I haven’t been looking at these forums for very long, maybe six months, but, from what I’ve seen so far, mostly they are quite well-behaved compared to others I’ve seen and in which I’ve participated.
Those non-Catholics who feel oppressed here might do well to remember that this is a Catholic forum. They should expect that non-Catholic points of view would elicit strong responses. Defense of the Faith is something that should be done with vigor, IMO. Thick skins are in order. Armor, even.
By all means, defend your faith with vigor, and treat guests with love.
I have NO ISSUES with people defending, explaining, praising their faith.
Making fun of other people, and other faiths does NOTHING to further the cause of Catholicism.
I don’t care how bad anyone acts on another forum. That does not justify bad behavior here. That is the “excuse” that is trotted out every time this subject comes up here. “Well, on other forums people are even worse.” or “What do non Catholics expect…after all, it’s a Catholic forum”
We expect you to show us what your faith is really about, and how it transforms the lives of its believers and practicers.
Catholicism claims to have the truth, and live the truth. Show me. If you have a light, let it shine. I have met some people here that have been a real inspiration to me by their faith and behavior…and many of them have been non Catholics.
Show me the fruit of the Real Presence in your lives. Share the truth that we might all be transformed by it. When I find more love, intelligence and helpfullness on pagan boards…how do you think that will influence me?
It’s your board, your opportunity to shine for Christ. Maybe think twice before you hit “submit reply”…if not for yourself, for the faith you seek to defend.
Because this is a forum for non catholic beliefs, all the more reason to take time to be the best you can be, to help those who don’t share your faith wonder where you get your patience, thoughtfulness, honesty, humility, etc. etc.
I am speaking here in love. I don’t come here to attack the Catholic faith. I really don’t think many of the Catholic posters here are aware of how they present Catholicism to the already skeptical non Catholics who come here. Some of the people who shout the loudest about “defending” the Faith are doing the most harm with the tactics they use.
I was raised Catholic. I know that the excuse of how others behave elsewhere is NEVER an excuse. Offer it up for the poor souls and be better than everyone else, even when it’s hard, even when it hurts, even when you are misrepresented, maligned, and people say evil about you. Stay the course.
That is one of the fine things I learned as a Catholic that I try to live everyday. And it is way hard. but don’t justify bad behavior, but rather encourage your brother toward better behavior.
cheddar
) in these forums anymore. I thought it would include intelligent discussion - not slurs and accusations and arguments based on assumptions not fact.
slurs & accustaions based on assupmtions not facts?
)
! That is the first time ANYONE has ever used me and the word “liberal” in the same sentence. I suppose for a gun toting, pro-life, die-hard Republican like myself that is quite an accomplishment