About every three months the Jehovah’s Witnesses send a group of four people down my street. The want to leave their Watchtower magazine and they actively try to discern anyone who might be a convert. In addition there are other Christian groups that send their members into the neighborhood trying to obtain converts. My wife sends them away with a nasty set of words. I like to engage them in discussion for the purpose of encouraging them to think about their beliefs.
I view religious beliefs as a personal thing. It’s wonderful living in the Untied States because the nation honors everyone’s right to believe whatever they want. There is no state sponsored religion. “In God We Trust” appears on all of our money. We can conclude that the nation does believe there is a God. Other nations are not so open minded. Arab nations base much of their law on Islam. Israel identifies itself as a Jewish state.
My complaint is the visit by the Pope to Jordan and Israel. Perhaps the Pope believes he can heal wounds between Catholics and Muslims or between Catholics and Jews. What could he possibly say that will change anyone’s views? I am happy with my religious beliefs. His visit to my neighborhood would be greeted with about the same response that I give to those Jehovah’s Witnesses. I am really not interested in your views and beliefs. In the name of peace in this world don’t try to convert me and don’t spread hatred. After all, God may be watching.
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