When I say something like that, usually the hardcore come back and say that flaming liberal types are worse. My personal feeling is that thoughtless liberalism is just as bad as thoughtless "me too" conservatism.
So the United Church of Christ started airing a new ad, and some of the networks won't show it. They have in on their site here:
http://www.stillspeaking.com/default.htm
Basically, there are some bouncer types and a velvet rope in front of the church, and they turn away gay, Latin and Asian folks. It's followed by an all-inclusive shot of a UCC congregation that includes lesbians, black folks, etc. The tag line is that "Jesus didn't turn people away."
I know that Christians in general are not bad and hateful people, but Christianity as a whole has a real perception problem. It's worse in the Middle East, and it shouldn't come as a surprise that so many Muslims see the US offensives as a war on Islam.
But this ad gives me hope. I think religion is supposed to be about celebrating faith, not fearing it or mourning it. This is certainly a step in that direction.
The whole "gay in church" topic really gets my tongue tied. I think gays should be able to do most if not all things that heterosexuals can, but I have a problem with them practicing a religion that, according to those that read The Bible more than I have, disagrees with a homosexual lifestyle.
However, I am just as big as hypocrite, looking away from some pretty big "rules" in the Catholic Church.
Perhaps if I were a good little boy, I wouldn't have a problem with "sinful" people joining "my" church. Since I am not, I might as well join them.
Sorry to ramble, Jeff.