Congregation Quote by Bertrand Russell
“I know a parson who frightened his congregation terribly by telling them the second coming was very imminent indeed, but they were much consoled when they found he was planting trees in his garden.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Why I Am Not a Christian, 1927
Even dire predictions can be softened by tangible, hopeful actions, showing that moral comfort often stems from constructive work rather than fear.
In simple terms: Good deeds ease fear of doom.
Key Takeaway
Act to calm anxieties.
Themes
faith
hope
action
community
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- environmental volunteering
- community building
- public speaking
- teaching
Key Concepts
existentialism
pragmatism
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance hope with realism?
- What actions soothe your anxieties?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on optimism may ignore genuine concerns.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
![“[Joseph Ratzinger] is a man who as the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith had everything in his hands. He conducted all the investigations, and went on, went on, went on, until he couldn't go any further in the execution.” quote by Pope Francis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e74/pope-francis-85_congregation_joseph-ratzinger-is-a-man-who-as-the-pre_146136.jpg)