This is all the more reason for us Catholics to be prepared to defend the hope that is within us. We need to be prepared to fight off the anti-Catholic attacks. Anti-Catholic people can be found in abundance here in the United States and they aren’t just limited to Fundamentalist Christians either. There are plenty of anti-Catholic people on the secular left and the religious left as well.
But even if you do suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to make a defense to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence; and keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are abused, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
(1 Peter 3:14-16 RSV)