Thanks for posting that Keith - you have said, and quite charitably I might add, what I have tried to say, and not so charitably, for several months now.
I have participated in religious forums for 8-9 years now and one thing that is consistent is how Pride always rears it’s ugly head and the desire to be “right” overrides the desire to please God. It is unfortunate too, because there is such a wonderful opportunity for catachesis on forums.
What has always concerned me most about forums, however, is how the lurkers and seekers must view us, the Catholics, who practice more infighting than charity as not truly following the teachings of Christ.
Some folks on forums just like to argue - some come with genuine questions and after 7 or 8 pages of conflicting answers, leave more confused than when they came.
I am leaving this particular forum for several reasons.
- It is not well moderated and there is no moderating authority that steps in and says, “this is the truth” or “this is not” - they just shut it down with many questions still left unanswered to those who really want to know the Truth.
- Too few dominate too many threads - those who are more interested in debating and being right, I fear than really helping the person who wanted to know the truth.
- Too many opinions, not enough facts (truth) and not enough documentation to back up the truth.
- The constant hijaking of all the liturgical threads by those not obedient to the Church (on both sides of the spectrum) and the failure of moderators in allowing this to continue even when brought to their attention.
- And because I too, get caught up in pride here which results in uncharitable behavior on my part in return.
I know the liturgy of my choice and I know for me it is right because it enriches me spiritually and I say “deo gratias” and thanks to Bishop Olmsted too for allowing me to attend this litugy while still being obedient to the Church because both things are important to me and what is more, to God.
Keep up your good work, and God Bless you.