THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, July 7, 1994 TAG: 9407070014
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
Anyone who speaks out against the religious right is accused of ``Christian bashing'' or ``religious bigotry'' (news, June 22).
The Christian church has been badly bashed and damaged by Pat Robertson and those of his ilk, who have used the teachings of Christ to build financial and political empires.
It used to be that when I heard the word ``Christian,'' the teachings of Jesus came to mind, with a message of love, charity and forgiveness. Today when I hear the word, I tense up, because the context is usually some transparent political manipulation by the far right (i.e., an Oliver North campaign speech).
To label someone a Christian- basher or a religious bigot is a very potent form of name calling reminiscent of the power of the label ``communist'' during the dark period of McCarthyism. The liberals and moderates did not bring the issue of religion into the political arena. The religious right manipulates the rhetoric of religion to gain political power, then uses its religious beliefs to formulate public policy. In a democratic society it is not only permissible to discuss these issues freely and openly, it is imperative.
We must see this name calling for what it is and not be silenced. Mainstream Christians have a particular responsibility to make their voices heard. Otherwise, we bear responsibility not only for what happens to our government but for the irreparable harm to the Christian faith.
J. EDWARD GIBBS JR.
Norfolk, June 14, 1994 by CNB