Hi Sandusky!
As always, you bring up some good points and a welcomed opposing view. I do find it a little surprising that you don’t seem to recognize a basic element at play here: criticisms of theology are completely separate from hostility directed at a person or group of people. If, for example, I was to ask you which element of Catholic theology was being “criticized” by those photos, would you be able to identify it? Works righteousness, or perhaps Mary Worship? I dont think so; the photos are not addressed at Catholic theology they are addressed to Catholics or, perhaps, Catholic apologists. But even more important is the fact that some people were offended by what he did. And, of course, as you point out, that is a question of perception as to whether it was truly offensive. But where I believe you and Mr White are completely wrong is in the assessment of whose perception is more important: your own or the person you may have offended. You tacitly imply that if White perceives that the photos werent offensive, then he owes no one any sort of apology. I’ve interacted with you many times and know you to be an intelligent, considerate person. You rightly claim that “it is a question of perception”, but apparently wrongly conclude that perception translates into innocence. I disagree: to acknowledge that it is a matter of perception acknowledges that it is possible for another to perceive it as offensive even if you personally do not. I find it difficult to believe that you would not also see that it is irrelevent whether White perceives his actions as offensive. What he should be concerned about - as a Christian - is not his own perceptions and feelings, but those of his neighbor. This is even more critical when you voluntarily enter the public arena as he does. He can profess his intent at humor 'til he breathes his last breath - I have no problem with that - but he should begin by apologizing for having offended another person even if it was not his intent, and even if he believes that person meant to offend him. Dontcha think?
Have not seen him doing that. He seems to prefer, slinging mud from his own throne.
