Originally Posted By cmpaley >>>>The GOP is a secular political party that doesn't have religious doctrines and teachings, but since you agree with them "on religion" (as you say, "YES YES YES"), then you must think of them as a religious body.<< A stretch of imagination. You only reveal your fear that people do vote on values and religion.<< Hellooooo! I'm a CATHOLIC. A faithful one who is loyal to the Magisterium of the Church. That means my faith MUST inform my voting. >>>>Perhaps you might want to explain that a little more?<< The government makes policy on religion as do our judicial branch. << Which they have absolutely NO business doing. The government has NO business dictating religious belief or practice. None whatsoever. >>Since policy does matter to me as do you, the Republican position matters a great deal, but that doesn't mean I think they are a religious body. That's ridiculous. I'm not sure where that came from except from Liberal talking points.<< Or a way of interpreting your OWN words. The Republican party is a secular political party. The government has no business dictating religious belief or practice. As a Catholic, I would take GREAT umbrage of some protestant using the powers of the State to demand that we eliminate our Marian devotions or the Mass itself. As a protestant, I'm certain you would take great umbrage at a Catholic using the power of the state to insist that you pray the Rosary daily or attend Mass on a frequent basis? On the other hand, a religious person's faith informing their policy decisions...that's another issue altogether. On that, both the Republicans AND the Democrats leave MUCH to be desired.
Originally Posted By DouglasDubh <That's the solution for when you don't have a suitable come-back for the topic at hand - mug the old grey lady instead.> Since the old grey lady raised the topic at hand, I consider criticism of her appropriate.
Originally Posted By DouglasDubh <I think it is a pandering issue.> Yes, you made that clear in your first post. My response remains the same.
Originally Posted By vbdad55 ^^^^^^^^^^^^ I agree, uncalled for at the very least. If that had been another poster he would have been flamed.
Originally Posted By DlandJB I know it when I see it. It was a rude and unnecesssary comment. What's wrong with being Catholic in your opinion?
Originally Posted By cmpaley >>"I'm a CATHOLIC." Condolences. >>>>>>>>>>>>> That was rude.<< Yes, it was, but I chose to not dignify it with a response.
Originally Posted By vbdad55 on another thread you just ripped someone for resorting to insults...yet this is OK ? Can't have it both ways, especially knowing how cm feels about his religion. I know your take on organized religion so as a Catholic myself I blew it off, as it could have applied to any religion from your viewpoint, but why take the low road ?
Originally Posted By jonvn Oh come on, stop being so touchy. It was just meant in jest. Sorry if you really took offense.
Originally Posted By DlandJB OK - apology accepted. And, for the record, I'm a former Catholic, but I still respect the faith.
Originally Posted By vbdad55 with the tone on these boards lately, my suggestion is when it's a joke. I wish it wasn't that way but unfortunately I think we are at that point. I recognize some of the issues growing up Catholic has....one of my all time favorite plays is " Do Black Patent Leather shoes really reflect up ?" which ran here for about 15 years ( and was written by a friend of a friend) about enduring a Catholic school education.....unfortunately the tone of W/E lately allows little room for humor.. especially if one isn't sure of the intent....hope you understand...
Originally Posted By jonvn I respect sincere people of faith, even if I don't respect what they believe in. It's just not something I could ever be a part of or understand.
Originally Posted By vbdad55 <I respect sincere people of faith, even if I don't respect what they believe in. It's just not something I could ever be a part of or understand< I have no issue with that...I have enough to do to worry about myself and family...everyone has to make their own choices
Originally Posted By cmpaley Thanks, vbdad and DlandJB. I accept your apology, jonvn. I don't agree with your anti-religion stance, but it is your right to hold it. All religious people ask is that their right to believe is respected.
Originally Posted By DlandJB I respect sincere people of faith, even if I don't respect what they believe in. It's just not something I could ever be a part of or understand<>>> I understand. I can't say I've been there, but I have friends who are there. But then again, never say never.
Originally Posted By jonvn I'm afraid I'll have to say never. Religious belief makes me squirm. I could go into harsh detail, but I don't think it's worth going into, and probably would just offend or upset people.
