The "Religious Right"

[sgrizzle]

Since complaining about things wins out over doing anything 9 times out of 10, I'd like to see what people here would do if given the opportunity. If you were given the chance to try to change one thing, make one point, or give one statement, aimed at "The Religious Right" what would it be?

[mr.jaynes]

Well, I for one for one would point out that they seem to spend more time in political pursuits (and I've nothing against that, as the 1st amendment guarantees this, even if I don't happen to agree) than they do with acts of charity and bettering the lives of the communities they serve.

[Cubs]

Well I would remind myself to keep God first. He works for the good of those who love him.

[mr.jaynes]

I don't know. Million-dollar churches, and they don't even try to spread the love-or share the wealth.

[sgrizzle]

Everything I understood about churches growing up is they were like schools or gas stations. They serve a basic geographic area and once they start getting so big, they build another one.

Imagine if TPS had one elementary school?

[cannon_fodder]

Dear Religious Right,

You're beliefs are not superior to others.  You are probably not right and most likely do not have it all figured out.  I understand you think you are correct and that you're creation myth and story book is literal and 'a matter of faith,'  I respect that - perhaps even envy that.  However, let me explain something to you:

Many other religions think they are correct.  Muslims view the Christian religion much the same way you view the Jews.  They were on the right track, but then missed the latest and greatest profit (who was THE last profit).  The Koran was transcribed BY GOD and is absolutely correct.

The followers of Moroni/The Mormon Church also have a book that was inspired by God.  They have the new, new testament which corrects/adds to things in the new testament much like the new testament did with the old.  It was render by GOD and is absolutely correct.

Scientologists have an entirely different book and dont base their religion on a previous one.  But again, their book was inspired by supernatural powers and is absolutely correct.  If you're into the latest greatest religion new ones pop up all the time.

If age is your thing, the Zorroastrians invented monotheism and their writings are inspired by visions of God.  They predate the old testament's first writings by several hundred years and serve as gods testament.

Interestingly, some Eastern Religions arent so sure they got it right and preach their message along with the understanding that their religion is right for them but may not be for all others.  Much like the ancient pagan gods of Rome, Greece, Carthage or any other region.  You worship your gods and I'll worship mine.

Thinking that you are correct and everyone else is wrong is nothing new, but its still annoying.    Please try to remember that many other people think they have THE ANSWER too.  But for what religion your parents chose, odds are you would worship in a different way too, so tolerance and understanding might serve you well.  After all, its possible no one has it right.

I just hope it isn't the Scientologists.


XoXo,

Marshall Herff Applewhite
(from the stars)

[Breadburner]

No more TV time.....And depending on the preachers lifestyle they would have to start paying taxes....

[cannon_fodder]

quote:Originally posted by Breadburner

And depending on the preachers lifestyle they would have to start paying taxes....

That's a whole 'nother ball game.  Preachers driving $30,000 cars and living in million dollar homes.  I cannot believe people get duped into that scheme.  "And the meek shall inherit the Earth" indeed.

Most preachers are pious and well intentioned people, but certainly some are just in it for the money.  The problem would be getting the government to draw the line WITHOUT interfering with religion.  As it stands, if a religion can pass the 'not-for profit' tests, it can write off the ministers home - no matter how luxurious.  Not sure how I would remedy that without infringing on separation of church and state (its a two way street).

[NellieBly]

It's and oldie but a goodie but they are neither religious nor right.

[Conan71]

Quit trying to legislate from the pulpit.

[grahambino]

so...how's that 28th amendment coming along?

[sgrizzle]

quote:Originally posted by Breadburner

No more TV time.....And depending on the preachers lifestyle they would have to start paying taxes....

Preachers pay income tax.

[jdb]

How about caring for the millions of unwanted children that are already on the planet before pushing for legislation that would create millions more?

Lets see how you do with raising, feeding, education, medical bills - love and care - first.

Course before that we might want to check in with Big Brother first to make sure mandatory abortions are still a few years off.

And meanwhile keep your hands off the little boys.

[RLitterell]

quote:Originally posted by sgrizzle

Since complaining about things wins out over doing anything 9 times out of 10, I'd like to see what people here would do if given the opportunity. If you were given the chance to try to change one thing, make one point, or give one statement, aimed at "The Religious Right" what would it be?

Send me some money[!]

[cannon_fodder]

quote:Originally posted by sgrizzle
Preachers pay income tax.

They do not pay taxes on their property which is owned by the church nor church expenses. In many instances a mega church is a cult of personality and the preacher and church are indistinguishable.  He drives and lives in church property.  So his Corvette and Mansion are tax free as legitimate church expenses. (I cant think of the name for this, its not Vestige but something like that, sorry).

Usually the preacher lives in a modest home and drives a modest car, which are provided by the church.  However, many abuses take place.  Especially in churches that preach divine economics (give us money and ye shall receive the grace of god in the form of riches)... which is pretty common.