some have questioned membership status of dedicated parishioners while their own attendance at services remains sporadic

• Others have submitted altered communications that misrepresented fellow parishioners' statements

• A few have leveraged personal connections rather than demonstrated service records to secure their positions

"Though these may seem like small 'crowns' in the greater scheme of things, the impact on our parish has been significant," explains another community member. "When people pursue positions without the proper spirit of service, governance becomes about control rather than care for the community."

This reality illustrates how even "small crowns"—positions within a parish board that might seem insignificant to outsiders—can inflict disproportionate damage when sought for the wrong reasons.

The Contrast of Servant Leadership

The governance crisis has highlighted a stark contrast between two approaches to parish leadership—one focused on titles and personal influence, the other on genuine service regardless of recognition.

"Our unanimously elected board president, whose confirmation was denied, exemplifies the latter approach," observes a parish council member. "She has consistently served our community for years, preserving Serbian language education for our youth and caring for parish needs without seeking recognition. Her leadership comes from service, not title-seeking."

This contrast between empty crowns and servant leadership reflects a fundamental spiritual principle within Orthodox tradition—that authentic authority grows from humble service rather than position or title.

Recognizing True Authority

As Saint Sava Cathedral navigates this challenging period, parishioners have increasingly distinguished between formal titles and genuine spiritual authority. Their refusal to accept a partial board administered by an outside priest represents not rejection of church hierarchy but rather discernment about authentic leadership.

"We respect the office of bishop deeply," emphasizes a parishioner. "But when decisions appear influenced by those whose primary interest seems to be securing positions rather than serving the community, we must respectfully seek resolution through proper channels."

This careful discernment between position and purpose reflects spiritual maturity—the ability to honor hierarchical authority while recognizing when it may be influenced by those seeking crowns for empty heads.

Beyond Titles to Transformation

As the parish awaits response from the Holy Synod in Belgrade, many express hope for governance that transcends title-seeking to embrace authentic service.

"Our parish doesn't need kings and crowns," reflects a community member. "We need servants—people whose hearts are full even if their heads wear no crowns. That's the leadership model Christ gave us, and it's what will ultimately preserve our Serbian Orthodox heritage for generations to come."

This vision—leadership defined by service rather than status—offers a path forward regardless of how the current governance dispute resolves. It reminds the community that while many may seek crowns, only those who understand their true purpose can wear them worthily.

Editor's note: This article is part of a series exploring the spiritual dimensions of governance challenges facing Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral.