Writing To Evangelical Pastor Father

[sparkle]

Friends: I recently wrote a letter to my Evangelical Pastor Father (Presbyterian, Baptist, Non-Denom–he’s been all 3) asking him and mentioned various theological beliefs, basically inquiring why he believes what he does, and what he believes, about issues such as Sola Scriptura, etc. Granted, it’s been tough on my end, being the only Catholic for so long, amongst these staunch anti-Catholics in my family. Now, I’m totally nervous in getting his response. I shared my heart, know he’ll probably never change but just needed to ask him why he believes as he does. I really would appreciate some opinions here as to how to respond. I feel it coming, his telling me “I’m following the church of satan”, that only the Bible is the only source of authority", etc., etc. I just feel we need to share our hearts with our family, as we only have 1 life, if we don’t share ourselves, we’ve missed out. But all the same, I’m nervous what he’ll write back. At my confirmation and afterwards on Easter, he told me, “You need to go the Presbyterian Church and so do your kids”…I knew it was stemming from all the anti-Catholic **** he knows.

What do you all think? Would you write to your 80 year old folks asking their beliefs? Is it worth it? I just know, I’m a heart and soul person, I like to share deeply. Some might just say, “forget it”. Would appreciate some insight. And thank you so kindly.

P.S. Have one BIL who is a non-believer, and had about 35 live-in girlfriends since our 17 year marriage. I feel for him, and would want him to know Christ, and I feel how he so needs God’s hand in his life. His life is a total mess. I pray for him, and just recently sent him a Bible. I’m so scared upon hearing his reaction. What is my problem??? They are all coming over for dinner this weekend (in-laws). I get so nervous. You can share Christ and the Truth, but in your heart you just know you are really laying yourself on the line and setting yourself up for rejection. It’s so hard. Anyone else know what I’m talking about? I want to be a seed planter, but sometimes, folks reject that seed, and in your face too.

 

[Mot_Juste]

Yes, it is worth it. Thank you for your courage.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you (falsely) because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
"You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden.
Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.
Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

 

[OutinChgoburbs]

It was very brave of you, Sparkle.

What he writes, however, may not be refutable. He may just say, “Because that’s the way God wants it” and leave it at that.

On the other hand…no use getting your gut in a wrench until it comes. Even then, if you’re having a hectic day, you can put the letter aside until you’re in a frame of mind to read it.